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Maarif- oldest surviving Urdu monthly journal goes online
Maarif- oldest surviving Urdu monthly journal goes online
In its annual meeting on 12th July, 2010 Managing Committee of Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy, Azamgarh, India took some important decisions. Among others things, it decided to make its monthly journal “Maarif” available online. The Academy has maintained uninterrupted publication of ‘Maarif’ since July 1916. Maarif is the oldest Urdu literary and research journal. It is respected for the standard of scholarship and research it has maintained throughout these long years and the specialized fare it has provided particularly in the area of Islamic Studies and Culture. Its contributors include some of the most prominent names in the area of its specialization. It has trained and nurtured generations of authors and writers. Allama Iqbal, Maulana Muhammad Ali Jauhar, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Dr Zakir Husain and Dr Muhammad Hamidullah are included among its admirers.
In another significant decision the Committee decided to introduce new scales for the employees of the Academy. Majority of the employees was temporary working at fixed emoluments. Scales of those working on permanent basis were extremely poor. When the present administration took over in March 2008, total monthly expenditure on the salary of about thirty people was less than fifty thousand. Since then 150% increase was made in the emoluments of the employees in three installments of fifty percent each. But it was felt that even now the emoluments were unsatisfactory and a proper scale was needed. Even though necessary resources for implementing a proper scale were not available, putting trust in the mercy of Almighty Allah Taala it was decided to do what was needed to be done in this regard. After much deliberation, the administration decided to introduce Fifth Pay Commission Scales that was in force in Government institutions before the introduction of the present scales recommended by the Sixth Pay Commission. While the scales recommended by the Six Pay Commission have been implemented in the Government institutions, private institutions are yet to adopt it. The Managing Committee approved this scale. In terms of monthly expenditure on salary of the staff now the increase over earlier expenditure is more than 200%. DA will be paid to the staff as and when it will be announced by the Government.
The Committee also passed resolution of condolence on the sad demise of Prof. Israr Ahmad, a well known Indian Muslim Scientist and Founding Director of Center for Promotion of Science, AMU Aligarh and former Editor of Tahzeebul Akhlaq, Prof. Mukhtaruddin Arzu, an eminent Arabic scholar and Founding Vice-Chancellor of Maulana Mazharul Haq University of Arabic and Persian, Patna and other eminent personalities in the realm of learning and literature who passed away during this period. Prof. Arzu was also a member of Editorial board of Maarif.
The Committee also elected well known educationist and social worker, Maulana Asrarul Haq Qasmi, Member of Parliament from Kishanganj, Bihar, as a Member of the Management Committee. The Management Committee of Darul Musannefin is its supreme Governing body.
The meeting was attended by Maulana Syed Rabey Hasani Nadvi, President All India Muslim Personal Law Board and Rector of Nadwatul Uloom Lucknow, Maulana Taqiuddin Nadvi, Rector Jamia Islamia, Muzaffarpur Azamgarh, Maulana Muhammad Said Mujajjidi , Bhopal, Dr. Zafarul Islam Khan, Editor of “Milli Gazette”, New Delhi, Dr. Fakharul Islam Azmi, Mr. Imtiyaz Beg, Dr. Salman Sultan, Prof. Zafarul Islam Islahi, Chairman Dept. of Islamic Studies, AMU Aligarh, Mr. Abdul Mannan Helali, joint Secretary, Darul Musannefin and Prof. Ishtiyaq Ahmad Zilli, Director, Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy and Editor of Maarif. Prof. Reyazur Rahman Khan Khan Sherwani and Janab Syed Hamid, Chancellor Jamia Hamdard could not attend the meeting due to health reasons. The meeting was presided over by Maulana Saiyid Rabey Nadvi.
Shibli Academy Marching Towards Progress
Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy Marching Towards Progress
From the very beginning Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy has its own press that published its monthly organ “Maarif” and the books authored by scholars associated with it. In fact in those early days it set a new standard for Urdu publications. Its publications were marked for their quality of printing and calligraphy. This standard was maintained for long but with the passage of time the situation gradually changed. After independence, due to combination of a variety of reasons, financial stability of the Academy was adversely affected. As help did not come, its financial condition continued to deteriorate and in the recent years it turned into a veritable crisis. Acute shortage of funds affected every aspect of the Academy. Living conditions of the staff became miserable and even routine maintenance of this grand old institution that constitutes one of the finest achievements of the Muslims of Indian subcontinent became impossible. Even necessary repairs could not be carried and its beautiful campus turned into a virtual wilderness. In this situation publication programme could not have remained unaffected. Quality of printing began to deteriorate. It was a time when printing technology was witnessing a revolution. Shibli Academy which was finding it difficult even to maintain its old standard could not afford to acquire expensive new printing technology. As a result, it could not keep pace with the changing world of printing. This further aggravated the situation. Consequently, the publications of the Academy could not compete with the other publishers and gradually lost much of its market. For long proceeds from the sale of the books was the main source of Academy’s income. As this source dried, the quality of the publication of its famed books was bound to be further affected. Thus a vicious circle was created; decrease in income leading to still poorer quality of books and this leading to further decline in income. Reckless publishers, who do not have any other consideration except profiteering, took full advantage of this situation and began to publish those books of the Academy which were in great demand thereby further jeopardising its financial stability. The Academy was faced with a very difficult situation. Virtually its life line was cut.
