Mahdaviah Insight - June 2026

June 2026 (Zul Hijjah 1447H/Muharram 1448H), Vol. 11, Number 12

Editorial: The Caliphate and the Kingship

In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful

The battle of Karbala should not be taken as any other battle that is fought for the sake of territorial control or dominance. Karbala is a symbol of demarcation between truth (Haq) and falsehood (Batil). Hazrat Imam Hussain ^RZ did not fight this battle to claim the reign of Khilafat but to protect the message of Prophet Muhammad ^SAS - the message of Islam.

Hadith: “Safinah reported the Messenger of Allah ^SAS as saying, 'The caliphate of Prophecy will last thirty years; then Allah will give the Kingdom to whom he wishes.'" (Abu Dawud: 4647).

Imam Hasan RZ withdrew himself from the Khilafat after serving for 6 months when the total period of the Khilafat reached 30 years. Secondly, some scholars made a mistake by treating the Khilfath of Imam Mahdi as a part of the Caliphate of Prophecy (Khilfath-e-Rashida). In fact, Imam Mahdi ^AHS is the Caliph of Allah (as is clear from the hadith-e-Thouban); his Khilafat is Divine, whereas the Khulafah representing Khilafath-e-Rashida were managing the work of the Islamic State to carry the legacy of Prophet Muhammed SAS. Therefore, they can be called the caliphs of Prophet Muhammad (SAS).

Prophet Muhammad ^SAS did not nominate anyone as his successor (Khalifa), and it was after his departure from this world that Hazrat Abu Bakr ^RZ became the first Caliph based on his piety, seniority, and his closeness with the Prophet. It was a difficult time that the Muslim Ummah had never faced before. The era of Hazrat Abu Bakr ^RZ and Umer ^RZ went very well with the expansion of Islam beyond the Arab land. Differences among the Muslims emerged during the Khilafat of Hazrat Uthman ^RZ that eventually resulted in his martyrdom. Hazrat Ali took over as the 4^th Caliph at a time when there was a lot of instability and internal fighting among Muslims. A group of Muslims started demanding Ali ^RZ find and punish the killers of Uthman ^RZ. This infighting has resulted in the battle of Camel (Jung-e-Jamal). Hazrat Ameer Muawiyah ^RZ, who was the governor of Syria, refused to pay allegiance to Hazrath Ali ^RZ. This resulted in the Battle of Siffin. This was the second time the Muslim army was facing the Muslim army; the first such battle was the Battle of the Camel. Muawiya ^RZ, after a questionable arbitration, proclaimed himself the Caliph in defiance of Ali ^RZ.

Until the nomination of Yazid, the Khilafat was not selected based on heredity. It is for the first time that Muawiya ^RZ, wanted his son, Yazid, to be his successor. Yazid grew up in the palace or resort, far from understanding the real challenges of the Muslim Ummah. He developed a taste for hunting, horse riding, and other interests. It was almost like a playboy way of life. Thus, his behavior was at odds with the basic Islamic principles. The idea of succession by heredity was completely new, and also because of the behavior of Yazid, there was stiff resistance to accepting him as the Caliph of the Muslim Ummah. The Khilafat-e-Rashida ended with Imam Hasan’s 6 months’ tenure, and the kingship started with Hazrath Ameer Muawiyah ^RZ as foretold by the Prophet SAS.

Three legends of that time, Abdullah bin Zubair ^RZ, Abdullah bin Umer ^RZ, and Imam Hussain ^RZ resisted and did not want any bloody conflict in Madinah; therefore, two of them have left for Makkah. Hussain ^RZ, after performing Umrah, has decided to go to Kufa, as people from Kufa wanted to pledge allegiance to him. However, that did not happen, and Hussain ^RZ had to directly face the army of Yazid at Karbala. Rather than accepting Yazid as the leader of the Muslim Ummah, he decided to sacrifice his life along with his companions for the sake of protecting the religion that was brought in by his grandfather, the Prophet of Islam ^SAS.

What is unimaginable is the behavior of many Muslims of that time who were on the side of Yazid and fought against the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammed SAS, Imam Hussain RZ. They did not even think that they were standing against the Prophet’s family. There are many Ahadith that show the love of the Prophet (SAS) for his grandsons. For instance, Abu Huraira ^RZ reported: The Prophet ^SAS said about Hasan, "O Allah, I love him, so love him and whoever loves him.” (Sahih Muslim #2421). In yet another Hadith, the Prophet ^SAS is reported to have said, “Hussain is from me and I am from Hussain.” (Musnad Ahmed Ibn Hanbal ^RA). The Prophet ^SAS also said, “Al-Hasan and Al-Hussain are the masters of the youth of Paradise.” (Jami at-Tirmidhi).

