Hazrat Maulana Zakaria Sahib was renowned as an exceptionally learned scholar, social worker, and an organizational figure. Not only in his local area but also in Bankura district, throughout West Bengal, and even in other states, he was widely recognized. People of all classes sought his advice, guidance, and solutions to their problems.
From an early age, he was highly intelligent and deeply inclined towards simplicity. Despite belonging to a very poor and underprivileged family, his desire for education was unwavering. Hazrat Maulana Zakaria Rahmatullahi Alaihi, the sole spiritual successor of Hazrat Maulana Muslim Sahib Rahmatullahi Alaihi of Saharanpur, committed himself to religious studies and joined Darul Uloom Deoband for advanced education.
After completing his studies at Darul Uloom Deoband, he returned to his hometown and began working under Maulana Muslim Sahib Rahmatullahi Alaihi. He purchased a piece of land, constructed a mosque and a madrasah, and gradually developed the facilities. Starting with the foundation, bricks were laid step by step, culminating in a large mosque. Alhamdulillah, he successfully managed Madrasah Islamia Khaliliya for 40 to 45 years. Later, he handed over the responsibility of the madrasah to his successor and took on a new initiative.
Recognizing the lack of educational facilities for women comparable to those available for men, he established a madrasah specifically for women. This institution, Jamia Umm Kulthum Lil Banat, initially started in a rented house but later acquired its own land and constructed a building. Within two to five years, the madrasah had its own premises and a mosque nearby named Masjid-e-Muslim.
However, as his work progressed, his health gradually deteriorated. During the lockdown, he answered the call of the Creator and left this world (Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Raji’un). His passing deeply saddened not only the Muslim community but also Hindu neighbors, as he had selflessly helped people of all religions and classes.
We pray to Almighty Allah to bless us with more individuals like him, who dedicate themselves to the welfare of society and the nation. Ameen.
