Honorable Founders

Born in 1237 AH (1821 CE) in Nanota, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanotwi (rh) was a distinguished figure from the family of Sheikh Lutf Ali. He was a prominent student of Shah Ishaq Muhaddis Dehlawi (rh) (1176 AH - 1262 AH) and a cherished disciple of Hazrat Mufti Sadrud Din Azarda (rh) (1204 AH - 1295 AH). He was also a student of the great teacher, Hazrat Maulana Mamluk al-Ali Nanotwi (rh) (d. 1267 AH).
Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanotwi (rh) embodied dignity and seriousness. In the realms of knowledge and virtue, he stood unparalleled. His expertise spanned across Hadith, Tafsir, Fiqh, and Fatawa, as well as logic, philosophy, and eloquence. He was distinguished in research, inquiry, and writing, with a unique capability to explain intricate and nuanced issues. Maulana Nanotwi (rh) was a scholar in practice. He was an exemplary Hadith scholar known for his piety, purity, and asceticism.
Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar (rh) was characterized by his sincerity, detachment, and various praiseworthy attributes. He was punctual in his practices, shunning pretense and artifice, with a preference for simplicity and a straightforward nature. He was a devoted follower of Hazrat Maulana Sa’adat Ali Saharanpuri (rh), the esteemed Faqih of his time, and he was also a fervent admirer of Imam Rabbani Hazrat Maulana Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi (rh).
He served as the first President of Mazahir Uloom Saharanpur (rh), where he left an indelible mark on the institution and its legacy. His life was a testament to his dedication to learning and spiritual growth, making him a revered figure in Islamic scholarship.

Name and Lineage

The historical name of Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar is Muhammad Mazhar, by which he is widely known. He belonged to the Sidqui family, and his lineage is as follows:
Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar bin Hafiz Lutf Ali bin Hafiz Muhammad Hasan bin Hakeem Ghulam Ashraf bin Hakeem Abdullah bin Sheikh Abul Fath Muhammad Mufti bin Maulvi Muhammad Hashim bin Shah Muhammad bin Qazi Taha bin Mufti Mubarak bin Qazi Amaan bin Qazi Jamalud Deen bin Qazi Miran Bud-dhe bin Qazi Mazharud Deen bin Najmud Deen bin Nurud Deen bin Qiyamud Deen bin Ziyaud Deen bin Nurud Deen bin Najmud Deen bin Nurud Deen bin Ruknud Deen bin Rafiud Deen bin Bahaud Deen bin Shihabud Din bin Khawaja Yusuf bin Khalil bin Sadrud Deen bin Ruknud Deen Samarqandi bin Sadrud Deen al-Haj bin Ismail al-Shaheed bin Nurud Deen al-Qital bin Mahmood bin Bahaud Deen bin Abdullah bin Zakariya bin Noor bin Siraj bin Shadi al-Sidqi bin Wahid al-Din bin Masood bin Abdul Razak bin Qasim bin Muhammad (rh) bin Abu Bakr Siddique (rz). (Nasb Nama Shoq Nanotah, p. 5, wa Maktubat Molana Muhammad Yaqub)

Education and Upbringing

Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar completed the memorization of the Glorious Qur'an and his initial studies under the guidance of his father, Hazrat Hafiz Lutf Ali. Due to his intellectual capabilities and excellent education, he displayed remarkable intelligence and wisdom from a young age. After completing his primary education in his homeland, he was taken to Delhi by his esteemed teacher, Hazrat Maulana Mamluk Ali.
The unparalleled education and pure environment provided by Hazrat Mamluk Ali greatly influenced him, and he quickly gained a reputation for his aptitude and abilities among his peers and in the circle of Mamluk Ali Sahib.
Sir Sayyid Ahmad Khan, the founder of Aligarh Muslim University, noted: "The esteemed Maulana was a great scholar. During his time as a student in Delhi, his intelligence was well-known, and he held a very high standard of piety and righteousness."
In Delhi, he studied under esteemed scholars, including Hazrat Mamluk Ali, Hazrat Mufti Sadrud Deen Azurdah, and Hazrat Maulana Rasheed Din Khan. He also had the honor of learning the Noble Hadith from Hazrat Shah Abdul Ghani Mujaddidi and the distinguished scholar Hazrat Maulana Ahmad Ali Saharanpuri.
In addition to these esteemed teachers, he also benefited from the knowledge of prominent figures such as Hazrat Maulana Rahmatullah Kairanwi, the founder of Madrasa Sulatiyah in Makkah, and Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Ghani bin Saeed al-Umari from Medina, whose details will be mentioned under the section "Hajj Baytullah."

