Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali Faces Strong Opposition at Shameena Shah Dargah, Unable to Lead Friday Prayers

Lucknow | Shabu Zaidi | November 6, 2026

Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali faced strong opposition from worshippers at the mosque located inside Dargah Shahmeena Sharif in Lucknow’s Chowk area on Friday. Due to the protest, he could not lead the Friday prayers. Eventually, the mosque’s Imam, Qari Mohammad Afzal, led the congregation.

Those protesting accused the Maulana of remaining silent when several old shrines (mazars) near the Haji Harmain area were reportedly removed during the alleged expansion of a medical college. Questions were also raised about his role during the anti-CAA protests and his alleged soft stance towards the government.

Protesters described him as a political cleric and expressed their dissatisfaction with his conduct. Heated arguments and commotion continued at the site for some time. There were also reports of scuffling involving Rashid Minai, a property dealer accompanying the Maulana. Security personnel intervened and brought the situation under control.

The incident has sparked a fresh debate over Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali’s religious and social acceptance in Lucknow.