The great Indian social reformer and educationist of the 19th century, Syed Ahmed Khan breathed last on 27th March 1898. His contribution to the building of modern India was remarkable in many respects.

A man of many distinctions, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan was born on 17th October 1817 in an illustrious Delhi family. His family has strong ties with the Mughal court, Syed studied the Quran and Sciences within the court. He was awarded honorary LLD from the University of Edinburgh.

Khan laid the foundation of modern scientific education in undivided India. Later on, he established Mohammed Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh in 1875, which became Aligarh Muslim University in 1920.

He was also a journalist who used his pen for social reform. ‘Tahzebul Akhlaq’, a magazine founded by him, tried to awaken people’s consciousness on social and religious issues.

Syed Ahmad Khan died on March 27, 1898. He was interred within the Aligarh University campus beside Sir Syed Masjid. He left a rich legacy behind him.

In memory of Syed Ahmed Khan, India Postal Department has issued commemorative postage stamp. Both stamps depict his portrait.

Image Source: Mintage World