The present administration realised the gravity of the of the state of affairs prevailing in the Academy and after taking stock of the entire situation came to the conclusion that first and foremost priority was to launch a vigorous programme for publication of famed books of the Academy in accordance with the modern standards. Out of its more than 250 publications, many were out of print and many more were in a very bad condition and needed to be republished. The task was taken up in earnest even as the Academy did not possess necessary resources. As Academy’s press could not tackle the job, it has to be outsourced. As a result, the books are now mostly printed at Delhi. Till date forty five books have been published in keeping with the modern requirements. These could be placed alongside books of the good Urdu publishers. Every attempt is being made to accelerate the process and Insha Allah it will not stop till all the books of the Academy are published in keeping with the best standards of the time. It requires enormous funds but we have faith in divine providence and firmly believe that this mission will not remain unfulfilled.
The books which have been published so far include Hayat-i Shibli, Khutbat-i Shibli, al-Faruq, Iqbal-i Kamil, Shirul Hind, Khulfa-i Rashidin, Sirat-i Ayesha, Khutbat-i Madras, al-Mamun, Aurangzeb Alamgir par Ek Nazar, Arab wa Hind ke Taalluqat, Maulana Rum, three volumes of Maqalat-i Shibli,Islam mein Mazhabi Rawadari, Hindustan ke Muslim hukmaranun ki Mazhabi Rawadari, Tazkirat ul Muhaddisin etc.
The first priority was naturally given to the books which were out of print.
A very nice edition of Sirat un Nabi was brought out by the Academy few years back. It has been sold out in spite of the fact that a number of cheap pirated editions are available in the market. Preparations are afoot to bring out a new edition of this most important book of the Academy. It will require considerable funds. Help for the publication of this famed biography of our Prophet (SAWS) is indeed a matter of great saadat. Sponsorship for the publication of this great book as well as remaining two hundred odd books will be highly appreciated. Suggestions about improving any aspect of the Academy including publication will be most welcome.
To get hold of a copy of these or any other publications, please write to us at;
info@shibliacademy.org
shibli_academy@rediffmail.com
or call us at +91-54622-65017 , +91-54622-65080
For complete list of publications, catalog of books and other publication related information, please visit http://shibliacademy.org/publications
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"Masadir-i Sirat" - Sources of the life of the Prophet (pbuh).
"Masadir-i Sirat" - Sources of the life of the Prophet (pbuh).
For more information or questions, please write to;
info@shibliacademy.org
zilli@shibliacademy.org
shibli_academy@rediffmail.com
Shibli Academy Launches Hindi Translation of Rahmat-i Alam - Biography of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.
Rahmat-i Alam
Biohgraphy of the Prophet (pbuh), his companions and the celebrated personalities of Islam became the main field of the specialization of Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy since its very inception and the enormous literature that it has produced in the area is unparalleled. Besides Sirat un Nabi that remains to be the magnum opus of the Academy, two other very important books on the biography of our Prophet (pbuh) were published from here; Khutbat-i Madras and Rahmat-i Alam which received great acclaim. Both the books were authored by Maulana Saiyid Sulaiman Nadvi, the builder of the Academy. Rahmat-i Alam was written for the children and those who were not highly educated. This was a great challenge for a scholar who was used to write highly scholarly books throughout his life. But he tackled this problem in a very commendable way and produced a book that received unprecedented popularity and acceptance. It was included in the syllabus of schools and madaris and was in great demand so much so that in those days a sum of Rs four thousands was contributed to the building fund of Nadwat ul Ulama from the proceeds of its sale. There was a time when the Academy was in the position of making contributions to other worthy causes.
The book continues to be as popular as it was at the time of its first publication. Besides the Academy, a number of other publishers are engaged in publishing pirated editions of the book. But many young Muslims for whom it was written are now unable to read Urdu. Authentic literature in Hindi as well as English particularly on Sirah and Islamic History is still limited. In this situation it becomes imperative for the community to provide healthy and authentic literature needed for proper mental growth and balanced development of the personality of our younger generation. Moreover, it is also our duty to bring this literature to the notice of our countrymen at large. Because of these reasons the need for rendering vast and valuable literature produced by the Academy into Hindi and English languages was long felt but this could not be undertaken due to a variety of reasons most important among these being acute paucity of necessary resources needed for the purposes. But as the time passed this need assumed urgency and it was felt that it could no longer be postponed. Putting faith in the divine help, the Academy decided to take up the project of translating Academy’s books into Hindi and English. As the Sirah of the Prophet (pbuh) is the main area of interest of the Academy, it was only appropriate to begin this project by translation of a book on the Sirah. The obvious choice was Rahmat-i Alam. The task of translating the book into Hindi was undertaken by Dr Ilyas Azmi and its publication was sponsored by Mr Anis Ahmad. With the publication of this book the programme of translating Academy’s books into Hindi and English languages has been launched. A brief biography of Maulana Shibli and translation of famous publication of the Academy on religious tolerance of Muslim rulers of India are in final stages of completion. This programme will continue, Insha Allah and more books will be translated as necessary resources become available. Similarly, the programme of the English translations of the books of the Academy is also under way. English translation of Sirat-i Ayesha (R) has been just completed and hopefully it will be published soon. The translation of Rahmat-i Alam is under way. Sponsorship for bearing the cost of translation or publication will be most welcome.
