– M Rafi Ahmed
A pall of gloom descended on Chennai Metro in Tamil Nadu following the passing away of one of the noted scholars with a vast knowledge in Islamic teachings. He was 84.
No gainsaying the fact that Moulana Moulavi Mufti Dr Salahuddin Mohammed Ayub Al-Azhari Qadiri Kaznazani was close to the hearts of Muslims across the country for his acumen in Shariat law.
In his forty years as Chief Kazi to Tamil Nadu Government, he held the prestigious office strictly adhering to Islamic law and was very straightforward in his decisions. He hardly compromised and was firm in coming to a conclusion.
More often than not, he captured attention during sighting of the moon when the entire Tamil Nadu eagerly waited for his ruling. The Tamil Nadu Government used to declare holidays for two key festivals based on his decision.
Chief Kazi Salahuddin Mohammed Ayub, as Islamic scholar, dedicated his entire life to serve the Muslim community in Tamil Nadu. His academic credentials include M.A, M.Phil, and PhD in Arabic Language and Literature.
He also held Al Ijazathul Aalia degree from Al-Azhar University in Egypt, which speaks volumes about his expertise in Islamic jurisprudence.
He was a true scholar in every sense of the word, and his knowledge encompassed every aspect of Islamic teachings.
He was appointed as the Govt. Chief Kazi of Tamil Nadu four decades ago, following in the footsteps of his father, Kazi Muhammad Azeezuddin (Rahmatullahi Alaih).
He had been serving the Muslim community of Tamil Nadu with utmost dedication and sincerity ever since. His services were free of charge, and he actively took part in various religious ceremonies to promote harmony and unity among the community.
Despite his ill health, he continued to serve the Ummah with the assistance of the Deputy Kazi of Tamil Nadu.
He was revered and respected by all, and his wisdom and guidance had been sought by countless people over the years.
Prior to his appointment as Chief Kazi, he was an Arabic Professor at The New College, Chennai.
Chief Kazi Salahuddin Mohammed Ayub belonged to the family of Dewan Mohammed Ghouse Sharf-Ul-Mulk (Rahmatullahi Alaih), who served as the Diwan in the court of Carnatic Nawabs.
Chief Kazi Salahuddin Mohammed Ayub’s great grandfather, Kazi Ubaidullah Naqshbandi (Rahmatullahi Alaih), was the first Government Chief Kazi of the Madras Presidency (now known as Tamil Nadu), appointed in 1880 by the Government of British India.
Undoubtedly, Moulana Moulvi Al-Haj Mufti Kazi Dr. Salahuddin Mohammed Ayub Al Azhari is a shining example of a true Islamic scholar.
His vast knowledge, expertise, and devotion to the service of the community are unparalleled.
It is an irreparable loss to the Muslim community of Tamil Nadu. Really missing a stalwart and compassionate leader. May almighty bless him with Jannah.
