In the sprawling province of Sistan and Baluchestan, the bonds of Islamic unity and devotion to the Ahlulbayt (AS) run remarkably deep. Hajj Hussein Yakta recently shared the moving history of a Sunni theological seminary in the city of Khash, an institution that proudly bears the blessed name of Imam Hussein (AS).
At the heart of this seminary is a legacy of resistance spearheaded by its former Imam, Shahid Mawlawi Abdulwahid Rigi, who ultimately gave his life for the Islamic Revolution. Today, his seminary stands as a steadfast centre of revolutionary ideals, preserving a story that serves as a powerful testament to the profound connection between Sunni Muslims and the enduring spirit of the Revolution.
A Faith Suppressed, A Vow Made
The story of Shahid Rigi’s unbreakable faith begins long before the victory of the Revolution, during the dark days of the Pahlavi regime. While serving his mandatory military duty in the Shah’s army, the young Mawlawi sought to fulfil his daily obligation and call the Adhan. However, the garrison commander harshly forbade him from doing so, attempting to suppress the public manifestation of his faith.
Unfazed by the commander’s arrogance, Shahid Rigi made a profound declaration. Looking at the oppressive environment around him, he stated:
“If you do not allow me to call the Adhan here, a day will come when I will enter the Shah’s palace and call the Adhan there!”
It was not merely a statement of defiance; it was a sacred vow made to Allah.
From the Frontlines to the Capital
Years later, the tides turned. The Islamic Revolution triumphed, Imam Khomeini returned to Iran, and the oppressive regime was overthrown. When the imposed Iran-Iraq war (the Sacred Defence) began, the religious scholars of Sistan and Baluchestan travelled to the frontlines to boost the morale of the mujahideen.
Following their visit to the troops, the scholars travelled to Tehran to meet with Imam Khomeini. While in the capital, the group decided to visit the Niavaran Complex—the lavish former palace of the Shah.
The Echoes of Niavaran
It was 10:00 AM. Suddenly, right in the middle of the opulent halls of the deposed monarch, Mawlawi Abdulwahid Rigi stood tall and began to call the Adhan. His voice, once silenced by a lowly garrison commander, now reverberated through the very seat of the Shah’s power.
Astonished, his companions asked, “Mawlawi, why are you calling the Adhan at ten in the morning?”
With tears of spiritual fulfilment, the Shahid replied:
“I had a single intention, a single vow, and a single promise that I made to Allah. On the day I was forbidden from calling the Adhan, I said: If you will not allow me to do it here, then, with Allah’s permission and by His help, in support of His religion, a day will come when I will call the Adhan in the Shah’s palace. And today, I am fulfilling my vow.”
Shahid Mawlawi Abdulwahid Rigi eventually attained the martyrdom he so deeply desired, but his legacy lives on. His story remains a shining example of patience, divine promise, and the unifying light of the Islamic Revolution.
* Glossary Note: “Mawlawi” is an honorific title for a Muslim religious scholar, theologian, or spiritual guide. It is particularly common among Sunnis in Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. In Sistan and Baluchestan, it is frequently used to refer to Sunni clerics and mosque imams.
Reference: Shia News