Maulana Muhammad Shafee Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) (February 2, 1930 - April, 24 1984) was a Pakistani religious scholar and orator. He was one of the founders of the Jamaa’at-e-Ahle-Sunnat Pakistan and the Gulzaar-e-Habeeb Trust. He has received various honors from the Pakistani government and private institutes including the Sitara-e-Imtiaz. Over a span of thirty eight years, Maulana Okarvi had delivered over 18,000 speeches on many religious topics. Among his followers Ahle Sunnat (Barelvi), he is known as Mujaddid-e-Maslak-e-Ahle Sunnat (Reviver of the True Sunni Path), Aashiq-e-Rasool, Khateeb-e-A’zam Pakistan (Greatest Orator of Pakistan) and they celebrate
Khateeb-e-A’zam Day on the 3rd Friday of the Islamic month of Rajab.
Khateeb-e-A’zam Day on the 3rd Friday of the Islamic month of Rajab.
Early life and Education
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) was born in Khem Karan, East Punjab, India to Haaji Shaiekh Karam Ilaahi, a local business man. He was the eldest son of seven siblings. He began his education by learning to read and memorize the Quran and completed middle school. In 1947 his family immigrated from Khem Karan to Kasur and then to Okara, Pakistan where he continued his religious education and completed Dars-e-Nizaami and courses of Hadees-o-Tafseer from Madrissah Arabiyah Islaamiyah Anwaar-ul-Uloom in Multan, Pakistan under the guidance of Hazrat Allamah Maulana Ghulaam Ali Saahib Ashrafi Okarvi and Hazrat Allamah Maulana Saiyyid Ahmad Sa’eed Saahib Kaazimi.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) was born in Khem Karan, East Punjab, India to Haaji Shaiekh Karam Ilaahi, a local business man. He was the eldest son of seven siblings. He began his education by learning to read and memorize the Quran and completed middle school. In 1947 his family immigrated from Khem Karan to Kasur and then to Okara, Pakistan where he continued his religious education and completed Dars-e-Nizaami and courses of Hadees-o-Tafseer from Madrissah Arabiyah Islaamiyah Anwaar-ul-Uloom in Multan, Pakistan under the guidance of Hazrat Allamah Maulana Ghulaam Ali Saahib Ashrafi Okarvi and Hazrat Allamah Maulana Saiyyid Ahmad Sa’eed Saahib Kaazimi.
Personal Life
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) married at a young age and fathered eleven children, five sons and six daughters. However in 1952, his two eldest sons 3 year old Muneer Ahmad and 14 month Tanveer Ahmad died, both within a week of each other. His eldest son, Dr Allamah Kaukab Noorani Okarvi continues his father's religious work and one of the leading scholars of Islaam.
Throughout his lifetime it was his daily routine to engage in research and occupy himself in worship in the night time, resting after Fajr prayers. He would rise at 11 in the morning. From late afternoon till late evening (Isha prayer) he would sit in his library where he would meet and receive visitors and devotees. Daily, he met with hundreds of people and was known to deliver up to as many as ten speeches in a day.
He was a very simple person who did not believe in putting titles to his name. He was approachable to people from all social backgrounds and left a deep impression on all those who met him. He would kindly receive all his visitors offering them food and refreshments and would sit down to eat with them. He was well known for his kindness, humility and generosity.
During his preaching he traveled to rural and under developed places. Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) held great respect for his elders and was very kind and encouraging to youngsters, He was very courteous. His teachers, guides, associates felt honored by his association and he was very particular about the teaching and training of his children.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) married at a young age and fathered eleven children, five sons and six daughters. However in 1952, his two eldest sons 3 year old Muneer Ahmad and 14 month Tanveer Ahmad died, both within a week of each other. His eldest son, Dr Allamah Kaukab Noorani Okarvi continues his father's religious work and one of the leading scholars of Islaam.
Throughout his lifetime it was his daily routine to engage in research and occupy himself in worship in the night time, resting after Fajr prayers. He would rise at 11 in the morning. From late afternoon till late evening (Isha prayer) he would sit in his library where he would meet and receive visitors and devotees. Daily, he met with hundreds of people and was known to deliver up to as many as ten speeches in a day.
