Maulana Ghulam Mohammad Ismail Randera, widely known as Vastanvi, passed away on May 4, at the age of 75. A respected Islamic scholar and social reformer, he leaves behind a monumental legacy as the founder-rector of Jamia Islamia IshaatulUloom in Akkalkuwa, Maharashtra.
Born on June 1, 1950, Vastanvi uniquely blended traditional Islamic education with modern academic training – holding both an AalimFazil degree and an MBA. His brief tenure as Vice Chancellor of DarulUloom Deoband in 2011 symbolised a forward-looking spirit that would define his life’s mission.
A Modern Madrasa Movement
Vastanvi believed that Islamic education should not be confined to theology alone. Under his guidance, madrasas began integrating subjects like science, medicine, social sciences, and vocational training into their curricula. This holistic approach restored the original spirit of madrasas as centres of intellectual and societal advancement.
His efforts brought secular and technical education to thousands of rural students – many of whom would have otherwise lacked access to any form of schooling.
Educational Empire of Opportunity
What began in 1979 with one institution in Akkalkuwa expanded into a vast educational ecosystem:
- 15 colleges in Akkalkuwa, offering courses in theology, engineering, pharmacy, and medicine.
- 30 hospitals across Gujarat and Maharashtra delivering accessible healthcare.
- Over 4,500 Masjids built across India to serve local communities.
His institutions, such as the Jalna MBBS College, YunusFazlani Unani Medical College, and multiple private Industrial Training Institutes, offer quality education and employment pathways to underprivileged youth.
Serving the Marginalised
For countless orphans, rural children, and the poor, Vastanvi’s madrasas became sanctuaries – offering free education, lodging, and protection from exploitation. His model challenges persistent negative stereotypes, proving that madrasas can be instruments of progress and inclusion, not isolation.
Even as global narratives painted madrasas with suspicion, Vastanvi’s work stood as a rebuttal – rooted in reform, compassion, and clarity of vision. In an era when madrasas are often misrepresented, MaulanaVastanvi’s legacy stands as a powerful testament to what inclusive education can achieve. His life’s work continues to light the path for reform, tolerance, and transformation in education – not only in India, but as a model for the world.
Legacy of Light
More than just an educationist, MaulanaVastanvi was a bridge between eras. He revitalised faith-based learning to meet the demands of the modern world without losing its ethical soul. His approach has inspired a new generation of Islamic educators who now see no contradiction between tradition and technology.
As India reflects on his passing, it also celebrates a life devoted to empowering others through knowledge. MaulanaVastanvi’s work is not finished – because it lives on through the thousands of institutions, students, and communities forever shaped by his vision.
Some of the institutions founded by Maulana Vastanvi are as follows:
Jamia Islamia IshaatulUloom: This institution, founded in 1979 in Akkalkuwa, offers various courses including theology, medicine, engineering, and pharmacy. Its medical college is a minority-run institution recognised by the Medical Council of India.
Jalna MBBS College: Vastanvi also established an MBBS college in Jalna, Aurangabad, according to The Indian Express.
YunusFazlani Unani Medical College & Al-FazlaniUnani Hospital: This college and hospital are located in Kunjkheda, Aurangabad.