Employment

After completing his education, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar went to Ajmer College, where he taught for some time. He then moved to Agra College, where he was offered a good salary and position, but he could not stay there for long. Subsequently, he worked in Delhi for a brief period before moving to the Nawal Kishore Press in Lucknow, which was renowned for its quality printing of religious, reformative, and classical literature, including rare and precious texts. There, he was involved in the editing and correction of Arabic, Urdu, and Persian books.
During this time, several students had the privilege of studying Islamic jurisprudence, principles of jurisprudence, and theology under him. He continued this work for a significant period, engaging in writing and publishing as well. Many authors’ works were corrected and published only after his revisions at the Nawal Kishore Press. Notably, Munshi Nawal Kishore, the founder of the press, was a student of Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar.
Respected teacher Hazrat Maulana Atahar Hussain stated that Munshi Nawal Kishore was a great admirer and devoted follower of Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar due to his excellent companionship and superior training. He held Hazrat Maulana in high esteem and respect, demonstrating utmost reverence. It was a result of his righteous companionship that Munshi Nawal Kishore donned a fine beard, elegant kurtas and pajamas, and a refined turban.

Jihad for Freedom

During the year 1857, the prominent scholars of Deoband were preparing for war against British oppression when a misunderstanding led to tragic events. Qazi Inayat Ali's younger brother, Abdul Raheem, visited Saharanpur to purchase elephants. A malicious informer falsely reported to the government that Qazi Abdul Raheem was buying elephants to send aid to Delhi. The British, already alarmed, acted swiftly. The then-collector, Spinkey, instead of investigating the facts, arrested Qazi Abdul Raheem and his companions, leading to their execution. This shocking news ignited a desire for revenge among the local population.
In response, a council was convened by notable scholars including Hazrat Haji Imdadullah Muhajir Makki, Hazrat Zaman Shahid, Hazrat Maulana Sheikh Muhammad Thanvi, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanutwi, Hazrat Maulana Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Qasim Nanutwi, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Ahsen Nanutwi, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Muneer Nanutwi, and Qazi Inayat Ali. During the council, Maulana Sheikh Muhammad Thanvi expressed his opposition to declaring the impending conflict as jihad, stating:
"When Qazi Inayat Ali remained silent during the general conflict and none of the attendees considered it ‘jihad’ at that time, how can this fight, fueled by a desire for revenge, be called jihad?"
In support of this, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Ahsen Nanutwi agreed with Maulana Sheikh Thanvi, which led to a reprimand from his elder brother, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanutwi (the rector of Mazahir Uloom Saharanpur).
Ultimately, after consultation, it was decided to wage a formal jihad against the British, with the battlefield set at Shamli. Hazrat Haji Imdadullah Muhajir Makki was appointed Amirul-Mu'mineen, Hazrat Hafiz Zaman Shaheed became the leading figure of jihad, Hazrat Maulana Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi was recognized as the comprehensive warrior, and Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Qasim Nanutwi was appointed as the commander of the forces.
The small yet resolute group, determined and unarmed, faced the British forces at Shamli. These scholars, who had primarily devoted their hands to books, astonished the world with their valor and actions against the forces of disbelief and those hostile to Islam. Notably, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Qasim Nanutwi displayed immense bravery, prompting Hazrat Haji to advise Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Munir Nanutwi to always stay close to him.
During the fighting, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanutwi exhibited remarkable courage. He was shot in the ankle, causing him to faint. The incident was recounted by Hazrat Mufti Mahmood Hasan Gangohi, who relayed a personal account where he heard from someone in Hardoi that Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar frequently moved his lips in remembrance. Upon inquiry, he mentioned that during the jihad, he was shot in the leg and fell unconscious. While in this state, he experienced a vision of beautiful maidens bringing drinks for the martyrs. A glass was presented to him, but as soon as his lips touched it, others stopped him, saying he was still alive and not among the martyrs. He recalled that the taste of that drink lingered on his lips, never allowing him peace.
After the 1857 war for independence, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanutwi lived in hiding for several years, as arrest warrants had been issued for all those who participated in the uprising. Professor Ayub Qardi notes in “Tazkira of Maulana Muhammad Ahsen Nanutwi” that Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar spent his time in hiding in Bareilly, where his brother Maulana Muhammad Ahsen owned a private press.

