Abdul Hameed Nomani: Islamic scholar, Academic

Maulana Abdul Hameed Nomani (1965) is a prominent Islamic scholar, author, and TV debater known for his in-depth knowledge of Islamic theology, jurisprudence, and his articulate defense of Islamic teachings in contemporary discussions. With a deep commitment to the propagation of authentic Islamic principles, he has become a significant figure in modern Islamic scholarship, especially among those seeking clarity on contemparory religions.

Born and raised in an academic family with a tradition of religious scholarship, Maulana Nomani pursued his religious education in various esteemed institutions, where he studied classical Islamic texts in depth. His knowledge spans a wide range of Islamic sciences, including Tafseer (Quranic exegesis), Hadith (Prophetic traditions), Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and Islamic history. Through his scholarly approach, he has gained respect for his emphasis on understanding and interpreting Islam in the light of both classical sources and contemporary challenges.

Maulana Nomani is a prolific author, having written extensively on Islamic topics that encompass both theoretical and practical aspects of Islam. He is also a recognized expert on Hinduism, Hindutva, and the RSS, and has written several books analyzing Hindutva ideology and its key ideologues. Additionally, Maulana Nomani is a renowned scholar in the field of comparative religious studies. His major works include Hindutva: Ahdaaf o Masaail, Savarkar: Fikr o Tahreek – Ek Mutalea, and Hedgewar: Hayat o Fikr.

His works often address the correct understanding of various Islamic practices. His ability to articulate complex Islamic concepts in an easily accessible manner has earned him a wide readership

Apart from his writing, Maulana Abdul Hameed Nomani is a well-known television debater, where he represents Islamic viewpoints in debates with scholars and critics from different backgrounds. His calm demeanor, logical reasoning, and profound knowledge have made him a respected figure in these public intellectual exchanges. Through his media presence, he has successfully conveyed Islamic perspectives on contemporary issues, earning admiration for his balanced and thoughtful approach.

Maulana was also general secretary, All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat, an umbrella body of Muslim organizations.

Through his scholarship, writings, and media engagements, Maulana Abdul Hameed Nomani continues to make valuable contributions to the intellectual and spiritual discourse in India.

Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi: Islamic scholar, Academic

Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi (born in 1969) is a distinguished Islamic scholar renowned for his deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence, literature, and history. Born into a family rooted in Islamic scholarship, he inherited a rich legacy of learning and spirituality. His early education took place under the tutelage of his father and other eminent scholars, which laid a strong foundation for his future scholarly pursuits.

He pursued advanced studies at the prestigious Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama in Lucknow, where he excelled in various Islamic sciences, including Tafsir (Quranic exegesis), Hadith (Prophetic traditions), Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and Arabic literature. His dedication to learning and his keen intellect earned him the admiration of his teachers and peers alike.

After completing his studies, Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi embarked on a career in teaching and Islamic scholarship. He served as a faculty member at several Islamic institutions, where he contributed significantly to the intellectual and spiritual growth of his students. His eloquence in Arabic and Urdu, coupled with his profound understanding of Islamic teachings, made him a sought-after speaker and teacher.

Throughout his career, Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi has been actively involved in various educational and social initiatives aimed at promoting Islamic values and knowledge. He has authored numerous books and articles on Islamic theology, law, and history, which are widely respected in academic and religious circles.

His contributions to Islamic scholarship and his commitment to the education and spiritual development of the Muslim community have earned him a place of honor among contemporary Islamic scholars. Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi continues to inspire and guide the next generation of scholars and students with his wisdom and dedication.

Faizan Mustafa:  Academic / Legal Expert

Faizan Mustafa is a prominent academic and legal scholar, renowned for his extensive contributions to legal education and scholarship. He has served as the Vice-Chancellor of NALSAR University of Law in Hyderabad and was the founding Vice-Chancellor of the National Law University Odisha (NLUO). Currently, he holds the position of Vice-Chancellor at Chanakya National Law University in Patna. Additionally, he is a member of the board of directors for T-Hub, a technology incubator.

