Syed Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi

Discover the remarkable story of Maulana Mohammad Ilyas, the visionary Islamic scholar who reshaped grassroots religious revival in the twentieth century. This definitive biography unveils how one man’s profound spiritual insight and unwavering dedication ignited a global movement that continues to influence millions across continents.

Born into a distinguished family of scholars in 1885, Maulana Ilyas grew up immersed in Islamic learning and devotion. Yet he perceived a crisis that few were addressing: Muslims were drifting away from the foundational teachings of their faith. While others pursued elite academic instruction or political activism, Maulana Ilyas pioneered a revolutionary methodology—bringing the call of faith directly to the people through organized traveling groups that blended learning, spirituality, and purposeful action.

Written by Maulana Syed Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi, one of the twentieth century’s most celebrated Islamic scholars, this biography offers unmatched depth and authenticity. As a close companion during Maulana Ilyas’s final years, Nadwi provides an intimate, first-hand portrait supported by personal correspondence and extensive interviews with early movement pioneers. The result is a narrative that captures not only historical events, but the living spirit of a reformer who embodied the Prophetic tradition of inviting humanity toward God.

Readers will journey through Maulana Ilyas’s formative education at Darul Uloom Deoband, his transformative spiritual experiences in the sacred cities of Mecca and Medina, and his groundbreaking efforts in Mewat, where entire communities witnessed extraordinary renewal. The book highlights his innovative methods in religious education, his emphasis on personal reformation, and his vision for a self-sustaining movement destined to outlive its founder.

What emerges is a portrait of extraordinary determination, spiritual depth, and practical wisdom. Despite lifelong ill health, Maulana Ilyas traveled tirelessly—often walking twenty-five miles in a single day. His teachings championed simplicity, sincerity, and the democratization of religious knowledge, empowering farmers, laborers, merchants, and everyday Muslims—not just scholars—to grow spiritually.

This translation by Mohammad Asif Kidwai, accompanied by a foreword from Maulana Mohammad Manzoor Nomani, preserves the authenticity, emotion, and elegance of the original Urdu text while making it fully accessible to a global English-speaking audience.

Whether you are a student of Islamic history, a seeker of spiritual inspiration, or simply an explorer of influential religious movements, this book offers profound insights into faith, leadership, and the enduring power of grassroots transformation.

Nadwi Press

Life and Mission of Maulana Mohammad Ilyas

Mohammad Asif

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