Shibli Academy signs MoU with Cultural Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran
Dr. Karim Najafi Barzegar, Cultural Counsellor, Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran visits Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy
Azamgarh(7th January, 2010): Dr. Karim Najafi Barzegar, Cultural Counsellor, Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran visited Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy to sign a MOU between the Academy and Iran Culture House, Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Dr. Karim Najafi and Professor I.A. Zilli jointly addressed a press conference prior to signing of MOU in Academy’s Library.
A function was organized in the Conference Hall of the Academy after ‘Maghrib’ prayer which was presided by Mr. Abdul Mannan Helali, Joint Secretary of the Academy. Mr. Abdur Rahman Abbasi recited holy verses of Quran followed by its translation.
After which Professor Zilli welcomed the distinguished guest expressing his gratefulness to the hospitality and affection of Dr. Karim Najafi at their first meeting in Tehran. He told the intellectual gathering about the efforts made by Dr. Najafi, a well qualified person trained in both traditional sciences and modern learning, to activate the Office of Cultural Counsellor. He further mentioned Indo-Persian relations prior to Mughals in the period of Sultans and laid emphasis on the immense contribution of Allama Shibli Nomani R.A. to the Persian language. He said that Allama Shibli’s ‘Sher-ul-Ajam’ is held in high esteem in Iran.
Professor Zilli told about the importance of signing of MOU which will, Insha’Allah, open the door of Academic and Cultural Exchange with Iran. He gave the salient features of MOU as follows:
1. Exchange of Scholars between Shibli Academy and Iran
2. Collaboration in organization of Seminars and Conferences.
3. Cataloguing of Manuscripts (over 600 manuscripts of Arabic and Persian)
4. Exchange of Books (a large number of books on Islamic Sciences has been published in Iran)
5. Collaboration in printing books of mutual interest.
6. Publication of Manuscripts
Professor Zilli expressed confidence in the MOU for opening new possibilities for the Academy. He quoted Allama Shibli Nomani that “ailment of Muslims can be alleviated only by creation and pursuit of knowledge”. This Academy has few rivals as far as publication of authentic research work is concerned, said the Director (Professor Zilli).
Dr. Karim Najafi was praised for observing simplicity in the footsteps of his President Ahmadi Nejad and was formally introduced. Dr. Najafi holds double doctorate degree in Islamic Studies (University of Iran) and History (J.N.U. New Delhi). He is also a Post Doc in History from J.N.U. He taught History in different Universities of Iran and held the post of Vice Chancellor, Pyame Noor University, Iran. Dr. Najafi is member of Indian History Congress, Indian Sociological Society, Iran Society of West Bengal, Asiatic Society of West Bengal in addition to being Editor-in-Chief Indo-Iran Society Quarterly Journal, New Delhi and Qand-Parsi Quarterly Journal published by Persian Research Centre of Iran Culture House, New Delhi. He has published four books while five are under publication. He has authored more than 50 articles and participated in International Seminars and Conferences in India, U.K., Syria, Italy, Pakistan, Iran and China. He has revived and revitalized the Indo-Iran Society after a gap of 30 years in order to strengthen the existing cordial cultural relations between India and Iran.
Dr. Najafi appreciated the initiative and persuasion of Professor Zilli for bringing this Centre (Shibli Academy) at par with other educational institutions and hoped that under his guidance and supervision the Academy will flourish. He told how the culturally rich and old civilizations of India and Iran have enriched each other and quoted Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru “Few people have been more closely related in origin and throughout history than the people of India and the people of Iran”. He dwelled upon the friendly and fruitful contacts between the people of India and Iran from ancient times (Aryan, Achamenian and Sassanid period). He told about the pioneering effort of Mirza Ghalib, Allama Shibli Nomani and Allama Iqbal in the rise of Persian language after the downfall of Mughal Empire. He particularly mentioned the great role of Allama Shibli in the revival of Islamic values and cultural heritage.
Dr. Najafi briefly described critical evaluation of Persian poetry by Allama Shibli in his “Sher-ul-Ajam”. He also mentioned the importance of this centre (Academy) through association of famous students/trainees of Allama Shibli namely, Mohammed Ali Jauhar and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad and attachment of prominent personalities like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Fakhruddin Ali Ahmad.
Professor Zilli remarked (on behalf of Mr. Abdul Mannan Helali) that this will not only be the first visit of Dr. Najafi but it will pave the way for a long association. He said that we can move forward only by strengthening our past heritage.
Professor Zilli thanked the distinguished, members of Iran Culture House and the select gathering for making the program a success.
