The Legacy Of Malik Salah Uddin: A Visionary And Missionary Philanthropist For Mandi Bahauddin
The Mt Kenya Times 
By: Muhammad Adnan Gujjar and Tajalla Qureshi
Some individuals are born once in a decade, leaving an indelible mark on history through their humanistic approaches. These people become the essence of society, akin to Christ-like figures in their communities. While I know many individuals in the surrounding area of Mandi Bahauddin a city renowned for its bravery, education, and fertile lands nestled between the Jhelum and Chenab rivers; one name stands out for his profound societal contributions. Mandi Bahauddin, a region famous for its lush landscapes, rich flora and fauna, and prominent jungle, is also known for its educational legacy and as a destination for foreigners after Gujrat, in the heart of Punjab, Pakistan.
While political leaders often dominate conversations, today I wish to highlight the efforts of a man who earned recognition not through politics, but through his exceptional service to society. A man born with a mission and a vision, someone who knows how to turn adversity into opportunity this man is Malik Salah Uddin Advocate. The history of Mandi Bahauddin will forever remember this legend, whose contributions have left an everlasting impact on the community.
Education has always remained a top priority. I still remember being a regular member of the Municipal Jinnah Library in Mandi Bahauddin. There, I saw an epitaph that testifies to Malik Sahib’s deep love for education. He built this library, and for many years, it has remained a wellspring of knowledge for literary scholars seeking to expand their understanding. Another significant milestone is Nawaz Sharif College in Mandi Bahauddin, a college for girls where many young women are pursuing their degrees in higher education.
As a student at Government Graduate College Mandi Bahauddin, I still remember when Malik Sahib graced the occasion at a ceremony following his landmark contribution: the construction of three consecutive blocks for the M.A. programs in English, Islamic Studies, and English Literature. These new blocks were built through the unique and tireless efforts of Malik Sahib. Many students, including myself, have earned their postgraduate degrees from this college. I was fortunate to begin my M.A. in English at Government Post Graduate College Mandi Bahauddin, and all credit goes to Malik Sahib for his marvelous contribution to the people of Mandi Bahauddin.
The University of Rasool and my dream was a beautiful post I viewed on social media, where Malik Sahib expressed his heartfelt emotions regarding the establishment of the University of Rasool, Mandi Bahauddin. In an emotional tone, Malik Sahib shared, “It was my long-held dream, but its path was quite difficult, and its journey was also emotional.” He mentioned that he had written a column in Daily Jang newspaper, where he wished for Rasool College to become a university. It was his sincere desire, not for his own benefit, but for the people of Mandi Bahauddin. He said it wasn’t just a desire, but a responsibility as well.
Fortunately, his article was presented by a secretary to the Prime Minister of that time, Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif. Although it was a small effort, it led to a larger goal. Malik Sahib added that for the establishment of the university, he knocked on every door. He met with Mumtaz Tarar, Nadeem Afzal Chan, and Nazar Muhammad Gondal, but unfortunately, luck was not on their side.
Lastly, he said he made a request to Hameeda Waheeduddin, who stood like a rock for this mission, to convert the largest College of Engineering and Technology into the University of Rasool. After four to five years of efforts, the University of Rasool was finally established in 2018. He expressed his gratitude to Hameeda Waheeduddin, Haji Abdul Hameed Buland, and Zaheeruddin Baber for their commitment and tireless efforts toward his dream.
Today, the government has named it the University of Rasool, Mandi Bahauddin. It was a dream Malik Sahib’s dream that he envisioned in 2014 and saw come to fruition in 2025, when the university, through its various phases, became the University of Rasool, Mandi Bahauddin.
The post was truly inspiring. I was particularly moved when Malik Sahib said, “I urge the youth of today to dream big, for those very dreams can ignite determination in their willpower and create the motivation needed to overcome external challenges. Great thinking and lofty dreams channel human energy in a positive direction, and through these paths, a person can achieve what they truly desire.”
In addition, Malik Sahib is a true jack of all trades. He is well-acquainted with the issues of society and has a deep understanding of its needs. His concern extends beyond education; he has shown a keen interest in various other aspects of life, especially the health sector. I still remember when the citizens of Mandi Bahauddin were struggling to meet their basic health needs. At that time, the DHQ was established on the outskirts of the city, and the THQ was still in the planning stages, which lasted for approximately a year and a half. Then Malik Sahib stepped in. Through his sincere and vigilant efforts, the THQ Mandi Bahauddin was successfully established. He worked tirelessly from dawn to dusk for the betterment of the city’s hospital. The people of Mandi Bahauddin must forever be grateful for his selfless, single-handed efforts.
The masses of Mandi Bahauddin must be grateful to Malik Sahib for another milestone in the history of the city. Along with Wahiddudin, former MPA of Mandi Bahauddin, Malik Sahib established two parks for the people: one is known as General Park, and the other as Ladies Park. In modern times, these two parks have become hubs of fresh air and relaxation. It is well-known that many young people visit these parks to refresh both their bodies and minds. These parks provide a peaceful retreat for citizens, offering a break from modern life’s hectic and bizarre daily routines.
While reading and reflecting on Santiago in Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea, it struck me that Malik Sahib had a big dream. Like Santiago, he demonstrated through his life that a man can be destroyed but not defeated. In the same way, Malik Sahib fought like a brilliant warrior and witnessed his dreams come true with his own eyes. Long live Malik Salahuddin Advocate.
MUHAMMAD ADNAN GUJJAR
Lecturer in English Language and Literature
University of Chenab, Pakistan
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at
Wordsmith Magazine, Pakistan
Managing Director at
Calypso Magazine, Greece
Ambassador English Literature at
Insight Magazine, USA.
ILLUSTRATOR:
Tajalla Qureshi
tajallahqureshi@gmail.com
Co-founder and Co-Editor at
The Wordsmith Magazine, Pakistan
An Interviewer and Associate Editor at
Insight Magazine, USA
Editor in Chief at
Calypso Magazine, Greece.
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About the Author
Malik Salah Ud Din is an extra ordinary struggler for the better of human beings specially in education and health sectors. We pray for his long life and prosperity. May Allah strengthen him to more and more serve the nation.