About this stamp
Maulana Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi, also known as Ala Hazrat Barelvi, was a distinguished Islamic scholar and theologian, recognized for his extensive contributions to Islamic learning and jurisprudence. Here’s a detailed overview of his life and legacy:
Early Life and Education
- Birth: June 14, 1856, Bareilly, India.
- Family Background: Son of Maulana Naqi Ali Khan and grandson of Maulana Raza Ali Khan, both celebrated theologians.
- Education: Studied under his father and several renowned scholars. His education spanned various branches of knowledge including Islamic jurisprudence, Sufism, astronomy, mathematics, logic, poetry, phonetics, and chemistry.
Scholarly Contributions
- Knowledge Range: His knowledge was encyclopedic, covering ancient and modern sciences and various branches of oriental learning.
- Publications: Authored over a thousand books, treatises, and commentaries on more than 150 works. His first book, an Arabic commentary on Hidaya Al-Nahv, was written at the age of 10.
- Fatawa: Began issuing verdicts on Muslim jurisprudence at the age of less than 14.
Religious and Theological Impact
- Pilgrimages: Undertook pilgrimages to Mecca in 1878 and 1905, receiving respect and recognition from prominent scholars.
- Dar-al-Ulum: Founded the Dar-al-Ulum Manzar-i-Islam in Bareilly in 1904, which influenced many similar institutions across the Indian subcontinent.
- Poetry: Known for his devotional poetry, particularly in the form of Na’at, dedicated to praising the Holy Prophet. His poetry was known for its beauty and ecstatic expression.
Legacy
- Influence: His teachings and writings have had a profound impact on Islamic scholarship and practice in the subcontinent.
- Mausoleum: He passed away in 1921, and his mausoleum is located in Bareilly, a site of reverence for his followers.
Commemoration
- Stamp Issuance: The Department of Post issued a commemorative postage stamp in honor of Ala Hazrat Barelvi. The stamp features the dome of his mausoleum, reflected also in the First Day Cover and Cancellation, celebrating his significant contributions to Islamic learning and devotion.
Maulana Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi’s contributions to Islamic scholarship and his deep devotion to religious practice make him a revered figure in Islamic history.
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