Dr. Ebraheem Mohammad Al-Batshan, Cultural Attache, Saudi Arabia, visits Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy
Dr. Ebraheem Mohammad Al-Batshan, Cultural Attache, Saudi Arabia, visits Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy
Azamgarh(14th December, 2009): Dr. Ebraheem Mohammad Al-Batshan, Cultural Attache, Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia visited Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy to know about Academy activities, in particular, its collection of manuscripts (Arabic). He was received at Babatpur Airport, Varanasi by Professor Ishtiaq Ahmad Zilli, Director Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy. Though the flight from New Delhi got delayed by one hour, Professor Zilli along with distinguished guest reached in time for the program after Asr Prayer (4 pm) with sufficient time in between for refreshment and lunch.
Dr. Syed Salman Nadvi, son of Maulana Syed Suleman Nadvi R.A., first Secretary of Shibli Academy was to preside over this special function at the Academy but he got held up in Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow and traffic jams. In his place Maulana Taqiuddin Nadvi, member managing committee, Shibli Academy presided who fortunately found time to come to the Academy after a long time.
Mr. Abdur Rahman Abbasi ‘Qamar’ recited verses from holy Quran after which Professor Zilli welcomed the guests and gave the reason of establishment of this unique Academy by Allama Shibli Nomani R.A. He very nicely depicted the pathetic condition of vanquished Muslims after the first war of independence (1857) and the constant attack of Orientalists on their religion. He further elaborated the great work done by Academy as per the wishes of its founder and highly praised dedicated Scholars who lived on pittance to author authentic researched books. He mentioned priceless publication of more than 200 books in the Academy and indicated turning of a new leaf in Academy’s almost a century old life. Professor Zilli thanked Dr. Al-Batshan for taking time out of his busy schedule and praised his quality of head and heart.
After formal introduction of Dr. Al-Batshan, M.A. and Ph.D. in Arabic Literature, served in different Universities as teaching faculty (Asstt. And Associate Professor) in Saudi Arabia and abroad (Indonesia), authored eleven research articles and books, attended courses in Language program (English and Malay) and refresher/training courses in Phillipines, Pakistan, Nigeria, Indonesia and Riyadh and member of different committee and Association, he was invited to address the gathering. Dr. Al-Batshan addressed in Arabic which was later briefly translated by Maulana Sarfaraz Islahi, Madarsatul Islah, Azamgarh. Dr. Al-Batshan told about his interest in Arabic manuscripts available in India which he would, Insha’Allah, not only preserve but digitize and make a Library in his office in New Delhi. He promised to donate extra copy, if available, of all books in his Library to Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy.
In his presidential remarks Maulana Taqiuddin Nadvi (founder of Jamia Islamia, Muzaffarpu, Azamgarh) thanked Dr. Al-Batshan and told about his own interest in Manuscripts and collection of books.
Professor Zilli, Director thanked one and all for coming over to hear the learned speaker and sought their encouragement for the future development of this internationally renowned Academy which Alhamdolillah has passed the difficult phase. He also thanked Dr. Al-Batshan for the earlier donation of books and for this kind gesture of donation of extra copy of books available in his Library to Shibli Academy.
Dr. Salman Sultan conducted the proceedings.
In the Academy Museum (L-R): Maulana Sarfaraz Islahi, Dr. Al-Batshan, Dr. Fakhrul Islam(member Shibli Academy), Professor Zilli
In spite of paucity of time Dr. Al-Batshan took great interest in knowing details of Library, Museum and spent some time going through Arabic Manuscripts of the Academy.
Dr. Salman Nadvi Saheb ultimately arrived when Dr. Al-Batshan was about to leave for Madarsa Salfia, Varanasi where he had to address a seminar the next day.
Maulana Azad Day celebrated at Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy
Azamgarh: The district centre of National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL) at Department of Computer Science, Shibli National College, Association for Welfare, Medical, Educational and Legal Assistance (AWMELA) and Darul Mussanefein, Shibli Academy, organized a program on 11th November 2009 in the Hall of Shibli Academy, Azamgarh, as a National Education Day celebration to commemorate the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first Union Education Minister of India.
NCPUL centre at Department of Computer Science, Shibli National College celebrated the day in 2007 after getting instruction from then NCPUL's (NCPUL works under the Union Ministry of HRD) Vice Chairman, Mr. Shamsur Rahman Farooqui. Afterwards his recommendation to the Government of India resulted in an official direction to celebrate the day as "Nationa Education Day". The Department of Computer Science successfully organised the programme. The government has been observing November 11 as the National Educational Day since last year. Institutions across the country are organising programmes to celebrate the occasion.
The program started at 2:15 pm with recitation of Holy Quran and its translation by Maulana Fazlur Rahman Qasmi, Scholar, Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy, Azamgarh. Maulana Umair-us-Siddiq Nadwi, Senior Rafiq Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy presided over the programme. Remembering Maulana Azad speakers in the programme conferred upon in their speech about the laurels Azad brought to the country by laying down the foundation of its educational policy and planning.
