Haji Muhammad Mohsin: The Greatest Philanthropist in the History of the Subcontinent

Haji Muhammad Mohsin is remembered as one of the foremost symbols of philanthropy in the history of the Indian subcontinent. From birth to death, his life remained devoted to the welfare of humanity, earning him a place among the greatest benefactors of all time.

Born on 3 January 1732 in Hooghly, Mohsin came from a prosperous and influential family. His father, Haji Faizullah, was a wealthy landholder, and his mother, Zaynab Khanam, owned extensive estates in Hooghly, Jessore, Murshidabad, and Nadia. After the death of his sister Mannujan, he inherited a vast amount of property.

Despite his immense wealth, Mohsin led an exceptionally simple and humble life. Instead of residing in the grand Imambara he established, he chose to live in a small cottage beside it. He earned his livelihood by hand-copying the Holy Qur’an, and he cooked his own meals, eating together with attendants in the manner of ordinary people.

From an early age, he possessed a deep interest in religion, learning, and spiritual pursuits. After receiving his primary education under private tutors, he travelled to Murshidabad for higher studies. He later spent about 27 years journeying across regions such as Makkah, Madinah, Karbala, Kufa, Iran, Iraq, Arabia, and Turkey in search of knowledge and spiritual enlightenment.

Upon returning home, he dedicated himself fully to humanitarian service. During the devastating famine of 1769–70, he established numerous soup kitchens to feed the starving population and donated large sums to government relief funds. Many renowned institutions—including Hooghly Mohsin College, Government Haji Muhammad Mohsin College in Chattogram, and Daulatpur Mohsin Secondary School—were developed through his charitable contributions.

In 1806, he founded the famous Mohsin Fund, which provided financial support for religious activities, pensions, scholarships, and various welfare initiatives. Thousands continue to benefit from this fund today.

Several establishments, such as the University of Dhaka’s Mohsin Hall and the Bangladesh Navy base BNS Haji Mohsin, stand as lasting memorials to his contributions.

This great philanthropist passed away on 29 November 1812 in Hooghly and was laid to rest beside the Imambara.

Through his compassion, generosity, and selfless service, Haji Muhammad Mohsin remains eternally revered in the hearts of Bengalis.

Khaborwala/TSN