“We have lost one of the greatest Muslim leaders in all of Britain”

The extraordinary life of a leading figure in the Muslim community was celebrated in Bradford today.

Pir Syed Mahroof Hussain Shah Arif Qadri Naushahi – affectionately known as Pir Sahib – passed away recently at the age of 88 following a prolonged illness.

An estimated 10,000 mourners turned out for his funeral tonight at Bradford Central Mosque and nearby Infirmary Fields.

Pir Sahib passed away (Image: UGC)

Pir Sahib came to Bradford in 1961 as an economic migrant and sought work in a mill in Oxenhope, near Keighley.

He went on to become a pioneer of the Masajid movement, which began in Bradford and inspired the development of mosques in the United Kingdom and Europe.

In Bradford, Pir Sahib was instrumental in establishing the Jamyiat-Tabligh-ul-Islam, an organization overseeing the development and management of 18 additional mosques and schools.

Pir Sahib’s funeral took place today (Image: T&A)

He was also a founding member of the Bradford Council for Mosques.

Before Pir Sahib’s funeral, heartfelt tributes were paid to him.

Scenes inside Bradford Central Mosque earlier (Image: T&A)

Mohammed Ajeeb, the former mayor of Bradford, told the Telegraph & Argus outside Bradford Central Mosque: “He was a man who was always very kind, compassionate and wise.

“He has always worked to promote peace and harmony.

“Over the years, I’ve always gotten a lot of incredibly valuable advice from him.

“His contribution was enormous.

“I would say we have lost one of the greatest Muslim leaders in the whole of Britain.”

Sher Azam, founder of Bradford Council for Mosques, said: “He will be remembered for many, many years to come.

“I knew him for many decades and so many wonderful memories come to mind.

“He was a great man who always worked very hard and made a phenomenal difference.”

Rashad Bokhari, chief executive of the Bradford Council of Mosques, described Pir Sahib as a “master of the community”.

“He will be sorely missed,” he added.

Rashad Bokhari, Chief Executive of Bradford Mosques Council, Sher Azam, founder of Bradford Mosques Council, and Mohammed Ajeeb, former Mayor of Bradford (Image: Newsquest)

Dr Musharraf Hussain, chief executive of the Karimia Institute, said he was “inspired” by Pir Sahib.

“I have incredibly fond memories of him and his amazing leadership,” he added.

Dr. Musharraf Hussain, Executive Director of the Karimia Institute (Image: Newsquest)

Well-known Bradford figure Dr Sofia Buncy said: “His influence transcended generations.

“People always looked to him for his guidance and he will be sorely missed.”

Mohammed Azeem, a youth worker from Bradford, described Pir Sahib as “a great man”.

“He brought together people from all different backgrounds and faiths,” he added.

Mohammed Wasim, a primary school teacher in Bradford, said Pir Sahib was “a great source of inspiration for me and many others”.

Mohammed Azeem and Mohammed Wasim (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesman for the Council for Mosques described Pir Sahib as “a revered spiritual leader whose influence and guidance touched countless lives in Bradford, the UK and around the world”.

The spokesman added: “He died following a prolonged illness, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished and remembered by many.

“Pir Sahib was a pioneer of the Masajid movement, which began in Bradford and went on to inspire the development of mosques in the UK and Europe.

“His vision and dedication laid the foundation for a stronger and more connected Muslim community, fostering spiritual growth and unity.

“In Bradford, Pir Sahib was instrumental in establishing the Jamiyat-Tabligh-ul-Islam, an organization overseeing the development and management of 18 additional mosques and schools.

“His commitment to education and spiritual leadership has helped shape the lives of many young Muslims, giving them the guidance and support they need to thrive.

“As a founding member of the Bradford Council for Mosques, Pir Sahib’s wisdom and spiritual insight were invaluable.

“His presence was a constant source of inspiration and his contributions to our community will be greatly missed.

“Thousands of disciples found comfort and direction in his teachings, and his absence leaves a void that will be felt by all who knew him.

“Pir Sahib’s legacy of faith, compassion and community service will continue to guide us as we move forward.”

Naz Shah, Labor MP for Bradford West, also paid tribute.

She said: “He was an instrumental leader who brought together not only the local Muslim community in Bradford but many across the country.

“His efforts towards the local community are unparalleled and will be remembered for generations to come.

“A towering character who always gave me time, I pray that he be granted a high rank in Jannah tul Firdous.

“My thoughts and prayers are with all the family and loved ones.”