Dr. Faridis Struggle Was a Prelude to a Social Revolution: Mohammad Adeeb
Book on Dr. Abdul Jaleel Faridi by Masoom Moradabadi Launched under the Auspices of the AMU Old Boys Association, Lucknow
Lucknow, May 4:
In the history of independent India, Muslims have not been blessed with a leader as sincere, dignified, and farsighted as Dr. Abdul Jaleel Faridi. Despite extremely adverse circumstances, he undertook the task of organizing the community politically and rendered services at both national and community levels that will always be remembered. These views were expressed by former Member of Parliament Mohammad Adeeb in his presidential address at the launch of a book on Qaid-e-Millat Dr. Abdul Jaleel Faridi, authored by Masoom Moradabadi.
The dignified event was organized by the Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association at Hotel Arif Castle, Lucknow, and was attended by prominent academic, social, literary, and political personalities of the city. Continuing his remarks, Mohammad Adeeb emphasized in an emotional tone that Dr. Faridis struggle was not merely political, but a prelude to a social revolutionone that was not fully understood in its time.
The chief guest, Professor Ramesh Dixit, said that Dr. Faridi not only gave a new direction to Muslim politics but also succeeded in making it effective. However, his primary focus was collaboration with the secular forces of the country. He stood firmly against fascism and never bowed down. Commenting on the current situation, he stated in strong terms that strengthening secular forces is essential to counter the growing trend of communalism. Those who question the patriotism of Indian Muslims, he said, should first examine their own history and conduct. He stressed that the welfare and survival of the nation depend on the unity of secular-minded individuals on a common platform.
Delivering the keynote address, noted scholar Dr. Masood-ul-Hasan Usmani said that among the personalities who, after Indias independence, provided intellectual and psychological strength to Muslims during a sensitive period of national and community challengeswith faith, courage, and boldnessDr. Abdul Jaleel Faridi holds a prominent place. Along with being a successful and internationally reputed physician, he possessed deep political insight. Considering Muslim politics indispensable, he pursued this कठिन path with sincerity, dignity, and perseverance. Educational, social, religious, and community issues of Muslims remained central to his thought, and he played an active role in every field with dedication. Undoubtedly, his name will always shine brightly in the community history of independent India.
He expressed regret that the present younger generation is largely unaware of his contributions, though the responsibility does not lie entirely with them. He noted that no serious and organized efforts have been made to acquaint them with the achievements of their predecessors, nor has the duty of popularizing the illustrious history adorned with the sacrifices of community leaders been properly fulfilledan important historical responsibility that still awaits attention.
Introducing the book, Mohammad Owais Sambhali said that it is not only a meaningful tribute to Dr. Faridis struggle, thought, and character, but also a shining example of Masoom Moradabadis intellectual depth, hard work, dedication, curiosity, and literary skill. The book not only takes the reader through the past but also encourages reflection on the present and direction for the future.
Conducting the proceedings, the Associations President Syed Mohammad Shoaib mentioned his family ties with Dr. Faridi and said that in 1965, when the minority character of Aligarh Muslim University was first targeted, Dr. Farididespite not being an Alig himselfraised his voice against it and stood shoulder to shoulder with the Aligarh community, even leading the movement.
The Associations Honorary Secretary Shehla Haq said she felt proud that such a personality is being remembered on this platform, who, despite not being an Alig, played a significant role in the movement to restore the minority status of Aligarh Muslim University.
In her opening remarks, Padma Shri Praveen Talha said that Masoom Moradabadis work introduces readers to Dr. Faridis ideas, and therefore it is important to continue promoting his ideology. Dr. Suhail Ahmad Farooqui noted that Dr. Faridi was highly compassionate as a physician.
Speaking on the occasion, the compiler of the book, Masoom Moradabadi, said that although he had not personally seen Dr. Faridi, he learned much from his associatesespecially the late Javed Habib, who had written a short book on him. That work inspired further research, and after years of effort, he attempted to compile new and authentic information from various sources in this book.
As a guest of honor, Dr. Faridis granddaughter Farah Arif said that although she had not seen her grandfather, hearing accounts of his greatness always fills her with pride that she belongs to such an illustrious family.
The program convener Anwar Habib Alvi expressed gratitude to the guests and participants. A large number of people from Lucknow and outside attended the event, including several distinguished personalities from academic, administrative, and social fields.