The most important lesson from the battle of Karbala is to sacrifice your dearest thing for the sake of protecting your Imaan and your principles that are based on Islamic principles. Karbala is over, but these kinds of episodes appear from time to time, and the true believers remain firm in their faith. May Allah help us to protect our faith in Imam Mahdi AHS and remain steadfast against any attempt to blur the line between truth and falsehood.

Editorial Team

Article: The Legacy of Sacrifice: Lessons from Ibrahim ^AHS and Hussain ^RZ     

                                                                   by Khundza Nida Mahmood

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, Most Merciful.

The holy Quran states, “Indeed, this was a clear trial. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.”

(Surah As-Saffat 37:106 & 107)

There are events in Islamic history that hold extreme significance. They are not just simply events that happened centuries ago but living lessons also that continue to guide our hearts today. Among these are the stories of Hazrat Ibrahim (AHS) and Hazrat Hussain (RZ), two remarkable individuals whose lives were defined by faith, courage, and sacrifice.

Although they lived in different times and faced remarkably different challenges, both demonstrated what it truly means to place Allah (SWT)’s Commands above everything else. Their stories are not only about hardship and loss; they are about conviction, trust, and the strength to remain steadfast when faced with seemingly impossible choices.

The Test of a Father: Hazrat Ibrahim (AHS)

Hazrat Ibrahim (AHS) spent all his life obeying Allah (SWT) despite immense challenges. He stood against idol worship when it was easier to remain silent. He endured rejection from his own people and accepted each of Allah (SWT)’s commands that a human mind couldn’t comprehend and understand easily. He left his wife, Bibi Hajera, and his son, Ismael (AHS), as a baby in a desert alone just as Allah had commanded, which even Bibi Hajera complied with when she was informed that it was the Command of Allah (SWT).

Perhaps the most emotional test of his life came when he saw in a dream that he was sacrificing his beloved son. This was no ordinary dream, as the Prophets dreams are always true and contain a command from Allah (SWT). Can we imagine the weight of that moment? After years of longing for a child, he was being asked to sacrifice this blessing. Yet, Hazrat Ibrahim (AHS) responded to it without any hesitation or confusion and turned to Allah (SWT) with complete trust. What makes this moment even more remarkable is the response of Haz. Ismael (AHS), who said, "O my father, do as you are commanded. If Allah (SWT) Wills, you will find me among the steadfast.” (Surah As-Saffat 37:102)

In that moment, both father and son displayed extraordinary faith. The point to be noted here is the statement of Haz Ismael (AHS): “IF ALLAH WILLS." It shows his self-denial and complete reliance on Allah (SWT) for this great sacrifice When Hazrat Ibrahim (AHS) was ready to fulfill Allah (SWT)’s command, Allah (SWT) replaced his son with a ram, accepting his sincerity and devotion. The lesson was never about the sacrifice itself—it was about the love, sincerity, and willingness to sacrifice the beloved son by placing Allah’s command above everything else. Though the trail was very hard, Haz Ibrahim (AHS) emerged successfully due to his unshakable faith and unsurpassed love for Allah (SWT).

To stand  for Truth and Justice: Hazrat Hussain (RZ)

Many years later, another chapter of sacrifice was unfolded through Hazrat Hussain (RZ), the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Hazrat Hussain (RZ) lived during a time when remaining silent would have been easier and safer. Yet he chooses to stand for the truth. It was impossible for Haz Hussain (RZ) to make a covenant with such a transgressor. So Haz Hussain (RZ) chose to stand against that tyranny. He was undeniably brave and courageous. At Karbala, he and his family faced unimaginable hardship. Surrounded, outnumbered, deprived of water, and fully aware of the dangers ahead, Hazrat Hussain (RZ) refused to bow down and compromise with his principles. Haz Hussain (RZ) and his family members, along with kids and some devoted followers, sacrificed their lives in order to save Islam and its values. It has been rightly said:

Qatl-e-Hussain Asl MeiN Marg-e-Yazeed Hai

Islam Zinda Hota Hai Her Kerbala ke Baad

Allah (SWT) says: “O you who believe! Be steadfast, persevere, stand firm, and fear Allah (SWT) so that you may be successful.” (Surah Aal-Imran 3:200)

The life of Hazrat Hussain (RZ) reflects this verse beautifully. He stood firm not because victory was guaranteed, but because standing for truth was the right thing to do. His sacrifice was not for power or status. It was a sacrifice made to preserve justice, dignity, and the values taught by Islam. Even today, Karbala remains a powerful reminder that doing what is right is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile, a means to grow closer to Allah (SWT)

At first glance, the stories of Hazrat Ibrahim (AHS) and Hazrat Hussain (RZ) may seem different. One was tested through obedience to a direct command from Allah (SWT), while the other was tested through his commitment to truth and justice.