Mustafa's educational background includes a degree in History and Law from Aligarh Muslim University, where he also earned his LL.M with distinction. He has a doctorate in Copyright Law and a diploma from the International Institute of Human Rights in International and Comparative Human Rights Law.

In his career, Mustafa has made significant strides as a legal educator and researcher. Before his role at NALSAR, he was the founding VC of NLUO and a former director at KIIT School of Law. He is a prolific author, having published numerous books and scholarly articles, and is noted for exploring novel areas such as HIV law. His scholarship includes contributions that have influenced judicial decisions, as evidenced by his article on religious freedom being cited in the Supreme Court's Sabarimala judgment in 2018.

Beyond academia, Mustafa engages with a broader audience through his YouTube channel, the Legal Awareness Web Series, where he discusses contemporary legal issues in simple language. He is a recurring legal expert on NDTV and writes columns for major publications like The Indian Express and The Hindu. His accolades include the Renne Cassin Gold Medal in 1999 and the SAARC Best Law Teacher Award in 2014, reflecting his esteemed status in the legal community.

Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi: Islamic Scholar, Educationist

Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi ((born in 1950) is a renowned Indian Islamic scholar, educationist, and former rector of Darul Uloom Deoband, one of the most prestigious Islamic seminaries in the world. Born in 1950 in the village of Vastan, Gujarat, Vastanvi has dedicated his life to the promotion of Islamic education and the upliftment of the Muslim community.

Vastanvi pursued his early education at local madrassas before joining the Darul Uloom Deoband, where he excelled in Islamic studies, earning recognition for his deep understanding of Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), Hadith (Prophetic traditions), and Tafsir (Quranic exegesis). After completing his studies, he returned to Gujarat, where he became a prominent figure in the field of Islamic education.

In 1981, Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi founded the Jamia Islamia Ishaatul Uloom in Akkalkuwa, Maharashtra, which has grown into a major educational institution under his leadership. The institution offers a blend of traditional Islamic education and modern subjects, providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for both religious and secular pursuits. Vastanvi’s vision for integrating modern education with Islamic teachings has made him a pioneer in the field.

In 2011, Vastanvi was appointed as the rector of Darul Uloom Deoband, a position that placed him at the helm of one of the most influential Islamic institutions in the world. However, his tenure was short-lived due to controversies surrounding his views on the socio-political conditions of Muslims in India, leading to his resignation.

Despite the controversies, Vastanvi has remained a respected figure in the Indian Muslim community. His contributions to education and his efforts to promote a progressive vision for Islamic learning continue to be acknowledged and admired. Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi’s legacy is one of dedication to the intellectual and social advancement of the Muslim community in India.

Irfan Habib: Historian/ Academic

Irfan Habib (born in 1931) is a distinguished Indian historian renowned for his extensive contributions to the study of medieval Indian history and his expertise in Marxist historiography. Born on August 10, 1931, in Vadodara, Gujarat, he hails from a scholarly family; his father, Mohammad Habib, was a prominent historian, and his mother, Sohaila Habib, was an accomplished academic. Irfan Habib pursued his education at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), where he completed his BA and MA in history. He later earned his DPhil from the University of Oxford, further honing his academic prowess.

Habib’s scholarly work primarily focuses on the economic and social history of medieval India, with a particular emphasis on the Mughal period. His landmark book, The Agrarian System of Mughal India, published in 1963, is considered a seminal work in the field, offering a detailed analysis of the agricultural economy under Mughal rule. He has also authored and edited numerous volumes, including Medieval India: The Study of a Civilization, Essays in Indian History: Towards a Marxist Perception, and the multi-volume People’s History of India series.

A committed Marxist, Habib’s approach to history emphasizes the importance of economic structures, class relations, and the role of material conditions in shaping historical developments. His work has been influential in challenging and reinterpreting established narratives of Indian history, often critiquing colonial and nationalist historiographies.

