The Islamic Research Foundation, founded by Zakir Naik, emerged as a significant platform for his global dawah efforts after he transitioned from his initial medical career. Born in Mumbai in 1965, he pursued a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery before focusing his primary efforts on comparative religion, often utilizing broadcast media to disseminate his interpretations of scripture.
Medical Background and Early Career
Zakir Naik completed his formal education at Kishinchand Chellaram College, followed by training at the Topiwala National Medical College and BYL Nair Hospital. He subsequently graduated from the University of Mumbai as a surgeon and physician. By 1991, he shifted his professional trajectory toward dawah, establishing both the Islamic International School in Mumbai and United Islamic Aid to support scholarship initiatives for impoverished youth.
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Known for delivering lectures in English rather than traditional Arabic or Urdu, Naik adopted a style characterized by the use of a suit and tie. He has conducted over 4,000 public lectures globally. In 2006, he co-produced Peace TV, an Emirati satellite network that achieved significant viewership. In 2021, he launched Al Hidaayah, an educational digital platform hosting content from various international speakers.
Public Debates and Controversies
Naik engaged in numerous high-profile debates, including a 2000 session in Chicago with William Campbell and a 2006 inter-religious dialogue in Bangalore featuring Ravi Shankar. His appearances have frequently polarized public opinion. While he received accolades like the King Faisal International Prize in Service to Islam in 2015, his rhetoric has faced formal opposition, leading to broadcast bans in countries such as the United Kingdom and Canada.
Legal Status and Residence
Following accusations by the Indian government in 2016 regarding money laundering and the promotion of hate speech, the Islamic Research Foundation was banned. Naik did not return to India to face these charges and currently holds permanent resident status in Malaysia. Interpol has reportedly rejected multiple requests from the National Investigation Agency to issue a red notice for his arrest, citing insufficient evidence.
Fast facts
- Born: 1965, Mumbai, India
- Education: University of Mumbai, Topiwala National Medical College
- Occupations: Physician, surgeon, orator, preacher
- Major Awards: King Faisal International Prize (2015), Dubai International Holy Quran Award (2013)
- Languages: English, Hindi, Indonesian, Arabic
- Citizenship: India, Saudi Arabia
- Current Status: Resident of Malaysia, wanted in India
Questions readers ask
What is the primary focus of Zakir Naik's work?
He focuses on dawah and comparative religion, analyzing the Quran and other religious scriptures.
Where is Zakir Naik currently living?
He resides in Malaysia as a permanent resident.
Achievements
- Notable work: Zakir Naik
- Educated at Kishinchand Chellaram College, Topiwala National Medical College and BYL Nair Hospital and University of Mumbai
- Worked as physician, writer and intellectual
