Sir Syed Ahmad Khan (1817-1898)
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Death Centenary |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | March 27, 1998 |
| Denomination | Rs. 2 |
| Quantity | 400,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Photogravure |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Olive brown |
| Credit (Designed By) | |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1618 Stamp Number IN 1678 Yvert et Tellier IN 1385 Stanley Gibbons IN 1782 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Headgear | Men | Philosophers | Reformers |
Introduction
Sir Syed Ahmad Khan was one of the greatest social reformers, educationists, and thinkers of 19th century India. He is remembered for his efforts to modernize education among Indian Muslims and for founding the institution that later became Aligarh Muslim University.
Early Life
Sir Syed Ahmad Khan was born on 17 April 1817 in Delhi in a family associated with service in the Mughal royal courts. He received his early education at home. Though his education was informal, he developed a deep interest in literature and learning.
He also contributed writings to Sayyid-ul-Akhbar, one of the earliest Urdu newspapers in India.
Government Service
He joined the East India Company as a judicial officer and served in different places in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. He later retired in 1878 as a subordinate judge under the British Government.
During his career, he received several honours, including:
- Companion of the Order of the Star of India (1869)
- Knight Commander of the Star of India
- Membership in the Governor-General’s Council
- Member of the Education Commission (1882)
Literary Contributions
His literary work began in 1847 with Asar Us-Sanadid, an important archaeological study of the monuments of Delhi. The book gained wide recognition and was translated into French in 1861.
He also received:
- Honorary Fellowship of the Royal Asiatic Society of London
- Honorary Doctorate from the University of Edinburgh in 1869
Contribution to Education
In the later part of his life, Sir Syed settled at Aligarh and devoted himself to uplifting Muslim society through education and reform.
In 1875, he founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College, despite strong opposition from conservative groups. This institution later became Aligarh Muslim University in 1920.
In 1886, he founded the Muhammadan Educational Congress, a non-political organization that promoted modern and liberal education among Muslims.
Religious and Social Reform
Sir Syed Ahmad Khan believed in rational thinking and reinterpretation of religion according to changing social conditions. He laid the foundation of a modern school of Islamic thought known as Ilm-i-Kalam.
He worked to reform traditional social attitudes and encouraged progress through knowledge and reason.
Commemorative Stamp
The Department of Posts is happy to issue this stamp to pay homage to this great Indian social reformer and educationist of the 19th century, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.
Conclusion
Sir Syed Ahmad Khan was a visionary leader whose efforts in education and reform transformed Indian society. His legacy continues to inspire generations through the enduring institution of Aligarh Muslim University and his progressive ideas.
First Day Cover
