Muslim Mirror 100: The Most Influential Indian Muslims 2025

Islamic Scholars

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Aboobacker Musliyar - selected in the list of  - 2025

Aboobacker Musliyar

A. P. Aboobacker Musliyar: Islamic Scholar/ Spritual Leader/Academic

Kanthapuram A. P. Aboobacker Musliyar (1931), also known as Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad is a distinguished Islamic scholar and spiritual leader in India, particularly within the state of Kerala. Born  in Kanthapuram, Kozhikode district, he has dedicated his life to the promotion of Islamic education, social welfare, and interfaith harmony.

Aboobacker Musliyar received his early education in traditional Islamic schools and later continued his studies at the prestigious Baqiyath Swalihath in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. He is widely recognized for his deep understanding of Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and spirituality, earning him respect and admiration among the Muslim community in India and beyond.

As the General Secretary of the All India Sunni Jamiyyathul Ulama, Aboobacker Musliyar has played a crucial role in shaping the Sunni Muslim community's religious and social landscape. He is also the Chancellor of the Markazu Ssaquafathi Ssunniyya (Sunni Cultural Center) in Kozhikode, an institution he founded in 1978 to promote Islamic education and cultural awareness. The center has since grown to become one of the largest Islamic educational institutions in India, offering a wide range of programs from primary to higher education.

Aboobacker Musliyar is a strong advocate for interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence. He has participated in numerous conferences and seminars aimed at fostering mutual understanding and respect among different religious communities. His efforts in this area have been instrumental in promoting communal harmony in a region often marked by religious diversity.

In addition to his educational and interfaith initiatives, Aboobacker Musliyar is deeply involved in social welfare activities. He has established various charitable organizations that provide healthcare, housing, and financial assistance to the underprivileged. His commitment to social justice and humanitarian work has earned him accolades from various quarters.

Kanthapuram A. P. Aboobacker Musliyar's life and work stand as a testament to the power of education, compassion, and dialogue in building a more just and harmonious society.


Abul Qasim Nomani - selected in the list of  - 2025

Abul Qasim Nomani

Sheikh al-Hadith and Vice-Chancellor: Abul Qasim Nomani’s Enduring Legacy at Deoband

Abul Qasim Nomani (born in 1945) was born in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is a prominent Indian Islamic scholar. He currently serves as the Vice-Chancellor and Sheikh al-Hadith of Darul Uloom Deoband, one of the most esteemed Islamic seminaries in the world. His contributions to Islamic education and scholarship have earned him a place among the 500 most influential Muslims globally.

Nomani began his formal Islamic education in 1960 at Darul Uloom Mau, progressing to Miftahul Uloom Mau in 1962. A year later, he joined Darul Uloom Deoband for higher studies, completing his graduation in 1967. His scholarly acumen and dedication to Islamic education led to his appointment to Darul Uloom Deoband's Majlis ash-Shura, the governing body, in 1992.

On July 24, 2011, Nomani succeeded Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi as Vice-Chancellor of Darul Uloom Deoband. His leadership has been marked by a focus on preserving the seminary’s rich academic legacy while addressing contemporary challenges. In recognition of his expertise in hadith studies, Nomani was appointed Sheikh al-Hadith at Darul Uloom on October 14, 2020.

Nomani's influence extends beyond his administrative roles, as he continues to shape Islamic thought and education through his teaching and leadership. His prominence reflects his unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of Islamic scholarship and fostering the development of future generations of scholars.


Akhtarul Wase - selected in the list of  - 2025

Akhtarul Wase

Prof. Akhtarul Wase: A Scholar Bridging Faith, Knowledge, and Contemporary Discourse

Prof. Akhtarul Wase is widely regarded as one of India’s most respected Islamic scholars—an academic whose life has been devoted to teaching, dialogue, and the thoughtful interpretation of Islam within a modern, plural society. Known for his clarity of thought, balanced scholarship, and gentle demeanor, he has played a pivotal role in shaping contemporary Islamic studies in India.

Born into a family that valued education and moral discipline, Prof. Wase developed an early engagement with classical Islamic learning. He pursued advanced studies in Arabic, Qur’anic sciences, and Islamic theology, while also grounding himself firmly in modern academic traditions. This dual training—deeply rooted in tradition yet open to critical inquiry—became the hallmark of his intellectual approach.

