Prof. M. Shafey Kidwai, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Aligarh Muslim University delivered an invited lecture on “Untold Facts about Sir Syed Ahmad Khan”, which was organized by the AMU Kishanganj Centre in Bihar.
Prof. Kidwai said that Sir Syed is credited with publishing Aligarh Institute Gazette which was the first multilingual journal of the country. Sir Syed is also considered as one of the pioneers in the field of purposive journalism that differentiated between facts and opinions to ensure a sense of belongingness.
Prof. Kidwai pointed out that being a prolific writer Sir Syed published more than 400 articles. He said that many of us do not know that Sir Syed was a member of the Public Service Commission and Viceroy’s Council. He said that Sir Syed’s works and biography assume a greater significance in light of pluralistic and diverse patriarchal society like ours.
Quoting the example of Che Guevera, Prof. Kidwai said that cross commercialism was the worst example of journalism and Sir Syed stood for the fight against ignorance. He said that Sir Syed always stood for purposive journalism and human values which assume a contemporary relevance so as to coexist with the majorities in a pluralistic society.
Earlier, welcoming the guest speaker, Dr Raashid Nehal, Director, AMU Kishanganj Centre introduced Prof. Shafey Kidwai and highlighted his work. He said that Prof. Kidwai has undertaken an important and challenging work of writing a unique book on Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, “Sir Syed – A Life Beyond Reconciliation”, which will be published as part of Sir Syed’s bicentenary celebrations.
The guest lecture was followed by an interactive session. Dr Asad Ullah, Course Coordinator, Department of Business Administration proposed a vote of thanks. Mr Md Sarwar Alam conducted the programme.