He was a very simple person who did not believe in putting titles to his name. He was approachable to people from all social backgrounds and left a deep impression on all those who met him. He would kindly receive all his visitors offering them food and refreshments and would sit down to eat with them. He was well known for his kindness, humility and generosity.
During his preaching he traveled to rural and under developed places. Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) held great respect for his elders and was very kind and encouraging to youngsters, He was very courteous. His teachers, guides, associates felt honored by his association and he was very particular about the teaching and training of his children.
Religious and Academic Work
In 1947 after migrating from India he and his father built Masjid Ghausiyah in Okara.
In 1950 Maulana Okarvi,(Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) began leading Friday prayers and lecturing the congregation at Jaame Masjid Muhaajireen in Sahiwal and was the head of the Department of Religion at the Birla High School (renamed Sutlej Cotton Mills High School) in Okara.
From 1952-1953, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) actively participated in the Tahreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Khatm-e-Nubuwwat (Protection of the Finality of Prophethood Movement).
In 1954 he also established the Jaami’ah Hanafiyah Ashraf-ul-Madaaris on Grand Trunk Road in Okara and remained one of its mentors and sponsors.
In 1955 he came to Karachi for the first time for ten days where he lectured at the Jaame Masjid Aaram Bagh on the first Laylat al-Qadr.
In 1956 Maulana Okarvi was appointed the Khatib and Imam of Memon Masjid (near Bolton Market, M.A. Jinnah Road). In the same year, he founded Jamaa’at e Ahle Sunnat and became its first chairman where he started by preaching Quran (Dars-e-Quran) at religious gathering at various people's homes every Sunday from ‘Asr to Maghrib. He also organized a five week curriculum to teach the Islamic Rules and Laws of Religion (Fiqh) for working officials and conducted weekly classes based on the 300 issues mentioned in the first three volumes of Fataawa Rizviyah.
After leaving Memon Masjid, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) led the Friday prayers at Jaame Masjid Eidgah Maidaan for nearly 3 years, Jaame Masjid Aaram Bagh for 2 years and then at Noor Masjid for 12 years. Along with leading prayers he also explaining Tafseer-e-Qur’aan (details of Qu'raan) in these masjids.
In 1964 he founded the Masjid Ghausiyah Trust and built Masjid Ghausiyah in P.E.C.H.S, Karachi. And on the the same premises he established a religious education school named Daar-ul-‘Uloom Hanfiyah Ghausiyah.
In 1970 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) was one of the main leading personalities of the Movement of Nifaaz-e-Nizaam-e-Mustafa (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) and in Pakistan he established many organizations such as the Sunni Tableeghi Mission, Anjuman-e-Muhibbaan-e-Sahaabah Wa Ahle-Baiet, Tanzeem A’immah Wa Khutaba Masaajid-e-Ahle Sunnat.
In 1973 Maulana Okarvi laid the foundation for the construction for the Jaame Masjid-e-Gulzar-e-Habeeb in Gulistan-e-Okarvi (Soldier Bazaar), Karachi. Here he started delivering speeches and leading Friday prayers. He established its trust under the name of Gulzar-e-Habeeb (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) Trust and under the management of this trust construction work continues on this masjid.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) traveled extensively throughout Pakistan to educated illiterate people with basic Islamic knowledge and answer their queries concerning Islaamic beliefs. Maulana Okarvi established over 200 schools and Madaaris throughout Pakistan. Further details can be found in the book, Khateeb e Pakistan Mu’aasireen Ki Nazar Mein. Every Shab-e-‘Aashuur (10th night of Muharram) from 1956 to 1984 one of the largest religious congregations would gather to listen to Maulana Okarvi. Still today his speeches and na’at recitations are broadcast on radio and television.
In 1947 after migrating from India he and his father built Masjid Ghausiyah in Okara.
In 1950 Maulana Okarvi,(Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) began leading Friday prayers and lecturing the congregation at Jaame Masjid Muhaajireen in Sahiwal and was the head of the Department of Religion at the Birla High School (renamed Sutlej Cotton Mills High School) in Okara.
From 1952-1953, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) actively participated in the Tahreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Khatm-e-Nubuwwat (Protection of the Finality of Prophethood Movement).
In 1954 he also established the Jaami’ah Hanafiyah Ashraf-ul-Madaaris on Grand Trunk Road in Okara and remained one of its mentors and sponsors.
