Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq (Rah.): A Beacon of Knowledge Extinguishes
By: Khursheed Alam Dawood Qasmi
It was just in the last week of the previous month that, accompanied by a few friends, I had the opportunity to attend the national Tablighi Ijtima held in Chipata. During this journey, while I was fortunate to meet many sincere and devoted colleagues, one of the most memorable encounters was with our affectionate friend, the late Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq Mazahiri Qasmi (Rah.), a respected teacher at Ma'hadur Rasheed al-Islami, Chipata. On that occasion, we were blessed with the opportunity to visit Ma'hadur Rasheed al-Islami in his esteemed company. We were then graciously hosted at his residence for an elaborate tea-party, a gesture that reflected his generous and hospitable nature. The following morning too, we shared breakfast in his warm companionship before we bid farewell and began our journey back. Little did we know that this meeting, filled with affection, kindness and sincerity, would be our last. That soft-spoken, noble-hearted and embodiment of knowledge and piety departed from this world in the early hours of 26th August 2025, leaving behind a legacy of scholarship and virtue. Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return.
The Onset of Illness
On the night of the 15th August 2025, a deeply concerning message was shared on WhatsApp by our dear colleague, Maulana Naseem Akhtar Qasmi (resident of Chipata). The message read: "Mufti Azharul Haq Sahib is currently under treatment at Altaf Memorial Hospital (Chipata). Due to breathing difficulties, he has been placed on oxygen support. According to the doctors, he is suffering from a bacterial infection. We request everyone to pray sincerely for his complete and swift recovery. May Allah grant him full and immediate healing. Ameen!"
As soon as this message was read, members of the group immediately began sending heartfelt Duaas. There was hope in our hearts that Allah, the One who grants healing and suffices all needs, would once again bless Mufti Sahib (Rah.) with recovery. After all, a few years ago, he had faced a similar health crisis and, by Allah’s grace, had returned to his family in good health after a brief hospital stay. We held the same hope this time that he would soon regain his strength and resume his daily activities. But alas, destiny had something else in store. The illness lingered longer than expected, and no signs of improvement appeared. After some days, he was shifted from Altaf Memorial Hospital to the General Hospital in Chipata for further treatment. Throughout this period, our hearts remained constantly engaged in supplication. Yet Allah’s will is beyond human understanding. Despite our Duaas, His divine plan, in which there is always wisdom, even if we cannot grasp it, had already been written.
Final Journey and News of His Passing
On the evening of 25th August 2025, another message arrived from Maulana Naseem Akhtar Qasmi. It informed us that Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq Sahib was being transferred to Lusaka via ambulance. The news sent waves of anxiety through our hearts. During the journey from Chipata to Lusaka, his condition continued to deteriorate. In the pre-dawn hours, around 4:45 AM, my phone rang. The screen displayed the name of the colleague Maulana Manzar Hussain Sahib. My heart sank instantly, gripped by a sense of foreboding. I feared it might be tragic news. As I answered the call, and after brief greetings, Maulana Manzar Sahib shared the heartbreaking news swiftly and softly: "Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq Sahib is no more in this world." Those words struck like a bolt of grief. Neither of us could muster the strength to say more. We quietly ended the call.
While informing me, Maulana Manzar Sahib also shared the news with other friends in Lusaka and requested them to reach the hospital with their families to console Mufti Sahib’s grieving wife. Responding promptly, Maulana Qari Muhammad Afzal, Mufti Abdul Qavi, Maulana Muhammad Akram, Maulana Zakiur Rahman, Mufti Azizur Rahman and several other people, along with their families, arrived at the hospital. They remained by the side of Mufti Sahib’s family throughout offering comfort, strength and unwavering support until the burial. May Allah reward them all with the best of rewards!
Following the emotionally shattering phone call from Maulana Manzar Sahib, I opened our WhatsApp group. There, I found two messages from Maulana Naseem Akhtar. The first message had been sent at around 4:00 AM. It conveyed the update that Mufti Sahib had reached Royal Hospital in Lusaka. It is worth noting that upon his arrival at the hospital, his close and devoted friend, Janab Zaheer Daya Sahib of Chipata, was already present to receive him. With great urgency and care, he ensured that Mufti Sahib was admitted directly to the ICU. Zaheer Sahib remained by his side throughout. Roughly half an hour after the first message, a second message was posted at the same group. This one bearing the tragic news of his passing. The voice that once radiated knowledge, affection and compassion had fallen silent. The luminous face, the humble demeanor and the soul filled with sincerity had departed from this world forever.
