“And those who believe and do righteous deeds – We will surely assign to them lofty dwellings in Paradise beneath which rivers flow, wherein they will abide forever. Excellent is the reward of the workers.”
(Surah Al-‘Ankabut 29:58)
Early Life and Education
Born in Jaipur, India, in 1929, Owais Mustafa Qarni carried a name that echoed the legacy of the noble companion Uwais al-Qarni (RA) — known for his sincerity and love for the Prophet ﷺ. From a young age, Owais embodied that same spirit of humility and devotion.
He was the beloved son of Wahaj-ul-Mujtabah and Arabia Khatoon, and the youngest among seven siblings — often doted on by his elder sisters. His early brilliance shone through as he began reading the Qur’an at age six, guided by private tutors and an encouraging mother determined to give him the best education possible.
When his father opposed formal schooling, his mother’s clever resolve prevailed. She arranged for young Owais to sneak through the kitchen window each morning, walking miles to attend school in Jaipur. This youthful act of perseverance would become the hallmark of his character — never turning away from knowledge or purpose, no matter the obstacle.
Pursuit of Knowledge and Scholarship
After moving to Maler-Kotla in 1940, Owais continued his studies under challenging conditions. With no electricity, he studied beneath the glow of kerosene streetlamps late into the night. His commitment bore fruit as he excelled through his matriculation exams and later earned top honors in intermediate school at Raza College in Rampur, even receiving a gold medal from the Nawab of Rampur for academic excellence.
At Aligarh Muslim University, often called “the Harvard of India,” he completed his Bachelor of Science at just 19 years old. His journey reflected a blend of intellect and faith — qualities that would define his lifelong service.
A Patriotic Scholar and Dedicated Public Servant
After completing his master’s in physics from Punjab University, Owais began teaching at Islamia College and Punjab University, nurturing the next generation of scientists and thinkers. His passion for learning and teaching soon intersected with his love for his country.
In 1955, he joined the Civil Services of Pakistan, embarking on a distinguished four-decade career as a loyal and patriotic public servant. His service across nine districts of East Pakistan and later in Sindh reflected his dedication to the nation’s development and prosperity.
He held key positions such as Secretary of Industries, Housing, and Town Planning, and Director of the Export Processing Zone, helping shape Pakistan’s post-independence progress. His tenure was marked by honesty, humility, and a profound sense of duty — hallmarks of a man who saw public service as an act of worship.
Life Abroad and Continuing Legacy
After retirement in 1994, Owais immigrated to the United States to join his children and grandchildren. Even in his later years, his passion for education never waned. He taught Physics and Mathematics at Essex Community College and volunteered at the Islamic Society of Baltimore, where he shared his knowledge with Sunday School students.
He inspired countless youths to love learning — not just as a means to worldly success, but as a form of gratitude to Allah.
Family, Faith, and Fond Memories
Above all, Owais was a family man — a loving husband to Bushra, his wife of 54 years, and a devoted father to four sons. His home was filled with warmth, wisdom, and laughter. He was known for his witty humor, sharp intellect, and an insatiable love for paya and lively conversation.
In his final years, he lived peacefully with his son Sohail and daughter-in-law Nuzhat, surrounded by the love of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He passed away on January 19, 2021, leaving behind a legacy of faith, knowledge, and service.
A Legacy of Light
To all who knew him, Owais Mustafa Qarni was a teacher, mentor, and friend — a man whose heart held both the discipline of a scholar and the compassion of a believer. His patriotism was expressed not in words alone, but in decades of service; his love was reflected in every student he taught and every prayer he made for his family.
May Allah SWT grant him Jannat al-Firdaws and reward his life of sincerity and devotion — a life truly lived “for the sake of Allah and for the betterment of His creation.”
Adapted from Fatima Pashaei's January 19, 2021 article on "Forever Missed" Memorial Website