Chicago Mourns the Passing of Spiritual Icon, Maulana Nadeem Wajdi

October 14 marked a somber day for the Chicago Muslim community as they mourned the loss of Maulana Nadeem Wajdi, a revered spiritual leader, scholar, and author. Maulana Nadeem Wajdi was the father of Mufti Yassir Nadeem Wajdi, the visionary behind Burhan Academy, a robust Islamic institution offering spiritual nurturing (Tarbya) and soul purification (Tazkia).

Born on July 17, 1954, in Deoband, Molana Nadeem Wajdi excelled in Islamic education early, completing his Aalim course with distinction. His brilliance as a student was evident from the beginning, and his writing journey started in his youth. After spending a year in Hyderabad, he returned to Deoband, where he served on an advisory board for compiling and authoring works for the centenary jubilee.

In 1980, he founded Darul Kitab in Deoband, continuing his scholarly endeavors and establishing himself as a significant figure in Islamic education. Maulana Nadeem Wajdi’s contributions to Islamic scholarship are profound, with more than 35 books to his name. Among his most notable works is the Urdu translation of Imam Ghazali’s *Ihya Ul-Uloom ad-Din*, which has been published globally and remains a key resource for Islamic scholars and students alike.

He also served as the editor-in-chief of Tarjuman-e-Deoband, a monthly journal from Deoband, where he penned numerous articles on various subjects. His writings, including the widely-read “Aaj Raat Ki Tarawee,” captivated and educated readers, rising above sectarian divides to unite the Muslim ummah. He also played a key role to bridge differences among various Islamic groups.

Speaking to this publication, leading Chicago-based Oncologist Dr. Tajammul Hussain said “Maulana Nadeem Wajdi made a significant contribution to women’s education by establishing the Aisha Institute, a girls’ school in Deoband, which continues to thrive and serve the community. His son, Mufti Yassir Nadeem Wajdi, raised under the guidance of such a pious and learned father, carries forward his legacy. Mufti Yassir’s leadership of Burhan Academy is seen as an extension of his father’s vision, illuminating the future of Islamic education both locally and globally.”

Maulana Nadeem Wajdi’s lineage of knowledge traces back to the great Maulana Husain Ahmed Madani, solidifying the deep-rooted legacy of learning and spirituality within the family.

As the Muslim community in Chicago and around the world grieves this immense loss, prayers and tributes are pouring in from all corners. His legacy of knowledge and service to Islam will continue to benefit generations, as the light of his teachings will remain a source of guidance and an unmeasurable source of Sadaqah Jariyah.