Renowned Islamic scholar Dr. Zakir Naik arrived in Pakistan on Monday morning, following a special invitation from the government.
He was greeted at Islamabad International Airport by Rana Mashhood, head of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, and officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Dr. Naik’s arrival drew the attention of many passengers, who warmly welcomed him. Security was heightened as he was escorted to his destination in Islamabad under strict measures.
During his visit, Dr. Naik is scheduled to speak at several high-profile events in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. He will also meet with notable national figures.
His lectures are anticipated to attract large crowds, including both scholars and the general public, eager to hear his teachings.
Dr. Naik’s official Facebook page had earlier confirmed that he would deliver lectures in these three cities, beginning his nationwide tour on October 5. The tour is set to start in Karachi and end in Islamabad on October 20. Accompanying him will be his son, Dr. Fariq Naik, also an Islamic scholar, who will give lectures at all locations.
In a separate announcement, Dr. Naik revealed that the Karachi event will take place at Bagh-e-Quaid, near the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah mausoleum.
His first lecture on October 5 in Karachi will focus on “The Purpose of Our Life,” while Dr. Fariq Naik will speak the next day on “Kya Quran ko Samajh Kar Parhna Zaroori Hai?” (Is it necessary to understand the Quran while reading?).
Dr. Naik has also scheduled public lectures in Lahore on October 12 and 13, and in Islamabad on October 19 and 20, though the venues and topics for these events are yet to be announced.
Dr. Zakir Naik’s visit has sparked excitement among his followers in Pakistan, with many expressing their joy on social media.
Currently residing in Malaysia, Dr. Naik recently spoke about his decision to move there instead of Pakistan after facing increasing pressure in India.
Dr. Naik reflected on pivotal moments in his life in an interview with a Pakistani YouTuber that garnered millions of views. When asked why he chose Malaysia over Pakistan, he said, “It would have been easier for me to move to Pakistan.
I have visited the country before and have a large number of supporters there.” However, he emphasized an important Islamic principle in his decision-making: “Sharia teaches us to accept lesser harm to avoid a greater one.
If I had moved to Pakistan, India would have accused me of being an ISI agent and spread false propaganda to shut down my institution, hindering my efforts to promote Islamic teachings.”