Beyond his research, Irfan Habib has been a dedicated educator, serving as a professor of history at AMU for many years. He has also been actively involved in various intellectual and cultural debates in India, particularly regarding the secular and pluralistic nature of Indian society.

Irfan Habib’s contributions to historical scholarship have earned him widespread recognition, making him one of India’s most respected historians. His work continues to inspire and influence generations of historians and scholars.

Maulana Khalil-ur-Rahman Sajjad Nomani (born 1955) is a prominent Indian Islamic scholar, author, orator, and public intellectual known for his unwavering commitment to Islamic scholarship, education, interfaith harmony, and social justice. Born in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, into a distinguished scholarly family, he is the son of the late Maulana Manzoor Nomani, a towering figure in 20th-century Islamic thought. This deep-rooted legacy has profoundly shaped his life and mission.

Maulana Sajjad Nomani began his formal Islamic education at Nadwatul Ulama, one of India’s most prestigious Islamic seminaries. There, he was nurtured under the guidance of several renowned scholars. He continued his advanced studies at Darul Uloom Deoband, further solidifying his expertise in Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), Quranic studies, and Hadith. He later traveled to the Islamic University of Madinah in Saudi Arabia, where he broadened his academic horizons and engaged with the global Islamic scholarly tradition.

His scholarship is notable for blending traditional Islamic sciences with a nuanced understanding of contemporary challenges, which enables him to address the modern Muslim experience with relevance and intellectual rigor.

Maulana Sajjad Nomani is widely respected for his efforts in promoting Islamic unity, education, and civil rights. He serves as an official spokesperson for the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), playing a key role in defending and articulating the constitutional and religious rights of Muslims in India. His advocacy often centers on preserving the integrity of Muslim personal laws, religious freedom, and the broader Islamic identity in a rapidly changing socio-political landscape.

He is the author of several acclaimed books and numerous scholarly articles, covering a wide range of subjects such as jurisprudence, spirituality, Islamic history, interfaith relations, and socio-political reform. His writings are recognized for their intellectual clarity, depth, and accessibility to both academic and general audiences.

Beyond his scholarly pursuits, Maulana Sajjad Nomani is a strong advocate of interfaith dialogue and comparative religious studies. He believes in building bridges of understanding among diverse religious communities and has consistently worked toward fostering peaceful coexistence.

He is especially known for championing Dalit-Muslim unity, addressing issues of marginalization and caste-based discrimination. His outreach efforts have brought together Muslim, Sikh, and Christian communities on platforms aimed at social justice and communal harmony. He is frequently invited to speak at interfaith forums, national conferences, and peace initiatives, where his voice resonates as one of reason, compassion, and unity.

Committed to nurturing future generations, Maulana Sajjad Nomani regularly delivers lectures and conducts workshops across India and abroad. He focuses on youth empowerment, urging young Muslims to remain grounded in Islamic values while being intellectually engaged with the world around them. His lectures often address modern challenges such as secularism, identity crises, Islamophobia, and globalization from a deeply rooted Islamic perspective.

Through his tireless efforts and visionary leadership, Maulana Sajjad Nomani has become a guiding force in contemporary Islamic thought. His work continues to inspire Muslims globally to embrace their faith with confidence, wisdom, and a sense of responsibility toward society at large.

Naima Khatoon: Academic   

Naima Khatoon, a distinguished academic and administrator, etched her name in history as the first female Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Her appointment marks a watershed moment for the institution, signaling a progressive stride in its long-standing legacy.

Dr. Khatoon, hailing from a modest background, pursued her academic journey with unparalleled determination. A graduate of AMU, she later earned her doctorate in Sociology from a prestigious global university. Her research, focusing on the intersection of education and gender empowerment in Muslim communities, earned her widespread acclaim. She has authored several books and numerous scholarly articles, cementing her reputation as a thought leader in her field.

