Biography of Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad: Kanthapuram A. P. Aboobacker Musliyar, officially recognized as Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad, is the tenth and current Grand Mufti of India. He serves as the General Secretary of the All India Sunni Jamiyyathul Ulama, representing Sunni scholars nationwide, and also holds the position of General Secretary of Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama, an influential body of the A.P. Sunni faction in Kerala. Renowned for his leadership in Islamic education and social welfare, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad is a prominent advocate for interfaith dialogue and community harmony, playing a vital role in shaping Islamic thought and practice in contemporary India.
Early Life and Background
Birth and Family
Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad was born on March 22, 1931, in the village of Kanthapuram, located in the Kozhikode district of Kerala, India. He was born into a religious family, with his father, Cheruvathu Ahmed Musliyar, being a respected scholar and his mother, Aisha, contributing to his upbringing with traditional Islamic values.
Short Biography of Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad
- Full Name: Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad
- Education: Studied at Baqiyat Salihat Arabic College, Tamil Nadu
- Profession: Islamic Scholar, Educator, Social Reformer
- Born: Kanthapuram, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair Color: Black (now graying with age)
- Date of Birth: March 22, 1931
- Zodiac Sign: Aries
- Awards: Recognized nationally and internationally for contributions to education and social reform
- Religion: Islam (Sunni, Shafi’i school)
- Hobbies: Reading, writing, promoting education, and engaging in interfaith dialogue
- Marital Status: Married
- Children: Four
- Height: Approximately 5’6″ (168 cm)
- Nationality: Indian
- Hometown: Kanthapuram, Kozhikode, Kerala
- Founder of: Markazu Ssaquafathi Ssunniyya (Sunni Cultural Center)
- Channel: Markaz Knowledge City initiatives and related media channels
- Other Activities: Advocate for peace, interfaith dialogue, and social welfare; active in the All India Sunni Jamiyyathul Ulama.
Education
From a young age, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad exhibited a strong inclination toward Islamic studies. He began his education at a local madrasa before advancing to the renowned Baqiyat Salihat Arabic College in Tamil Nadu. Under the guidance of eminent scholars, he specialized in Islamic theology, jurisprudence (Fiqh), and Hadith.
Religious Leadership
Role as a Prominent Sunni Leader
Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad is widely recognized as a leading figure in Sunni Islam, particularly within the Shafi’i school of thought. He serves as the Grand Mufti of India, providing religious guidance and leadership to millions of Muslims across the country. His interpretations emphasize moderation, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence in a pluralistic society.
Formation of Sunni Organizations
Markazu Ssaquafathi Ssunniyya
In 1978, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad founded the Markazu Ssaquafathi Ssunniyya (Sunni Cultural Center) in Kozhikode, Kerala, which has grown into a major hub for Islamic education and social welfare. The institution operates schools, colleges, and hospitals, benefiting thousands of students and underprivileged individuals.
All India Sunni Jamiyyathul Ulama
As the General Secretary of the All India Sunni Jamiyyathul Ulama, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad has played a pivotal role in organizing Sunni Muslim scholars to address contemporary religious, social, and political issues.
Educational Contributions
Islamic Education
Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad is a staunch advocate for modernizing Islamic education by incorporating secular subjects alongside traditional religious studies. This approach aims to produce well-rounded individuals capable of engaging with contemporary challenges.
Secular Education Initiatives
Through institutions like the Markaz Group of Schools and Colleges, he has promoted scientific and technical education among Muslims, ensuring access to quality education for marginalized communities.
Social and Humanitarian Work
Welfare Programs
Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad has spearheaded numerous welfare programs focusing on poverty alleviation, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. His organizations operate orphanages, hospitals, and skill development centers.
Interfaith Dialogue
Recognizing the importance of religious harmony, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad has actively participated in interfaith dialogues to foster mutual understanding among different communities.
Major Achievements and Recognition
National and International Influence
Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad’s efforts have earned him respect beyond India. He has represented Indian Muslims in international forums and collaborated with global Islamic leaders to address issues such as extremism and Islamophobia.
Honors and Awards
He has received numerous awards for his contributions to education, social work, and religious leadership, including accolades from Indian government bodies and international organizations.
Personal Philosophy
Advocacy for Peace and Unity
Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad emphasizes the values of peace, tolerance, and communal harmony. He advocates for the integration of Islamic principles with the broader societal context, ensuring relevance in a modern, multicultural world.
Vision for the Future
His vision includes a unified Muslim community in India, thriving through education and social empowerment while contributing positively to the nation’s development.
Final Years and Legacy
Continued Leadership
Even in his later years, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad remains an active figure in educational and religious activities. His unwavering commitment continues to inspire millions, ensuring that his legacy will endure through the institutions and initiatives he has established.
Books
Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad, a prolific Islamic scholar, has authored numerous books focusing on Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and social reform. Below are some of his key publications:
- Tafsir-e-Quran – A commentary on the Quran explaining its verses with clarity and relevance to contemporary issues.
- Sahih Al-Bukhari Commentary – A detailed explanation of one of the most authentic collections of Hadith.
- Fiqh Literature – Books on Islamic jurisprudence tailored to the Shafi’i school of thought.
- Islamic Ethics – Works discussing moral values and their application in daily life.
- Interfaith Dialogue – Writings emphasizing peaceful coexistence and understanding between different religions.
- Educational Reforms – Books promoting the integration of modern and traditional Islamic education.
Maulana Tariq Jamil
References
- “Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad.” Markaz Knowledge City, www.markaz.in.
- Abu Bakr Ahmad: A Global Islamic Leader. (2023). The Times of India.
- “Biography of Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad.” Sunni Cultural Center Journal, 2022.
- Ahmed, A. (2019). Contributions of Indian Muslim Scholars to Modern Education. Oxford University Press.
- “Markazu Ssaquafathi Ssunniyya: A Legacy of Education and Welfare.” Islamic Insights Magazine.