Maulana Azad established University Grants Commission (UGC), National Academies like the Sangeet Natak Akademy, Sahitya Akademy, Lalit Kala Akademy, and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations. He strengthened the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and oversaw the establishment of a chain of top class technical institutions that now represent the best in the Indian Education System. It was under his distinguished leadership that the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (IIT-K) was established in 1951, which was followed by a chain of IITs at Mumbai, Chennai, Kanpur and Delhi.
Dr. Javed Akhtar, President AWMELA spoke about the importance of National Education Day by referring it as "A befitting homage to one of our greatest leaders". He said that National Education Day function is celebrated on November 11 to commemorate the birthday of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, an eminent educationist. Azad was one of the prominent leaders in the country to support Hindu Muslim Unity and opposed partition of India.
Dr. Javed Ali Khan, Head, Department of History said that to declare National Education Day on the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalaam Azad, an eminent educationist is a good though belated idea. Motivated by Azad's selfless working attitude, Dr Javed Ali Khan remarked that Maulana Abul Kalam Azad can rightly be assigned the title of "Builder of Modern India and Literacy".
Mr. Suhail Ahmad, Senior lecturer, Shibli National Inter College welcomed the recommendation of Shamsur Rahman Farooqui to Govt of India to observe 11th of November as National Education Day. He thanked Govt of India to accept this recommendation. He said that Azad azad was broad minded and pioneer of Education system in India. Dr. Suhail praised the organization of this function and emphasized to the students regarding the significance of higher education. He mentioned about the intellectual relationship of Allama Shibli Nomani And Maulan Abul Kalam Azad
Mr. Kaleem Sifat briefly recited the historic parlimentary speech of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.
Deepika Rai, M.Sc. Chemistry, DCA, Rashid Ali, M.Sc. Chemistry, DCA and Rajneesh Kumar Dubey, B.Sc.II, DCA also spoke on the occasion and mentioned Azad as a great freedom fighter and pioneer of Education system in India.
Maulana Umair-us-Siddiq Nadwi, Senior Rafiq Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy in his presiding speech asserted the importance of such program and significance of education as a social development program and urged students to work against social evils and bring home the importance of education and social awareness. He especially advised the students to read the books related to such personalities. He remembered Allama Shibli Nomani and Maulan Azad's work especially for the women.
The programme was conducted by Mr. M.N.Beg, and Vote of thanks given by Mr. A.A. Abbasi. A Large section of students and others present in the programme.
Shibli National Girls High School and Jyoti Niketan School, Azamgarh also observed national Education day this year. Jyoti Niketan School organized street play on this occasion in which students from different Schools like Niswan College, Wesley College and Central Public School of the city participated
Seminar Report - Maulana Ziauddin Islahi-Hayaat-o-Khidmat
Maulana A.M. Karim Masoomi Died
Maulana A.M. Karim Masoomi Died
Shibli Academy: Gearing up to face the challenges of the 21st century
http://twocircles.net/2009jun23/shibli_academy_gearing_face_challenges_2...
By Salman Sultan, TwoCircles.net
Azamgarh: Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy is a 95-year old institution based in Azamgarh. Established by Allama Shibli Nomani, this academy was a unique experiment in housing writers so that they can focus on research and write books that will advance human understanding and knowledge.
Professor Ishtiaq Ahmad Zilli, retired as Professor, Department of History, AMU, Aligarh, was looking after “Idara-e-Uloomul Quran”, Aligarh, as its founder President. Due to the sad and sudden demise (car accident) of Maulana Ziauddin Islahi, Secretary, Shibli Academy, Azamgarh, Zilli Saheb was chosen to join Academy as its new Secretary/Director. Though earlier he was member of the managing committee, Shibli Academy (SA), but as Secretary/Director he took charge at the end of March 2008. Prof. Zilli was interviewed by TwoCircles.net (TCN) after his return from a tour of Muscat, UAE and Bahrain.
TCN: what was your impression after taking stock of the situation as Director?
Zilli: Though I was aware of the general situation prevailing in the Shibli Academy but at close quarters it was a shock to see the condition, as every department needed immediate attention. This campus that was the most beautiful place was actually in very bad shape. I was at a loss as what to do in view of prevailing bad financial condition. Salaries were low, a pittance. Everything needed finance and it was not available. It took some time to start planning. Books needed to be published, as available books were not presentable. In this age books need to be published in attractive form with a nice getup. It was decided that in spite of lack of funds, a multipronged strategy need to be prepared to take SA out of its pitiable condition. After overcoming initial shock we set on with the consultation of members and well wishers of SA to prepare a plan to put the SA back on course. In the plan almost all the fronts have to be tackled simultaneously because urgency demanded no delay on any front. We began with an increase of 50% in the basic salary of staff with further enhancement of 50% again in a few months. Even this 100% increase in Salary is still very low and needs substantial rise to lead a dignified life.
We also took up the job of republication of Academy’s books in a big way keeping up the modern standards and am happy to inform that during the last two months no less than 20 books have been published.
TCN: Recently you were on a tour of Gulf countries. Was it a promotional tour?