Her career at AMU began as a faculty member in the Department of Sociology, where she inspired generations of students with her dedication and insightful teaching. Over the years, she took on administrative roles, including serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, where she spearheaded initiatives to enhance interdisciplinary research and student welfare programs.

As Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Khatoon is committed to fostering inclusivity, innovation, and academic excellence. Her leadership vision emphasizes empowering female students, enhancing research infrastructure, and promoting collaboration with global institutions. She has already introduced initiatives to provide scholarships for underprivileged students and improve access to modern technology for research and learning.

Dr. Khatoon’s ascent to this prestigious position resonates as a beacon of hope and inspiration for women aspiring to break barriers in academia and leadership. Her journey reflects a blend of intellectual brilliance, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to societal progress. Under her stewardship, AMU is poised to scale new heights, embracing a future rooted in equality and academic distinction.

Naima Khatoon’s legacy is not just about her position but about the transformative change she embodies.

Syed Naseer Ahamad: Author /Historian

Syed Naseer Ahamad, a distinguished Telugu writer, journalist, and social activist from Andhra Pradesh is celebrated for his extensive contributions to literature and journalism. With a profound interest in exploring themes of politics, culture, and social issues, he has established himself as a prominent voice in Telugu literary circles. His work as a journalist with leading Telugu newspapers and his literary contributions have earned him widespread recognition and acclaim.

Ahamad is a pioneer in documenting Muslim participation inthe freedom movement. His prolific writing spans diverse genres, including literary criticism, short stories, novels, journalism, and translations. His literary criticism offers deep insights into the works of prominent Telugu writers, while his short stories and novels focus on themes like social justice, human relationships, and the struggles of marginalized communities. As a journalist, Ahamad has provided incisive commentary on political and cultural issues, and his translations from Urdu and English into Telugu have broadened the horizons of Telugu literature, introducing readers to fresh perspectives.

His impactful contributions have earned him several prestigious accolades, including Telugu University's "Best Literary Critic" award, the Andhra Pradesh Government's "Best Journalist" award, and the Sahitya Akademi's "Translation Award." Through his writing, Ahamad has amplified the voices of marginalized communities, inspired new generations of writers and activists, and enriched the landscape of Telugu literature with innovative themes and ideas.

P. A. Inamdar: Educationist

P. A. Inamdar (born 945) is a renowned educationist, lawyer, and social reformer whose contributions have significantly shaped the landscape of modern education in India, particularly among the Muslim community. Based in Pune, Maharashtra, Inamdar is best known as the driving force behind the Maharashtra Cosmopolitan Education Society (MCES), under which he has established a network of educational institutions catering to diverse disciplines and promoting inclusive, quality education.

Born in a modest family, Inamdar’s journey is one of resilience and determination. He pursued his legal education and practiced law, but his passion for education led him to focus on creating institutions that empower individuals through knowledge and skill development. His vision was to address the educational and socio-economic challenges faced by marginalized communities and provide opportunities for holistic growth.

Under his leadership, MCES has flourished, with notable institutions such as the Azam Campus in Pune, which is home to over 25 colleges and schools offering courses in engineering, law, management, pharmacy, and more. Azam Campus stands as a beacon of excellence and communal harmony, attracting students from various backgrounds.

Inamdar is also recognized for his pivotal role in the landmark P. A. Inamdar vs. State of Maharashtra case (2005), where the Supreme Court upheld the rights of minority institutions to maintain autonomy in admissions and administration. This judgment reinforced the constitutional protections for minority rights in education.

Inamdar’s efforts extend beyond academia. He actively engages in social initiatives, advocating for gender equality, interfaith harmony, and community development. His dedication to empowering society through education has earned him accolades and respect as a visionary leader and reformer.

P. A. Inamdar’s enduring legacy lies in his belief that education is the most powerful tool for societal transformation and the key to building a progressive, equitable future.