Much of Prof. Wase’s academic career was spent at Jamia Millia Islamia, where he served as Professor and later as Head of the Department of Islamic Studies. During his tenure, he strengthened academic rigor, promoted interdisciplinary research, and mentored generations of students. Many of his protégés have gone on to become scholars, educators, and public intellectuals, carrying forward his emphasis on ethical scholarship and intellectual integrity.

A defining feature of Prof. Wase’s work is his insistence that Islamic scholarship must engage constructively with contemporary realities. He has consistently argued that faith cannot exist in isolation from society, and that modern challenges—such as education, ethics, pluralism, and social justice—require informed and contextual interpretation rather than rigid literalism. His lectures and writings reflect a commitment to moderation, reasoned dialogue, and intellectual openness.

Beyond academia, Prof. Akhtarul Wase has been an active voice in interfaith and intercultural dialogue, representing Indian Muslims at national and international forums. His calm, measured interventions have often countered both extremism and misrepresentation, earning him respect across religious and ideological lines.

As an author writing in Urdu, Arabic, and English, Prof. Wase has explored Qur’anic interpretation, Islamic civilization, ethics, and the relationship between religion and modernity. Marked by humility and approachability, he remains a patient mentor who values questions as deeply as answers.

In an age of polarized religious discourse, Prof. Akhtarul Wase stands as a symbol of balance, compassion, and intellectual depth—demonstrating how faith, guided by reason and ethics, can meaningfully engage the modern world.

 


Asghar Ali Imam Mahadi Salafi - selected in the list of  - 2025

Asghar Ali Imam Mahadi Salafi

Maulana Asghar Ali Imam Mahadi Salafi: A Leading Voice of Salafi Scholarship and Spiritual Guidance

Maulana Asghar Ali Imam Mahadi Salafi (born in 1963) is an Islamic scholar and spiritual leader, respected for his deep knowledge of Islamic teachings and his strong commitment to the Salafi tradition. Born into a family with a long-standing legacy of religious scholarship, he has dedicated his life to the study, teaching, and propagation of authentic Islamic principles based on the Quran and Sunnah, adhering strictly to the Salafi methodology.

He is known for his scholarly works, which primarily focus on the purification of Islamic thought and practice, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the original teachings of Islam as understood by the early generations of Muslims (the Salaf). His teachings advocate for the rejection of innovations (Bid'ah) and the return to the foundational sources of Islam, stressing the importance of unity in the Muslim ummah and the avoidance of sectarianism.

Maulana Asghar Ali Imam Mahadi Salafi’s educational journey includes studying under prominent Islamic scholars in various centers of learning. His deep understanding of Arabic, Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), hadith (Prophetic traditions), and theology has earned him recognition among both his peers and followers. He is also known for his eloquent and powerful lectures, which blend deep intellectual rigor with spiritual insight.

Aside from his role as a teacher, Maulana Asghar Ali Imam Mahadi Salafi is also Ameer of Markazi Jamiat Ahle Hadees Hind. He has also been involved in community leadership and has worked tirelessly to promote social and moral reforms within the Muslim community

His influence continues to extend far beyond his local community, with a growing following among those seeking to reconnect with the pure, unadulterated teachings of Islam. Through his scholarly and spiritual guidance, Maulana Salafi remains a beacon of light for many Muslims seeking a deeper connection to their faith.

 


Asjad Raza Khan - selected in the list of  - 2025

Asjad Raza Khan

Asjad Raza Khan: Islamic Scholar/Spititual Leader/ Community Leader

Asjad Raza Khan (born in 1970) a prominent Islamic scholar and spiritual leader, is the current Sajjada Nashin (hereditary administrator) of the Dargah-e-Aala Hazrat in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India. Born into the revered family of Aala Hazrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan, a renowned Islamic theologian and founder of the Barelvi movement, Asjad Raza Khan has dedicated his life to upholding and promoting the teachings of his illustrious forefather.

From a young age, Asjad Raza Khan was immersed in an environment of religious scholarship and spiritual devotion. He pursued rigorous religious education, mastering various Islamic sciences, including jurisprudence, theology, and Hadith. His deep knowledge and understanding of Islam have made him a respected figure among scholars and devotees alike.

As the Sajjada Nashin of the Dargah-e-Aala Hazrat, Asjad Raza Khan plays a pivotal role in guiding the spiritual and religious life of millions of followers. The dargah, a major center for the Barelvi movement, attracts devotees from across the globe who seek spiritual solace and guidance. Under his leadership, the dargah has continued to be a beacon of Islamic learning and spiritual enlightenment.

