Maulana Wahiduddin Khan passes away at 96, on Wednesday late evening

Maulana Wahiduddin Khan, a renowned Islamic scholar and peace activist, passed away on Wednesday late evening at the age of 96.

The distinguished Islamic scholar and peace activist was admitted to Apollo Hospital last week after he tested positive for COVID-19. But he did not have any severe symptoms or fever and his blood and oxygen levels were reportedly stable. However, considering his age and fragility, he Khan was admitted in the ICU.

Khan's son Zafarul-Islam Khan confirmed the news through his tweet which read ; "The great Islamic scholar Maulana Wahiduddin Khan breathed his last, late this evening. Doctors failed to revive his sinking heart. Pray for his maghfirat and high station in Paradise."

Maulana Wahiduddin Khan was bestowed upon prestigious awards, including India's third-highest civilian honour, the Padma Bhushan, in January 2000 and Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honour, in January 2021. Born in Azamgarh, UP, in 1925, Khan was known for his two-volume commentary on the Holy Quran and having it translated into contemporary English.

He has also authored over 200 books on Islam, prophetic wisdom, coexistence in a multi-ethnic society, Islam's relations with modernity, secularism and women's rights. He enjoyed immense reputation for his scholarly lectures, videos and debates across the globe.

His one of the most popular ventures was Goodword Books which publishes the Quran for children through noble stories in pictures from the Holy Quran, quizzes and interesting games that on the knowledge of the holy book in a play-way style. These books are sold near his home at Nizamuddin West in a humble store that he bought years ago.

Khan lived a celebrated life. At 96 he saw everything coming his way, from high knowledge to riches to family and fan following to numerous pupils.

A life well lived!