Zilli: Basic purpose of my tour of Gulf countries was to introduce SA and try raising funds badly needed for improving condition of SA. The idea came in the form of a suggestion from one of my student Mohd. Irfan, who works in Dubai as Sales Manager. It was felt that many learned people are not aware of the great service that SA has done in catering to the needs of Muslim community. It was urgently required that bringing back SA to its past glory people should be made aware of the aims and objectives of SA and the great service it has rendered and the condition of decline and neglect in which it finds itself at present. It was also felt that at least some people will feel the need to make some contribution towards the fulfillment of the objectives of the Academy. My son lives in Muscat and I was planning to go there for sometime. It was decided to do something in Muscat and to extend the journey to UAE and Bahrain where Mohd. Irfan had already prepared the ground for my visit. I reached Muscat on 8th April but it was decided to take up the work of introduction of SA in Muscat after my return from UAE and Bahrain. I left for Dubai on 14th April and reached there at noontime. In the evening there was a program for the inauguration of Dubai Islamic Centre, the only center of NRIs (of Indian origin) recognized by the government. Besides office bearers of the Centre Indian Consul General was also present and a select gathering of Indian Muslims was present. It was a brief program and I was also given an opportunity to talk for few minutes. My talk was naturally devoted to the introduction of SA. I stayed there for 20 days, possible with the help of fiends/students and well-wishers of SA.
TCN: How did you proceed?
Zilli: The method adopted was for some friend will invite some selected people over dinner or lunch and there SA was introduced, its achievements highlighted and its problems and future plans were discussed. A number of such meetings were held beginning with the one at the residence of Mr. Haleem Khan followed by many at residences of Mr. Mohsin Bhatkali, Mr. Salman, Mr. Asjad Husain, Mr. Shan Sultan, Dr. Salim, Dr. Arif Rafi, Mr. Anees Ahmad (President AMUOBA). Those who participated enthusiastically and worked to make the mission success include besides Mohd. Irfan (prime mover of this movement), Mr. Haleem Khan, Mr. Naiyar Iqbal, Dr. Arif Rafi, Mr. Atif Rafi and Mohiuddin Ghazi Falahi. AMU alumni in view of Allama Shibli Nomani’s association and great contribution to Aligarh (then MAO College) took great interest to make this tour a success. In this regard names of Mr. Anees Ahmad, Hasan AZiz Amir, Naiyar Ahsan, Engr. Qutbur Rahman, Engr. Mohd. Obaid, Mohd. Ejaz and Mansoor Ali may be cited from amongst many friends and well-wishers. Hafi Shafiullah of Azamgarh played important role in promoting the mission. Haji Abdur Raza Rasasi was extremely helpful. Some of the people closely related to me were also very helpful and contributed to the success of the mission. They include Dr. Abdur Rahman (with whom I stayed), Ghanim, Saad Shamim and Saud Shamim.
I also went to Al-Ain with Haji Shafiullah, Anees Ahmad (of village Dauna) and some other friends to meet Maulana Taqiuddin Nadwi who is a senior member of the managing committee of SA. We had useful discussion, enjoyed his hospitality and were assured of extension and completion of the mosque of SA.
After returning (from UAE) I traveled to Bahrain on the invitation of Mr. Shakeel Ahmad Azmi, a well respected person who runs a very good CBSE pattern 10+2 school in Bahrain. Through his good office several meetings were organized mostly on the premises of his “Ibnul Haytham Islamic School”. We had good opportunity to bring the message of SA to the notice of a large section of people. President of AMUOBA, Mr. Qazi Mazher accorded a reception in Paradise Hotel. They gifted SA a DVD consisting of 12000 most important books of Islamic sources. Those who were helpful include Mr. Shakeel Ahmad (of Sabrahad), Mr. Marghoobur Rahman, Mr. Izharul Haq, Mr. Taiyab (Principal of Ibnul Haytham Islamic School) and many others. In Muscat the program was worked out with Mohd. Munir Khan who invited a select gathering of people of Indian origin at his residence on dinner and very useful discussion followed. Munir Khan was very supportive and has promised to pursue the matter. He has offered sponsorship of a good Annual seminar on the theme of SEERAT as was held at Idara Uloomul Quran, Aligarh. He has also offered to sponsor one Scholar in the Academy.
TCN: Finally what you feel about this tour of Muscat, UAE and Bahrain?
Zilli: It may be said that on the whole it was a successful and satisfying trip. The message of SA has been brought to the notice of many people and now people know better of the history and achievement of SA. It is expected that good result will, Insha’Allah, follow.
A Talk on Allama Shibli Nomani by Prof. I.A. Zilli
A Talk on Allama Shibli Nomani by Prof. I.A. Zilli at Center of International Studies, University of Chicago in November 2006.
