|
Born into the esteemed Rizvi family of Aligarh, Tariq Bhai's academic journey began at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), where he inherited a legacy of intellectual excellence. His father, Prof. Syed Kazim Rizvi Sahab, was a luminary in the field of Mathematics and Statistics, and his older brothers, Prof. Hashim Rizvi Sahab and Dr. Asim Rizvi Sahab, excelled in Physics and Medicine, respectively. Tariq Bhai carried this torch of knowledge forward with dedication and pride.
After completing his early education at AMU, Tariq Bhai ventured to Canada to pursue higher studies. He earned his Ph.D. from McMaster University and undertook a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Waterloo. In 1982, he joined Ohio State University in Lima as an Assistant Professor. Over the next four decades, he ascended the academic ranks, culminating in his appointment as a full professor in 1997. Tariq Bhai's contributions to the Theory of Rings and Modules were not only significant but also left an indelible mark on the academic community.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Tariq Bhai remained deeply connected to his roots. His alma mater, AMU, held a special place in his heart, and he played a pivotal role in strengthening the bonds between the university and academic community. His deep connection with AMU manifested in his key role in organizing conferences, fostering networking among scholars, and extending invitations to international scholars. Tariq Bhai's dedication to AMU went beyond the call of duty; he sought to create an environment where knowledge could flourish and ideas could be exchanged freely.
In addition to his scholarly publications, Tariq Bhai's impact on the academic world was profound through the mentorship of numerous PhD students. His guidance and support helped shape the careers of aspiring mathematicians, leaving an enduring legacy in the form of those he mentored.
Despite officially retiring about a year ago, Tariq Bhai continued to be an active mentor, guiding numerous PhD students and offering valuable insights to those who sought his wisdom. His impact reached far beyond the confines of the classroom, as he remained a source of inspiration and encouragement for all who crossed his path.
Tariq Bhai's warm and affable personality endeared him to everyone he met. While he may not have been active on social media, his presence on the AMU Network and regular private communications through emails and phone calls bore testimony to the genuine connections he maintained. Even during his illness, he displayed an unparalleled spirit, finding the time to inquire about the well-being of friends and their families.
Tariq Bhai leaves behind a legacy of academic brilliance, camaraderie, and kindness. He is survived by his loving wife, Seema Rizvi, and their sons, Ali and Faiz. The broader Aligarh fraternity joins hands with his family in mourning this profound loss. To those who were fortunate enough to know him, Tariq Bhai was more than a friend; he was an older brother, a mentor, and a source of unwavering support.
The Janazah prayer of Prof. Syed M. Tariq Rizvi will be held on Monday, December 25, 2023, after Dhuhr (1:00 PM) at Masjid Abubaker Siddiq (591 Industrial Mile Rd., Columbus, OH 43228). The burial will follow at the Islamic Cemetery of Columbus.
During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the larger academic community. May Allah grant him Maghfirah, elevate his status in Jannah, and provide patience to all his loved ones. Aameen.
إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّآ إِلَيْهِ رَٰجِعُون
=====
Shaheer Khan
Foster City, CA
| 
