Revolutionary Legacy: The Heroic Martyrdom of Maulana Kifayat Ali Kafi Moradabadi

By Syed Amjad Hussain, New Age Islam 9 August 2024 The Legacy of Maulana Kifayat Ali Kafi Moradabadi Serves as A Powerful Reminder of the Courage and Determination That Fuelled India’s Struggle for Freedom. Main Points: 1. Maulana Kifayat Ali Kafi Moradabadi, a key figure in the 1857 revolt, was executed on May 6, 1858. 2. From an influential family of Moradabad, he combined scholarly pursuits with revolutionary fervor. 3. He authored notable Islamic texts and played a leadership role in the anti-colonial struggle. 4. His martyrdom at the Moradabad jail gate symbolizes enduring patriotism and sacrifice. ----- One such valiant figure is Shaheed-e-Millat Maulana Kifayat Ali Kafi Moradabadi, a prominent hero of the 1857 revolt against British colonial rule. His relentless fight for freedom, despite coming from a well-to-do family, underscores the indomitable spirit of patriotism that defined the independence movement. Maulana Kifayat Ali Kafi Moradabadi, hailing from an influential family in Moradabad, displayed unwavering commitment to the cause of independence. His resistance against British rule culminated in his martyrdom on May 6, 1858, when he was hanged at the jail gate in Moradabad. His sacrifice is etched in history as a testament to his dedication and love for his homeland. He has been praised by Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi, the eponymous founder of Barelvi movement in the South Asia. A scholar and freedom fighter, Maulana Kafi was not only known for his battlefield courage but also for his contributions to Islamic scholarship. He authored several significant works, including 'Tarjuma-e-Shamil-e-Tirmizi', 'Majmua-e-Chahal Hadith', 'Khayban-e-Firdous', 'Bahar-e-Khuld', 'Naseem-e-Jannat', 'Moulud-e-Bahar', 'Jazba-e-Ishq', and *Diwan-e-Ishq. These writings reflect his deep religious knowledge and intellectual prowess, adding a rich dimension to his legacy as a reformer and a fighter. The revolt of 1857, often regarded as India’s first war of independence, saw the active participation of several notable clerics and scholars. Among them, Hakeem-ul-Ummah Allama Fazle Haq Khairabadi is remembered as a leading figure. Following him in this revered list was Maulana Kifayat Ali Kafi, whose fateful decision to issue a fatwa calling Muslims to jihad against British rule marked a significant escalation in the struggle. Joining General Bakht Khan Rohilla’s forces, Maulana Kafi fought valiantly in Delhi, Bareilly, and Allahabad. After liberating Moradabad from British control, he, alongside Nawab Majeeduddin Khan alias Nawab Majju Khan, established a provisional government. Maulana Kafi was appointed as the President of Shariat, with Nawab Majju Khan serving as the appointed governor and Abbas Ali Khan managing artillery. However, the British forces, determined to reclaim lost territories, mounted a counteroffensive. On April 21, 1858, General Morris’s troops launched a decisive attack on Moradabad. The battle resulted in the martyrdom of Nawab Majju Khan and the capture of many resistance fighters, who were subsequently executed. Maulana Kafi was arrested on April 30, 1858, and, after a brief imprisonment, was executed on May 6, 1858. The physical remnants of his martyrdom remain at the Moradabad jail, where the gate still bears witness to his sacrifice. While the jail’s records do not currently contain explicit documentation of the event, the stone at the jail gate stands as a solemn reminder of Maulana Kafi's heroism and sacrifice. The legacy of Maulana Kifayat Ali Kafi Moradabadi serves as a powerful reminder of the courage and determination that fuelled India’s struggle for freedom. His life and sacrifice continue to inspire future generations, reflecting the enduring spirit of resistance and patriotism that shaped the nation’s path to independence. ------ Syed Amjad Hussain is a Bihar-based Author and research scholar of Sufism. He is affiliated with the Shyama Prasad Institute of Technology and Management, Kolkata. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-personalities/revolutionary-legacy-heroic-martyrdom-maulana-kifayat-kafi/d/132898 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism