Sir Syed Ahmad khan

Introduction
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan (1817–1898) was born in Delhi into a family
that had close ties with the Mughal court. As per tradition, he
received his early education at home, where he learned the Holy
Quran. A well-known Sufi saint, Shah Ghulam Ali, guided him in
religious teachings. His father passed away in 1838, which forced
the young Sir Syed to seek employment to support his family.
After receiving training, he was appointed as a “Sarishtehdar” (a
judicial clerk) in the British administration. His experiences in
government service and interactions with British officials later
influenced his efforts in education, social reform, and the
upliftment of Muslims in India .Recognizing that education was the
key to progress, Sir Syed emphasized learning modern sciences
and Western education while preserving Islamic values. He
founded the Aligarh Movement, which led to the establishment of
the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental (M.A.O.) College in 1875, later
evolving into Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) in 1920. Apart from
his educational efforts, Sir Syed also contributed to politics, social
reforms, and religious understanding. He advocated for Muslim
loyalty to the British, promoted the Two-Nation Theory, and
worked for the protection of Muslim rights in British India. His
writings, including Asbab-e-Baghawat-e-Hind and Tehzeeb-ul-
Akhlaq, reflect his vision for a progressive and educated Muslim
society. Through his tireless efforts, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan laid the
foundation for modern Muslim identity in the Indian subcontinent.
His work continues to influence education and reformist
movements today.
Education
Sir Syed received a traditional education that combined Islamic
studies and modern learning:
 1. Quranic and Persian Studies – He studied under various
scholars in Delhi, gaining proficiency in Persian, Arabic, and
Urdu.
2. Science and Mathematics – Unlike many of his
contemporaries, he showed a deep interest in subjects like
mathematics, astronomy, and
3. medicine, which were not commonly emphasized in
traditional Islamic education.
4. English and Western Knowledge – Though he did not receive
formal British education, he learned English later in life and
studied Western sciences, history, and governance to
understand British administration.
Early Influence
Decline of the Mughal Empire – Witnessing the fall of Mughal power
and the rise of British rule made him realize the importance of
adapting to the new political realities.
1857 War of Independence – The rebellion and its aftermath deeply
impacted him. He saw how Muslims suffered due to their lack of
modern education and sought to bridge the gap between British
rulers and Indian Muslims.His Mother’s Influence – His mother
instilled in him discipline, a strongmoral character, and a sense of
responsibility towards society.
Exposure to Western Thought – Reading books on Western
philosophy, law, and governance helped him develop a reformist
approach. These early experiences shaped Sir Syed Ahmad Khan
into a visionary leader who later spearheaded the Aligarh
Movement to promote modern education among Indian
Muslims.Initial Career of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan in the Mughal
Court and British Administration
Service in the Mughal Court

Sir Syed Ahmad Khan began his career in the early 1830s during
the declining years of the Mughal Empire. Coming from an
aristocratic family with ties to the court, he Initially held minor
positions in Mughal administration. However, by this time, the
empire had lost real power, and the British East India Company
controlled most of India.
Transition to British Administration

Realizing the changing political landscape, Sir Syed joined the

British administration in 1838 as a serestadar (clerk) in the court
of law at Agra. His efficiency and intelligence led to rapid
promotions.
Key Positions in British Service

1. 1838–1846: Judicial Clerk and Munsif (Sub-Judge)

He worked in different judicial roles in Delhi, Agra, and Mainpuri.
His work involved record-keeping and assisting in legal matters
under British rule.
2. 1846–1857: Judicial Official in Bijnor

He was appointed Sadr Amin (Chief Judge) in Bijnor. This period

exposed him to British legal and administrative systems,
deepening his understanding of governance.
3. 1857: Role During the Revolt

During the 1857 War of Independence, Sir Syed was serving in

Bijnor. While the revolt was largely anti-British, he maintained a
balanced stance, protecting both British officers and local Muslims
from violence. After the revolt, he defended Muslims against
British allegations of treason, emphasizing that their lack of
education, not disloyalty, had led to misunderstandings.
4. Post-1857: Shift to Reform and Higher Positions

After the revolt, he was posted in Muradabad (1858) and later in

Ghaziabad and Aligarh (1862). He continued serving in the British
administration while writing books and advocating for Muslim
education.
Impact of His Early Career

His experience in both Mughal and British systems helped him

understand the challenges Muslims faced under British rule.
Working closely with the British made him realize the importance
of modern education and English proficiency for the progress of
Indian Muslims. His administrative skills and knowledge of British
governance influenced his later reforms, including the Aligarh
Movement. By the 1860s, he shifted his focus from government
service to education and social reform, eventually founding the
Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College (later Aligarh Muslim
University) in 1875.

