Bhatkal: An Islamic scholar died after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest while delivering the Azaan (Islamic call to prayer) at a mosque in Kasarkod village of Honnavar taluk, about 35 km from here, on Tuesday. The incident has drawn widespread attention after CCTV footage of the moment surfaced online.
According to sources, 51-year-old Maulana Abdul Latheef Madani, who had been teaching the Quran and basic Islamic studies to children at Muhiddin Jamia Masjid in Kasarkod, had stepped in to deliver the Asr Azaan as the regular muazzin was on leave.
The CCTV footage shows the cleric beginning the call to prayer normally and reciting the opening phrases of the Azaan before suddenly appearing unwell. He was unable to complete the call and sat down near the microphone. He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.
The entire incident was captured on the mosque's surveillance cameras. The footage later circulated widely on social media, prompting many local residents to rush to the mosque.
Madani was originally from BC Road near Mangaluru. He is survived by his wife, a son, and three young daughters.
Following the incident, funeral prayers were offered at Muhiddin Jamia Masjid after the Isha prayer, attended by a large number of residents, religious scholars and well-wishers. His body was later taken to his native place for burial.
The sudden demise of the cleric while performing a religious duty has evoked grief among local residents and members of the community.