Renowned Islamic scholar Maulana Wahiduddin Khan passed away in New Delhi due to Covid-19 complications on Wednesday night, Times of India reported.
Khan, 97, is survived by two sons and two daughters.
His son Saniyasnain Khan said Khan was admitted to a hospital last week after he had a chest infection and he had tested positive for Covid-19 too.
Born in Azamgarh in 1925, the cleric was educated at a traditional seminary. A known peacenik who advocated peaceful co-existence and counselled moderation in conduct, he crusaded against extremism and orthodox interpretations of the holy texts.
Khan penned over 200 books, including a commentary and a translation of the Quran in English, Hindi, and Urdu. His lectures, many of them available on YouTube, are immensely popular. He also founded the India Islamic Culture Centre in New Delhi.
He had hit the headlines when he gave his “peace formula” for the Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi dispute and asked Muslims to forego their claims on the disputed land in Ayodhya. Although, the request was rejected by a huge section of the Indian Muslim community.
Khan was honoured with the Padma Bhushan — the third-highest civilian award of India — in 2000, was awarded the Padma Vibhushan — second-highest civilian honour — in January.