Arrival at Mazahir Uloom

In 1283 AH, when Faqihul Asr Hazrat Maulana Sa'adat Ali established Mazahir Uloom, there was a pressing need for a scholar of the caliber of Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanutwi. In the words of his spiritual guide, Sayyidut Ta'ifah Hazrat Haji Imdadullah Sahib Muhajir Makki (rh), there was a need for a "unique personality of the era."
Thus, Hazrat Sa'adat Ali himself traveled to Nanota to bring him to Mazahir Uloom, which was only three months old at that time. In Shawwal 1283 AH, Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanutwi graced the institution with his presence.
Upon his arrival in Saharanpur, Mr. Munshi Nawal Kishore from Lucknow visited for a meeting. However, it was difficult to ascertain whether he was Muslim or Hindu. This was due to the influence of Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar. Munshi Nawal Kishore also contributed 145 rupees for the construction of a building at Mazahir Uloom and generously donated valuable books and publications from his press.
After joining Mazahir Uloom, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar was appointed as the principal. He taught high-standard books of Hadith and Tafsir, significantly enhancing the students' capabilities. Thanks to his efforts, students under his instruction excelled in exams, and examiners praised his expertise, teaching style, and dedication. His commitment raised the educational standards, and the average success rate of students improved, acknowledged by the institution’s leadership, including Faqih al-Asr Hazrat Maulana Sa'adat Ali, Qazi Fazl Rahman, and Hazrat Maulana Zulfikar Ali, the father of Sheikhul Hind.
In 1301 AH, a year before his death, Hazrat Maulana Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi examined the students of Mazahir Uloom and praised those who had studied under Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar, noting their proficiency in understanding.
Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar served at Mazahir Uloom for nearly 19 years, receiving only a monthly salary of 25 rupees. Despite receiving lucrative offers, he turned them down, as Mazahir Uloom held deep personal significance for him. Over those 19 years, he regularly taught texts such as Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Sunan Abu Dawood, Sunan al-Nasa'i, Sunan Ibn Majah, Mishkat al-Masabih, Al-Muwatta of Imam Malik, Sunan al-Darimi, Al-Shama'il al-Tirmidhi, Al-Hidayah, Al-Dar al-Mukhtar, Al-Quduri, Kanz al-Daqaiq, Sharh al-Waqiya, Nur al-Anwar, Al-Usul al-Shashi, Tafsir al-Jalalayn, Translation of the Qur'an, Baydawi, Kashaf, Mukhtasar al-Ma'ani, Diwan al-Mutanabbi, Maqamat al-Hariri, Hamasa, Sab'a Mu'allaqat, Nafha al-Yaman, Tarikh al-Yamani, Qasidah Hamziyyah, Tarikh al-Taimuriyyah, Jabr wa Muqabalah, Hisn al-Haseen, Nukhbat al-Fikr, and Khitabah Qamus, among others. Some of these books were taught twice a year.
In addition to teaching, he was responsible for the construction of Mazahir Uloom, overseeing finances, and managing the affairs of the students. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself entirely to the institution. As noted by Maulana Abdul Hai, "He devoted and sacrificed himself for Mazahir Uloom."
Maulana Sayyid Muhammad Sani Hasani Mazahiri (1354 AH - 1399 AH) remarked that "in reality, his role was prominent in the progress and modernization of Mazahir Uloom, and it was in his name that this Arabic madrasa was named Mazahir Uloom. Allah endowed him with simplicity, dignity, humility, caution, worship, and excellence in various sciences."
Maulana Mufti Muhammad Naseem Farihi Amrohi (d. 1409 AH, 1988 CE) wrote that Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar spent his entire life teaching the Qur'an and Hadith and disseminating religious knowledge at Mazahir Uloom. He described him as a distinguished scholar with profound knowledge in various disciplines and noted that he was appointed as the principal of Mazahir Uloom.
Sir Sayyid Ahmad Khan expressed his sorrow over Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar's death, stating, "It is unfortunate that Maulana Mazhar, who was a teacher at the Arabic madrasa in Saharanpur, brought dignity and honor to the institution." He continued, "For over twenty years, he devoted himself to the dissemination of religious knowledge among his community, receiving only a meager salary of 25 rupees per month while being deeply engaged in teaching, benefiting many from his knowledge."
Throughout his life, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar maintained complete oversight of the institution's management, teaching, and administrative matters. As Maulana Muhammad Zakariya (d. 1982, 1303 AH) noted, "Hazrat Maulana Mazhar managed every aspect of the institution from the beginning."

Bait and Khilafat (Initiation and Succession)

From the outset, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Nanotwi's familial ties were firmly established with Hazrat Aqdas Haji Imdadullah Sahib Muhajir Makki. Even the women of the household maintained a connection of initiation and devotion with Hazrat Haji Sahib. Whenever Hazrat Haji Sahib visited Nanota, a joyful atmosphere enveloped the Khanqah Lutfi Ali, and everyone appeared happy and cheerful. Hazrat Haji Sahib was also born in 1233 AH in Nanota, which facilitated his frequent visits. His special attentions and nurturing kindness were extended to all the children of the family, particularly to Maulana Muhammad Mazhar, Maulana Muhammad Ahsan, and Maulana Muhammad Muneer Sahib. Consequently, Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Nanotwi was the first to establish a connection of initiation with Hazrat Haji Sahib.
Professor Ayub Qadri writes: "Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Nanotwi, an esteemed Hadith teacher, was authorized for initiation by Hazrat Haji Imdadullah Sahib Muhajir Makki and Muhaddis Gangohi Hazrat Maulana Rasheed Ahmad Sahib."
Respected teacher Hazrat Maulana Athar Hussain Sahib states:

وبایع الشیخ الکنکوہی ونال الخلافۃ منہ وکان اخذالاذکاراولا عن الشیخ امداداللّٰہ المھاجر المکی فلقنہ ثم فوضہ الی حضرۃ الشیخ الکنکوہی کمایظھر عن بعض رسائلہ فی ’’امدادالمشاق

When Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib traveled to Makkah for the pilgrimage, he specifically met with his spiritual mentor, Hazrat Hajji Imdadullah Sahib Muhajir Makki, to gain spiritual insights.
Hakeem-ul-Islam Hazrat Qari Muhammad Tayyib Sahib writes, citing his father:
"Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Nanotwi once dreamt of a throne where Hazrat Gangohi and Hazrat Nanotwi were seated. He wrote this dream in a letter, which included a request for initiation, and sent it to Hazrat Hajji Imdadullah Sahib. In response, Hazrat provided this interpretation: 'You may take initiation from either one of them.'"
Thus, Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib approached Hazrat Nanotwi for initiation. He became flustered and said, "You should initiate me." The Maulana replied, "This letter is a command." After reading the letter, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Qasim Nanotwi advised him to go to Gangoh. Upon visiting, Hazrat Gangohi also persuaded him, and eventually, he was initiated.
Hazrat Maulana Abdul Hai Sahib states:

وکان عالمامتبحراً متقنا للفنون بایع الامام رشید احمد الکنکوہی واجازۃ وکان کثیر القرأۃ للقراٰن ،دائم الذکر،رطب اللسان باسم الذات بعیداً عن التکلف ،زاہداً متقشفا وقوراقدالقیت علیہ المہابۃ

Translation: He was a profound scholar, well-versed in various sciences. He initiated with Imam Rashid Ahmad Gangohi and received authorization. He frequently recited the Qur'an, was always in remembrance, had a fluent tongue with the name of Allah, and was free from pretension. He was ascetic, austere, and dignified, upon whom majesty and awe had been cast.
Sheikhul Hadith Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Muhajir Makki states:
"Though Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib was older than Hazrat Maulana Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi in age, yet he was among his beloved and esteemed disciples."
Maulana Muhammad Sani Hasani Mazahiri writes:
"Although he was older than Hazrat Maulana Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi in age, he took initiation from him, and became immersed in his love and devotion. Hazrat Gangohi held him in great respect and also conferred upon him authorization and succession."
Hazrat Maulana Ashiq Ilahi Sahib Merthi (deceased on the 1st of Sha'ban, 1362 AH - 1943 CE) states:
"Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Nanotwi was older than Hazrat Imam Rabbani, but was, in terms of devotion, like a loyal servant and ardent lover. When he visited Gangoh, he would unreservedly kiss Hazrat Gangohi's feet and would often shed tears. Hazrat Imam Rabbani would feel shy and say, 'Maulana, why do you make me feel so embarrassed? You are my elder, it is necessary for me to show respect to you. When you do such things, I feel very ashamed.'
Maulana Mazhar Sahib (rh) was a man of insight. What he did, due to his great love for Hazrat and his respect, was his natural inclination. However, Hazrat Imam Rabbani, due to his advanced age and in consideration of the words of the Prophet Muhammad (saws), ..."

من لم یرحم صغیرنا ولم یؤقرکبیرنا فلیس منا

Translation: Whoever does not show mercy to our young ones and does not honor our elders is not one of us," could never forget to observe this respect.
When you learn of the respect Hazrat Imam Rabbani Maulana Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi held for Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib, it is also important to highlight the high regard and honor that Hazrat Hajji Imdadullah Sahib, the spiritual leader of the scholars of Deoband, had for this esteemed personality.
In Murqoomate Imdadiyah, it is stated that Hazrat Hajji Sahib wrote:
“If Maulana Muhammad Mazhar is in Nanota, then after greeting, please convey my message that I consider this unique personality among my friends and companions. I am not negligent in praying for him. Please keep it in your mind, and if you wish to inquire about anything related to Zikr and Azkar, kindly do so through the humble servant or Maulvi Rasheed Ahmad Sahib, as he should be considered by the humble servant, and obtain the information from him.”
This correspondence reveals Hazrat Hajji Imdadullah Sahib's recognition of Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib's elevated status and the honor he held in Hazrat Hajji Sahib's eyes.

Piety and Purity

Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Nanotwi was not only unique in knowledge and expertise but also stood out in sincerity, devotion to Allah, asceticism, worship, abstinence, reliance on God, spiritual conduct, and piety. He was well-known for his profound qualities, venerable habits, and characteristics of righteousness and devotion.
The former Sheikhul Hadith of Mazahir Uloom Saharanpur, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Zakariya Sahib Muhajir Madani, remarked: "During madrasa hours, whenever an acquaintance of Maulana (may his soul be sanctified) came for a personal meeting, he would glance at the clock at the start of the conversation and again upon the visitor's departure. He would keep a note in his book, recording the date and the minutes spent in the meeting. At the end of the month, he would tally these minutes. If they amounted to less than half a day, he would take half a day off, and if they exceeded half a day, he would record a full day's leave from the madrasa. However, if someone came to ask a question or for any school-related matter, he did not record that time.”

