by C. M. NAIM
Picture taken in Benares in 1869, most probably on the occasion of his departure for London. Syed Ahmad Khan sits on the ground in the middle; standing on the left are: Syed Hamid; Chhajju; and Syed Mahmud. Seated on the chair to the right of SAK is Raja Jaikishan Das.
In February 1869 the Aligarh Institute Gazette, the weekly bilingual journal of what was established in 1864 at Ghazipur as the Scientific Society, excitedly informed its readers that “the Institute’s Life Honorary Secretary, Maulvi Syed Ahmad Khan Sahib Bahadur, Subordinate Judge (First Class) and Judge (Small Causes) at Benares, was definitely traveling to England in April 1869.” It then reproduced in summary a statement Syed Ahmad Khan—henceforward SAK—had made to the government to obtain leave in order to make that great journey.
I am convinced that nothing is more urgent for the purpose of ideally promoting India’s prosperity (fal?h) and welfare (bahb?d?) and for giving due strength (istahk?m) and stability (p?ed?r?) to the aims of the British government—a government I am proud to serve—than an enhancement of good mutual relations between Indians and Europeans. To achieve that goal, in my opinion, Indians should be encouraged to travel to Europe, so that they may directly observe the progress and achievements of Civilization (sh?yastag?) in European countries, and gain an understanding of the prosperity (daulat), power (t?qat), and intelligence (d?n?’?) of the English people.[1] They may also learn, for India’s benefit, the many excellent and useful things that have come about there because the inhabitants of England are so capable (musta’id) in commerce, and because the country’s wealth and learning are increasingly being used to enhance the functioning of its factories, fields, hospitals and charity homes, and the cleanliness of its cities.
I therefore desire to go to England in person, and thus set an example for my compatriots. I firmly believe that not only would I personally gain from this journey but that I would also benefit my compatriots by informing them of my conclusions from the trip—to teach them what excellent things I learn and to encourage them to follow my footsteps.[2]
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