In 1955 he came to Karachi for the first time for ten days where he lectured at the Jaame Masjid Aaram Bagh on the first Laylat al-Qadr.
In 1956 Maulana Okarvi was appointed the Khatib and Imam of Memon Masjid (near Bolton Market, M.A. Jinnah Road). In the same year, he founded Jamaa’at e Ahle Sunnat and became its first chairman where he started by preaching Quran (Dars-e-Quran) at religious gathering at various people's homes every Sunday from ‘Asr to Maghrib. He also organized a five week curriculum to teach the Islamic Rules and Laws of Religion (Fiqh) for working officials and conducted weekly classes based on the 300 issues mentioned in the first three volumes of Fataawa Rizviyah.
After leaving Memon Masjid, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) led the Friday prayers at Jaame Masjid Eidgah Maidaan for nearly 3 years, Jaame Masjid Aaram Bagh for 2 years and then at Noor Masjid for 12 years. Along with leading prayers he also explaining Tafseer-e-Qur’aan (details of Qu'raan) in these masjids.
In 1964 he founded the Masjid Ghausiyah Trust and built Masjid Ghausiyah in P.E.C.H.S, Karachi. And on the the same premises he established a religious education school named Daar-ul-‘Uloom Hanfiyah Ghausiyah.
In 1970 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) was one of the main leading personalities of the Movement of Nifaaz-e-Nizaam-e-Mustafa (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) and in Pakistan he established many organizations such as the Sunni Tableeghi Mission, Anjuman-e-Muhibbaan-e-Sahaabah Wa Ahle-Baiet, Tanzeem A’immah Wa Khutaba Masaajid-e-Ahle Sunnat.
In 1973 Maulana Okarvi laid the foundation for the construction for the Jaame Masjid-e-Gulzar-e-Habeeb in Gulistan-e-Okarvi (Soldier Bazaar), Karachi. Here he started delivering speeches and leading Friday prayers. He established its trust under the name of Gulzar-e-Habeeb (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) Trust and under the management of this trust construction work continues on this masjid.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) traveled extensively throughout Pakistan to educated illiterate people with basic Islamic knowledge and answer their queries concerning Islaamic beliefs. Maulana Okarvi established over 200 schools and Madaaris throughout Pakistan. Further details can be found in the book, Khateeb e Pakistan Mu’aasireen Ki Nazar Mein. Every Shab-e-‘Aashuur (10th night of Muharram) from 1956 to 1984 one of the largest religious congregations would gather to listen to Maulana Okarvi. Still today his speeches and na’at recitations are broadcast on radio and television.
International Endeavors
For the preaching of religion and the true Sunni path, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) traveled to Far East, Middle East, India, Palestine, South Africa, U.A.E, Mauritius and many other countries around the world. 100,000 cassettes of Maulana’s speeches were sold in South Africa till 1980. Video cassettes of his speeches are also widely distributed internationally.
In 1962 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) traveled to Baghdad, Syria, Karbalaa, Beirut, Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah. In this trip he visited the shrines of many spiritual and religious scholars as well as many notable masaajid and historical holy places. Details can be found in his book, Raah-e-Aqeedat.
In 1976 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) established in South Africa, Anjuman Ahl-e-Sunnat Wa Jamaa’at[1]. He visited Piet Retief, Johannesburg, Durban and over 70 other towns and cities throughout the four provinces of South Africa. Maulana Okarvi’s last international tour of India was in 1983 in which he visited Bombay, Ajmer, New Delhi and Bareilly Shareef.
In 1974 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) formed the Jamaa’at e Ahle Sunnat in Durban, South Africa. This newly organized body attracted up to 10, 000 members. He gave lectures in Jaame Masjid, Grey Street, Orient hall, Unit 1, Chatsworth’s Masjid, Unit 7 Masjid, Spark Road Masjid and several other notable places.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) was blessed sixteen times with the auspiciousness of the journey of Hajj, Ziyaarat and ‘Umrah.
For the preaching of religion and the true Sunni path, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) traveled to Far East, Middle East, India, Palestine, South Africa, U.A.E, Mauritius and many other countries around the world. 100,000 cassettes of Maulana’s speeches were sold in South Africa till 1980. Video cassettes of his speeches are also widely distributed internationally.
