Diplomat Correspondent
Budgam,(DD):In a profound display of grief and reverence, thousands of mourners gathered in Budgam today to bid farewell to one of the valley’s most respected Shia clerics, Aga Syed Mohammad Baqir Al-Moosavi Al-Najfi. The funeral, held at the revered Aga Sahib Shrine, drew emotional crowds from across Jammu and Kashmir and beyond, underscoring the late cleric’s immense influence and spiritual legacy.
Aga Baqir Al-Najfi, who passed away at the age of 85, was a prominent figure in the Shia community and the eldest member of the esteemed Aga family of Budgam. Born on March 21, 1940, he began his religious journey at Babul Ilm in Budgam and later pursued advanced Islamic studies at the Howza Ilmia in Najaf Ashraf, Iraq—one of the most prestigious centers of Shia learning in the world.
Since 1982, Aga Baqir served the community as a respected scholar, preacher, and spiritual guide. Known for his scholarly depth, humility, and service-oriented life, he authored several books and articles on Islamic theology, jurisprudence, and ethics. His scholarly contributions earned him the distinguished Shaheed Muttahari Award, cementing his stature as a leading voice in contemporary Shia thought.
The funeral proceedings were led by top religious scholars and were marked by solemn prayers, traditional elegies, and moving tributes. The Aga Sahib Shrine, where many members of the spiritual lineage are laid to rest, witnessed an overwhelming turnout, highlighting the deep respect and affection the community held for him.
Leaders from various religious and political groups extended condolences, remembering Aga Baqir as a symbol of peace, unity, and moral guidance.
His passing marks the end of an era for the Shia community in Kashmir. As the faithful bid him farewell, they also pledged to carry forward his message of devotion, scholarship, and service to humanity.(DD)