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Wahiduddin KhanIndian Islamic scholar, peace activist and writer
Date of Birth: 01.01.1925
Country:  India |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Joining and Leaving Jamaat-e-Islami
- Founding the Centre for Peace and Spirituality
- Advocacy for Peace and Understanding
- Literary Contributions
- Awards and Recognition
- Legacy and Passing
Early Life and Education
Born in 1925 in Uttar Pradesh, India, Maulana Wahiduddin Khan lost his father at the age of four and was raised by his mother and uncle. He received his early education at the Madrastul Islah seminary and completed his Alim course in 1944.
Joining and Leaving Jamaat-e-Islami
Khan joined the Jamaat-e-Islami and rose through its ranks, becoming a member of its Central Committee. However, ideological differences led him to leave the party in 1963 and publish his critique, "Tabir Ki Galti" ("The Error of Interpretation").
Founding the Centre for Peace and Spirituality
After leaving the Jamaat, Khan established the Islamic Centre in New Delhi in 1970. In 2001, he founded the Centre for Peace and Spirituality (CPS) to promote interfaith dialogue.
Advocacy for Peace and Understanding
Khan was a renowned advocate for peace and interfaith understanding. In 1993, he urged Muslims to give up their claim to the Babri Masjid. He also participated in a peace march through Maharashtra following the demolition of the mosque.
Literary Contributions
Khan authored over 200 books on Islam, including a commentary on the Quran and a modern English translation. He also established the Quran Foundation to promote the study and understanding of the Quran globally.
Awards and Recognition
Khan received numerous awards for his work, including the Demiourgos International Peace Award, the Padma Bhushan (2000), the Rajiv Gandhi Sadbhavana Award (2009), and the Padma Vibhushan (2021).
Legacy and Passing
Khan passed away in Delhi in April 2021 at the age of 96 due to complications from COVID-19. He left behind a legacy of promoting peace, understanding, and the true spirit of Islam.
