JEDDAH, 9 October 2004 — Inspiring references to Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, founder of Aligarh Muslim University, marked the founder’s day celebrations, organized by two groups of the university old boys at different functions here on Thursday night.
“Indians need a lot to learn from the examples set by Sir Syed and others of the previous generations,” Tehelka Editor in Chief Tarun Tejpal said speaking as a guest of honor at the function organized by the Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys’ Group at Al-Salam Holiday Inn Hotel.
“As a people, we have to learn from the generations of the past. They remind us of our duties and responsibilities,” said Tejpal who shot into prominence with his sting operation exposing corruption in the BJP-led NDA government.
Former cricketer Syed Kirmani was the chief guest and Arab News Editor in Chief Khaled Almaeena was a guest of honor. Consul General Dr. Ausaf Sayeed presided.
Tejpal reminded how the ideals of leaders like Sir Syed and Mahatma Gandhi were relevant today. Tolerance, non-violence and compassion were among the great ideals of Gandhi, which he preached and practiced alongside his great sense of humor. Shedding fear and following the virtue of endeavor, or action, were the need of the hour, he said.
Khaled Almaeena referred to the demonization of the Muslim world that was being continuously projected by the West following the Sept. 11, 2001, events in the United States.
He recalled how the Saudis who were being consistently accused for the Sept. 11 events were instrumental in supplying cheap oil, thus contributing to the rebuilding of Germany and parts of Europe after World War II. “Since Sept. 11, everyone has become an expert on Islamic terror,” he said and called for an end to demonizing religion.
He said India with its diversity had shown how to live in harmony. “India is a great country and harmony can help make it a great economy. You have to see India emerging as a colorful, peaceful country, and a country without corruption. You’ll need people like Tejpal for that. Speak the truth without fear,” he said. He also emphasized that in today’s concept of a global village, India should be viewed through Sir Syed’s eyes for future progress.
Dr. Ausaf Sayeed pointed out that literacy among Muslims, especially women, in India was “very low” compared to other communities. “We have forgotten the message of Sir Syed and need to encourage education among Muslims. Then there will be no need for reservation and no need for anyone’s help,” he added.
Syed Kirmani recalled how the national team played with passion and patriotism during his time. “If we respect our own religion then we can respect all other religions,” he added.
A.G. Danish conducted the proceedings competently, interspersing his comments with aptly selected Urdu couplets, which won applause and praise from the audience who far outnumbered the seats provided in the hall.
Sir Syed, a Great Reformer
At the function held at Al-Nakheel Village, Obhur, organized by the Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys’ Association, Khaled Almaeena was the chief guest. Around 400 AMU alumni and their families were present at the picturesque location. Syed Mohammad Hussain, a senior Aligarian of the 1947 batch, presided. Dr. Ali Al-Ghamdi, a former Saudi diplomat in India and an Aligarian and Dr. Ali Abdullah Bin Sager of the King Abdul Aziz University, were the guests of honor.
“Sir Syed contributed a lot to reforming the society that was reeling under the feudal system. In a bid to bring about change, what Sir Syed did 100 year ago needs to be followed as an example today,” Almaeena said.
“Sir Syed was brave enough to fight against the obscurantists who did not want women to progress. Islam is not against women’s progress. Only those who are ignorant talk like this,” he said and emphasized, “The best way to pay homage to the founder is to live up to his ideals.”
Hassan Arabi, a senior Aligarian introduced Almaeena. “Arab News has been reflecting on and guiding social and political changes under Almaeena’s stewardship,” he said, adding that the Almaeena had also been promoting sports, especially cricket, tennis and squash, aside from football.
S. Nihal, vice president of the organization, introducing Dr. Ali Abdullah Bin Sager, said the King Abdul Aziz University professor was known for his specialty in fine arts and humanities and had participated in many symposiums in and outside the Kingdom.
Nasir Mohammed Khan, president of AMOUBA which is now renamed as AMU Alumni Association, in his address described AMOUBA as the representative body of Aligarians who stand as one team.
Dr. Al-Ghamdi called for unity among the Aligarians. “Aligarians living outside India can do a lot to improve the conditions in and around Aligarh,” he said and assured full support in this effort.
Asad Khan conducted the proceedings and Rashid Quraishi, secretary, proposed a vote of thanks.
Both functions ended with the traditional AMU “tarana” rendered in chorus by Aligarians.
Sir Syed would have been proud of the way the Aligarians remembered him but perhaps he would have been happier if they were also united in their endeavor.