Mawlana Maqbool Ahmad Mazahiri
Source: https://t.me/DrAkramNadwi/5562
Disclaimer: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors. Please refer to the original text for accuracy.
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In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate
Mawlana Maqbool Ahmad Mazahiri
By: Dr. Mohammed Akram Nadwi
Oxford
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“Those whom we sought in the heavens and the earth, turned out to be among the inhabitants of my own heart’s darkness.”
Mawlana Maqbool Ahmad Mazahiri is a man of understanding, good nature, and compassion. He possesses a natural spontaneity, always ready to empathize with others. His smiling face, fragrant words, and pure-heartedness are his signature qualities, reminiscent of people from a bygone era who embody timeless virtues.
We studied together at Zia-ul-Uloom. Although he was a year ahead of me, we were close. After some years together, he left for Riyadh-ul-Uloom, while I moved to Maulana Azad College, and our paths diverged. Our curricula and appearances became different as well, yet our friendship remained unchanged.
When I came to Lucknow, our meetings became less frequent, but he still visited Nadwa a few times to see me. He always supported and encouraged me in difficult times, showing selfless sincerity in a world that increasingly values self-interest. I felt at ease with him in a way I felt with no one else in Goraini. To this day, whenever I plan a trip to Goraini, the first face that comes to mind is that of Mawlana Maqbool.
Upon reaching Riyadh-ul-Uloom, I go directly to his room. He is quick to offer tea and always calls me Maulvi Akram with an endearing familiarity, which feels more genuine than any formal titles. Mawlana Maqbool studied Mishkat-ul-Masabih at Riyadh-ul-Uloom and completed his Dars-e-Nizami studies at Mazahir-ul-Uloom, Saharanpur. After graduation, he returned to Goraini as a teacher and librarian, where he has served ever since.
As a librarian, he is exceptional. Not only does he know about books, but he also organizes them in such a way that students, teachers, and researchers can easily find what they need. Unlike some librarians who guard books possessively, Mawlana Maqbool welcomes students to the library warmly, encouraging them to explore. His love for his profession is evident as he keeps track of renowned publishers and makes sure important books find their way into his library.
Our friendship has deepened over time. He is the only person at Riyadh-ul-Uloom with whom I feel a profound connection. Sometimes we talk on the phone. Though we differ in outward appearance and dress, such differences have no bearing on the bond we share. Mawlana transcends these superficial distinctions.
He is humble, open-hearted, and far removed from narrow-minded sectarian views. In his company, one never feels that he differentiates between Muslims. He embodies the unity that people write and speak about, but rarely practice sincerely. Mawlana is like those naturally peaceful souls whose self-made boundaries do not confine them. He is truly a chosen soul.
Mawlana Maqbool meets everyone with warmth, bringing comfort to those around him. He is a masterpiece of purity and sincerity, a true marvel in human form. I can say that while he may not have formally taught me, I have learned much from his simple, pure-hearted approach to life.
