Srinagar, Indian administered Kashmir: The revered Islamic scholar and prominent religious leader, Agha Syed Mohammad Baqir Al-Moosvi, passed away after a brief illness at the age of 85. According to family sources, he breathed his last at Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital (SMHS) in Srinagar during the intervening night of Thursday and Friday, where he had been under treatment for the past few days.
The news of his demise plunged the town of Budgam into mourning, with grief-stricken crowds gathering at his residence by dawn on Friday. People from across Jammu and Kashmir poured into the area, turning the town into a sea of mourners paying their respects to the departed spiritual leader.
Agha Syed Mohammad Baqir hailed from the distinguished Agha family of Budgam, which is known for its contributions to Islamic scholarship. He received his early religious education at Jamia Bab-ul-Ilm, Budgam, before traveling to Najaf Ashraf (Iraq) for advanced studies. There, he spent years under the tutelage of eminent jurists, mastering Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), Arabic, Persian, Urdu, and Kashmiri literature.
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Upon his return to Kashmir in 1982, he dedicated his life to religious service, preaching, and authoring Islamic texts. Every Friday, he delivered sermons at his residence, attracting scholars and followers from diverse backgrounds, transcending sectarian lines.
Political and Religious Leaders Mourn His Passing
The demise of the esteemed scholar has drawn profound condolences from political, social, and religious leaders across Jammu and Kashmir.
- Indian administered Jammu & Kashmir’s former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep sorrow, stating:
“Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un (We belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return). The passing of the distinguished Shia scholar and religious leader, Agha Syed Mohammad Baqir Al-Moosvi, is a profound loss. His contributions to religious thought, social harmony, and public service in Jammu & Kashmir have left behind a legacy that will be remembered with deep respect.” - Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also mourned his death, saying:
“The news of the demise of the respected Shia scholar, eminent author, and theologian Agha Syed Baqir Al-Moosvi has left me deeply saddened. His intellectual and spiritual guidance was a beacon of light for Kashmir.”
A Legacy of Knowledge and Unity
Agha Syed Mohammad Baqir was widely regarded as a shining star of Islamic knowledge and mysticism (Irfan). His expertise in Islamic law, theology, and multilingual scholarship made him a towering intellectual figure in Kashmir’s religious landscape.
His death marks the end of an era, but his teachings, writings, and efforts toward interfaith harmony will continue to inspire future generations.
Funeral and Public Reaction
As the news spread, thousands gathered in Budgam to participate in his funeral prayers. The streets were filled with emotional tributes, reflecting the deep reverence he commanded among people of all backgrounds.
The international Kashmiri community has also expressed grief, with scholars and organizations paying homage to his lifelong dedication to Islamic education and social cohesion in Kashmir.
A Scholar Remembered Beyond Borders
Agha Syed Mohammad Baqir Al-Moosvi’s death is not just a loss for Kashmir but for the global Islamic scholarly community. His works and sermons remain a guiding light, ensuring his legacy endures in the hearts of those who cherished his wisdom.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