Hajj to the House of Allah

Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Nanotwi had long desired to perform Hajj, a wish that every Muslim should hold. Allah, the Almighty, fulfilled this desire and provided the necessary means, allowing him to perform his first Hajj in 1277 AH (1881 CE). Seventeen years later, he was blessed with the opportunity to perform Hajj again. This was during a time when there was a war between Turkey and Russia, and it became widely believed that he was using the pilgrimage as a pretext to travel to the Roman Empire to participate in Jihad as a volunteer from the Turkish government; however, this notion was incorrect.
The Hajj caravan comprised approximately one hundred and twenty-five individuals. According to Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Zakariya Sahib, they departed from Saharanpur on the 12th of Shawwal. A significant number of scholars accompanied him on this blessed journey, including notable figures such as Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Qasim Nanotwi, Hakeem Ziauddin Sahib, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib and his wife, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Yaqub Nanotwi, Hazrat Maulana Rafiuddin Sahib, Sheikhul Hind Hazrat Maulana Mahmood Hasan Sahib, Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Hasan Sahib, Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Ismail Sahib, Hazrat Maulana Ahmad Hasan Kanpuri, Hazrat Maulana Inayatullah Sahib, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Muneer Nanotwi, and others. This esteemed delegation, under the leadership of Imam Rabbani Hazrat Maulana Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi, departed Saharanpur on the 12th of Shawwal, 1294 AH, and reached Makkah Mukarramah safely on the 21st of Dhul-Qi'dah. They returned in Rabi al-Awwal 1295 AH.
Hazrat Maulana Abdul Hai Sahib writes:
"During this sacred journey, he particularly met with the prominent leader of Deoband, Hazrat Haji Imdadullah Sahib Thanvi, Muhajir, Makki, and also met with Hazrat Maulana Allama Rahmatullah Kiranwi, the founder of the Soltiya Madrasa in Makkah, and Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Ghani bin Saeed al-Umari in Madinah, gaining immense spiritual benefit."
For this lengthy journey, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Nanotwi took a six-month leave. In his absence, the responsibilities of his classes and the presidency of the madrasa were competently managed by Muhaddis-e-Kabeer Hazrat Maulana Ahmad Ali Sahib, who took care of all the affairs of the institution. The record from Mazahir Uloom states:
"Maulana Muhammad Mazhar, the first teacher, Maulana Ahmad Hasan, the second teacher, Maulana Inayatullah, the institution’s secretary, and Peer Muhammad Khan requested a six-month leave from the beginning of the academic year for the pilgrimage to Makkah and for Ziyarate Haramain Sharifain. Accordingly, their request was granted, but due to considerations of time and the limited availability of funds, their salaries were not paid during the leave period. During the absence of the teachers, Maulana Ahmad Ali Sahib frequently came to madrasa and continued to teach the first class and those he deemed appropriate." (Record of Mazahir Uloom, 1294 AH, p. 2). For further details, see Aaina Mazahir Uloom, Volume 10, Issues 4 and 5, regarding Maulana Ahmad Ali Sahib.

