(preface: My full name is Yursil Ahmed Kidwai)
“By focusing on individual families of the likes of Wilayat Ali Kidwai (in Arabic Kidwai stands for ‘elevate’) whose forefathers with Turkish origins came to India in the 13th century, Hasan traces the socio-cultural milieu of one of the oldest Muslim families in North India. Qazi Kidwai reached India in 1205 and was responsible for the conversion of many Hindus to Islam. The Kidwais of Juggaur moved to Barabanki and became well-known as Masauli Kidwais. 1856, a turning point in the history of Awadh, witnessed a series of significant changes when Barabanki and Awadh come under British rule. Hasan argues that ‘qasbas of Awadh were the sites where religious loyalties were more often than not fused with an emerging pan-Indian identity in a seamless web of symbols and sentiments.’ He brings out the role of Maulvi Muhammad Zahiruddin whose productive contribution to society led to the opening of schools for women and children.”
I just ordered the above book to give additional insight to my family history. The note of Turkish background is very interesting, I am often confused for being Turkish. Fate would have also connected me to my Shaykh, who is a Turkish Cypriot.
The next few posts will take us on the adventure of my main ancestor, the great Saint of Islam, Qazi Kidwai (Radiallahtallahanhu).
