Aligarh: The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) community solemnly observed the 127th death anniversary of its revered founder, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, with a Quran Khwani (Quran recitation) at the AMU Jama Masjid. This was followed by Chadar Poshi (floral tributes) at his Mazar (tomb) by senior university officials, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to Sir Syed’s vision of education, service, and social reform.
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan (1817-1898) was a prominent social reformer, educator, and thinker during the British colonial era in India. Born on October 17, 1817, in Delhi, he received traditional Islamic education and studied Persian and English. His advocacy for scientific education among Muslims stemmed from his deep interest in modern sciences and to propagate his scientific vision, he formed a Scientific Society to reproduce science resource material in Urdu which was available in English language at that time. He founded Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in 1877, which later evolved into Aligarh Muslim University in 1920. He envisioned AMU as an institution to promote Western education among Indians while preserving their cultural identity.
His literary works, such as Asar-us-Sanadid (The Remnants of Ancient Heroes) and The Causes of the Indian Revolt, highlight his intellectual depth. Known for his friendships with prominent figures like Raja Jai Kishan Das, Sir Syed also championed Hindu-Muslim unity. His metaphor comparing Hindus and Muslims to “two eyes of a bride” reflects his vision of mutual cooperation for India’s progress. Mahatma Gandhi fittingly described him as a “prophet of education” for his pioneering efforts to uplift Indian Muslims through modern education.
Sir Syed passed away on March 27, 1898, at about 10 pm at a house of his close friend and one of the prominent donors of AMU, Nawab Ismail Khan, Rais Dataoli, in Darul Uns Compound, Aligarh, leaving an enduring legacy of educational empowerment and social reform. There is a stone inscription inside the room where Sir Syed breathed his last, though the room has gone through many renovations now.
Reflecting on his enduring legacy, AMU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Naima Khatoon, emphasized that his passing in 1898 was a profound intellectual loss.
“His death anniversary is a moment of introspection and a renewed resolve to carry forward his mission and vision of educational empowerment,” she said.
AMU Pro-Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mohammad Mohsin Khan, highlighted Sir Syed’s progressive vision noting his efforts to integrate faith with reason while championing modern education.
AMU Registrar, Mr. Mohammad Imran (IPS), Proctor Prof. M Wasim Ali, DSW Prof Rafiuddin, MIC, PRO, Prof. Vibha Sharma, Director Sir Syed Academy Prof M Shafey Kidwai, Principal Women’s College Prof. Masud Anwar Alavi, Provost SS Hall (South), Dr Abdul Rauf, Provost SS Hall (North), Prof Adam Malik Khan, University Librarian, Prof Nishat Fatima, Finance Officer Mr Noorus Salam, along with other officials, also paid their respects, honoring Sir Syed’s unparalleled contribution to education and nation-building.
