Wahiduddin Khan, Indian religious scholar and peace activist

Wahiduddin Khan: A Beacon of Peace, Scholarship, and Interfaith Harmony

Maulana Wahiduddin Khan (1 January 1925 – 21 April 2021) was a distinguished Indian Islamic scholar, prolific author, and dedicated peace activist whose life's work profoundly impacted global understanding of Islam and interfaith relations. Revered with the honorific "Maulana," signifying a learned master in Islamic sciences, he was celebrated for his profound intellectual contributions and unwavering commitment to peace.

Key Contributions and Intellectual Legacy

Maulana Khan's scholarly endeavors were extensive and highly influential. He authored a comprehensive commentary on the Quran, a monumental work that provides deep insights into its verses. Furthermore, he undertook the vital task of translating the Holy Quran into contemporary English, making its profound wisdom and timeless message accessible to a wider, global audience in an easily understandable format. His efforts democratized access to Islamic scripture, fostering greater engagement and comprehension.

His stature as a leading Islamic thinker was recognized internationally; he was consistently featured in "The 500 Most Influential Muslims" list, compiled annually by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre of Jordan. This recognition underscored his significant global impact on Islamic thought and peace advocacy.

Championing Peace and Interfaith Dialogue

A cornerstone of Maulana Khan’s legacy is the establishment of the Centre for Peace and Spirituality (CPS) in New Delhi. This organization is dedicated to promoting peaceful coexistence and fostering genuine interfaith dialogue, actively working to bridge divides and cultivate mutual respect among adherents of different religions. Through CPS, he championed a non-confrontational approach to inter-communal relations, emphasizing universal values of peace and reconciliation inherent in all faiths.

His commitment to peace was notably demonstrated during a period of significant communal tension in India. In 1993, in a bold and controversial move, Maulana Khan urged Muslims to relinquish their claims over the disputed Babri Masjid site. This stance, though challenging to many, underscored his deeply held conviction that national harmony and reconciliation were paramount, transcending property disputes and historical grievances. Following the demolition of the Babri Masjid, he further exemplified his dedication to interfaith amity by embarking on a peace march through Maharashtra. He was joined by prominent spiritual leaders from other traditions, including Jain monk Sushil Kumar and Hindu spiritual leader Chidanand Saraswati, showcasing a united front for communal harmony in a time of strife.

Prolific Author and Visionary Leader

Maulana Khan was an exceptionally prolific writer, penning over 200 books that delved into various aspects of Islam, spirituality, and peace. His literary works are distinguished by their clarity, logic, and emphasis on the peaceful and constructive dimensions of Islamic teachings, often countering extremist interpretations. His writings served as intellectual foundations for his peace initiatives and continued to inspire millions globally.

Awards and Global Recognition

His profound contributions to peace, interfaith understanding, and Islamic scholarship earned him numerous prestigious accolades throughout his lifetime:

• Demiurgus Peace International Award: A significant international recognition of his efforts in peacebuilding.
• Padma Bhushan (2000): India's third-highest civilian honour, awarded in January 2000, acknowledging his exceptional service to the nation.
• National Citizens' Award: Presented by the revered humanitarian Mother Teresa, highlighting his commitment to social welfare and peace.
• Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award (2009): An award celebrating his outstanding contributions to the promotion of communal harmony, national integration, and peace.
• Padma Vibhushan (2021): India's second-highest civilian honour, awarded in January 2021, just months before his passing, underscoring the profound and lasting impact of his work on the nation.

Maulana Wahiduddin Khan passed away in Delhi on 21 April 2021, at the age of 96, due to complications from COVID-19. His legacy endures as a testament to the power of intellectual discourse, spiritual wisdom, and unwavering dedication to peace and understanding in a complex world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Maulana Wahiduddin Khan

Who was Maulana Wahiduddin Khan?

Maulana Wahiduddin Khan was a renowned Indian Islamic scholar, peace activist, and author, known for his comprehensive Quranic commentary, its translation into contemporary English, and his unwavering efforts in promoting interfaith dialogue and peace.

What was the Centre for Peace and Spirituality (CPS)?

The Centre for Peace and Spirituality (CPS) is an organization founded by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan. Its primary mission is to foster peace, mutual understanding, and respect among people of different faiths and communities, often through interfaith dialogue and educational initiatives.

What was Maulana Khan's stance on the Babri Masjid issue?

In a notable act of advocating for peace over conflict, Maulana Wahiduddin Khan urged Muslims in 1993 to relinquish their claims over the disputed Babri Masjid site, emphasizing the paramount importance of national harmony and reconciliation.

What major awards did Maulana Wahiduddin Khan receive?

He received several prestigious awards, including the Demiurgus Peace International Award, India's third-highest civilian honour the Padma Bhushan (2000), the National Citizens' Award (presented by Mother Teresa), the Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award (2009), and India's second-highest civilian honour, the Padma Vibhushan (2021).