Haji Muhammad Saleem was a distinguished philanthropist, visionary entrepreneur, and one of the most respected social figures of his era. Known for his humility, generosity, and unwavering dedication to humanity, he devoted his life to building institutions that would serve people for generations to come.
In 1948, Haji Muhammad Saleem laid the foundation of the Madinah Group with the noble intention of helping people and serving humanity. From these humble beginnings emerged Madinah Foundation, which today stands as one of Pakistan’s earliest and most notable charitable organizations. Under his leadership, the foundation established relief camps and welfare initiatives to support the needy, underprivileged, and vulnerable members of society. During those early years, the organization also extended assistance to many Sri Lankan families and individuals who had arrived seeking humanitarian support and aid.
Believing that education was one of the strongest pillars of societal progress, Haji Muhammad Saleem expanded his vision into the educational sector. This vision led to the establishment of The University of Faisalabad (TUF), which today is recognized among Pakistan’s most credible and respected universities. TUF currently holds the 11th position among universities across Pakistan, reflecting the strength of the educational foundation and vision established through his leadership.
In 1984, Haji Muhammad Saleem founded Kisan Group, which went on to become one of Pakistan’s leading edible oil and consumer brands. Built on the principles of trust, quality, and innovation, Kisan became a household name across the country and laid the groundwork for future diversification into numerous industries.
Despite his tremendous success, Haji Muhammad Saleem remained an exceptionally humble and down-to-earth individual. He was admired not only for the institutions he built, but also for the compassion, sincerity, and respect with which he treated people from all walks of life. His life was centered around service, philanthropy, education, and community development.
Following his demise, his legacy continued through his sons, who carried forward and expanded the vision established by their father.
His eldest son, Mian Muhammad Hanif, currently serves as the Patron-in-Chief of Madinah Foundation. Under his leadership and guidance, the foundation experienced remarkable growth and international expansion. Over the years, Madinah Foundation extended its humanitarian and welfare services beyond Pakistan to countries including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Palestine. After the demise of Haji Muhammad Saleem, Mian Muhammad Hanif also continued his father’s educational vision and, through years of dedication and continuous effort, established and expanded institutions including University of Rawalpindi and Green International University.
His second son, Mian Rasheed, became a major pillar of Madinah Group and played a vital role in strengthening and expanding the group’s industrial and media presence after his father’s passing. His contributions include the expansion of Madinah Edible Oil Refinery, Madinah Sugar Mills, and 92 News.
His youngest son, Mian Usman Saleem, currently serves as the CEO of Kisan Group and has successfully diversified the brand into numerous sectors and product categories. Under his leadership, Kisan expanded into products such as Kisan Spices, Kisan Pink Tea, Kisan Rose Drink, soaps, and several other consumer products. He also expanded operations into industries including steel manufacturing and feed mills through ventures such as Kisan Steel Mills.
The life of Haji Muhammad Saleem represents far more than business success — it is a story of compassion, leadership, philanthropy, education, and service to humanity. Today, his remarkable legacy continues proudly through his sons and grandsons, who remain committed to carrying forward the values, vision, and humanitarian spirit upon which Madinah Group and Madinah Foundation were built.
