Balbir Singh, popularly known due to his connection with the historical Babri Masjid demolition, is one of the most talked-about personalities in modern Indian socio-religious discussions. His life journey is unusual, emotional, controversial and deeply transformative.
Once part of the large mob that demolished the Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992, Singh’s life took a dramatic turn years later when he experienced a personal awakening that led him away from hate and into a life centered around peace, reflection, and faith.
Today, he is known not for destruction, but for helping construct and rebuild mosques across India — a mission he undertook as part of his personal repentance and spiritual renewal.
This biography explores his early years, his family background, his involvement in the Babri Masjid demolition, and the remarkable transformation that changed his life forever.
Balbir Singh Babri Masjid Biography
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Balbir Singh (later known as Mohammed Amir after conversion) |
| Age | Estimated mid-50s (as of 2025) |
| Religion | Formerly Hindu (Rajput); later embraced Islam |
| Tribe/Caste | Rajput (Hindu upper-caste background) |
| State of Origin | Haryana, India |
| Height | Approx. 5ft 7in – 5ft 9in (estimated) |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Known For | Participation in Babri Masjid demolition & later building 90+ mosques |
| Residence | Hyderabad, India |
| Occupation | Religious educator, community worker |
Early Life and Background
Balbir Singh was born into a Hindu Rajput family in a small village near Panipat, Haryana. His father, a schoolteacher, believed strongly in harmony and peaceful coexistence. He admired the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and hoped that his children would grow up with compassion toward all communities.
However, Singh’s exposure to youth training groups and political influences in his environment gradually drew him into a different path. He became associated with organisations that promoted radical ideologies, and over time, these beliefs shaped his worldview.
Journey into Radicalism and the Babri Masjid Demolition
In the early 1990s, communal tensions were rising in India. Singh, inspired by extremist narratives and driven by emotion, became part of the groups mobilized for the Babri Masjid demolition in Ayodhya.
On December 6, 1992, he became widely known as the first man to climb the central dome of the Babri Masjid, carrying a hammer. To many at the time, he was celebrated as a “hero” of the movement.
However, when he returned home, he was surprised and shaken by the reaction of his own family, who were deeply disappointed. This moment sowed the first seed of reflection in him.
Turning Point: Reflection and Regret
Soon after the demolition, Singh began to experience severe internal conflict. The admiration from extremist circles did not give him peace. Instead, he began questioning his actions and the path he had taken.
During this period of self-reflection, he came into contact with Maulana Kaleem Siddiqui, a religious scholar who approached him with compassion and understanding rather than judgment. Their conversations opened the door to deeper introspection.
On June 1, 1993, Balbir Singh embraced Islam and took the name Mohammed Amir.
This conversion was not political, public, or done for popularity — it was deeply personal, rooted in remorse and a desire to live differently.
Life After Conversion: Building 90 Mosques
As part of his repentance, Amir made a vow:
“If I destroyed one mosque, I will build 100 in its place.”
For the next 28 years, he worked quietly, often with his colleague Yogendra Pal (who also embraced Islam), contributing to the construction or repair of 90 mosques across India.
His work included:
-
rebuilding old mosques
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repairing structures damaged by neglect
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funding or assisting small Muslim communities needing a place of worship
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teaching others about peaceful coexistence
His move from Panipat to Hyderabad allowed him to live more freely and dedicate himself to community work.
Religious Identity
For most of his early life, Singh was a practicing Hindu Rajput, influenced by organizations such as RSS and Shiv Sena.
After his transformation, he embraced Islam privately and peacefully. He does not publicly emphasise his religious identity, focusing instead on community work and moral transformation.
Family and Personal Life
Amir is married to a Muslim woman and lives in Hyderabad, where he runs a school dedicated to Islamic education and community development. His personal life is calm, grounded, and far removed from the chaos of his past.
Height
His height is not officially documented, but available descriptions place him around 5’7” to 5’9”.
Net Worth
There is no publicly confirmed estimate of his net worth. Most of his work has been nonprofit, volunteer-based, or funded by community contributions. He is not known to live a luxurious lifestyle.
Beliefs and Reflections on the Babri Masjid Case
Amir has openly expressed remorse for his involvement in the demolition and has stated that he is willing to accept any legal consequences attached to his past actions.
On the Supreme Court ruling, he has said:
“We should move forward and seek better relationships between communities. Peace is what matters.”
Conclusion
The story of Balbir Singh — now Mohammed Amir — is one of the rarest and most powerful tales of transformation in modern India. From being part of a historical act of destruction, he moved toward peace, introspection, repentance, and rebuilding.
His journey reminds us that no matter how far someone has strayed, change is always possible when the heart is willing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Balbir Singh Babri Masjid?
He is a former participant in the Babri Masjid demolition who later embraced Islam and dedicated his life to building mosques.
2. What is his religion?
He was born Hindu but later embraced Islam.
3. How many mosques has he built?
He has helped build or repair about 90 mosques across India.
4. Where is he from?
He is originally from Panipat, Haryana, India.
5. What is his net worth?
His net worth is not publicly known, as his work is mostly volunteer-based.