In 1962 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) traveled to Baghdad, Syria, Karbalaa, Beirut, Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah. In this trip he visited the shrines of many spiritual and religious scholars as well as many notable masaajid and historical holy places. Details can be found in his book, Raah-e-Aqeedat.
In 1976 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) established in South Africa, Anjuman Ahl-e-Sunnat Wa Jamaa’at[1]. He visited Piet Retief, Johannesburg, Durban and over 70 other towns and cities throughout the four provinces of South Africa. Maulana Okarvi’s last international tour of India was in 1983 in which he visited Bombay, Ajmer, New Delhi and Bareilly Shareef.
In 1974 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) formed the Jamaa’at e Ahle Sunnat in Durban, South Africa. This newly organized body attracted up to 10, 000 members. He gave lectures in Jaame Masjid, Grey Street, Orient hall, Unit 1, Chatsworth’s Masjid, Unit 7 Masjid, Spark Road Masjid and several other notable places.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) was blessed sixteen times with the auspiciousness of the journey of Hajj, Ziyaarat and ‘Umrah.
Religious Teachings
His main focus was of honor and devotion to the holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Was Sallam), his family, companions and true followers.
He was non violent and disliked it when the preachers of the religion would themselves not follow the Sunnah of the holy Prophet
(Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) and misinterpret or change the actual meaning of the holy Qur’aan and the Ahadees.
Maulana Okarvi’s teaching was purity in preaching and practicing due to which he attracted unbeatable masses. Practice what you preach was his way of life. He considered the pulpit as an honor entrusted to him by the holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) and never abstained from hiding the facts for worldly gains.
He was not deterred by threats or attacks on him. To his critics, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) would say:
“I am not taking anyone’s name in my speech. I am talking about those who have wrong beliefs according to Quran and Sunnah. Whatever I say, I say it with full confidence. I have only explained those qualities of hypocrites that the holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) has explained and their signs so that the true Muslims can safeguard their beliefs and articles of faith. If those qualities are present in anyone and they can see a mirror then why are you blaming me? Why don’t you correct yourself and accept the truth.”
His main focus was of honor and devotion to the holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Was Sallam), his family, companions and true followers.
He was non violent and disliked it when the preachers of the religion would themselves not follow the Sunnah of the holy Prophet
(Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) and misinterpret or change the actual meaning of the holy Qur’aan and the Ahadees.
Maulana Okarvi’s teaching was purity in preaching and practicing due to which he attracted unbeatable masses. Practice what you preach was his way of life. He considered the pulpit as an honor entrusted to him by the holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) and never abstained from hiding the facts for worldly gains.
He was not deterred by threats or attacks on him. To his critics, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) would say:
“I am not taking anyone’s name in my speech. I am talking about those who have wrong beliefs according to Quran and Sunnah. Whatever I say, I say it with full confidence. I have only explained those qualities of hypocrites that the holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) has explained and their signs so that the true Muslims can safeguard their beliefs and articles of faith. If those qualities are present in anyone and they can see a mirror then why are you blaming me? Why don’t you correct yourself and accept the truth.”
Political and Social Contribution
For promoting the word of Islaam and for the sake of religion Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) became politically active. He was an influential person of Sahiwal and Punjab. He was made the Chief of Tahreek-e-Khatm-e-Nabuwwat in Sahiwal district in 1952-1953.
In 1965 during the war of India and Pakistan, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) guided the nation with zeal and passion for the holy war. He gave thousands of rupees in the National Saving Fund and from the congregations of his speeches collected provisions worth millions of rupees in the form of clothes and other personal necessities. With the group of ‘Ulama-e-Kiraam (religious scholars) he went to Azad Kashmir and Occupied Kashmir in the camps of the oppressed refugees and distributed the thousands of rupees in cash with his own hands.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) went to twenty two different places of Azad Kashmir and Sialkot, Chhumb Joriyan, Lahore, Wagha and Khem Karan and many other refugee camps. He delivered speeches to the soldiers on the topic of the importance of Jihaad Fi Sabeelil Laah (holy war in the way of Allaah) and on the excellence and glory of the Mujaahid (holy warrior).
In 1970 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) contested as a candidate for the member of National Assembly from Karachi. He took part in the election against the incursion of socialism and was elected a member of the National Assembly.