Yet both shared the same qualities:

• Unshakeable trust in Allah (SWT)

• Patience during hardship.

• Courage in the face of fear.

• Willingness to sacrifice for Allah (SWT).

• Faith that remained strong even when the outcome was uncertain.

• Both of their families gave unwavering support to them. 

Their lives remind us that true faith is not proven during moments of ease but during moments of difficulty. Today’s challenges may look different from those faced by Hazrat Ibrahim (AHS) and Hazrat Hussain (RZ), but the need for faith and resilience remains the same.

We live in a world that often encourages convenience over conviction and popularity over principles. It can be tempting to follow the crowd, remain silent about wrongs, or place worldly success above spiritual values. The story of Hazrat Ibrahim (AHS) teaches us to trust Allah (SWT) even when we do not understand His plan. The story of Hazrat Hussain (RZ) teaches us to stand for what is right even when doing so comes at a personal cost. Most importantly, it teaches us that sacrificing is a powerful tool for sincerity in faith. In today’s world, we do not even try to sacrifice and compromise on our needs or wants for the sake of Allah (SWT), for sacrificing the Nafs has become tough. Enjoyment has become a necessity. We fail to understand that contributing to the wishes of our nafs is making us more hollow and our hearts harder. We need to learn to tame, train, and purify our nafs so much that it becomes easy to obey the commands of Allah with utmost sincerity.  

These stories offer a powerful reminder that success is not measured by achievements, wealth, or recognition but that real success lies in staying true to one’s values, treating others with justice and compassion, and remaining connected to Allah (SWT) through every stage of life.

The sacrifices of Hazrat Ibrahim (AHS) and Hazrat Hussain (RZ) were different, but both left behind a legacy that continues to inspire millions. Their lives remind us that faith is not merely something we believe—it is something we live, protect, and sometimes sacrifice for. 

As we reflect on their examples, we may find the strength to remain patient in our trials, courageous in our choices, and steadfast in our faith, carrying their timeless lessons into our homes and communities. May ALLAH (SWT) help us, Ameen.

Article: Hazrath Saidanji Khatimul Murshideen (RZ)

                           by Abu Naimath Shahab

In the name of Allah, most Beneficent and most Merciful.

He is the youngest son of Syed ush Shuhada, Badal e Zaat e Mahdi Hazrath Bandagimian Shah Khundmir Siddiq e Vilayath Hamil e Baar e Amaanath^RZ and maternal grandson of Hazrath Imamuna^AS, through his youngest daughter Bibi Khundza Fatima^RZ. He is the Mubashshir (roughly translated as a person with glad tidings, or a person who was blessed in advance) of Imamuna^AS and Huzoor Sani e Mahdi^Rz. When Bibi Khundza Fatima^RZ was an infant, Imamuna^AS foretold and blessed her with the birth of a son who would revive the religion in his era as Imamuna^AS had revived the religion. This gives us just a glimpse of the spiritual eminence of Khatimul Murshideen^Rz even before he had been born.

Hazrath Bandagimian Siddiq e Vilayath^Rz said that his son, Hazrath Khatimul Murshideen^RZ is of the status and spiritual status of Hazrath Bandagimian Syed Ajmal^Rz, the son of Imamuna^AS, who had died in his infancy in an accident.

Now, what was the spiritual status and station of Hazrath Bandagimian Ajmal^Rz? When he died in his infancy because of a mishap by Huzoor Sani Mahdi^Rz, he was very much saddened and was overcome by grief and a sense of guilt that the mishap occurred because of him. Imamuna^AS consoled Huzoor Sani e Mahdi^RZ and told him not to feel guilty, because it was the will of Allah that, had he lived, he would have reached a similar spiritual status and station as that of Huzoor Sani e Mahdi^Rz Now, the spiritual status and station of Huzoor Sani e Mahdi^Rz is beyond our imagination. He is so much exalted in the eyes of Imamuna^AS and in the presence of the Almighty that he was blessed with the status of Sayir e Nabuvath. (Please refer to the book Sayir e Nabuvath for more details). The status of Hazrath Bandagimian Syed Ajmal^Rz can also be guessed by the fact that, after he was buried in Chapanear, Imamuna^AS said that all those who have been buried in that graveyard have attained salvation (Bakhshish from Allah) because of the intercession (waseelah) of Hazrath Bandagimian Syed Ajmal^Rz. Just because of the reason that he was laid to rest in that graveyard, all the people buried there have been blessed with heaven (Jannat). This is one of the reasons that we, the Mahdavis, seek to be Buried in a Hazira (Mahdavia Graveyard) so that we get salvation through the intercession of the eminent spiritual person who has been buried there (Sahib e Hazira).

