Jamiatuz zahra – Islamic Girls' Madrasa

A Legacy of Islamic Education for Girls

The contemporary interpretation of the teachings of the Holy Prophet and the Ahlul Bayt (peace be upon them) is an essential need of the present era. We live in a time when women, equipped with modern education, are actively contributing to various fields through their individual efforts and practical engagement. Therefore, it is imperative to provide them with a sound religious and intellectual vision. Murabbi-e-Millat Hujjat-ul-Islam wal-Muslimeen Al-Hajj Maulana Syed Haider Mehdi Zaidi (may his blessings continue) recognized the needs of contemporary women and founded a distinguished religious institution to connect them with moral values and authentic Islamic principles. To further this noble mission, he and his esteemed wife, Syeda Rabab Zaidi, established a prominent religious institution on 20 Jumadi al-Thani 1415 AH (corresponding to 24 November 1994) under the name Jamiatuz Zahra in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

Jamiatuz Zahra is an academic, Islamic, and madrasa-style seminary institution. It holds the distinction of being the first Shia girls' madrasa in India. Today, the institution is widely recognized for providing comprehensive religious and moral education to girls and, through them, continues to play a significant role in the reform and development of society across various cities in India.

Quranic Studies

Our Quranic Studies program focuses on developing accurate recitation, strong memorization skills, and a deep spiritual connection with the Holy Qur’an. Students are guided in Tajweed, Hifz, and understanding selected verses under qualified female scholars, ensuring both correctness and reverence in learning.

Islamic Sciences

The Islamic Sciences curriculum provides a structured and comprehensive study of core religious subjects including Fiqh, Aqaaid, Hadith, Tafseer, and foundational classical texts. The program aims to equip students with authentic knowledge, critical understanding, and the ability to apply Islamic teachings in daily life.

Character Building

Character Building is at the heart of our mission. Through structured tarbiyat, disciplined routine, and practical guidance, students develop strong Islamic morals, responsibility, humility, and leadership qualities. Education at Jamia-tuz-Zahra shapes not only the intellect but the personality and conduct of every student.

Founder

Murabbi-e-Millat Al-Hajj Maulana Syed Haider Mehdi Zaidi

Founder of Jamiatuz zahra

Murabbi-e-Millat Alhajj Maulana Syed Haider Mehdi Zaidi (T.S.) was a visionary scholar, reformer, and devoted servant of Islam whose life was dedicated to the revival of authentic religious education and the moral upliftment of society. At a time when structured and advanced religious education for women was limited and opportunities were scarce, he foresaw the urgent need to establish an organized institution that would provide authentic Islamic scholarship along with disciplined moral training. His vision was not merely to open a madrasa, but to initiate a transformative movement for women’s Islamic education. By the grace of Allah, he formally established Jamia-tuz-Zahra on 20th Jamadi al-Thani 1415 AH (24 November 1994). This historic foundation marked a new chapter in women’s Hawza education, creating a platform where knowledge and tarbiyat would go hand in hand. He profoundly stated: “Educating a man educates an individual, but educating a woman educates an entire society.” This belief became the cornerstone of his mission. He understood that empowered, knowledgeable, and morally grounded women shape generations and strengthen the very fabric of the Ummah. Through relentless effort, sacrifice, and unwavering reliance upon Allah, he laid strong institutional foundations built upon discipline, sincerity, and academic excellence. He firmly believed that education must go beyond textbooks — it must refine character, strengthen faith, and prepare individuals to serve the Ummah with integrity and wisdom. Maulana Zaidi (T.S.) was known for: His deep commitment to authentic Islamic teachings His emphasis on structured tarbiyat and discipline His dedication to women’s religious empowerment His ability to inspire unity, sincerity, and service His passing was deeply felt by scholars, students, and communities across regions. The large gatherings, heartfelt tributes, and collective grief reflected the immense respect and love he commanded. His departure created a profound void, yet his mission and vision continue to illuminate the path forward. Today, the continued growth and success of Jamia-tuz-Zahra stand as a living testimony to his sincerity, foresight, and lifelong sacrifice. May Allah elevate his ranks and grant him the highest rank in the hereafter.

"Educating a girl is like planting a tree whose shade benefits generations to come."

Co-Founder

Syeda Rabab Zaidi

Principal of Jamiatuz zahra

Syeda Rabab Zaidi is a distinguished Islamic scholar, educator, and reformer with over three decades of dedicated service in the field of religious education and women’s empowerment. Born in Patna, India, she comes from a respected scholarly lineage tracing back to the Ahlul Bayt (peace be upon them). She completed her advanced Hawza studies at Jamiatuz Zahra (Qom, Iran) and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Persian Literature. She was among the first Indian women to travel to Iran for formal religious studies, marking a historic milestone in women’s Islamic education. Since returning to India, she has played a pioneering role in establishing and leading institutions for women’s religious education. Under her guidance, structured Hawza programs, daily sections for university students, Qur’anic centers, and foundational maktab programs have flourished. After the demise of her husband, Alhajj Maulana Syed Hiader Mahdi Zaidi(T.S) in 2011, she assumed full responsibility for the academic and administrative leadership of the institution. She is widely respected for her lectures across India and internationally, her dedication to Tarbiyat, and her contributions to Islamic scholarship and community development. Her efforts have been recognized with multiple national and international awards, including the prestigious Goharshad International Award.

"Every student is a trust from Allah — we nurture them with knowledge, love, and Taqwa."

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful Education is not merely the transfer of knowledge; it is the shaping of character, the nurturing of faith, and the preparation of responsible individuals who serve society with sincerity and wisdom. At Jamia-tuz-Zahra, our mission extends beyond academic excellence. We believe that true success lies in combining authentic Islamic knowledge with disciplined living and continuous tarbiyat. This is why our residential system plays a vital role in cultivating moral strength, spiritual awareness, and intellectual growth. Our goal is to prepare students who are firmly grounded in Islamic teachings, confident in their identity, and capable of guiding others with compassion and understanding. Every lesson, every routine, and every interaction within our institution is designed to instill responsibility, sincerity, and devotion to Allah. We strive to create an environment where knowledge is respected, discipline is embraced, and character is refined. With the support of parents and the dedication of our teachers, we continue this noble journey of nurturing future generations. May Allah grant us sincerity in our efforts and success in our mission.

Syeda Rabab Zaidi Principal, Jamiatuz Zahra

What We Teach

Courses We Offer

Jamia-tuz-Zahra offers a range of structured programs designed to provide authentic Islamic education along with moral and spiritual development. Each course is carefully planned according to age group, learning level, and commitment capacity, while maintaining our core focus on discipline and tarbiyat.

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New Admissions

Admissions Open 2025-26

Jamia-tuz-Zahra invites applications from dedicated and sincere students who wish to pursue authentic Islamic education in a spiritually nurturing and disciplined environment. Our institution follows a fully residential system, where hostel accommodation is compulsory for all students.

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Event

Annual / Event

The Annual Event of Jamia-tuz-Zahra is a reflection of our educational excellence and comprehensive tarbiyat system. It is a special occasion where students showcase their academic achievements, moral development, and personal growth.

Important Notice

Notice

Important Announcement

This section provides timely updates and essential information regarding academic activities, institutional policies, hostel guidelines, examinations, events, and other important matters.