In 1980 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh)was nominated as a member of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament of Pakistan) newly established by the President of Pakistan General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haqq. He accomplished prominent actions for the order, organization and issuing of the Islaamic laws. He remained as a member of the Standing Committee established by the Ministry of Religious affairs as well as an administrator of the Federal Department of Auqaf, Pakistan and a member of University Grants Commission until a few months before his death.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh)was a founding member of the National Seerat Committee in the Government of Pakistan. He contributed to Ittihaad-e-Bainal Muslimeen (Unity among the Muslims), the National Saving Fund for the refugees and people afflicted by numerous floods and earthquakes. He continuously assisted extensively people affected by any catastrophic disasters.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) suggested the name of Karachi’s area “Golimar” as “Gul Bahaar” and “Ram Bagh” as “Aaraam Bagh,” which was accepted and applauded.
In the era of General Zia-ul-Haqq, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) requested the Deputy Martial Law Administrator to provide transport to the Karachi Police. This got accepted and for the patrolling of the Karachi Police Suzuki pickups were supplied for the rapid response of combating crime.
For promoting the word of Islaam and for the sake of religion Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) became politically active. He was an influential person of Sahiwal and Punjab. He was made the Chief of Tahreek-e-Khatm-e-Nabuwwat in Sahiwal district in 1952-1953.
In 1965 during the war of India and Pakistan, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) guided the nation with zeal and passion for the holy war. He gave thousands of rupees in the National Saving Fund and from the congregations of his speeches collected provisions worth millions of rupees in the form of clothes and other personal necessities. With the group of ‘Ulama-e-Kiraam (religious scholars) he went to Azad Kashmir and Occupied Kashmir in the camps of the oppressed refugees and distributed the thousands of rupees in cash with his own hands.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) went to twenty two different places of Azad Kashmir and Sialkot, Chhumb Joriyan, Lahore, Wagha and Khem Karan and many other refugee camps. He delivered speeches to the soldiers on the topic of the importance of Jihaad Fi Sabeelil Laah (holy war in the way of Allaah) and on the excellence and glory of the Mujaahid (holy warrior).
In 1970 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) contested as a candidate for the member of National Assembly from Karachi. He took part in the election against the incursion of socialism and was elected a member of the National Assembly.
In 1980 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh)was nominated as a member of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament of Pakistan) newly established by the President of Pakistan General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haqq. He accomplished prominent actions for the order, organization and issuing of the Islaamic laws. He remained as a member of the Standing Committee established by the Ministry of Religious affairs as well as an administrator of the Federal Department of Auqaf, Pakistan and a member of University Grants Commission until a few months before his death.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh)was a founding member of the National Seerat Committee in the Government of Pakistan. He contributed to Ittihaad-e-Bainal Muslimeen (Unity among the Muslims), the National Saving Fund for the refugees and people afflicted by numerous floods and earthquakes. He continuously assisted extensively people affected by any catastrophic disasters.
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) suggested the name of Karachi’s area “Golimar” as “Gul Bahaar” and “Ram Bagh” as “Aaraam Bagh,” which was accepted and applauded.
In the era of General Zia-ul-Haqq, Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) requested the Deputy Martial Law Administrator to provide transport to the Karachi Police. This got accepted and for the patrolling of the Karachi Police Suzuki pickups were supplied for the rapid response of combating crime.
Political Imprisonment
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) was arrested for his participation against the Qaadiyaani Movement. He remained in Montgomery prison for 10 months. During this period of imprisonment his first two sons Muneer Ahmad, 3 years old and Tanveer Ahmad 1 1/4 years old, died within a week. Several influential people met the Deputy Commissioner of Montgomery and made recommendations for him. The Deputy Commissioner visited the prison and called Maulana Okarvi in privacy and told him;
“Due to the sudden death of your children, the conditions of your family are not good. I have received many recommendations for you. You sign the letter of apology. Your apology letter will be kept hidden from the public. And just today you will be released.”
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) replied;
“I have worked for the respect and honour of the holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) and it is my belief that the holy Prophet Saiyyidinaa Muhammad (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) is the Last Prophet of Allaah Ta’aalaa, therefore; the question of asking for apology does not even arise. The children have passed away; even if my life is also taken away I will still remain steadfast on my belief and will not ask for any apology.”
