This refers to the article, "Paying tribute to a legend" by MJ Warsi (October 16). Sir Syed Ahmad Khan's immense contribution as an instrumental social reformist, intrepid free-thinker, indefatigable educationist and bold religious scholar of the nation and the Indian Muslim community beggars all descriptions given his unique blend of modernism and traditionalism capped by his liberal approach towards life. His departure from orthodox ways initially met dogged opposition from some conservative quarters but he refused to give in. He, instead, stuck to his guns and insisted that the community's amelioration lay squarely in welcoming Western secular education to augment traditional Islamic learning. Hence, this legendary scholar Sir Syed, founded the Mohammedan Anglo Oriental College and eventually this educational tree planted by him bore fruit to transform into one of India's renowned varsities as Aligarh Muslim University.
It was a hallmark in Sir Syed's character that he always kept the self-aggrandisement and nepotism at bay while serving his country and community despite being born in highly esteemed and noble family.befits Sir Syed's charisma is best encapsulated by Mohd Iqbal's couplet: hazaronsaalnargisapni be-nuriperotihai,badimushkil se hotahaichamanmendida-varpaida.