Tribune News Network
Doha
Bazm-e-Alig, the alumni association of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) in Qatar, celebrated the 207th birth anniversary of the great social reformer Sir Syed Ahmad Khan on October 18, 2024, at Time Rako Hotel, Doha. The event was attended by more than 150 AMU alumni residing in Qatar, along with dignitaries from various organisations, forums, and members of the media.
Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, born on October 17, 1817, in Delhi, was a prominent figure who championed modern education for the Muslim community in India. He founded the Mohammadan Anglo-Oriental College in 1875, which later became the Aligarh Muslim University.
Sir Syed’s legacy as an educationist and social reformer continues to inspire generations of Muslim entrepreneurs and political leaders. Members of Bazm-e-Alig honoured his contributions and paid tribute to his enduring influence during the event.
The programme began with greetings from Osama and Tauqeer, followed by a recitation from the Holy Quran by Mohammad Yahya. Nadeem Jafar, president of Bazm-e-Alig Qatar, warmly welcomed the Chief Guest, the Guest of Honor, the family of the late Moosa Zainal Moosa, who was the Patron of Bazm-e-Alig, and other distinguished guests.
Arshad Amin delivered an insightful presentation highlighting the life and legacy of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the history of Aligarh Muslim University, and the impactful contributions of Bazm-e-Alig in Qatar. Following the presentation, senior members Parvez Khan and Nadeem Mahir led a heartfelt tribute to the late Moosa Zainal Moosa, recalling his leadership, wisdom, and extraordinary contributions to the AMU alumni community in Qatar over the past three decades.
The cultural segment of the event featured a soulful performance of Nagma-e-Aligarh by Aqil Mehmoud, evoking nostalgia among the audience. Additionally, an engaging quiz, conducted by Arshad Amin and Tariq Rasheed Khan, captured the interest of attendees of all ages. The evening’s chief guest, Prof Hakim Abdul Hannan, director of the Clinical Science Division at Hamdard Laboratories (Waqf), lauded Sir Syed’s efforts in advancing education and congratulated the members of Bazm-e-Alig for organising the event.
Prof Afzaal Beg, former chairman of the Department of Mathematics at AMU, also attended as guest of honour.
Osama Shamsi, general secretary of Bazm-e-Alig, invited the Patron’s family, former presidents, and the working committee members to the stage to present mementos to the Chief Guest and Guest of Honor as tokens of appreciation for their presence and support. The evening continued with the felicitation of quiz winners and young speakers, who represented the next generation of Bazm-e-Alig with their touching speeches.
Tariq Rasheed Khan, vice president of Bazm-e-Alig, then delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing deep gratitude to all attendees for their participation and contributions.
The event culminated with the nostalgic singing of the AMU Taraana, with enthusiastic participation from all members, followed by the traditional Sir Syed Dinner, bringing the celebration to a memorable close.