Interview of Dr Ishtiaq Ahmed Zilli, Director Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy Azamgarh by Bhatkal TV
Interview of Dr Ishtiaq Ahmed Zilli, Director Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy Azamgarh
Part-I
Part-II
Part-III
Lecture of Mr. Kaleem Kawaja (Association of Indian Muslims of America - AIM)
Lecture of Mr. Kaleem Kawaja (Association of Indian Muslims of America - AIM)
Interview of Mr. Abdul Mannan Helali, Manager, Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy Azamgarh
Interview of Mr. Abdul Mannan Helali, Manager, Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy Azamgarh
Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy : A neglected oasis in the heart of South Asia
Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy : A neglected oasis in the heart of South Asia
By: Kaleem Kawaja
In one of his immortal poems the legendary Persian poet Shaikh Saadi says that, when you travel through a desert you find that all varieties of humans, animals, birds and reptiles are going in the direction of the oasis. The same is true about the intellectual oases of our times. Thus in my quest to educate myself about the illustrious Muslim leader, educationist and literary icon Allama Shibli Nomani, I recently traveled to his hometown of Azamgarh in eastern Uttar Pradesh. Two major institutions, each about a century old that carry his name exist in the historical city of Azamgarh. One is the Shibli National College and the other is the Shibli Academy Dar-ul-Musannefin.
Over the course of the last century the Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy has taken its place alongside some well known research institutions. The small set of devoted scholars who built and nurtured the academy, preferred the pursuit of knowledge spurning the lure of status, comforts or emoluments, which could have been theirs for the asking. This is the same as the tradition of scholars in the world renowned Nalanda, Taxila, Alazhar and Nishapur.
Genesis
The outline and concept of Dar ul Musannefin (abode of authors) was first developed and published by Allama Shibli Nomani in Maulana Azad’s journal, Al-Hilal in 1912. Maulana Azad was so impressed by the notion that he wrote back saying that he will be willing to serve the institution in any capacity whatsoever. With that objective in mind, as Shibli returned to Azamgarh from sojourns at Aligarh College and Nadvat ul Uloom, he established an endowment of his spacious garden, two small bungalows and about 300 books from his personal collection. Before his untimely death in November 1914, Shibli had also assembled a set of his ardent pupils to carry the project forward. Shibli had also developed the outline of a few works on Islamic learning, Indian history and oriental studies to be undertaken by the new academic center.
Shibli academy itself was formally established on November 1914 in Azamgarh by his pupils and associates three days following his death. Among others the prime builders of the institution were Syed Sulaiman Nadvi, Maulana Hameeduddin Farahi and Maulana Masood Ali.
Academy’s Growth as a national icon
The Academy gave new vision to the scholars and authors of that period in creative writing. Among books that served to give impetus to the new Academy were, Shibli’s Sher-e-Ajam, Mowazna-e-Anis-o-Dabir, Al Farroq, Al Mamun and ofcourse the magnum opus, Seerat un Nabi (of which Shibli had completed only the first volume).
It was left to Syed Sulaiman Nadvi to complete Shibli’s favourite project, Seerat un Nabi, that has since been acknowledged as the most comprehensive account of the life of prophet Mohammad. This book has already been translated in Turkish, Arabic and English. In the decades following the demise of Shibli Nomani, Dar ul Musannefin has continued to grow steadily while remaining true to its basic purpose of learning, research and publication. While focusing on the study of Islamic history and civilization it has remained distinct from being a theological seminary. Thus it has invited and attracted lots of non-Muslim luminaries to its fold.
Indeed the Academy has nurtured a unique brand of Muslim secularism; one that laid emphasis on its Islamic core yet refrained from any sectarian leanings or made judgment on other faiths. At the same time it refrained from mixing Islam with Hinduism and Christianity as a politician’s or a showman’s brand of secularism, that we see sometimes these days. During India’s long freedom movement many of the illustrious Hindu leaders of that movement had close friends among the resident scholars of the Academy and visited it often.
Prominent non-Muslim leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Motilal Nehru, Jawaharlal Nehru, Ranjendra Prasad visited the academy, and stayed in its quarters as they were working to get Muslim intellectuals involved in the freedom movement. Even today there is a pavement adjacent to a well infront of the Academy’s building where the illustrious Nehru father and son are said to have taken bath during their visit.
Publications
One of the first major actions of the Academy was to set up a publication and printing department with its own press. The press has been modernized over the years with new machinery and is still quite active. In the last sixty years the Shibli Academy has published about 100 volumes of edited and compiled works by the Academy’s Fellows. Besides Seerat- un Nabi, Al- Farooq and Sher-e-Ajam have won recognition from scholars in Iran and Afghanistan who have translated it in their languages. Maulana Zafar Ali Khan, a pupil of Shibli made an effort to translate them into English. Other remarkable books published by the Academy over the years are: Life and work of Omar Khayyam by Sulaiman Nadvi; Sher-ul-Hind by Abdus Salam Nadvi; Gul-e-Rana by Abdul Hai.
Monthly Journal, “Maarif’
Maarif, the Academy’s scholarly journal has been continuously published every month for 92 years. Maarif, since its inception has been a most respected scholarly magazine covering Islamic studies, history and culture. In its field of study Maarif has very few competitors. Prof. Ishtiyad Ahmad Zilli is the present Editor and Janab Umair us Siddiq Nadvi, originally from Daryabad, is the Assistant Editor of this venerable journal.
