Remembering Aziz Qureshi Sahib: Scholar, Poet, and Cultural Luminary
By Zafar Iqbal, PhD
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Janab Aziz Qureshi Sahib, a towering figure in our community—a gifted Urdu poet, a respected legal scholar, and a lifelong champion of Urdu language and culture. He departed from this world on May 29, 2025, at the age of 93.
Janaza prayers were held on Thursday at the All-Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) Center in Sterling, Virginia. The gathering was profoundly moving and widely attended, a testament to the immense love, respect, and admiration he inspired through a lifetime of service, scholarship, and literary grace.
Born Mohammed Hussain Qureshi on November 14, 1931, in Hyderabad, India, to Yousuf Hussain and Asmatunissa Begum, he and his family migrated to Pakistan following the Partition. He later made his home in the United States, where he became a vital presence in the South Asian literary and scholarly community.
A distinguished scholar of Islamic jurisprudence, he authored several acclaimed works in the field of Islamic jurisprudence. He served as a professor of Islamic and English Jurisprudence for over two decades at a law college in Karachi. He was also an examiner for Punjab University and Karachi University, as well as an accredited examiner of Jurisprudence for the Federal Public Service Commission in Islamabad. His academic contributions include three published books on Jurisprudence in English.
In the world of Urdu literature, he was known by his pen name, Aziz Qureshi. His poetic legacy is preserved in six celebrated anthologies: Aks-e-Khayaal, Ubharty Naqsh, Lab o Lehja, Waraftagi, Such ke Lamhaat, and Ab Andhere Roshni ki Taab La Sakte Nahin. Each volume reflects his aesthetic sensitivity and philosophical depth.
Aziz Qureshi Sahib was a beloved figure in Urdu literary circles across North America, a regular and cherished participant in mushairas and cultural events, many of which were hosted or supported by the Aligarh Alumni Association of Washington, DC (AAA-DC). Known for his refined expression, thoughtful insight, and warm, engaging spirit, he played a vital role in nurturing Urdu literary traditions among the South Asian diaspora. His commitment to language and literature inspired generations to embrace their cultural and linguistic heritage.
After settling in Virginia, he remained an active and inspiring presence in the programs of AAA-DC, as well as other esteemed organizations, such as the Hyderabad Association of the Metro Washington Area (HAWMA) and the University of Karachi Alumni Association of the Metro Washington Area (UKAA). His involvement significantly enriched the cultural fabric of the community, leaving a lasting impression on all who encountered his work.
Internationally, Aziz Qureshi Sahib proudly represented the voice of Urdu literature from North America. He participated in international Urdu conferences in Canada and Chicago, where he presented scholarly papers. He also had the honor of presiding over a session and reading a paper at an International Urdu Seminar in London, further cementing his place as an ambassador of Urdu literary thought.
He was married to Nafees Fatima Qureshi, and together, they raised a loving family, including three daughters—Asfia, Arshia, and Farisa—along with eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, who carry forward his legacy of knowledge, integrity, and grace.
Aziz Qureshi Sahib’s legacy endures—in his eloquent verses, his scholarly works, and the countless lives he touched. His serene presence, intellectual brilliance, and lifelong devotion to Urdu will be fondly remembered and profoundly missed.
May Allah (SWT) grant him the highest station in Jannah and bless his family with strength and patience during this time of loss. Ameen.
We are grateful to Asfia Qureshi, daughter of the late Aziz Qureshi, for her valuable input.
