Aligarh: The Department of Arabic, Aligarh Muslim University, hosted a special event to launch Prof. Abu Sufyan Islahi’s autobiography “Sada-e-Naheef”, along with two books on his life – “Abr-e-Goharbaar” by Dr. Arafat Zafar and “Abu Sufyan Islahi: Khadim-e-Quraniyat” by Dr. Obaid Iqbal Asim.
The event opened with a welcome address by Prof. Mohammad Sanaullah Nadwi, Chairman of the Department of Arabic, who traced the department’s rich academic lineage and described Prof. Islahi as a distinguished continuation of AMU’s intellectual heritage.
Scholars including Prof. Qazi Jamal Hussain, Prof. Tariq Chhatari, Dr. Faiza Abbasi, Prof. Sami Akhter Falahi, Prof. Obaidullah Fahad Falahi, and Prof. Asim Siddiqui discussed the significance of the released books. They praised its narrative craftsmanship, recognition of women’s contributions, and Prof. Islahi’s blending of Qur’anic scholarship with rationalism, while also commending his scholarly rigor and stylistic elegance.
The chief guest, Prof. Zakia Siddiqui, described Prof. Islahi as a humble, popular teacher and a thinker who brings life and literature into meaningful conversation. She praised his honesty, clarity, and humility – traits that deeply resonate throughout his writings.
In his presidential address, Prof. Abdul Raheem Kidwai, Director, K.A. Nizami Centre for Quranic Studies delivered a deeply reflective and personal tribute to Prof. Abu Sufyan Islahi. He highlighted Islahi’s unwavering commitment to Islamic scholarship, knowledge, ethics, and the Aligarh tradition.
In his closing address, Prof. Abu Sufyan Islahi expressed gratitude to his mentors, students, and colleagues, and shared insights into his literary journey. He acknowledged the influence of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Allama Hamiduddin Farahi, and Prof. Mukhtaruddin Arzoo on his intellectual evolution.
The event was skilfully moderated by Dr. Obaid Iqbal Asim, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Ahsanullah Khan.
