By M Zakir Azmi Nadvi,
Riyadh – Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association (AMUOBA) Riyadh observed the Sir Syed Day with traditional zeal and fervor here on Friday night with who’s who of the Indian community in attendance.
Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s legacy remains a rich one as he paved the way for Indian Muslims towards modern scientific education while the major chunk of Muslim population were mired in old traditions unable to compete in the era of emerging technologies in the aftermath of industrial revolution during the late 19th century.
Sir Syed was deeply grieved over the prevailing situation in post-1857 epoch when British Raj was holding Muslims responsible for the revolt. Therefore, he worked with missionary zeal to setup Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental (MAO) College which later became Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).
The function started with recitation of the verses from the Glorious Qur’an by Chaudhry Abdul Ahad followed by the welcome address by current AMUOBA president Sunail Ahmed.
The chief guest at the event was Manish Tiwiari, the spokesman of Indian National Congress (INC) and former Minister for Information and Broadcasting. Paying rich tribute to Sir Syed Tiwari said: “His vision was not confined to a particular community or a specific region, rather he advocated for universal brotherhood and respect for whole of mankind without any kind of discrimination.”
Recalling Sir Syed’s remarkable contribution to women empowerment he said, “At a time when there was impression that the Indian women did not have much freedom Sir Syed created a history by appointing H.H. Sultan Kaikhusrau Jahan Begum as first chancellor of AMU.”
On issue or AMU minority character, he assured that according to his experience as a senior practicing lawyer it cannot be changed legally. However; should the need arise there are people in democratic India who will stand by AMU in its fight for restoring its historical minority character.
One of the main objectives of Sir Syed was to produce the ‘Leaders of Tomorrow’ who can serve as the Ambassadors of Aligarh movement. However; if one looks at the current organizational structure of AMOUBA, Riyadh chapter, one would be surprised that the alumni association has become a selective body of few old boys who have no intention to rise above the occasion to serve larger interest of the community.
Remembering Sir Syed’s sacrifices to build the AMU Saad Ur Rehman said, “He had not founded this institution just for education but for wider community welfare. If we have to celebrate 200th birth anniversary of Sir Syed in 2017, then we have to achieve a respected place in Indian society.
“We need to follow the footsteps of our founder in simplicity and broaden horizon of his educational mission. There is need to revive the legacy of Aligarh movement, particularly in the current global scenario.” Feroz Khan said.
The hallmark of the evening was the interaction with the younger generation of the AMU graduates. They were of view that in line with what AMU alumni are doing in other parts of the world, particularly in the USA, the Riyadh chapter should also provide younger generation the opportunities to represent the alumni association so that they can exhibit their unseen talents. They also advised that, in addition to dinner, a fund raising campaign should be initiated to provide scholarships for less privileged students on a merit basis, back home in India for educational upliftment of the poor Muslims.
Speaking to Saudi Gazette Marghoob Mohsin, a young engineer and poet, said, “The real homage to Sir Syed is to spread his message and support his mission by building another AMU brick by brick and block by block. I am not talking about building an AMU in its physical structure but I am talking about building the AMU in its spirit and soul.”
Another alumni Safeer Ahmed stressed that Aligs globally should look back 117 years after Sir Syed’s death and to reflect on the vision that he presented to a then sleeping community. “The light of knowledge that Sir Syed lit is still shining around the world as the graduates of Aligarh carry it forward.” he added.
It is painful to note that the graduates of AMU from all religious communities who work and prosper all over the globe have forgotten to support the mission and vision of the founder. Younger generation of Aligs advocated for simple function instead of lavish party and focus constructive dialogue.
The program, which was consisted of two parts, was presided by veteran Alig. Dr. Mohammad Salim and Mukarram Ali Khan graced the occasion as guest of honor. The first segment was conducted by Dr. Abdur Raheem Khan whereas the second one was compered by AMUOBA General Secretary Arshad Ali Khan.
It is pertinent to note that a large number of Aligs stayed away from this event due to Manish Tiwari’s controversial stance on Muslim Personal Law and Zakir Naik’s episode.