Key Takeaways
- Rutgers University honors student Henna Aslam, 21, died in a car accident in New Jersey.
- She was a talented design major known for her creativity and leadership in the Muslim arts community.
- Local religious organizations held funeral services on April 16, remembering her as a loving daughter and powerful artistic voice.
The community is mourning the tragic and untimely loss of Henna Aslam, a 21-year-old Honors College student at Rutgers University, who lost her life in a devastating car accident earlier this week in New Jersey.
A Bright Light Gone Too Soon
Henna was originally from Vadakara, Kerala, India, and had been living with her parents in Dayton, NJ, at the time of the accident.
Henna was a talented student and a vibrant presence on campus and in her community.
She was enrolled at Rutgers–New Brunswick’s Mason Gross School of the Arts, majoring in Design with a minor in Gender and Media, and was on track to graduate in May 2026.
Those who knew Henna remember her as a loving daughter, devoted sister, loyal friend, and passionate artist who made a lasting impact through her work and voice.
She was an active part of Rutgers’ Muslim arts community, where she was known for her creativity and leadership.
According to reports, Henna was driving to college when the accident occurred.
She reportedly lost control of her vehicle while attempting to give way to an oncoming car overtaking, and the crash proved to be fatal.
She is survived by her parents, Cheekkil Muhammad Aslam and Sajida, and her three siblings: Hadi Aslam, Amal Aslam, and Zain Aslam.
Community Tributes
The heartbreaking news has shaken both the local and global Malayali and Muslim communities.
The Muslim Center of Middlesex County (MCMC) shared a heartfelt tribute:
“Henna was a loving daughter, devoted sister, kind friend, and powerful voice through her art. Please keep Henna and her family in your duas. May Allah grant her Jannat al-Firdaus and give her family patience and strength during this incredibly difficult time.”
Via Facebook
Similarly, the Islamic Society of Central New Jersey (ISCJ) remembered her as:
“A former weekend school student and assistant teacher who was deeply loved by her community. The whole family are long-time members and active volunteers at ISCJ.”
Via Facebook
The Salatul Janaza (funeral prayer) for Henna was held on Wednesday, April 16, following the 5 PM Asr prayer at ISCJ.
Her burial took place immediately after at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Monmouth Junction, NJ.
Henna Aslam leaves behind a legacy of academic excellence, creative expression, and deep compassion.
She touched the lives of everyone around her with her intelligence, kindness, and dedication to her faith and family.
In the wake of this tragedy, friends and family ask for continued prayers for Henna’s soul and strength for those she has left behind.
“May Allah Almighty expand and enlighten her grave with His Noor and grant her the highest place in Jannat al-Firdous. Ameen.”