Objectives of Aligarh movement

The Aligarh Movement, initiated by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, aimed
to uplift the Muslims of India after their decline following the War
of Independence in 1857. The movement sought to modernize,
educate, and politically guide the Muslim community to regain
their lost status. The key objectives of the movement were:
1.Promotion of Modern Education

Sir Syed emphasized Western-style education for Muslims to help

them compete with Hindus and the British. He established schools
and colleges where English, science, and modern subjects were
taught alongside traditional Islamic studies.
1. Loyalty to the British Government

Sir Syed encouraged Muslims to remain loyal to the British to

secure their rights and avoid further oppression. He believed that
opposing the British would only worsen the conditions of Muslims.
 2. Keeping Muslims Away from Politics
Sir Syed advised Muslims not to engage in politics until they
had acquired sufficient education and knowledge.He feared
that premature political involvement could further weaken
the Muslim community.
3. Establishment of Educational Institutions

The M.A.O. College (later Aligarh Muslim University) was

founded in 1875 to provide modern education. Schools like
Muradabad and Ghazipur were established to introduce English
and scientific knowledge.
4. Social and Religious Reforms
Sir Syed worked on improving social ethics among Muslims
through publications like Tehzeeb-ul-Akhlaq. He promoted
religious tolerance and encouraged Muslims to understand
both Islam and modern sciences.
5. Protection of Muslim Identity

The Urdu-Hindi Controversy (1867) led Sir Syed to recognize the

cultural and political differences between Hindus and Muslims.
This later contributed to the Two-Nation Theory, which became
the foundation of Pakistan’s creation.
Educational Services of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan considered education as the key to the
progress of Muslims in India. He believed that without modern
education, Muslims would remain socially, politically, and
economically backward. To address this, he took several steps to
promote education among Muslims, which became the foundation
of the Aligarh Movement.
1. Establishment of Schools

In 1859, he established a school in Muradabad, where Persian and

English were taught. In 1862, he set up another school in
Ghazipur, introducing modern subjects like English, Urdu, Arabic,
Persian, and Sanskrit.
 2. Scientific Society of Aligarh (1863)

Founded in Ghazipur to translate modern English books into Urdu

so that Muslims could understand Western knowledge. In 1864,
the society moved to Aligarh, where it established a printing press
for publishing educational materials.
3. Aligarh Institute Gazette (1866)

A journal published by the Scientific Society to promote modern

knowledge and bridge the gap between Muslims and the British.
Encouraged Muslims to adopt Western education and scientific
thinking.
4. Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental (M.A.O) High School (1875)

Established on 24 May 1875 in Aligarh. Combined Western and

Eastern education, teaching English, science, mathematics, and
Islamic studies.
5. M.A.O College (1877) and Aligarh Muslim University (1920)

In 1877, M.A.O. High School was upgraded to M.A.O. College. The

college admitted both Muslim and non-Muslim students from all
over India. After Sir Syed’s death, it was transformed into Aligarh
Muslim University (AMU) in 1920, which became a major
educational institution for Muslims.
6. Anjuman-e-Taraqqi-e-Musalmanan-e-Hind (1870)

A committee established in Banaras to study why Muslims had a

low literacy rate. Worked towards the establishment of higher
education institutions for Muslims.
Demand for Muslim Representation in Government Services

Sir Syed advocated for Muslim representation in administrative

jobs.Demanded reserved seats and quotas for Muslims in
government services to ensure their participation.
Impact of His Educational Efforts
Provided Muslims with modern education, helping them compete
with Hindus and British. Strengthened Muslim identity and
awareness, leading to the development of the Pakistan
Movement. Encouraged scientific thinking and critical analysis
among Muslims.
Political Services of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan played a crucial role in the political
awakening of Indian Muslims. He believed that Muslims should
stay away from politics until they were properly educated, but he
also worked to protect their rights and interests under British rule.
His political services laid the foundation for the Two-Nation Theory
and the eventual creation of Pakistan.
1. Loyalty to the British Government

After the War of Independence (1857), Muslims were blamed for

the revolt and faced severe oppression. Sir Syed wrote Asbab-e-
Baghawat-e-Hind (The Causes of the Indian Revolt) in 1858,
explaining that the rebellion was due to British policies, not just
Muslim aggression. He urged Muslims to remain loyal to the
British to regain their lost status and secure opportunities in
government jobs.
2. Political Representation for Muslims

He advocated for Muslim representation in legislative councils and

government services. He believed that Muslims, due to their
distinct identity, needed separate political rights.
3. Urdu-Hindi Controversy (1867)

Hindus demanded that Hindi replace Urdu as the official language

in courts. Sir Syed realized that Hindus and Muslims had different
identities, cultures, and political interests, strengthening his belief
in Muslim nationalism.
 4. Establishment of the Indian Patriotic Association (1888)

Founded to promote Muslim interests and ensure their fair

representation in government policies.Aimed to counter the
influence of the Indian National Congress, which Sir Syed believed
represented Hindu interests more than Muslim ones.
5. Opposition to the Indian National Congress

