Tahalka Today Desk | Syed Rizwan Mustafa
A Sunday to Remember
Sunday turned out to be one of the most special and memorable days of my life. Along with Syed Mohammad Shakeel Zaidi, I had the honor of visiting the Gomtinagar residence of former Justice Syed Nazim Husain Zaidi.
From the very moment the door opened, the affection and warmth with which he welcomed us touched my heart deeply. Justice Zaidi’s graceful manner, his affable personality, and his refined etiquette are living proof that true greatness lies not merely in rank or position, but in a person’s morals and character.
The Flavor of Hospitality
The meeting was enriched not only with conversation but also with hospitality that carried its own charm. The warmth of tea, the crisp taste of namakpare and dalmoth, the freshness of apples, and the sweetness of kheer added delight to the gathering.
Yet above all, it was his generosity, kindness, and humility that made the experience unforgettable. The entire atmosphere felt less like a formal visit and more like a soulful gathering of humanity and affection.
Life and Judicial Journey
Justice Syed Nazim Husain Zaidi belongs to Unnao district, hailing from a distinguished scholarly and land-owning family. His father was a renowned educational figure of his time, who lit the torch of knowledge and culture in the family. It was in this environment that Justice Zaidi developed his connection with learning, refinement, and justice.
He studied law at Shia P.G. College, Lucknow University, and later pursued a Master’s degree at Aligarh Muslim University.
He began his judicial career in 1975 with the PCS (Judicial) service.
In 1986, he was promoted to the Higher Judicial Service, and in 2003 became a District and Sessions Judge.
On 21 July 2008, he was appointed as an Additional Judge of the Allahabad High Court, and by April 2010, he took oath as a Permanent Judge.
His career reflects a remarkable journey of dedication, perseverance, and integrity.
Hallmark Judgments and Judicial Philosophy
Justice Zaidi is remembered among those judges whose verdicts carried both legal discipline and a humane touch.
He firmly directed the speedy disposal of long-pending cases to provide relief to litigants.
In family disputes, his approach was marked by compassion — prioritizing fundamental issues before further proceedings.
In sensitive matters related to waqf and community disputes, his judgments always reflected a fine balance between law and cultural sensitivity.
His judicial life proves that the duty of a judge is not limited to enforcing the law, but also to ensuring peace, fairness, and trust in society.
Influence Beyond the Bench
Personalities like Justice Zaidi are not just part of our judicial history but also our moral and social capital. His life stands as a message:
> “Justice is not confined to courtrooms; it is a way of life that shines through character and action.”
Even after stepping down from the bench, his humility and warmth continue to inspire. At the end of our meeting, his thoughtful gesture — walking us to the lift, waving from the balcony, and bidding farewell with “Khuda Hafiz” — remains etched in my memory.
A Radiant Chapter of Life
That Sunday’s meeting was not just an encounter, but a soulful experience — a radiant chapter of my life. It reminded me that real greatness is measured not by authority, but by the ability to blend justice, knowledge, humility, and affection in one’s character.
