Cairo, Egypt | April 30, 2026: A grand international spiritual and academic gathering was organised in Cairo at the “Sahat al-Imam Ahmad Raza Qadri” (Imam Ahmed Raza Institute) platform, commemorating the Urs (death anniversary) of renowned Islamic scholar Taj al-Shariah, Mufti Akhtar Raza Khan Azhari. The event brought together leading scholars, Sufi leaders, and students from across the Muslim world, highlighting his enduring religious, academic, and spiritual legacy.
The institution hosting the event was established with the aim of promoting the teachings, research, and reformative contributions of Imam Ahmad Raza Qadri across the Arab world, while also addressing misconceptions and criticisms surrounding his scholarly legacy. Organizers emphasized the growing need to present authentic interpretations of his work amid what they described as misrepresentations by certain ideological groups.
The gathering featured participation from prominent scholars affiliated with Al-Azhar University, alongside distinguished religious figures from countries including Sudan, Syria, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Indian subcontinent. The presence of these international delegates gave the event a truly global character.
During the program, academic sessions and lectures were conducted on classical Islamic texts, including works on Sufism and theological beliefs. Scholars delivered discourses on key books such as Al-Arba‘in fi al-Tasawwuf and I‘tiqad al-Ahbab, contributing to an environment of deep intellectual engagement.
A major highlight of the event was the launch of several important scholarly publications. These included collections of treatises on Islamic jurisprudence related to moon sighting, theological discussions on the concept of hearing by the deceased, and works on the transcendence of God. Additionally, a notable Arabic biography of Imam Ahmad Raza and a new book on the life and contributions of Taj al-Shariah were unveiled, receiving appreciation from scholars and attendees alike.
The event also featured spiritual recitations, including devotional poetry (na‘at), creating a deeply reverent and uplifting atmosphere. Participants described the gathering as a rare blend of knowledge, spirituality, and devotion.
Scholars speaking at the occasion stressed the importance of such gatherings in strengthening the intellectual and spiritual connection of younger generations with classical Sunni scholarship. They noted that these initiatives play a vital role in promoting balanced religious understanding and preserving scholarly traditions.
The successful of the event was attributed to the vision and efforts of Sheikh Ghulam Muhammad Qadri Azhari, founder of the Institute, whose commitment to advancing traditional Islamic scholarship was widely acknowledged.
The conference concluded with prayers for the continued growth of the institution and its mission to serve as a strong center for the promotion of Sunni scholarship in the Arab world and beyond.