Asjad Raza Khan is known for his commitment to promoting the values of peace, tolerance, and unity. He has been an outspoken advocate for interfaith harmony and has consistently called for the rejection of extremism and violence. His sermons and teachings emphasize the importance of love, compassion, and service to humanity, reflecting the core principles of Sufism.

Besides his spiritual duties, Asjad Raza Khan has been actively involved in various social and educational initiatives. He has supported the establishment of schools, madrasas, and charitable organizations aimed at uplifting the socio-economic status of the community. His efforts have been instrumental in providing educational opportunities and social support to the underprivileged.

Asjad Raza Khan's leadership and dedication to the cause of Islamic scholarship and spiritual guidance have earned him widespread respect and admiration. His work continues to inspire and positively impact the lives of countless individuals, reinforcing the timeless message of Aala Hazrat and the Barelvi tradition.


Ibraheem Khaleel Al Bukhari - selected in the list of  - 2025

Ibraheem Khaleel Al Bukhari

Sayyid Ibraheem Khaleel Al Bukhari: Islamic Scholar

Sayyid Ibraheem Khaleel Al Bukhari, born in 1964 in Kadalundi, Kerala, is a distinguished Sunni Islamic scholar and influential community leader. Hailing from a lineage of scholars that traces its origins to Uzbekistan, he was raised in a family steeped in religious education. His primary education was imparted by his father, Sayyid Ahmed Bukhari, a respected spiritual guide in the region. Bukhari later pursued higher education in Islamic theology, graduating with second rank from Baqiyat Salihat Arabic College in Tamil Nadu.

In 1997, Bukhari founded Ma'din Academy in Malappuram, which has since grown into a significant educational institution serving over 22,000 students across 28 campuses. Under his leadership, Ma'din Academy has flourished, offering a wide range of programs from primary education to postgraduate studies, with a focus on both Islamic and contemporary education. His global influence is also reflected in his extensive travels and lectures on educational and social issues.

Bukhari holds several key leadership roles, including serving as the Joint Secretary of Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama and General Secretary of Kerala Muslim Jamaat, an umbrella organization representing various Muslim groups in Kerala. He is also a member of the Muslim 500, a recognition of the most influential Muslims worldwide, and manages the international journal Armonia, which promotes pluralism and holistic education.

He has been a prominent representative at global forums, including the G20 Interfaith Forum, and led India's delegation to the Vatican for interfaith dialogues. Notable achievements include organizing the annual Ramadan Peace Conference and initiating the Knowledge Hunt, a program that exposes scholars to diverse cultural and religious destinations worldwide. Bukhari’s work in interfaith dialogue and education continues to have a profound impact both in India and internationally.


Javed Jamil - selected in the list of  - 2025

Javed Jamil

Dr. Javed Jamil: A Revolutionary Thinker Bridging Islam, Science, and Social Thought

Dr. Javed Jamil (born in 1958) is a noted Indian scholar and thinker, widely recognized for his work in the fields of Islam, socio-economic analysis, Physics, Health Sciences and Urdu poetry. Born in Saharanpur, India, Jamil pursued his medical education at King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, and practiced as Consultant Physician for around 30 years. However, his intellectual pursuits extended far beyond medicine, leading him to explore and critique contemporary issues.

Dr. Jamil is best known for his pioneering concept of Applied Islamics, which deals with critical study of modern sciences and social issues in the light of Islam and applying Islamic principles for establishing Holistic Peace in the world. He has given several theories and concepts like Economic Fundamentalism, Peace Economics, Dynamic Paradigm of Health, Universal Theory of Relativity and Islamic Models of Family Welfare and Control of AIDS. In 1990s, his book, “Islam and Family Planning” paved the way for consensus among Indian Muslims on the issues related to Family Planning.  

Dr. Jamil has been an active speaker on various platforms, frequently highlighting the weaknesses of the contemporary ideologies dominated by the forces of economics, urging a return to values that promote the well-being of individuals and communities.

Dr. Javed Jamil currently serves as the Chair in Islamic Studies and Research at Yenepoya University, Mangalore, Karnataka. He has written over two dozen books, more than 700 articles, and is also an Urdu poet with a collection of over 350 ghazals.

Some of his notable books include “A Systematic Study of the Holy Quran”, “The Devil of Economic Fundamentalism”, “Islam and Family Planning”, “Muslim Vision of Secular India: Destination and Roadmap”, “Muslims Most Civilised, Yet Not Enough”, “Economics First or Health First?”, “Rediscovering the Universe”, “Justice Imprisoned” and “Prevention and Management of Pandemics: Islamic Guidelines”.

