Lucknow. Just 14 kilometers from Nagrām, the historic Salempur Estate, Gangaganj has been struck by a deeply sorrowful loss. The region’s pride and a true custodian of culture and humanity, Raja Syed Mohammad Sajjad Zaidi, bid farewell to this mortal world. News of his demise has cast a wave of grief not only across Lucknow but also in Barabanki and surrounding districts.
Earlier this morning, at 10 a.m., his mortal remains were taken from Salempur House to Jama Masjid, Tahseenganj, for the ritual bath (ghusl), and later laid to rest at the Salempur Fort, Gangaganj, amid a large gathering. Among those present was Aman Abbas, Editor of Sahafat.
Salempur Estate – History and Spiritual Legacy
Dating back to the era of Awadh’s nawabs, Salempur Estate has long been celebrated for its culture, intellectual environment, and leadership rooted in humanity. The Zaidi family traces its lineage directly to Imam Zainul Abideen (a.s.), the great-grandson of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). It is this sacred connection that enabled the family to preserve the traditions of love for the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) and the rituals of mourning for centuries.
The Salempur Fort, still standing tall as a symbol of that glorious era, reflects the region’s historical stature as both a political and cultural-religious center. Its majestic architecture and intricate carvings remain a testament to its grandeur.
The Grand Imambargah – A Shrine of Love and Devotion
Within the Salempur mansion lies a magnificent Imambargah, a living monument of devotion to the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). More than just a building, it is a spiritual sanctuary where mourning gatherings, processions, and commemorations of Karbala have continued uninterrupted for generations.
Two years ago, this very Imambargah witnessed the Summer Educational Camp and the Ansar-e-Mehdi Conference under the guidance of Ayatollah Sistani’s representative in India, Agha Syed Ashraf Ali Garvi. Distinguished scholars, students, and intellectuals from across the country attended, once again establishing Salempur Haveli as a hub of knowledge and spirituality.
The Scholarly Legacy Along the Banks of the Gomti
The Salempur mansion rests gracefully by the banks of the Gomti River. Across the river lies Jauras village, a treasure trove of knowledge and scholarship.
This soil produced eminent figures such as Maulana Ghaffir Jaurasi, Maulana Sayyidain Jaurasi, Maulana Jabir Jaurasi (Editor of Islah), and in contemporary times, scholars like Maulana Hasnain Baqri, Maulana Azim Baqri, and Maulana Saqlain Baqri. Their presence elevated the intellectual and religious prestige of the region to remarkable heights.
Raja Syed Mohammad Sajjad Zaidi – A Beacon of Humanity
Raja Sajjad Zaidi was far more than a noble heir to a historic estate. He embodied knowledge, refinement, and humanity in their purest forms.
- He was always the first to extend help to the poor and the marginalized.
- His gatherings were rich with literature, culture, and wisdom.
- He carried himself with humility, warmth, and simplicity, winning the hearts of all.
For him, nobility was not about palatial buildings or grand architecture, but about serving society and uplifting humanity.
Commitment to Education and Justice
Beyond his cultural and religious stature, Raja Sajjad Zaidi also served as an undisputed member of the Working Committee of Shia Post Graduate College, Lucknow.
At the institution, he stood firmly alongside Aftab-e-Shariat, Maulana Dr. Kalbe Jawad Naqvi, in raising his voice against corruption and irregularities. His commitment to fairness and integrity in education reflected his deep sense of responsibility toward society’s future.
Azadari and Social Contributions
Salempur Estate has always been a center of mourning rituals, processions, and religious gatherings. The Haveli is not just a residence but a cultural and religious heritage site.
Local organizations such as Anjuman Abbasia of Nagrām, Nagrām Organization led by Syed Rizwan Mustafa, and the Amber Foundation chaired by Wafa Abbas expressed profound grief over his demise and extended heartfelt condolences to the Zaidi family.
The End of an Era
The passing of Raja Syed Mohammad Sajjad Zaidi marks not only a personal loss for his family but also a great void for the society of Lucknow and Barabanki. With him ends an era where humanity, culture, and religious stewardship stood at their zenith.
May the Almighty grant Raja Sajjad Zaidi the highest station in Jannat al-Firdous and bless his family and admirers with strength and patience. Ameen.
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