Srinagar, April 18, 2025 – A wave of grief swept across Jammu and Kashmir as Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and a host of political and religious leaders gathered in Budgam to attend the last rites of Agha Syed Mohammad Baqir Al-Moosavi, a towering Shia religious scholar and revered cleric. The 85-year-old spiritual leader passed away on Friday at SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, following a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom, compassion, and service to the Shia Muslim community. Thousands of mourners joined the funeral procession at Asthan-e-Alia in Budgam, marking a poignant farewell to one of Kashmir’s most respected figures.
Agha Syed Mohammad Baqir, the patriarch of Budgam’s prominent Aga family, was a beacon of Islamic scholarship and a champion of social unity. Born in 1940, he pursued his early education at Babul Ilm in Budgam before immersing himself in advanced theological studies at Hawza Ilmiyya in Najaf, Iraq. Returning to Kashmir in 1982 after the demise of his father, Agha Syed Yusuf, he dedicated his life to guiding the community through his insightful sermons, poetry, and writings in Arabic, Persian, and Kashmiri. His efforts in fostering interfaith harmony and mentoring young scholars earned him widespread admiration.
The funeral, held after Friday prayers, saw an outpouring of tributes. Omar Abdullah, visibly moved, shared his condolences on X: “A profound loss for J&K. Agha Syed Mohammad Baqir Al-Moosavi’s life of scholarship, humility, and service will forever inspire us. My prayers are with his family and followers.” Accompanied by cabinet ministers and senior officials, the Chief Minister joined the Namaz-e-Janazah, which was conducted with full religious honors. The procession resonated with chants of “Labbaik Ya Hussain,” reflecting the deep devotion Agha Baqir inspired.
Mehbooba Mufti, J&K People’s Democratic Party chief, also paid her respects, posting on X: “Agha Baqir Moosavi Sahab’s passing is a heartbreak for Kashmir. His contributions to theology and community welfare were unparalleled. May he rest in Jannah.” Other leaders, including members of the Aga family like Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi and Aga Syed Hassan Mosavi, were present, underscoring the scholar’s far-reaching influence.
Agha Baqir’s legacy extends beyond his scholarly work. He played a pivotal role in establishing religious institutions and advocating for social justice, earning him the title of a “guiding light” for the region. Mourners from across Kashmir, including remote districts, traveled to Budgam to honor him, highlighting his universal appeal. His ancestral graveyard in Budgam, where he was laid to rest, became a site of collective mourning and reflection.
The loss of Agha Syed Mohammad Baqir Al-Moosavi marks the end of an era for Jammu and Kashmir’s Shia community. His teachings on moral integrity, compassion, and unity will continue to resonate, as condolence messages from religious bodies, political parties, and community leaders pour in. As Kashmir bids farewell to this luminary, his life’s work remains a testament to the power of knowledge and service.