He is also the Mubashshir of Huzoor Sani e Mahdi^Rz. Before Hazrath Khatimul Murshideen^RZ was born, Hazrath Siddiq e Vilayath Badal e Zaat e Mahdi Bandagimian^Rz saw a dream. In that dream he saw Huzoor Sani e Mahdi^Rz telling him that he is going to be a guest in his household and how he is going to treat him.

Hazrath Bandagimian^RZ responded by saying that we will extend all the honors as we would extend to Imamuna^AS. When the child was born, Bandagimian^RZ named him after Huzoor Meeran Sani e Mahdi^Rz hence his given name is Syed Mahmood.  Bandagimian^RZ also said that he bears the name of one maternal uncle (mamu) and is in the spiritual status and station of another maternal uncle (mamu) Hazrath Bandagimian Syed Ajmal^RZ.  Bandagimian^Rz also made an announcement in the daira that whoever has not seen Imamuna^AS may see this child who bears complete resemblance to his maternal grandfather (Nana), Imamuna^AS. The one unique feature of this holy, eminent personality was that he was the only person to have been born with the blessing that is incomparable to anybody in the universe. He was born with Kalimah (the creed of Oneness of Allah, La ilaha Illallah, Muhammadur Rasoolullah) in one eye and the Mahdavia Tasbeeh in the other eye.

He was born fourteen years after Imamuna^AS passed away from this world and was about seven years old at the time of Ghazwa e Hind, Jung e Badr e Vilayath (the shahadath of Bandagimian^RZ and his ninety-nine companions at the battle with the army of Sultan Muzaffar, the king of Gujarat).

When the battle was about to start and the huge army had arrayed against the few fuqara, Bandagimian^Rz was on his horse, and the young child of about seven years old was in his lap.Bandagimian^Rz noticed that despite the rivals being arrayed and ready for a battle, the army of Sultan Muzaffar is not stepping up and not moving forward.  Then he noticed that the force of the gaze of this infant child was so terrifying that the army did not dare to advance one step. At this realization, Bandagimian^RZ sent the child back into the daira.This young child was no other than Hazrath Khatimul Murshideen^RZ.  At this Ghazwa e Hind, the eldest son of Bandagimian^Rz also achieved shahadath (martyrdom).

The other younger children of Bandagimian^Rz, Hazrath Syed Shahabuddin Shahbul haq^Rz, Hazrath Bandagmian Syed Sharief Tashreefullah Tashref e Haq^Rz and the youngest Hazrath Bandagimian Syed Mahmood Syedanji Khatimul Murshideen^Rz came under the tutelage of Hazrath Bandagimian Malik Ilahdad Khalifah e Groh^Rz and stayed in his company for fourteen years until his demise. Hence, his Silsila (chain of fealty or covenant) of Mureedi and Faqeeri also goes through Hazrath Khalifah e Groh^Rz to Imamuna^AS. After the demise of Hazrath Khalifah e Groh^Rz he stayed in the company of his son Hazrath Bandagimian Peer Muhammed^Rz for two years. After that, he joined the company of his elder brother Hazrath Bandagimian Syed Shahabuddin Shahabul Haq^Rz for about twenty-five years. Until his elder brother was alive, he did not assume the Murshidi, despite the wish of his elder brother to form his own daira. This also shows us the importance of the company of the righteous (Sohbath e Sadiqeen), which is becoming so extinct today.

This is also his eminence and privilege that a lot of Silsilas go through him. One of the reasons being that Hazrath Bandagimian Syed Yousuf^RH and Hazrath Bandagimian Syed Khundmir^Rh the sons of Hazrath Bandagi Meeran Shah Yaqoob Hasan e Vilayath^RZ were sent by their father in the company (Sohbath) of Hazrath Khatimul Murshideen^Rz. There are lots of eminences and exhalations that cannot be condensed in this brief article and need a whole book to record them, like how he would pray the namaz with Deedar since he was 4 years old; how he frequented the fourth heaven since he was four years old; and how Emperor Akbar acknowledged his eminence, righteousness, and piety with his comment that he is claiming that his grandfather is the Promised Mahdi, but he himself is on par to claim the title of Promised Mahdi, and so on. He passed away in Jalore, in present-day Rajasthan, India, where he had his daira, and his tomb is situated there.