Nateore’s Blind Centenarian Muezzin Dies at 120

Natore’s widely admired centenarian and visually impaired muezzin, Abdur Rahman Molla, who became a symbol of devotion and perseverance after being seen travelling to mosque using ropes and bamboo guidance, has passed away at the remarkable age of 120.

He breathed his last on Sunday evening at around 6:30 PM at his residence in the Borodheha village of Baraigram upazila in Natore district. His funeral prayer (Janaza) was held on Monday morning at 9:00 AM at the Borodheha Government Primary School grounds, after which he was laid to rest at a local cemetery amid widespread grief and respect from the community.

Life of devotion and resilience

Abdur Rahman Molla was a permanent resident of Borodheha village under Nagar Union. Despite losing his eyesight around 22 years ago following an accident, he remained deeply committed to religious service and community life.

His life drew national attention in May 2024 after media reports highlighted his extraordinary determination to continue serving as a muezzin. Even in advanced age and complete blindness, he would walk nearly 200 metres from his home to the mosque, relying on a rope and bamboo guide system installed along the route.

According to his family, particularly his son, schoolteacher Shafiqul Islam Saiful, the elderly muezzin’s journey of devotion began long before his disability. After losing his eyesight, he performed Hajj with his elder son, an experience that further deepened his spiritual commitment. Upon returning, he dedicated himself fully to religious service.

A mosque built from personal dedication

In a remarkable act of devotion, he constructed a concrete mosque on five decimals of his own land and formally donated the property for religious use. He later took the initiative to serve as its muezzin himself.

However, mobility challenges due to his blindness created difficulties in reaching the mosque. In response, he instructed his family to install ropes and bamboo poles along the path from his home to the mosque, enabling him to navigate independently. Over time, with initial assistance from his grandchildren, he mastered the route and eventually travelled alone to fulfil his daily religious duties.

He would reportedly call the five daily prayers (Azan) without relying on others, using only a walking stick and the fixed rope-bamboo support system. His determination, discipline, and independence earned him deep respect and admiration from local residents.

Community and political reaction

The passing of Abdur Rahman Molla has triggered widespread mourning in the area. Tributes have poured in from community members and public representatives alike.

Member of Parliament for Natore-4, Abdul Aziz, expressed profound sorrow over his death, describing him as the oldest and one of the most inspirational figures in the upazila. In his condolence message, he noted that despite blindness, the deceased had set an extraordinary example of perseverance and devotion in religious service.

He added that the loss of such a dedicated and respected figure has cast a deep shadow of grief across Baraigram, stating that the community has lost a committed servant and an inspiring human being. The MP also prayed for the eternal peace of the deceased and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

Summary of key life details

The life of Abdur Rahman Molla remains a powerful local symbol of faith, resilience, and unwavering commitment to religious duty, leaving behind a legacy deeply etched in the memory of his community.