Academic Contributions

The greatest achievement of Hazrat Fakhrul Amaasil (rh) is the establishment of Mazahir Uloom Saharanpur, where he played an instrumental role in transforming it from a mere small madrasa into a renowned institution.
Moreover, his efforts aimed to bring lasting recognition and popularity to the institution, instill a sense of asceticism, contentment, Sufism, and sincerity in its scholars and graduates for the sake of Allah. He worked to raise the educational standards and prestige, ensure the punctuality of teachers and staff, and protect the teachings of the great scholars of Mazahir Uloom and the principles of the Waliullah. In short, his activities focused on serving Mazahirul Uloom Saharanpur and fulfilling the spiritual needs of students seeking religious and Prophetic knowledge, enriching them with the light of his wisdom.
In addition to this, Hazrat Fakhr al-Amaasil also engaged in significant scholarly and literary work. As previously mentioned, he was responsible for the meticulous editing of books published by the Nawal Kishore Press in Lucknow, and scholars would be aware of the fact that the responsibility of correction in any scholarly, research, or written work is even greater than the responsibility of composition and authorship.
His younger brother, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Ahsan Nanotwi, a prolific author and an expert in various uloom, actively participated in the freedom movement and completed his studies in Arabic at Delhi College. He undertook the editing of several of his own works. According to Mr. Ayub Qadri (rh),
"The well-known book of Hanafi jurisprudence, Durrul Mukhtar, was translated into Urdu by the famous scholar Maulana Khurram Ali Balahori (died 1271 AH / 1854 CE) upon the request of Nawab Zulfiqar al-Dawlah Rais of Banda in 1258 AH (1842 CE) beginning from Kitabun Nikah. By Muharram 1271 AH (1854 CE), the translation was nearing completion when death intervened. Maulana Muhammad Ahsan purchased the translation work from the heirs of Maulana Khurram Ali Balahori for publication and completed the remaining sections from Babul Azan to Kitabus Salah, filling in the gaps which Maulana Khurram Ali had left. After the corrected translation was published with the company of some people in four volumes by the Siddiqi Press in Bareilly, titled Ghāyat al-Awtār. However, this series did not continue. Maulana Muhammad Ahsan became greatly concerned and published an advertisement to solicit support, which was financially backed by Nawab Kalb Ali Khan of Rampur (who passed away in 1204 AH, corresponding to 1887 CE). Maulana Muhammad Ahsan has specifically mentioned the scholarly patronage of the Nawab of Rampur. His elder brother, Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanotwi, (died 1302 AH, Headmaster of Madrasa Mazahirul Uloom Saharanpur) also contributed to the editing and completion of this important book. The four volumes were published in 1288 AH (1871 CE)."
Mr. Ayub Qadri has written about this incident in his book "Maulana Muhammad Ahsan Nanotwi", stating, "Maulana Muhammad Mazhar had a deep understanding of Hadith and Fiqh. When Maulana Muhammad Ahsan acquired the Urdu translation of Dur al-Mukhtar for publication, Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanotwi was fully involved in the remaining translation and its correction, as noted by Maulana Muhammad Ahsan in the book's preface."
The famous work of Imam Abu Muhammad al-Ghazali, Ihya Ulum al-Din, was translated into Urdu by Maulana Muhammad Ahsan Nanotwi upon the request of Munshi Nawal Kishore from 1281 AH (1864 CE) to 1286 AH (1869 CE) in four substantial volumes and published under the historical title Mazāqul-‘Ārifīn.
This translation is eloquent and clear, with references to the sources of hadith from Takhreej al-Iraqī provided in the footnotes. Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib also studied this work thoroughly, prompting him to create a permanent footnote. He acquired several ancient manuscripts of Ihyae Uloomud Din and diligently corrected the printing errors that had persisted in earlier editions. He compared the ancient texts to clarify and rectify phrases that had become mixed up, offering succinct yet comprehensive scholarly explanations of difficult vocabulary. He also consulted ancient manuscripts from Egypt and referred to the following works: Majma al-Bihar, Sharh Hisn al-Haseen, Baydawi, Madarikh, Kashaf, Jalalayn, Qamus, Misbah al-Munir, and Siraah, etc.
In the editing of this book, the first rector of Dar al-Uloom Deoband, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Yaqub Nanotwi also assisted, which he acknowledged with high praise in the concluding remarks of the publication. At the end of this book, verses in Urdu, Arabic, and Persian concerning the history of its printing are noted, including a couplet in Urdu indicating the printing year.

"خوب چھپی خوب چھپی واہ واہ"

(1281AH) Well printed, well printed, wonderful!
Each year, the publication department of Mazahir Uloom Saharanpur releases a brief introductory booklet titled "Ijmali Kaifiyat," which states on page 8 under "Service of Hadith," that "Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanotwi (rh) also wrote a brief commentary on Majma Biharil-Anwar, as mentioned by Maulana Habeebur Rahman Muhaddithe A'zami in the preface of the said book."

Students of Distinction

The number of students and disciples of Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib exceeds hundreds, as he devoted a continuous period of 19 years to imparting his mystical knowledge and spiritual insights to the students of Dar-ul-Uloom Mazahir Uloom. While listing all his distinguished students would require several pages, here are a few notable names mentioned by Hazrat Maulana Abdul Hai Hasani (rh) in the eighth volume of "Nuzhatul Khawatir":
1. Hujjatul Islam Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Qasim Nanotwi (Founder of Darul Uloom Deoband, d. 4 Jumadil Awwal 1297 AH)
2. Hazrat Maulana Ameer Baaz Khan (1258 AH/1842 CE - 1325 AH/1907)
3. Hazrat Maulana Ashraf Ali Sultanpuri (b. 7 Ramadan 1268 AH, permitted by Gangohi, rh)
4. Muhaddith Kabeer Maulana Khaleel Ahmad Anbhaitwi (d. Thursday, 16 Rabi' al-Awwal 1346 AH, permitted by Gangohi)
5. Hazrat Maulana Abdul Jabbar Umarpuri (Famous Arabic poet)
6. Hazrat Maulana Raghibulah Pani Pati (d. 1314 AH)
7. Hazrat Maulana Noor Ahmad Amritsari (d. 13 Sha'ban 1348 AH - 1930 CE)
8. Hazrat Maulana Hafiz Jan Muhammad Qazi of the State of Tonk
9. Hazrat Maulana Abdul Manan Wazeer Abadi (Expert in Hadith and Rijal, and Hafiz of Sihah, d. 1334 AH)
10. Hazrat Maulana Muqeemuddin Kooti Tanki (Madrasah Shaukat al-Islam, Sandila, Hardoi)
11. Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Rahimullah Bijnori (d. 1340 AH)
12. Hazrat Maulana Sayyid Jamiyyat Ali Pur Qazwi (Professor of Arabic College, Bahawalpur, d. 1341 AH)
13. Hazrat Maulana Fakhrul Hassan Gangohi (d. 1315 AH)
14. Hazrat Maulana Noor Muhammad Haqani Ludhianvi (d. 23 Dhul-Hijjah 1343 AH - 1925)
15. Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Farooqi (Khalifa of Hazrat Gangohi, d. 1320 AH)
16. Hazrat Maulana Hafiz Qamaruddin Saharanpuri (d. 27 Muharram 1334 AH)
17. Sheikh al-Hind Maulana Mahmood Hasan Deobandi (He received the permission of Hadith from Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib)
18. Hazrat Maulana Siddiq Ahmad Anbhaitwi (Mufti of the State of Malerkotla, Punjab, d. 1342 AH)
19. Hazrat Maulana Sabit Ali Pur Qazwi (First teacher at Mazahir Uloom Saharanpur, d. 20 Rabi al-Thani 1342 AH)
It is noteworthy that some historical texts also mention the name of Hazrat Muinud Deen, the son of Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Yaqub Nanotwi.
From the aforementioned names, it is evident that many distinguished personalities and notable figures gained knowledge from Hazrat Fakhral-Ama’thil. Notably, Hujjat al-Islam Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Qasim Nanotwi was also among his students, as mentioned by Sheikh al-Hadith Maulana Muhammad Zakariya Kandhlawi with these words:

