The appeal made by Hazrat Maulana Mohammad Sayed Siddique Ahmad Bandwi (RA) in 1959
Dear Muslim Brothers,
It is with pride and privilege that I present the following introduction to the services provided by Madrasa Jamia Arabia Hathaura, located in Banda, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Nine years ago, in 1950, I was serving as a teacher at Madrasa Islamia in Fatehpur. I was deeply shocked to witness the emergence of Muslim conversions in Banda District, where a few Muslims had already renounced Islam.
I realized that this situation was due to the absence of a Madrasa in the district that could provide Islamic teachings to those in need. Subsequently, I resigned from Madrasa Islamia Fatehpur, moved to Banda, and began traveling extensively throughout the region with the aim of spreading Islam.
During my travels, I observed that a significant number of Muslims in the region lacked a solid understanding of the fundamental teachings of Islam. This lack of knowledge led to confusion between Islamic principles and pagan practices. Consequently, they were susceptible to being influenced by pagan beliefs.
During that period, there arose a pressing need for religious education. Consequently, efforts were initiated to establish religious schools (known as Maktabs) in various locations. Additionally, a central Madrasa was established to cater to the secondary stage of education. This Madrasa provided instruction in Dars-e-Nizami to students from the Maktabs. Subsequently, these students could pursue higher studies at specialized centers to complete their religious education
After an extensive search for suitable land, the Central school finally found a location. Friends and well-wishers stepped forward to support the initiative, and teaching commenced in a house that had been purchased in the hamlet of Naraini. Unfortunately, due to an unfavorable atmosphere, the teaching could not be sustained. Despite efforts in other areas of the district, no progress was achieved. So wished Allah SWT.
Finally, the endeavor commenced in our humble village of Hathaura, located in District Banda, Uttar Pradesh. Anchored in faith in Allah, some of my students from Fatehpur were transferred to Hathaura, where they embarked on their studies of Dars-e-Nizami.
These students encountered difficulties. A generous and compassionate villager offered a small room from his own residence, which served as both a daytime classroom and a nighttime dormitory.
Whatever time I could spare, I dedicated that time to teach the students. This situation persisted for several days until Allah’s blessings eased our circumstances. Generous individuals donated land, and construction began. As a result, parents started sending their children to the Madrasa.
Initially, we constructed a few rooms with earthen walls and Khaprail roofs. Students from outside began residing there. Over time, with the students’ assistance, construction continued, and our teaching classes remained steady. Despite facing significant challenges, the students persevered with unwavering courage. Today, we have twelve spacious rooms and a large hall, all built with earthen walls and Khaprail roofs.
The dedication and resilience of the teaching staff, who persevered despite limited resources and hardships, deserve commendation. May Allah grant them abundant blessings in return. (Ameen)
This location lies in a remote area, far from the district headquarters, where daily necessities are scarce. There are no laundry services, tailors, barbers, or meat sellers. The barber travels from Chhanera Lalpur, a mile away.
Furthermore, there is no flour mill nearby, so essential items are procured from Banda, which is ten miles distant. For firewood, students venture into the jungle, also about a mile away.
During this season, the pointed leaves of date palms can cause discomfort and injury. The students cook their own meals due to the absence of a cook, and the sight of rows of fires as they prepare food is remarkable.
After meals, the students diligently study. Their study sessions span from morning to noon, then from Zuhr to Asr, and finally from Maghrib until Isha, guided by their teacher. They also study late into the night.
In summary, their routine evokes the spirit of the pupils of Suffa, demonstrating unwavering commitment to knowledge even in this age of technology and progress.
May this endeavor thrive and may Allah alleviate their hardships. (Ameen)
Hazrat Maulana Mohammad Sayed Siddique Ahmad Bandwi (RA),
Founder, Jamia Arabia Hathaura Banda