The two-day event, held in collaboration with the Abul Kalam Azad Islamic Awakening Centre (New Delhi) and Jamia Islamia Sanabil, brought together scholars, academics, and researchers from various parts of the world.

Recognizing Maulana Rahmani’s Contributions to Education and Reform

The seminar highlighted Maulana Rahmani’s pivotal role in advancing education, Islamic scholarship, and social reform among Indian Muslims. A key proposal emerging from the event was the establishment of a dedicated section in AMU’s Islamic Studies library in his name and the publication of annual research papers on his contributions.

Exploring a Scholar’s Enduring Influence

Over forty research papers were presented, covering key aspects of Maulana Rahmani’s impact:

• His early life, education, and intellectual influences.
• His leadership in the Markazi Jamiat Ahl-e-Hadith Hind.
• His contributions to Islamic education in India, including his role in institutions like Jamia Rahmaniya and Jamia Salafiya.
• His academic experiences at the Islamic University of Madinah and subsequent scholarly endeavors.
• His political and social activism, including his work with the All India Muslim Personal Law Board and the Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat.
• His editorial leadership in influential Islamic journals.
• His participation in international conferences and his efforts to develop a global strategy for Muslim communities.

A special documentary was also screened, showcasing Maulana Rahmani’s lifelong efforts in educational and religious reform, emphasizing the continued influence of his initiatives even after his passing.

Key Announcements and Resolutions

The seminar led to several important resolutions aimed at preserving and promoting Maulana Rahmani’s legacy:

1. Annual Research Papers – A scholarly paper on his contributions will be published each year.
2. Translation and Publication – Selected works will be translated into English and published for a global audience.
3. Library Dedication – A section in AMU’s Islamic Studies library will be named after him, featuring his biography and key works.
4. Institutional Collaboration – AMU and Jamia Islamia Sanabil will explore academic partnerships to advance Islamic scholarship.

Professor Abdul Hamid Fazli, head of AMU’s Islamic Studies department, highlighted that the seminar provided deeper insights into the contributions of the Ahl-e-Hadith movement, emphasizing its commitment to Quran and Sunnah-based teachings. He also commended AMU students for their active participation and encouraged further discussions on implementing the seminar’s resolutions.

Launch of a Landmark Scholarly Work

A major highlight of the event was the launch of a two-volume book, The Fearless Advocate of the Salafi Methodology and the Guardian of Ahl-e-Hadith History: Allama Abdul Hamid Rahmani — Life and Achievements. Spanning 904 pages, it features 86 detailed research articles and 25 poetic tributes, providing an in-depth exploration of his legacy.

A Global Perspective on a Local Visionary

Maulana Abdul Hamid Rahmani’s influence extends beyond India, with his work in education, religious scholarship, and institutional development resonating with global audiences. By translating his works and fostering international academic collaborations, AMU aims to ensure that his contributions continue to inspire future generations worldwide.

This seminar not only honored his life but also reinforced the importance of preserving and promoting intellectual and religious discourse within the Muslim world, positioning Maulana Rahmani as a key figure in modern Islamic thought and reform.

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was the educationist, social reformer, visionary and founder of the Aligarh Muslim University, India. Every year Sir Syed Day is celebrated in Aligarh Muslim University and throughout the globe by its alumni on a large scale to remember the contribution of the great leader.

However, unlike the previous years, a small gathering of about 50 people was organized this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing protocol.

Chief Guest Asim Anwar, Second Secretary, Embassy of India, Riyadh, and Observer to the International Indian Schools in the Kingdom graced the program with his presence.

He expressed his views on the philosophy of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan for the upliftment in the education sector. The envoy also spoke on the importance of education and the structured measures that the Indian mission is taking to support and expand the education system in Saudi Arabia.

The program began with the welcoming of guests by AMUAA General Secretary, Dr. Mohammad Abul Farah followed by the recitation of the verses from the Holy Quran by Mansoor Hasan in great devotion.

President of AMUAA, Riyadh Engr. Syed Mohammed Mutayyab, in his address emphasized the key contributions of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan and expressed his dedication to work hard for the advancement of society through education.

He said, “AMU alumni association annually organises various competitions for students to familiarise children with the life and contribution of Sir Syed and provide them a platform to discuss issues important to the community and nation”.

Like every year, an online speech competition was organized by AMUAA Riyadh, held on 15th October 2021 for students of grades 9th to 12th residing in GCC countries. The topic of the speech competition was ‘Relevance of Sir Syed’s Vision in Contemporary India’.

First prize winner was Ishba Arshad, 12th grade student from Indian International School Dammam. She received a cash prize of 700 SAR. While Sayyada Khansa Mahiya, 11th grade student from IIS Riyadh, bagged the second prize.

A joint third prize went to Hashmath Ayesha Syed, 12th grade student from Delhi Public School Riyadh, and Arsia Reyaz, 9th grade student from IIS Riyadh. The girls left the audience speechless as they delivered their winning speech on stage. They also received a cash prize of 500 SAR and 300 SAR, respectively.

A total of 255 participants registered for the speech competition from which 56 were screened in the first round and 24 participants were selected for the final of the speech competition.

Representatives of various organizations in Riyadh shared their views about the extraordinary contribution of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan towards the betterment of the Muslim community.

Many prominent Aligs including representatives of various organizations in Riyadh were present at the event.

Dr. Khursheed Anwar – Saudi Indian Health Forum, Dr. Dilshad Ahmad – Indian Education Forum, Abid Hussain – Bihar Anjuman, Engr. Owais Ahmed – Saudi India Business Network, Engr. Farhan Ahmed – Indian Engineers Forum, Shahzeen Eram – Global Jharkhand Welfare Association, Aftab Ahmed Sr. Alig, Prof. Anwar Khursheed – King Saud University, spoke on occasion.

They emphasized that education is the need of the hour for Indian Muslims as they remain backward on a lot of social and economic indicators even today.

Dr. Anwar Khursheed said, “In every decade, the Muslim community should give birth to a great leader like Sir Syed Ahmad Khan. That is the need of the hour”.

Shahzeen Eram, a prominent journalist, and Founder- President of Global Jharkhand Welfare Association, Saudi Arabia shared that, “Sir Syed played a very constructive role in shaping the future of women in India and was the torchbearer in leading way for woman empowerment through providing education opportunities for enlightened generations to come. Women empowerment was a large part of Sir Syed’s vision”.

The program concluded with prayers for Sir Syed, followed by a vote of thanks by AMUAA Vice President Engr. Humayun Hashmi who appreciated the support of all for attending the event. AMU Tarana and Indian National Anthem was sung by the attendees which was followed by high tea.