Dr. Jamil’s poetry collections include Rahguzar (published by the Urdu Academy, Government of Uttar Pradesh) and Khirad Bhi Junoon Bhi (an e-book on Rekhta Foundation website).

If novelty of work, freshness of approach, depth of thoughts, ability to influence the world and capability of revolutionizing knowledge are the criteria of greatness, Dr Jamil should be seen as one of the revolutionary thinkers of the contemporary world.

 


Khalid Saifullah Rahmani - selected in the list of  - 2025

Khalid Saifullah Rahmani

Khalid Saifullah Rahmani: Islamic Scholar, Academic  

Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani (born in 1956) is a prominent Islamic scholar, jurist, and author known for his profound contributions to Islamic jurisprudence and thought. Born on July 15, 1956, in Phulwari Sharif, Bihar, India, Maulana Rahmani hails from a family deeply rooted in Islamic scholarship. He is a descendant of the renowned Sufi saint, Shah Abdur Rahim Raipuri, which significantly influenced his early upbringing and spiritual outlook.

Maulana Rahmani pursued his Islamic education at Darul Uloom Deoband, one of the most prestigious Islamic seminaries in the world. There, he excelled in his studies, specializing in Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) and Arabic literature. His intellectual rigor and deep understanding of Islamic law soon distinguished him as a scholar of repute.

Throughout his career, Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani has held several key positions in the Islamic scholarly community. He is the General Secretary of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), an influential body that addresses issues related to Muslim personal laws in India. In this role, he has been at the forefront of advocating for the protection of Muslim personal law and has played a critical role in engaging with contemporary legal and social challenges facing the Muslim community in India.

Maulana Rahmani is also the founder and rector of Al-Mahad Al-Ali Al-Islami, a higher Islamic educational institution that aims to produce scholars equipped to address modern challenges within an Islamic framework. He has authored numerous books and articles on a wide range of topics, including Islamic jurisprudence, social issues, and contemporary challenges faced by Muslims.

His writings, lectures, and legal opinions (fatwas) are highly regarded for their clarity, depth, and relevance to modern contexts. Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani continues to be a guiding light for scholars, students, and the Muslim community at large, contributing to the preservation and development of Islamic thought in the contemporary world.


Khalil ur Rahman Sajjad Nomani - selected in the list of  - 2025

Khalil ur Rahman Sajjad Nomani

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.


Qumruzzama Azmi - selected in the list of  - 2025

Qumruzzama Azmi

Qumruzzama Azmi: Islamic Scholar

Qumruzzama Azmi (born 1946) widely respected as Maulana Azmi, is a distinguished Islamic scholar and one of the most influential voices in contemporary Islamic thought and leadership. Born in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, India, in 1946, he received his early Islamic education at the esteemed Al Jamiatul Ashrafia, Mubarakpur, where he excelled in Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and Arabic literature.

Maulana Azmi’s profound understanding of Islamic teachings, coupled with his eloquence and insight, quickly earned him a reputation as a dynamic leader. His efforts to bridge gaps between communities and promote Islamic values in modern contexts have made him a sought-after scholar worldwide.

Azmi has dedicated much of his life to serving the Muslim community globally. He is closely associated with the World Islamic Mission (WIM), a prominent organization committed to promoting unity among Muslims and addressing the challenges they face. As the General Secretary of WIM, he has played a pivotal role in establishing mosques, Islamic centers, and educational institutions in various countries, particularly in Europe and North America.

An ardent advocate of peaceful coexistence, Maulana Azmi emphasizes the importance of interfaith dialogue and communal harmony. His lectures and writings have inspired countless Muslims to uphold the principles of justice, compassion, and ethical conduct.

Maulana Azmi is also deeply committed to the socio-economic upliftment of marginalized communities. He has initiated programs for education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation, ensuring the integration of Islamic values with humanitarian service.

Despite his international commitments, he remains rooted in his scholarship, dedicating time to writing, teaching, and guiding students of Islamic sciences. His intellectual contributions and spiritual leadership continue to influence generations of Muslims worldwide.

Qumruzzama Azmi’s legacy is one of knowledge, service, and unwavering dedication to the cause of Islam and humanity.


Rashid Shaz - selected in the list of  - 2025

Rashid Shaz

Rashid Shaz: Islamic Scholar, Intellectual and Academic

Rashid Shaz (born 1963) is a distinguished Indian Islamic scholar, author, and professor at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), known for his profound contributions to Islamic philosophy, interfaith dialogue, and contemporary Muslim thought. As an ISESCO Ambassador for Dialogue among Civilizations, he has dedicated his career to fostering mutual understanding and addressing the challenges faced by the global Muslim community.

