Syed Deedar Ali Shah Alwari: Scholar, Leader, and Guardian of Sunni Islamic Tradition

By Sahil Razvi, New Age Islam 23 August 2024 Syed Deedar Ali Shah Alwari (1856–1935) Was A Distinguished Figure In Sunni Islamic Scholarship, Widely Recognized For His Leadership, Scholarly Contributions, And Unwavering Commitment To The Muslim Community. As A Contemporary Of Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi, Syed Deedar Ali Shah Was Actively Involved In The Anti-Ahmadiyya Movement And Played A Vital Role In The Leadership Of The All India Sunni Conference. ------ Syed Deedar Ali Shah Alwari was a renowned Sunni Islamic scholar, leader, and author. He was instrumental in Islamic education, led the All India Sunni Conference, and opposed the Ahmadiyya movement. He founded Anjuman Hizbul Ahnaf and left a lasting impact through his teachings, writings, and community initiatives. Syed Deedar Ali Shah Alwari was a leading Sunni Islamic scholar known for his deep knowledge and commitment to Islamic learning. He played a significant role in the All India Sunni Conference and was a vocal opponent of the Ahmadiyya movement. Founded Anjuman Hizbul Ahnaf to promote traditional Islamic education and spiritual enlightenment. Wrote numerous influential works on Islamic jurisprudence, theology, Sufism, and poetry, which are still respected today. His teachings, writings, and institutions continue to shape Sunni Islamic thought and practice, reflecting his lasting legacy in the Muslim community. Syed Deedar Ali Shah Alwari (1856–1935) was a distinguished figure in Sunni Islamic scholarship, widely recognized for his leadership, scholarly contributions, and unwavering commitment to the Muslim community. As a contemporary of Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi, Syed Deedar Ali Shah was actively involved in the anti-Ahmadiyya movement and played a vital role in the leadership of the All India Sunni Conference. His influence also extended to the movement for the Shaheed Ganj Mosque, marking him as a significant religious and political leader of his era. Early Life and Education Born in 1856 (1273 AH) in Nawabpura, Alwar, Rajasthan, Syed Muhammad Deedar Ali Shah hailed from a respected family deeply rooted in Islamic scholarship and spirituality. His father, Syed Najaf Ali Shah, and his uncle, the revered saint Maulana Syed Nisar Ali Shah Alwari, greatly influenced his early education and spiritual development. From his uncle, he learned the Holy Quran, which laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to Islamic learning and teaching. Syed Deedar Ali Shah's formal education began under the guidance of several distinguished scholars of his time. His initial studies in foundational Islamic texts were under Maulana Qamaruddin and Maulana Shah Karamat Ali, who provided him with a solid grounding in classical Islamic knowledge. He then pursued advanced studies in Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) and Mantiq (logic) under Maulana Shah Irshad Hussain Mujaddidi Rampuri. To further deepen his understanding of Hadith, he studied under renowned scholars such as Maulana Ahmad Ali Muhaddith Saharanpuri and Hazrat Maulana Shah Fazlur Rahman Ganj Muradabadi. His education culminated in a comprehensive mastery of Islamic sciences, making him one of the leading scholars of his time. He was also a contemporary and fellow student of prominent figures like Shaykh-ul-Islam Pir Syed Meher Ali Shah Golravi and Maulana Wasi Ahmad Muhaddith Suri, forming a network of scholarly exchange and spiritual camaraderie. Contributions and Activities Syed Deedar Ali Shah Alwari was not only a scholar but also a dynamic leader deeply involved in both religious and socio-political spheres. He played an instrumental role in the Pakistan movement, advocating for Muslim rights and identity in British India. His dedication to education and spiritual enlightenment was evident through his founding of Anjuman Hizbul Ahnaf, a madrasa committed to the propagation of traditional Islamic teachings. His approach to education was unique; he would often spend extended periods teaching specific subjects in depth. For instance, he famously spent an entire year teaching Surah Al-Fatiha, focusing on its profound meanings and implications. His lessons were transformative, inspiring many to adhere