Library and rare manuscripts
The heart of the Shibli Academy is its library that is equipped with a vast number of historical books, some of them most rare original manuscripts and books. For instance it contains the 400 year old illustrated manuscript of Abul Fazal’s ‘Akbarnama’; the 350 year old Persian translation of Upanishad commissioned by Prince Dara Shikoh - son of Moghul emperor Shahjahan; the 350 year old illustrated book ‘Moinul Arwah’ written by Princess Jahan Ara- sister of Moghul emperor Aurangzeb.
Additionally, the Academy’s library contains original letters in Urdu written by Mahatma Gandhi, Motilal Nehru, Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajendra Prasad and Maulana Azad in their own hand writing to Syed Sulaiman Nadvi. Those letters are written in very friendly terms addressing Syed Sulaiman Nadvi using the friendly term ‘tum”, as he was their personal friend and colleague in India’s freedom movement.
Favorite of the Luminaries
With its pluralist, cosmopolitan and composite outlook Shibli Academy has attracted the attention of a variety of India’s luminaries. Some of the notable luminaries are: Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Maulana Azad, Tej Bahadur Sapru, Acharya Narendra Dev, Jaya Prakash Narayan, Dr Zakir Hussain, Lal Bahadur Shastri, Rafi Ahmad Kidwai, Maulana Hasrat Mohani, Maulana Husain Ahmad Madani.
Academy’s Golden Jubilee
Shibli Academy celebrated its golden jubilee in 1965. That celebration was presided over by Dr Zakir Hussain, the then vice-President of India. At that time learned scholars from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and countries of the middle-east participated in the event.
In 1982 the academy organized a world seminar on Islam and orientalists. In 1992 Maulana Abdul Manan Hilali assumed charge as honorary Secretary and is still continuing in that position. Prof Ishtiaq Ahmad Zilli, former professor of History at Aligarh Muslim University is the current Director of the academy.
In 1995 Maulana Ziauddin Islahi organized a world seminar of the Almi Rabta-e-Adab-e-Islami, on Swannah Nigari at the academy that was attended by over 100 scholars from far away places. This seminar was presided over by Maulana Syed Abul Hasan ali Nadvi of Nadvat ul Uloom, Lucknow.
Very recently in December 2008 Shibli Academy organized in Azamgarh an international conference on the Urdu Literary Culture: The Syncretic Tradition. This was in collaboration with National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL).
In November 2009 the Shibli Academy will complete 95 years in its long journey to preserve and promote the Indo-Islamic culture, civilization and intellectual heritage.
Neglect and Indifference
The buildings of the Shibli Academy and its all-India renown as a unique research and publication center thrived for several decades. Its various buildings, campus, library, printing press and reception halls continue to reflect its sober ethos of learning. Over the last thirty years the Academy has received some help from government organizations and from some philanthropists to make a handful of improvements in its facilities. Yet today a visitor to the Academy is left with the unmistakable impression that due to a paucity of funds the various facilities and programs of the Academy are stagnating and are facing neglect. The research and publication programs need significant improvement to modernize their facilities and to rejuvenate the publishing program itself. In recent decades government help to the Academy has gotten mired in political currents and the financial help has slowed to a trickle.
For me it was a surprise to find the very humble and basic condition in which the four hundred year old rare historical manuscripts, the hand-written letters of the luminaries of India’s freedom movement, and Allama Shibli’s original books, now about a century old, are being stored and displayed. These extremely rare manuscripts and documents are the legacy of the Indian nation and the Muslim qaum, that need much better care and attention. Similarly the printing department needs total overhaul and modernization.
Need for diversification and help
I also feel that with all of the Academy’s research material, its books and documents being in Urdu and Persian only, in today’s environment in India it will help the Academy if it introduces some publications in English and Hindi languages. It can still focus on the basic ethos of the Academy that has been at its core but it can diversify its medium and the method of its public relations program. That will help a lot of people who are not conversant with Urdu language, but who have serious interest in the heritage of South Asian Muslim qaum, to turn to Shibli Academy for their intellectual needs.
To accomplish these objectives and to bring the Academy back in the national and international spotlight, the Academy needs support and guidance from Indians and especially Muslims from all over South Asia. Our qaum should realize that the Shibli Academy is a rich and rare heritage of all South Asians, and the responsibility to preserve that lies with not just the people of Azamgarh or eastern Uttar Pradesh, but that of the entire nation.
The Academy is in immediate need of much financial contributions from all of us. Utilizing our contacts with the government, Muslim countries, other philanthropic organizations and individuals we all must help raise funds for this venerable century old unique institution. People who are associated with other successful institutions of the Qaum, for instance Aligarh Muslim University, Jamia Milia Islamia, Osmania University, Lucknow University, Islamic Development Bank, Raabta Islami, United Nations Educational Social Cultural Organization (UNESCO) etal are in a position to help burnish the image of the rare jewel of Shibli Academy, that has become somewhat dormant in the last few decades. We need to collectively infuse financial, technical and intellectual help to relieve the very depleted shoestring budget of this century old venerable legacy of us all.
The website (http://www.shibliacademy.org) contains photographs of the Shibli Academy’s buildings, library, list of publications, history and other details.
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The writer, a community activist in Washington DC, can be reached on kaleemkawaja@hotmail.com