Burial and the Final Farewell
Following consultation with the administration of the institution where Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq (Rah.) was serving, along with his family and close associates, it was decided that his burial would take place in Lusaka itself. His esteemed wife, who had accompanied him in the ambulance from Chipata, was present in Lusaka at the time. Their two daughters, who were still in Chipata, soon were taken to Lusaka as well to be with the family. Maulana Manzar Hussain, Maulana Naseem Akhtar, Maulana Asif Iqbal Qasmi and several others also departed for Lusaka immediately to attend the funeral. That same evening, following the ‘Isha Salaah, Mufti Sahib was laid to rest. The Janazah Salaah was led by Maulana Rashaad Sahib. The funeral was attended by a large gathering of scholars, students, friends, well-wishers and members of the general public which was a testimony to the deep respect, love and admiration he had earned through his life of scholarship, humility, and service to others. O Allah, forgive him, have mercy on him and grant him the best place in Jannah!
A Heart Overflowing with Sincerity and Love
Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq Mazahiri Qasmi (Rah.) was a gifted and deeply righteous Islamic scholar. He was a man of piety and sincerity. His life was a living reflection of simplicity, humility and heartfelt devotion. He had a heart that was pure, a temperament that was gentle, and relationships that radiated warmth and genuine affection. He loved his companions dearly. Whenever someone faced even a minor difficulty, he would become genuinely concerned. No matter how small the matter, he would call to check in, make Duaa, and give comforting words. If he learned that someone’s relative had fallen ill, he would not only make Duaa for them but would follow up regularly, often offering special Duaas for them. He expressed his love through thoughtful gestures as well. From time to time, he would send gifts to his friends. Just a few months ago, he sent a gift to me. When I informed him that I had received it, he responded with heartfelt joy.
A Heart Beating for the Ummah
Mufti Sahib (Rah.) had a deep concern for the state of the Muslim Ummah and the Islamic world. He remained constantly informed about their struggles, pain and crises. He was always engaged in heartfelt Duaas for their relief and well-being. What was truly remarkable was that even while he himself was undergoing treatment in the hospital, he remained emotionally present to the world around him. If news of a tragedy or hardship reached him, he would immediately turn to supplication, even from his hospital bed. His tongue was frequently engaged in remembrance (Dhikr), glorification (Tasbih) and heartfelt Duas. It felt as though his entire life was an embodiment of love, concern and sincere religious devotion for the Ummah.
A Serious Commitment to His Children’s Education
Mufti Sahib (Rah.) was not only a man who deeply valued knowledge himself, but he was also remarkably serious and proactive when it came to the education and upbringing of his children. When his son, our dear young Hafiz Ahmad (may Allah protect him), was in Grade 12, we suggested to Mufti Sahib that he consider having him sit for the Cambridge International Examinations. The goal was to ease the process of gaining admission to any institution in the future. Mufti Sahib was genuinely pleased with the suggestion. He took it to heart and immediately began gathering information, discussing the process with us repeatedly, and showing a keen interest in every detail. With his involvement and encouragement, Hafiz Ahmad’s registration was successfully completed through the British Embassy in Lusaka. Eventually, the day came when Hafiz Ahmad sat for the Cambridge Grade 12 examination at the British Embassy in Lusaka. By the grace of Allah, he passed. This incident stands as a shining example of Mufti Sahib’s foresight, his appreciation for academic excellence and his openness to well-considered advice. It reflects the blend of traditional Islamic values and modern educational awareness that defined his parenting approach.
Birth and Educational Journey
Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq (Rah.) was born on 6th July 1978, in the village of Dham Dhamah, located in the Chatra district of the Indian state of Jharkhand. His respected father, Hafiz Ibrahim Sahib, is, Alhamdulillah, still alive. Mufti Sahib received his early education in the local religious Madrasa under the careful supervision of his paternal uncle (phupha). From the very beginning, Mufti Sahib displayed remarkable seriousness toward learning and a deep religious temperament.
Graduation from Mazahir Uloom Waqf:
After completing his initial education, Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq (Rah.) enrolled at Jamia Islamia in Rehri Tajpura, Saharanpur district, where he began the traditional Darse Nizami course. When he was learning Darse Nizami Course, driven by a strong desire to memorize the Glorious Quran, he subsequently joined Madrasa Quadria Missarwala in Himachal Pradesh to pursue memorization of the Glorious Qur’an. He completed his memorization at Jamia Islamia Baitul Uloom, Pipli Mazra, Yemenagar, Haryana. His thirst for deeper Islamic knowledge led him back to one of India’s most prestigious religious institutions, Mazahir Uloom Waqf in Saharanpur. There, in 1998, he successfully completed the Dars-e-Nizami course and was awarded his certificate. Seeking further specialization, Mufti Sahib chose Jamia Ashraful Uloom Rasheedi in Gangoh to pursue Iftaa Course. He completed his Ifta course in 1999.