Shaaz’s literary works reflect his innovative approach to Islamic scholarship, focusing on the revival of Muslim intellectual traditions and the intersection of faith and modernity. His acclaimed books, including Idrak Zawal-e-Ummat, Lastam Pokh, Kitabul Urooj, and Manifesto of United Islam, delve into the challenges and prospects of Islamic civilization in a rapidly changing world. His pivotal 2008 document, Calling for a New Dialogue between Islam and Christianity, released in Monaco, underscores his commitment to interfaith harmony.

In 1992, during the Oslo Peace Accord discussions, Shaaz embarked on a peace mission to London and Washington, advocating for Muslim sentiments on Jerusalem. Two years later, he launched the Milli Times International, a weekly newspaper from New Delhi, which ran until 2001, providing a platform for critical issues affecting Muslims globally.

Shaaz’s activism extends to bridging intellectual gaps. His work on shibh-Ahle-Kitab builds on the legacies of Al-Bairuni and Shahrastani, motivating enlightened Abrahamic intellectuals through platforms like FutureIslam.com.

Beyond his global engagements, Professor Shaz has remained a vocal critic of social injustices, including his condemnation of Aligarh’s silence on lynching incidents in India. He advocates for reform within the Muslim world, urging introspection and the revival of the progressive ethos of early Islamic civilization.

A mentor, thought leader, and reformist, Rashid Shaz’s legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to knowledge, justice, and the harmonious coexistence of humanity.


Shakir Ali Noori - selected in the list of  - 2025

Shakir Ali Noori

Muhammad Shakir Ali Noori: Islamic Scholar

Muhammad Shakir Ali Noori is an influential Indian Muslim scholar, preacher, and reformer from the Sunni school of thought. He founded the Sunni Dawat-e-Islami movement in 1992, which has since gained prominence both in India and globally.

Born in 1960 in Junagadh, Gujarat, to Abdul Karim Memon Noori, Shakir Ali Noori has dedicated his life to Islamic education and community reform. The Sunni Dawat-e-Islami movement, established in Mumbai, quickly became a driving force for spreading Islamic values and education. Through his eloquence, he continues to inspire millions while authoring works that guide the Muslim community.

Shakir Ali Noori has established numerous Islamic seminaries and schools, including English-medium institutions, with a vision to set up 111 such centers. To date, 25 have been successfully launched. His impactful contributions have earned him recognition in the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre's (Jordan) prestigious annual list of the world's 500 most influential Muslims in 2009 and 2014-2015.

He holds Ijazah wa Khilafah in Sufi orders from eminent figures such as Taj al-Shari'ah Mufti Akhtar Raza Khan Azhari and Hazrat Syed Hasnain Miyan Nazmi Marahrawi. He is deeply involved in preaching, training Islamic scholars, and managing religious institutions. Every three years, he organizes a three-day Fiqh Seminar at Jamia Ashrafia Mubarakpur, fostering scholarly discourse.

His notable works include 1- How to Spend Ramadan, 2- The glory of the month of Muharram and Imam Hussain, 3- A bouquet of Sirat-un-Nabi and 4- Modesty in Islam, among others, which underscore his intellectual depth and commitment to reform.

Shakir Ali Noori’s contributions as a scholar, reformer, and leader mark him as a vital figure in the landscape of modern Indian Islam.


Shamail Nadwi - selected in the list of  - 2025

Shamail Nadwi

Mufti Shamail Nadwi: A Young Scholar Bridging Tradition and Public Discourse

Mufti Shamail Nadwi, also known as Shamail Ahmad Abdullah Nadwi (born 7 June 1998), has rapidly emerged as one of India’s notable young Islamic scholars and public speakers. While he has long been engaged in religious education and outreach, he gained widespread attention in 2025 following a nationally covered public debate on the existence of God with poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar in New Delhi. The debate showcased Nadwi’s ability to engage complex philosophical questions with clarity, composure, and intellectual rigor, marking him as a distinctive voice in contemporary religious and ethical discourse.

Born in Kolkata, West Bengal, Nadwi grew up in a family environment closely connected to Islamic scholarship. His formative years were shaped by early religious education, instilling both a love of knowledge and a deep sense of moral responsibility. He subsequently enrolled at Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama in Lucknow, one of India’s most respected Islamic seminaries, where he completed rigorous studies in Quranic sciences, Hadith, and Islamic jurisprudence.

