Identity: Exegete of the Quran, Islamic Preacher, Author

Maulana Syed Hamid Ali was born on May 1, 1923, in the town of Miranpur Katra, District Shahjahanpur (UP). After his primary education, he obtained higher education in Persian and Arabic from the madrasas of Bareilly (Isha'at-ul-Ulum and Misbah-ul-Ulum). He passed the examinations of Munshi, Kamil, Maulvi, Fazil-e-Diniyat, and Fazil-e-Adab from the Allahabad Board with distinction and also acquired proficiency in the English language.

In his early youth, he was deeply influenced by the writings of Maulana Syed Abul A'la Maududi and became associated with the Islamic Movement in 1942. Following the formation of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind in 1948, he was elected as a member of its Central Shura (Consultative Council). He diligently fulfilled major responsibilities within the Jamaat, including the 'Publication Department' and the 'Dawah to Non-Muslims Department.'

Maulana possessed a special talent for authorship and compilation. He wrote approximately 100 booklets and books on various religious and missionary topics, published by 'Markazi Maktaba Islami' and his own institution, 'Idara Shahadat-e-Haq.'

Major Works: 'Qurani Istilahat aur Ulama-e-Salaf wa Khalaf', 'Islam Aap Se Kya Chahta Hai?', and 'Namiz aur Uske Azkar'.

Refutation of Atheism: He provided rational and academic responses to the objections of atheists, notably in books like 'Khuda Hai' (God Exists), 'Khuda ka Inkar Kyun?' (Why Deny God?), and 'Kya Khuda ki Zarurat Nahin?' (Is God Not Needed?).

Tafsir Fi Zilal al-Quran: He initiated the Urdu translation of the famous exegesis by Allama Syed Qutb Shaheed, which was completed after his passing by Maulana Masih-uz-Zaman Falahi Nadwi (now available in 18 volumes).

Keeping in view the psychology of non-Muslims, he authored books such as 'Tehreek-e-Islami aur Biradaran-e-Watan' and conveyed the message of truth to countless people through nationwide tours.

Death: He passed away on March 3, 1993 (Wednesday).