ومن مفاخرہ ان الشیخ العلامۃ بحرالعلوم حضرت مولانا محمد قاسم النانوتوی اخذعنہ بعض الکتب الابتدائیۃ کمااخبرمولانا ثابت علی المدرس بمظاہرعلوم‘‘

This statement is supported by "Nuzhat al-Khawatir." Additionally, Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Naseem Amrohi states that Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Qasim also studied some introductory books from him. Hazrat Maulana Anwaarul Hassan Sahib Sherkoti further cleared about the books that Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Qasim Nanotvi studied from Hazrat Fakhral Amasil (rh). He says: “Hazrat Maulana Mohammad Qasim Nanotvi had studied Sharh Mi-at Aamil, Hidayat al-Nahw, Ilm al-Siyagh, and others.”
Moreover, Muhaddith Kabeer Hazrat Maulana Khaleel Ahmad Sahib Muhaddis of Saharanpur was also a student of Hazrat Fakhrul-Amasil, and he benefited from his teachings while visiting Lakhnoti, a village near Saharanpur, where Hazrat Fakhrul-Amasil would spend Ramadan.

Habits and Practices

Describing his qualities would require many pages; however, here are a few notable characteristics: He used to recite the Holy Quran extensively and frequently engaged in Zikr (remembrance of God). He was often seen in a state of constant remembrance of Isme Zaat. Away from pretension and indifferent to worldly matters, he had a dignified stature and possessed an aura of dignity on his face.
Hazrat Fakhrul-Amasil had such a commanding presence that even the most courageous would hesitate to converse with him. Within the premises of Mazahir Uloom, he maintained a vigilant eye over everyone—from teachers and staff to both beginner and higher-class students. The management of the institution and its authorities showed him great respect and consideration, treating the school’s affairs as their own responsibility. From 1292 AH to 1302 AH, there were three patrons of Mazahir Uloom, but the spirit and essence of the institution was Hazrat Fakhrul-Amasil (rh).
He was punctual and never delayed his arrival at the madrasa, managing its affairs with utmost responsibility. He was very reserved, truthful, simple-hearted, and fond of simplicity. During Ramadan, it was his long-established practice to use fragrance at the time of Taraweeh prayers. He would perform Friday prayers at the Jama Masjid and occasionally deliver speeches there, informing the public about the needs and conditions of Mazahir Uloom.

Incident of Demise

The news of his passing is mentioned in the record of Mazahir Uloom as follows:
"Janab Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib, the chief teacher, whose qualities are beyond description, passed away at 8 PM on the 24th of Dhul-Hijjah, 1885, due to kidney pain in Saharanpur, departing from this worldly life to the eternal abode of paradise." اناللّٰہ وانا الیہ راجعون۔
Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return.
The grief and sorrow that this heartbreaking loss has caused to the Muslims of India, and particularly to the well-wishers of this institution, is immense. The departure of such a knowledgeable and righteous scholar, who excelled in all prevalent sciences and was a guiding light in religious teachings, is a profound loss for the bereaved. After the passing of Maulvi Sa'adat Ali, the founder of the school, Maulana Sahib had taken upon himself the responsibility of overseeing all the administrative affairs and management of the school, in addition to teaching. Any decisions regarding the appointments and dismissals of staff at the madrasa would not be made without consulting Maulana Sahib. Besides this, he made immense efforts in the collection of donations as well.
As for teaching, in addition to other religious books, the lessons of the Sihah Sittah were completed almost every year. In short, the passing of the late Maulana from this transient world is an event of great sorrow and regret for this city and the madrasa. May Almighty Allah grant him forgiveness and elevate his ranks in the hereafter.
When Imam Rabbani, Hazrat Maulana Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi, received the sorrowful news of Maulana's passing, he became deeply mournful and sent a letter of condolence to Hazrat Muhaddith Kabeer, Maulana Khaleel Ahmad Sahib (rh):
"The latest calamity is that Maulvi Muhammad Mazhar passed away on the 24th night of Dhul-Hijjah. The world has darkened; now all companions have departed. Let’s see how long I endure the trials of this world."
Hazrat Maulana Khaleel Ahmad Sahib Anbhaitwi (rh) had immense affection and love for his teacher, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib (rh). On one occasion in Jumad al-Sani 1340 AH, when he was severely ill, he wrote in his will that, "I wish to be buried next to my teacher, Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Nanotwi." However, the love of Hazrat Maulana Khaleel Ahmad Sahib (rh) for the Prophet Muhammad (saws) was such that it could not be compared to the love for any other person in this world. Indeed, the love and magnetic pull of the Messenger of Allah (saws) drew him to the blessed city of Madinah, where he is buried. This is the place where every particle is sacred and radiant with divine light, and the same is on the lips of every believer.
In the words of Hazrat Shaikhul Hadith Hazrat Maulana Mohammad Ayyub Qasmi (rh):