Seeking to broaden his intellectual horizons, Nadwi pursued higher studies at the International Islamic University Malaysia, where he has been engaged in doctoral research in Islamic studies. His academic journey reflects a careful balance between traditional scholarship and engagement with contemporary theological and philosophical debates, preparing him to navigate both classical and modern discourses with ease.

Beyond the classroom, Nadwi has focused on making Islamic scholarship accessible to wider audiences. In 2021, he founded Markaz al-Wahyain, an online platform offering courses in Quranic studies, Hadith, and Islamic jurisprudence. This initiative reflects his commitment to leveraging technology for education, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to engage with foundational texts.

In 2024, he established the Wahyain Foundation, a Kolkata-based nonprofit focused on education and social welfare. Through these ventures, Nadwi demonstrates a philosophy of scholarship as service—combining intellectual rigor with practical initiatives that address community needs. He also maintains a robust online presence, where he discusses religion, ethics, philosophy, and debates with secular and atheistic perspectives, attracting significant viewership and public engagement.

Nadwi came into national prominence during the December 2025 debate, “Does God Exist?”, held at the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi and moderated by journalist Saurabh Dwivedi. Facing Javed Akhtar, a renowned poet and outspoken atheist, Nadwi navigated questions about metaphysics, morality, free will, and human suffering with poise and nuance.

Reports highlighted his argument that the question of God’s existence is fundamentally metaphysical rather than empirical, emphasizing moral responsibility, human agency, and the limits of scientific reasoning. Akhtar approached the debate from an atheist perspective, questioning the idea of divine justice in the face of human suffering, especially among vulnerable populations.

The debate attracted attention well beyond academic and religious circles, generating widespread discussion online and in the media. Pakistani former cricketer Saqlain Mushtaq praised Nadwi’s calm, civil, and intellectually engaging demeanor, emphasizing the importance of respectful dialogue on complex philosophical issues.

At just 27, Mufti Shamail Nadwi represents a new generation of scholars who combine traditional Islamic learning with public engagement and digital outreach. Through education, debate, and thoughtful discourse, he is helping to create a space for nuanced discussions on faith, ethics, and philosophy in India and beyond, demonstrating that intellectual rigor and respectful dialogue can coexist with accessibility and social impact.


Yasoob Abbas - selected in the list of  - 2025

Yasoob Abbas

Maulana Mohammad Mirza Yasoob Abbas – Renowned Islamic Cleric and Speaker

Maulana Mohammad Mirza Yasoob Abbas is a distinguished Islamic scholar, prominent cleric, and the current speaker of the All India Shia Personal Law Board (AISPLB). He is also a respected member of both the India Islamic Culture Centre in Delhi and Shia College in Lucknow. Known for his deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence and his eloquent oratory, Maulana Yasoob Abbas has become a key figure in modern Shia scholarship in India.

As a vocal advocate for the rights of Muslims, Maulana Abbas has not shied away from speaking out on important socio-political issues. He has been an outspoken critic of the Uttar Pradesh government’s directive to make madrasas participate in Independence Day celebrations while exempting other educational institutions. Abbas argued that such selective mandates were discriminatory and unfair.

A strong supporter of Muslim women’s rights, Maulana Abbas welcomed the Supreme Court’s verdict banning the practice of triple talaq, calling it a significant victory for Muslim women. He emphasized that such practices were not part of the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and advocated for a comprehensive legal framework against triple talaq, similar to the laws that abolished the practice of Sati.

In his role as a representative of the All India Shia Personal Law Board, Maulana Abbas also condemned former Uttar Pradesh Shia Waqf Board chairman Waseem Rizvi’s petition to remove certain Quranic verses, labeling it an insult to Muslims worldwide. He strongly criticized Rizvi’s actions, stressing the importance of upholding the sanctity of the Quran.

Furthermore, Maulana Yasoob Abbas has consistently highlighted the plight of Shia Muslims in Pakistan, especially in the context of ongoing terrorism targeting the community. He has called for peace and humanity, invoking the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and his family. His efforts to foster interfaith dialogue include inviting Pakistani cleric Shahenshah Naqvi to mediate and promote peace, an initiative that helped improve relations and also benefited regional cooperation.

Despite facing criticism and allegations regarding his involvement in controversies related to Shia College in Lucknow, Maulana Abbas remains a respected figure dedicated to promoting justice, peace, and the well-being of the Shia community.


Muslim Mirror 100: The Most Influential Indian Muslims 2025

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