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) was arrested for his participation against the Qaadiyaani Movement. He remained in Montgomery prison for 10 months. During this period of imprisonment his first two sons Muneer Ahmad, 3 years old and Tanveer Ahmad 1 1/4 years old, died within a week. Several influential people met the Deputy Commissioner of Montgomery and made recommendations for him. The Deputy Commissioner visited the prison and called Maulana Okarvi in privacy and told him;
“Due to the sudden death of your children, the conditions of your family are not good. I have received many recommendations for you. You sign the letter of apology. Your apology letter will be kept hidden from the public. And just today you will be released.”
Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) replied;
“I have worked for the respect and honour of the holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) and it is my belief that the holy Prophet Saiyyidinaa Muhammad (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) is the Last Prophet of Allaah Ta’aalaa, therefore; the question of asking for apology does not even arise. The children have passed away; even if my life is also taken away I will still remain steadfast on my belief and will not ask for any apology.”
Assassination Attempt
On October 16, 1962 in Khadda Market, Karachi, an assassination attempt was made on Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) during one of his speeches.[2] He received wounds on his neck, shoulders, head and upper back. Maulana Okarvi stayed under treatment in the hospital for two and a half months. While giving his statement to the police officer Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) said,
“I have no personal grudge with anyone. Nor I am a criminal. If I did any crime it is only this that I preach the religion of Islam and do praise and glorification of Saiyyid-ul-‘Aalameen (Master of the entire Universes’), Muhsin-e-Insaaniyat (Benefactor of the humanity), Huzoor Rahmat-ul-lil Aalameen (Mercy of the Universes) (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam). I do not want to take any revenge from anyone and nor do I want anything to be done against the attackers. My blood has been shed unnecessarily. My Allaah, Rabb-e-Kareem accepts this and makes this mediation for my salvation. I forgive the attackers. Whereas, for establishing peace, you people do what is appropriate so that this kind of incident does not take place again.”
He did not appoint a lawyer for this case or follow any hearings. On recovery he occupied himself in preaching Islam and delivered his very first lecture on the same place the assassination was attempted.
Afterwards, three more attempts were made to take Maulana Okarvi’s (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) life. While delivering his lecture, a stone was thrown at him. On another occasion he was attacked with a knife. Daggers were also put in his shoes on a third.
On October 16, 1962 in Khadda Market, Karachi, an assassination attempt was made on Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) during one of his speeches.[2] He received wounds on his neck, shoulders, head and upper back. Maulana Okarvi stayed under treatment in the hospital for two and a half months. While giving his statement to the police officer Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) said,
“I have no personal grudge with anyone. Nor I am a criminal. If I did any crime it is only this that I preach the religion of Islam and do praise and glorification of Saiyyid-ul-‘Aalameen (Master of the entire Universes’), Muhsin-e-Insaaniyat (Benefactor of the humanity), Huzoor Rahmat-ul-lil Aalameen (Mercy of the Universes) (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam). I do not want to take any revenge from anyone and nor do I want anything to be done against the attackers. My blood has been shed unnecessarily. My Allaah, Rabb-e-Kareem accepts this and makes this mediation for my salvation. I forgive the attackers. Whereas, for establishing peace, you people do what is appropriate so that this kind of incident does not take place again.”
He did not appoint a lawyer for this case or follow any hearings. On recovery he occupied himself in preaching Islam and delivered his very first lecture on the same place the assassination was attempted.
Afterwards, three more attempts were made to take Maulana Okarvi’s (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) life. While delivering his lecture, a stone was thrown at him. On another occasion he was attacked with a knife. Daggers were also put in his shoes on a third.
Literary Work
Maulana Okarvi’s (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) literary work is extensive including sermons, discussions, discourses, treatises, and books. He was a translator of the Quran and a scholar of Ahadees (Muhaddis). He authored 25 books based on his academic research work and religious knowledge on the love of the holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam).
Maulana Okarvi’s (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) literary work is extensive including sermons, discussions, discourses, treatises, and books. He was a translator of the Quran and a scholar of Ahadees (Muhaddis). He authored 25 books based on his academic research work and religious knowledge on the love of the holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam).