ضمیرپُرمعاصی کی یہی ہے آرزو یارب
مدینہ کی زمیں پر کاش مجھکو موت آجائے

Translation: The only desire of a heart full of sins is, O Lord, I wish I could die on the soil of Medina
Hazrat Maulana Faizul Hasan Saharanpuri (rh), a prominent friend of Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib (rh), was a professor at the Oriental College in Lahore and published his own personal newspaper, namely "Shifa-us-Sudoor." When Hazrat Adib-ul-Hind Sahib (rh) received the news of Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib's (rh) passing, it felt as though a mountain had fallen on him. He became a picture of sorrow, grief, and anguish. In his newspaper, he expressed his heartfelt emotions about Maulana's life and his noble achievements, describing his death as a great calamity. When one of his contemporary scholars, Sir Sayyid Ahmad Khan (the founder of Aligarh Muslim University), learned of this incident, he also expressed his deep sorrow and regret in the October 10, 1885 issue of the Aligarh Institute Gazette, lamenting that death had deprived the public and the elite of Maulana's blessings.
Sheikhul Hadith Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Zakariya Kandhlawi Muhajir Madani (rh), in his famous book "Tareekh Mazahir," writes: "On the 24th of Dhul-Hijjah 1302 AH, corresponding to October 1885, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Nanotwi passed away at approximately 8 PM due to kidney pain." Hazrat Maulana, from the beginning of the madrasa until his passing, had been responsible for organizing both minor and major matters. The care and supervision of every aspect of the madrasa were entrusted to him. The appointment and dismissal of staff, as well as the promotion and demotion of teachers, were directly related to his own authority. Due to this incident, it was inevitable that there would be an impact on the general students, particularly the students of Hadith. Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar, although older in age than Hazrat Maulana Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi, was one of his disciples and the most beloved servant of Hazrat. "He passed away on Sunday, the 24th of Dhul-Hijjah, 1302 AH, at the age of seventy." However, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Nanotwi was a person of knowledge and action, asceticism and mysticism, forbearance and patience, kindness and gentleness, truthfulness and trustworthiness, nobility and devotion, sincerity and integrity, dignity and grandeur, fear and awe, and strict adherence to the Sunnah of the Prophet (saws). He was filled with the love of Allah, pious and God-fearing, a paragon of virtue, dedicated to serving humanity. After his passing, there was a need to fill his position with someone who was sincere, hardworking, devout, pious, a great scholar, and someone who was willing to sacrifice everything—his life, wealth, and soul—for the cause of learning and the promotion of knowledge. However, no one like him was found. Consequently, changes were made in the positions of the existing teachers and staff at that time. Hazrat Maulana Mufti Aziz al-Rahman Bijnori states: According to hadith:

علامۃ موت المومن حتی اذ۱قرب وصالہ عرق جبینہ

When the time of a believer's death approaches, it is a sign that sweat appears on the forehead. After his passing, his face appeared radiant and joyful. Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib Nanotwi's close relative, Hazrat Hakim Ahmad Ishrati Nanotwi, in his book "Maktubat Maulana Muhammad Yaqub," writes:
"Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib had three brothers, all of whom were renowned scholars, freedom fighters, and men of knowledge and virtue. In addition to Maulana, these were Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Ahsan Sahib Nanotwi and Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Munir Sahib. Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Mazhar Sahib had no children, while Maulana Muhammad Ahsan had a son, Maulvi Muhammad Ismail Nanotwi. Similarly, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Munir Sahib also had a son, named Mahbub-ur-Rahman."
This precious asset of knowledge and wisdom was laid to rest in the famous cemetery of Shah Kamaluddin in Saharanpur, in the presence of thousands of mourners. May the heavens shower dew upon his grave. Ameen!