Tribute to Muslim figure Bradford Syed Mahroof Shah

Tributes have been paid to a figurehead for Bradford’s Muslim community following his death aged 88.

Syed Mahroof Shah helped set up the Bradford Council of Mosques, which on Thursday described him as “a revered spiritual leader” in the city, “Britain and around the world”.

Thousands of people are expected to attend his funeral on Friday. He was suffering from a long illness.

Pir Sahib, as he was affectionately known, was credited with helping establish an organization that developed and managed 18 different mosques.

In a statement announcing his death, the Executive of the Bradford Council of Mosques said he was a “pioneer” of the Masajid movement, which began in the city and influenced the development of mosques in the UK and Europe.

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

“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.”

Writing on her Facebook page, Bradford West MP Naz Shah also paid tribute, describing Pir Sahib as a “stately figure who always gave me time”.

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 for the local community are unparalleled and will be remembered for generations to come.”

Community organization Center Khidmat described Pir Sahib’s death as “the passing of a religious icon”.

Writing on X, formerly known as Twitter, the organization said he had left an “indelible mark on the spiritual and religious landscape of the Muslim world”.