Teaching Career and Passion for Knowledge
After completing his formal education, Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq (Rah.) chose teaching as his lifelong career. He began his teaching journey at Jamia Mahmudia in Chhachharoli, Yamunanagar, Haryana. Shortly thereafter, he was appointed at Jamia Islamia Baitul Uloom, Pipli Mazra, Yamunanagar, Haryana, where he took on the responsibility of teaching Tajweed and Qira’at. Mufti Sahib served there for a period, imparting knowledge with dedication. However, his insatiable thirst for deeper learning led him toward further academic advancement. This zeal drew him to one of Asia’s most prestigious Islamic seminaries, Darul Uloom Deoband. He decided to resume his studies and enrolled at Darul Uloom Deoband. In 2006, he graduated after completing the course of Daurah Hadith. Following this, Mufti Sahib preferred to continue his teaching career primarily at Jamia Islamia Baitul Uloom, Pipli Mazra.
Marital Life
While Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq (Rah.) was engaged in teaching at Jamia Baitul Uloom, his scholarly abilities and exemplary character impressed the Administrator (Nazim) of the institution deeply. The institution’s Nazim offered the hand of his sister-in-law that was the sister of his wife and daughter of Mr. Allah Bakhsh Hasan in marriage to Mufti Sahib, who accepted the proposal. In 2000, their marriage was solemnized. Mufti Sahib’s wife is a learned, an Aalimah and deeply pious, modest and virtuous woman. She faithfully supported Mufti Sahib in his service and religious mission with sincere dedication. May Allah bless her with safe and sound health!
Education and Upbringing of Children
Allah blessed Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq (Rah.) with three children. His eldest daughter, Hafiza Aisha, is an exceptionally intelligent, hardworking and talented young lady. By the grace of Allah, combined with her parents’ religious upbringing and her tireless efforts, she completed the memorization of the Glorious Quran at a very young age. After completing Hifz, she began simultaneously pursuing formal school education along with studying books of the Alimah course under the guidance of her father and mother. When only one year of the course remained, Mufti Sahib sent her to India to obtain a formal Alimah certification from a recognized institution. She successfully completed the Alimah course there. Subsequently, she continued her schooling and completed her 12th grade. Currently, she is enrolled in a medical programme at a university in Lusaka. In about a year and a half, In Shaa Allah, she is expected to graduate as a doctor. This is a clear testament to Mufti Sahib’s visionary approach to education, his balanced focus on both religious and worldly knowledge.
Educational Journey of Mufti Sahib’s son Hafiz Ahmad
Among Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq’s (Rah.) children, his son Hafiz Ahmad holds the second position. Mufti Sahib invested immense effort and dedication in nurturing this talented and intelligent boy. By the grace and mercy of Allah, Hafiz Ahmad also completed the memorization of the Glorious Quran at a young age. After completing his 12th grade education, under his father’s careful supervision, Hafiz Ahmad began the traditional Dars-e-Nizami course at Ma’hadur Rashid al-Islami. In addition, he continued to study privately under his father’s guidance. Within approximately four years, he completed his studies up to Mishkatul Masabih. This year, Mufti Sahib sent Hafiz Ahmad to Darul Uloom Deoband for Daurah Hadith. Alhamdulillah, he successfully passed the competitive entrance exam and is now enrolled in the Daurah Hadith.
Youngest Daughter, Fatima
The youngest of the children is Fatima, who is about ten years old. She completed the recitation of the Glorious Qur’an (Nazra) under guidance of her late father. Currently she is studying in grade 6. She has also been learning Arabic language from her father. May Allah grant this young girl the blessings of becoming a Hafiza, a learned Alimah and a righteous lady!
Teaching Services and Leading Salaah at the Ma’had’s Masjid
In 2008, Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq Mazahiri Qasmi was appointed as a teacher at Ma’hadur Rashid al-Islami, Chipata, Zambia. Since then, he diligently taught all levels of the institution’s curriculum, ranging from primary grades to the advanced Daurah Hadith. Alongside teaching, he also supervised the primary grades and Hifz department. Shortly after his appointment, the founder and Muhtamim of the institute, Hazrat Maulana Abdul Raheem Motala (Rah.), had the opportunity to listen to Mufti Sahib recite the Glorious Qur’an. Impressed by his style and melodious recitation, Maulana Motala (Rah.) requested him to lead the Salaah in the Ma’had’s Masjid. Answering this request, Mufti Sahib took on the responsibility of leading the five daily Salaahs at the Masjid. For several years, he also led the Taraweeh Salaah during Ramadan. In recent years, two other teachers have joined him in leading Salaahs, with Mufti Sahib taking charge every third week. He carried out these responsibilities with great passion, sincerity and meticulous care.
Diligence, Service and Sincerity of Heart
Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq Mazahiri Qasmi (Rah.) was known for his neat handwriting and well-organized personality. His writing was exceptionally clear and beautiful, which made him responsible for many important clerical tasks at the institute. These included preparing the timetable, compiling students’ exam results and handling significant official correspondence. In addition to these duties, he also managed the institute’s library. Mufti Sahib was an extremely hardworking, dedicated and responsible individual who selflessly served the field of education. May Allah Almighty accept Mufti Sahib’s services, forgive his shortcomings, grant him the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus and bestow patience and strength upon his grieving family and loved ones! Aameen!
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