- Zikr-e-Jameel
- Zikr-e-Haseen (2-Vols)
- Shaam-e-Karbalaa
- Raah-e-Aqeedat
- Imaam-e-Paak aur Yazeed Paleed
- Barakaat-e-Meelaad Shareef
- Sawaab-ul-Ibaadaat
- Namaaz-e-Mutarjam
- Safeena-e-Nooh (2 Vols)
- Musalmaan Khaatoon
- Raah-e-Haqq
- Dars-e-Tauheed
- Anwaar-e-Risaalat
- Mas’alah-e-Talaaq-e-Salaasah
- Naghma-e-Habeeb
- Mas’alah-e-Siyaah Khizaab
- Angoothay Choomnay ka Mas’alah
- Akhlaaq-o-‘A’maal (broadcasted speeches)
- Ta‘aaruf ‘Ulama-e-Deoband
- Meelaad-e-Shafee*
- Jihaad-o-Qitaal*
- Aa’eenah-e-Haqeeqat*
- Nujuumool Hidaayat*
- Mas’alah-e-Bees (20) Taraveeh*
- Maqaalaat-e-Okarvi*
- These books have not been published yet.
Departure and Legacy
In 1974 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) had a heart attack but this did not hinder his proceedings of preaching and organizing services. In 1975 Maulana Okarvi had a heart attack for the second time and came to Karachi. He stayed in a cardiac hospital under treatment for six weeks.
On April 20th, 1984 he delivered his last speech at the congregation of Jum’ah Salaat at Jaame Masjid Gulzar-e-Habeeb. On the same evening Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) had a severe heart attack for the third time and was admitted in the National Institute of Cardiovascular Disease. After three days, in the morning after the ‘Azaan of Fajr while reading durood o salaam (peace and salutation) on his Beloved holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi wa Sallam), on Tuesday, April 24th, 1984 (21st Rajab-ul-Muraj-jab 1404 A.H) at the age of 55, he went to meet the True Creator.
On April 25th, at Nishtar Park, Karachi, under the Imaamat (leadership) of Allamah Saiyyid Ahmad Sa’eed Kaazimi after the Salaat of Zuhr, millions of people attended the funeral prayer of the honourable Hazrat Khateeb-e-A’zam Pakistan (Allaah have mercy on him). On the same evening Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) was laid to rest next to Masjid Gulzar-e-Habeeb, Karachi. A mausoleum is being constructed there.
Concerning Maulana Okarvi the late President Zia-ul-Haqq wrote in a letter:
“He was a prominent, vibrant orator and an influential preacher of Islaam. Due to his immense religious knowledge, outstanding oration and his fascinating speech he truly became famous by the title of Khateeb-e-Pakistan. He dedicated every moment of his life in the service of Islaam, “Ittihaad-e-Bainal Muslimeen” (Unity among the Muslims) and the propagation of Islaamic teachings.
Lt Gen. Jahaan Dad Khan, the Governor of Sind in February 1985 wrote in a letter,
“He was a versatile genius but also vociferous orator. Through his powerful preaching he not only impressed his co-religionists but he also became equally popular among the non Muslims who embraced Islaam in large numbers. As a renowned religious leader, his capabilities transcended the boundaries of Pakistan. As a preacher par excellence, he has been internationally acknowledged.”
Saiyyid Yoosuf Raza Geelaanee, currently the Prime Minster of Pakistan, who was formerly the Minister of Railways, wrote in a letter,
“Due to the departure of the prestigious orator of the country, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Shafee Okarvi, (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) the world of Islaam has been deprived of a great skilled research leader. He spent all his life in the propagation of Islaam. His beautiful speeches used to develop the warmth of the love of the Prophet (Sallal Laahu’Alaiehi Wa Sallam) in the hearts of the Muslims. Often he would visit to Multan on our invitation and benefit us with his speeches.”
On 23rd March 1985, President Zia-ul-Haqq awarded the Sitaara-e-Imtiaaz to Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) due to his contributions to religious services.
In 29 years he narrated the explanation of nine parts of the Qur’aan. In Karachi, on behalf of Jamaa’at-e-Ahle Sunnat, Maulana Okarvi began the 10 days Majaalis-e-Muharram and the series of organizing congregations and processions of Jashan-e-Eid Meelaad-un-Nabee (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam). To extend the memories and services of Maulana Okarvi for religion, the Maulana Okarvi Academy (Al-A’lami) was established on Friday the 27th of April 1984. Every year on the occasion of Urs mubaarak a magazine Al Khateeb is published by the Academy.
