Ayatollah Qummi emphasises the significant role played by religious scholars and leaders in nurturing the enduring bilateral connection
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – A senior Iranian official has highlighted his country’s strong relations with India and spoke about opening a new chapter in the religious and diplomatic landscape between the two countries.
Ayatollah Agha Muhsin Qummi, head of International Relations at Iran’s Supreme Leader’s Office, was speaking at a recent event here to formally announce the appointment of Hojjat Al Islam Wal Muslimeen Haj Agha Abdul Majeed Hakeem Elahi as the new Iranian representative in India. Ayatollah Qummi paid rich tributes to the commendable 15 years of service by the outgoing representative, Hojjat Al Islam Wal Muslimeen Haj Agha Mahdi Mahdavipour.
Addressing the gathering, Ayatollah Qummi reflected on the historical and cultural bonds shared by Iran and India. He described the relationship as “a deep-rooted spiritual and civilisational bridge that has withstood the test of time,” emphasising the significant role played by religious scholars and leaders in nurturing this enduring connection.
Ayatollah Qummi praised Hakeem Elahi’s scholarly depth, humility, and experience in Islamic outreach. “He is a man of knowledge, wisdom, and sincerity. His selection is a clear reflection of the Supreme Leader’s deep concern for the continuation of intellectual and spiritual guidance for the Shia community in India,” he said.
Ayatollah Qummi expressed confidence that Hakeem Elahi would carry forward the mission of promoting unity among Muslims, encouraging peaceful coexistence, and enhancing cultural diplomacy.
Paying tributes to the outgoing representative, he lauded Mahdavipour’s dedication, patience, and perseverance throughout his tenure in India, calling it a “golden era of scholarly and cultural engagement.”
He recounted Mahdavipour’s initiatives, including the expansion of Hawzas (Islamic seminaries), youth engagement programmes, interfaith dialogues, and humanitarian services across Indian cities such as Lucknow, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi. “His work was never limited to rituals it was about awakening hearts and minds. He understood the needs of the people and responded with compassion and wisdom,” said Qummi.
He used the occasion to urge both representatives, outgoing and incoming, as well as all community members to continue their commitment to Islamic values and mutual respect. “Our responsibility is not limited to buildings or banners it is to hearts, to education, to building character, and to planting seeds of faith in future generations,” he emphasised.
He reminded the audience that while representatives may change, the mission remains the same: to reflect the wisdom and guidance of the Supreme Leader and to serve the people with humility and dedication. He also called upon Indian scholars, students, and community leaders to extend their full support to the new representative, ensuring a smooth and fruitful transition.