more closely to Sharia and repent for their sins. The impact of his teachings was so profound that it led to the conversion of many Hindus to Islam, further showcasing his influence and the appeal of his message. Syed Deedar Ali Shah's contributions extended beyond his immediate community. He was actively involved in the All India Sunni Conference, where he advocated for Sunni unity and the preservation of traditional Islamic values. His leadership was crucial in mobilising Sunni Muslims against the Ahmadiyya movement, which he and many other scholars viewed as a deviation from orthodox Islamic beliefs. Additionally, his involvement in the movement for the Shaheed Ganj Mosque demonstrated his commitment to protecting Islamic heritage and places of worship. He tirelessly worked to ensure that the mosque remained a symbol of Islamic faith and identity. Beyond his political and religious activism, Syed Deedar Ali Shah was a prolific writer and thinker. He authored numerous books on a wide range of Islamic topics, from jurisprudence and theology to Sufism and poetry. His writings continue to be studied and respected for their depth of knowledge and clarity of thought. His efforts to establish schools, mosques, and madrasas across the region ensured that Islamic education remained accessible to all, fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth. Legacy Syed Deedar Ali Shah's legacy is multifaceted, reflecting his diverse contributions to Islamic scholarship, education, and community leadership. His relationship with Imam Ahmed Raza Khan, a prominent Sunni scholar and reformer, further cemented his status within the Sunni Islamic tradition. Imam Ahmed Raza Khan granted his son, Mufti-e-Azam Pakistan Maulana Syed Abul Barkat, both spiritual permission and Khilafat(succession), underscoring the deep respect and trust he had in Syed Deedar Ali Shah's family and teachings. The establishment of Anjuman Hizbul Ahnaf remains a lasting testament to his dedication to promoting the "Maslak-e-Aala Hazrat," a school of thought within Sunni Islam that emphasises adherence to traditional beliefs and practices. This organisation continues to provide free Islamic education, ensuring that his mission of spiritual enlightenment and community service endures. His influence also extended into the realm of public service and community development. He was a key figure in the establishment of numerous social and religious institutions that aimed to uplift the Muslim community and provide essential services. His emphasis on education, charity, and social justice left a profound impact on the socio-religious fabric of his time, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps. Selected Works Syed Deedar Ali Shah Alwari was a prolific author, and his scholarly works have left a lasting impact on Islamic thought and scholarship. Some of his notable publications include: Tafsir Meezan al-Adyan, Hidayat al-GhawidarDuru al-Fawaid, Rasool al-Kalam, Tahqiq al-Masa'il, Hidayat al-Tariq, Suluk Qadriyah, AlamatuWahabiyyah, Fazail Ramadan, Fazail Shaban, Al-Istighasa min Auliya Allah, Ain Istighasa min Allah, Diwan Deedar Ali Farsi, Diwan Deedar Ali Urdu. Mazar Syed Deedar Ali Shah Alwari ------ Death and Final Resting Place Syed Deedar Ali Shah Alwari passed away on 22 Rajab 1354 AH, corresponding to October 20, 1935. His death marked the end of an era of profound scholarship and community service. However, his teachings, writings, and organisational efforts continue to resonate with Muslims around the world. His shrine, located at Gate Lahore in Mohalla Androon, Lahore, Pakistan, remains a site of pilgrimage and reflection for those who seek to connect with his spiritual legacy. It serves as a reminder of his enduring influence and the vital role he played in shaping the religious landscape of his time. Through his dedication to Islamic teachings, community leadership, and scholarly contributions, Syed Deedar Ali Shah Alwari left an indelible mark on the Sunni Islamic world. His life and work continue to inspire and guide future generations, ensuring that his legacy of knowledge, piety, and service to humanity lives on. --- Sahil Razvi is an Author and Research scholar specialising in Sufism and History and an alumnus of Jamia Millia Islamia. 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