**Abdullah Bukhari**
**Definition:**
Abdullah Bukhari (1894–1973) was a prominent Indian Islamic scholar and religious leader who served as the Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid, Delhi. He was known for his influential role in religious and political affairs in India during the mid-20th century.
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# Abdullah Bukhari
Abdullah Bukhari was a distinguished Islamic cleric and the Shahi Imam of the Jama Masjid in Delhi, one of the largest and most significant mosques in India. His tenure as Shahi Imam spanned several decades during a period marked by significant political and social changes in India, including the struggle for independence, partition, and the early years of the Republic of India. Bukhari was recognized not only for his religious leadership but also for his engagement in political discourse, advocating for the rights and welfare of Indian Muslims.
## Early Life and Education
Abdullah Bukhari was born in 1894 in Delhi, into a family with a strong tradition of Islamic scholarship and religious service. His family lineage was closely associated with the Jama Masjid, and he was groomed from an early age to assume religious responsibilities. Bukhari received traditional Islamic education, studying the Quran, Hadith, Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and other religious sciences under prominent scholars of his time. His education also included exposure to contemporary political and social issues affecting Indian Muslims.
## Appointment as Shahi Imam
In 1940, Abdullah Bukhari was appointed as the Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid, succeeding his predecessor. The position of Shahi Imam is a hereditary role that involves leading prayers, delivering sermons, and overseeing the administration of the mosque. The Jama Masjid, built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, holds immense religious and cultural significance for Indian Muslims, making the role of Shahi Imam highly influential.
## Religious Leadership
As Shahi Imam, Bukhari was responsible for leading the five daily prayers, the Friday congregational prayers (Jumu’ah), and the special prayers during Islamic festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. His sermons often addressed not only religious themes but also social and political issues, reflecting the concerns of the Muslim community in India. Bukhari emphasized the importance of unity, education, and social reform within the Muslim community.
## Political Involvement
Abdullah Bukhari’s tenure coincided with a tumultuous period in Indian history, including the final years of British colonial rule, the partition of India in 1947, and the establishment of the Indian Republic. He was an active participant in political discussions and was known for his moderate stance, advocating for communal harmony and the protection of minority rights. Bukhari opposed the partition of India and worked towards fostering peaceful coexistence between Hindus and Muslims.
He also engaged with various political leaders and organizations to represent the interests of Indian Muslims. His influence extended beyond religious circles, making him a respected figure in the broader socio-political landscape of India.
## Contributions to Education and Social Welfare
Beyond his religious and political roles, Abdullah Bukhari was committed to the advancement of education and social welfare among Indian Muslims. He supported the establishment of madrasas (Islamic schools) and encouraged modern education alongside traditional religious studies. Bukhari believed that education was essential for the empowerment and progress of the Muslim community.
He was also involved in charitable activities, including the provision of aid to the poor and the organization of community services through the mosque’s resources.
## Legacy
Abdullah Bukhari passed away in 1973, leaving behind a legacy of religious leadership and community service. His tenure as Shahi Imam is remembered for its emphasis on moderation, communal harmony, and social reform. The position of Shahi Imam continued within his family, maintaining the tradition of religious leadership at Jama Masjid.
Bukhari’s life and work remain significant in the history of Indian Islam, reflecting the challenges and aspirations of Indian Muslims during a critical period of transition.
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## See Also
– Jama Masjid, Delhi
– Shahi Imam
– Indian Muslims in the 20th Century
– Partition of India
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**Meta Description:**
Abdullah Bukhari was a prominent Indian Islamic scholar and Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid, Delhi, known for his religious leadership and advocacy for communal harmony during India’s mid-20th century political transformations.