On every 3rd Friday of the holy month of Rajab, in all the Sunni Masaajid of the world “Annual Khateeb-e-A’zam Day” is observed and collectively in congregations rewards are forwarded to the blessed soul of Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh). His audio and video cassettes can be bought and obtained from Maulana Okarvi Academy (Al-A’lami)
In 1974 Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) had a heart attack but this did not hinder his proceedings of preaching and organizing services. In 1975 Maulana Okarvi had a heart attack for the second time and came to Karachi. He stayed in a cardiac hospital under treatment for six weeks.
On April 20th, 1984 he delivered his last speech at the congregation of Jum’ah Salaat at Jaame Masjid Gulzar-e-Habeeb. On the same evening Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) had a severe heart attack for the third time and was admitted in the National Institute of Cardiovascular Disease. After three days, in the morning after the ‘Azaan of Fajr while reading durood o salaam (peace and salutation) on his Beloved holy Prophet (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi wa Sallam), on Tuesday, April 24th, 1984 (21st Rajab-ul-Muraj-jab 1404 A.H) at the age of 55, he went to meet the True Creator.
On April 25th, at Nishtar Park, Karachi, under the Imaamat (leadership) of Allamah Saiyyid Ahmad Sa’eed Kaazimi after the Salaat of Zuhr, millions of people attended the funeral prayer of the honourable Hazrat Khateeb-e-A’zam Pakistan (Allaah have mercy on him). On the same evening Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) was laid to rest next to Masjid Gulzar-e-Habeeb, Karachi. A mausoleum is being constructed there.
Concerning Maulana Okarvi the late President Zia-ul-Haqq wrote in a letter:
“He was a prominent, vibrant orator and an influential preacher of Islaam. Due to his immense religious knowledge, outstanding oration and his fascinating speech he truly became famous by the title of Khateeb-e-Pakistan. He dedicated every moment of his life in the service of Islaam, “Ittihaad-e-Bainal Muslimeen” (Unity among the Muslims) and the propagation of Islaamic teachings.
Lt Gen. Jahaan Dad Khan, the Governor of Sind in February 1985 wrote in a letter,
“He was a versatile genius but also vociferous orator. Through his powerful preaching he not only impressed his co-religionists but he also became equally popular among the non Muslims who embraced Islaam in large numbers. As a renowned religious leader, his capabilities transcended the boundaries of Pakistan. As a preacher par excellence, he has been internationally acknowledged.”
Saiyyid Yoosuf Raza Geelaanee, currently the Prime Minster of Pakistan, who was formerly the Minister of Railways, wrote in a letter,
“Due to the departure of the prestigious orator of the country, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Shafee Okarvi, (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) the world of Islaam has been deprived of a great skilled research leader. He spent all his life in the propagation of Islaam. His beautiful speeches used to develop the warmth of the love of the Prophet (Sallal Laahu’Alaiehi Wa Sallam) in the hearts of the Muslims. Often he would visit to Multan on our invitation and benefit us with his speeches.”
On 23rd March 1985, President Zia-ul-Haqq awarded the Sitaara-e-Imtiaaz to Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh) due to his contributions to religious services.
In 29 years he narrated the explanation of nine parts of the Qur’aan. In Karachi, on behalf of Jamaa’at-e-Ahle Sunnat, Maulana Okarvi began the 10 days Majaalis-e-Muharram and the series of organizing congregations and processions of Jashan-e-Eid Meelaad-un-Nabee (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam). To extend the memories and services of Maulana Okarvi for religion, the Maulana Okarvi Academy (Al-A’lami) was established on Friday the 27th of April 1984. Every year on the occasion of Urs mubaarak a magazine Al Khateeb is published by the Academy.
On every 3rd Friday of the holy month of Rajab, in all the Sunni Masaajid of the world “Annual Khateeb-e-A’zam Day” is observed and collectively in congregations rewards are forwarded to the blessed soul of Maulana Okarvi (Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh). His audio and video cassettes can be bought and obtained from Maulana Okarvi Academy (Al-A’lami)