Abdul Hameed Nomani: Islamic scholar, Academic

Maulana Abdul Hameed Nomani 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.

Abul Qasim Nomani: Islamic Scholar, Academic

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.

Bahauddin Muhammed Jamaluddin Nadvi: Islamic Scholar, Academic

Bahauddeen Muhammed Jamaluddeen Nadwi (born in 1951) is a prominent Muslim scholar from Kerala, India, known for his significant contributions to literary and historical scholarship. He is one of the founding members of Darul Huda Islamic University, where he currently serves as Vice Chancellor. Nadwi is dedicated to revitalizing and modernizing the traditional Islamic curriculum, aiming to adapt teaching methods to meet contemporary global needs. His work as an Islamic scholar has taken him across the world, where he has lectured extensively.

Born in Kooriyad near Kottakkal in the Malappuram district of Kerala, Nadwi hails from a family with a deep-rooted tradition of scholarship. His father, Muhammad Jamaluddin, was a respected scholar, and his maternal grandfather, Zainuddin bin Ahmed, also known as Thenu Musliyar, was a revered Muslim scholar and Sufi in Kerala. Nadwi's academic journey began with a degree in Arabic Language, 'Afzal Al Ulama,' from the University of Calicut in 1979. He also earned a Diploma in Arabic Language Teaching from the Government of Kerala in 1971.

At the age of 30, Nadwi sought advanced education in North India, enrolling in Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama in Lucknow in 1981. He earned a degree in 'Alimiyya' in Arabic Language and Islamic Studies in 1983, followed by a master's degree in Arabic Literature from Aligarh Muslim University in 1987. His international education included a Da'wa course at Al-Azhar University in Egypt.

Nadwi was mentored by eminent scholars, including Abul Hasan Al Nadwi, Shamsul Ulema E.K Aboobakar Musliyyar, M.D. Sayyid Tantawi (former Rector of Al-Azhar), Ali Jumu’a Muh’d (former Grand Mufti of Egypt), and Saeedu Rahman Al Aa’zmi.

Among his notable works are Inba' al-Ma'arifin bi-Anba' al-Musannifin (Insights into the Lives of Scholars), Tarikh al-Adab al-Arab (History of Arabic Literature), and Mukthar al-Akhlaq wa-Adab (Ethics and Etiquette). Nadwi’s scholarship and dedication continue to influence and inspire generations of students and scholars.

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.

Javed Jamil: Islamic Scholar/ Academic

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: Islamic Scholar, Academic and Preacher  

Maulana Khalil-ur-Rahman Sajjad Nomani (born in 1955) is a highly respected Islamic scholar, author, and speaker known for his extensive contributions to Islamic education and thought. Born into a scholarly family in 1955 in Lucknow, India, he is the son of the renowned Islamic scholar Maulana Manzoor Nomani. This lineage of scholarship deeply influenced Maulana Sajjad Nomani, who has become a leading figure in the Indian and global Muslim community.

Maulana Sajjad Nomani received his early education at Nadwatul Ulama in Lucknow, one of India’s most esteemed Islamic seminaries, where he studied under some of the most prominent scholars of the time. He later pursued higher Islamic studies at Darul Uloom Deoband and then traveled to Medina, Saudi Arabia, to further his knowledge. His education is marked by a strong foundation in traditional Islamic sciences, combined with an understanding of contemporary issues, which has made his scholarship particularly relevant.

He is best known for his efforts in promoting Islamic education, unity among Muslims, and his advocacy for the rights of Muslims in India. Maulana Sajjad Nomani has been actively involved with the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), where he serves as a spokesperson, addressing issues related to Muslim personal law and the preservation of Islamic identity in the face of modern challenges.

A prolific author, Maulana Sajjad Nomani has written numerous books and articles on a variety of topics, including Islamic jurisprudence, spirituality, and social issues. His works are widely read and respected for their clarity, depth, and practical relevance. He is also a sought-after speaker, known for his eloquence and ability to connect with audiences across different backgrounds.

Maulana Sajjad Nomani is deeply committed to the educational and spiritual upliftment of the Muslim community. He regularly delivers lectures and conducts workshops across India and internationally, focusing on youth empowerment, interfaith dialogue, and the importance of maintaining a strong Islamic identity in the modern world.

Through his tireless efforts, Maulana Khalil-ur-Rahman Sajjad Nomani has become a guiding force in contemporary Islamic thought, advocating for unity, justice, and the spiritual development of Muslims. His work continues to inspire and guide the Muslim community in navigating the complexities of the modern world while staying true to their faith.