Sir Syed discouraged Muslims from joining the Indian National

Congress (INC), as he feared it would lead to Hindu domination in
politics. He emphasized that Muslims needed a separate political
identity and should focus on education first, then politics.
6. Two-Nation Theory (Foundation of Pakistan Movement)

Through his political writings and speeches, Sir Syed laid the
foundation for the Two-Nation Theory, which later led to the
creation of Pakistan in 1947.He emphasized that Muslims and
Hindus were two separate nations, with different religions,
cultures, and social systems.
Religious and Social Services of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was not only an educational and political
reformer but also a significant figure in religious and social
reforms for Muslims in India. He aimed to remove superstitions
and outdated traditions, promoting a progressive, rational, and
modern approach to Islam and society.
Religious Services
1. Rational Interpretation of Islam

Sir Syed believed in ijtihad (independent reasoning) and

encouraged Muslims to interpret Islam in the light of science and
reason. He opposed blind following (taqlid) and urged Muslims to
understand the Quran and Hadith with logic and intellect.
 2. Establishment of the “Tehzeeb-ul-Akhlaq” (1870)

He launched a magazine, Tehzeeb-ul-Akhlaq, to reform Muslim

social and religious thinking. The magazine addressed
superstitions, ignorance, and backward practices in Muslim
society and encouraged modern education and ethical values.
3. Religious Harmony

He promoted interfaith dialogue and believed that Muslims and

Christians had common beliefs. His book "Tabyin-ul-Kalam”
compared Islam and Christianity, aiming to improve Muslim-
Christian relations.
Defense of Islam

When British and Christian missionaries criticized Islam, Sir Syed

wrote books and articles to defend Islamic teachings logically and
rationally. He explained that Islam was a progressive and scientific
religion, not opposed to modern knowledge.
Social Services
1. Women’s Education and Rights

Sir Syed supported women’s education and believed that

educated mothers could help raise an enlightened generation. He
discouraged child marriage, polygamy, and other outdated
customs.
2. Removal of Social Evils

He worked to remove superstitions, illiteracy, and outdated

customs that were holding Muslims back. He criticized
unnecessary rituals in weddings and religious gatherings.
3. Modernization of Muslim Society

Sir Syed encouraged Muslims to adopt modern dressing, hygiene,

and living standards while staying true to their Islamic values. He
urged Muslims to participate in trade, business, and modern
professions instead of relying only on traditional occupations.
 4. Unity Among Muslims

He promoted Muslim unity and emphasized that sectarian

differences between Shia and Sunni Muslims should not weaken
the community. He urged Muslims to work together for
educational and economic progress.
Impact of the Aligarh Movement
The aligarh Movement, led by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, had a
significant impact on the Urdu-Hindi controversy, the
development of the Two-Nation Theory, and the recognition of
cultural differences between Hindus and Muslims.
Impact on the Urdu-Hindi Controversy

The Aligarh Movement played a crucial role in preserving Urdu as

the identity of Indian Muslims. Sir Syed strongly opposed
replacing Urdu with Hindi, as Urdu was the language of Muslim
culture, history, and identity. The movement encouraged Muslims
to write, speak, and promote Urdu, strengthening it as a symbol
of Muslim nationalism. The controversy highlighted the growing
divide between Hindus and Muslims, further proving that they had
separate interests.
Impact on two nations theory

The Aligarh Movement was the first organized effort that

emphasized that Muslims were a separate nation from Hindus. Sir
Syed’s political and educational efforts helped Muslims realize
that they needed their own political representation. The
movement laid the intellectual foundation for the Two-Nation
Theory, which later influenced Allama Iqbal, Muhammad Ali
Jinnah, and the Pakistan Movement. The Muslim League (1906),
which later led the struggle for Pakistan, was formed by leaders
who were influenced by Sir Syed’s ideas.
Impact on Cultural Differences
The Aligarh Movement reinforced the idea that Muslims had a
distinct culture, traditions, and way of life that differed from
Hindus. It encouraged Muslims to maintain their Islamic identity
by preserving their language (Urdu), dress, traditions, and social
customs.Sir Syed urged Muslims adopt modern education and
Western sciences while staying true to Islamic values. The
movement helped strengthen the cultural pride of Muslims,
preparing them to fight for their separate political future.
Conclusion
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was a visionary leader who played a key
role in uplifting Indian Muslims through education, social reforms,
and political awareness. His Aligarh Movement emphasized
modern education while preserving Islamic values, laying the
foundation for Muslim empowerment. His stance in the Urdu-Hindi
controversy and opposition to the Indian National Congress
strengthened the Two-Nation Theory, which later led to the
creation of Pakistan. Through his religious, social, and political
efforts, he revived the spirit of progress among Muslims, leaving a
lasting legacy as the pioneer of Muslim nationalism and modern
thought.