Born on December 10, 1878, Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar, a distinguished Indian Muslim leader and co-founder of the All-India Muslim League in 1906, left an indelible mark on the Indian independence movement. His tireless advocacy for Hindu-Muslim unity, pivotal role in the Khilafat Movement, and participation in the Non-Cooperation Movement against British rule defined his legacy. The annual dinner programs held in his honor continue to unite a diverse group of students and alumni, underscoring the enduring significance of his contributions to the broader struggle for Indian independence.
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – To commemorate the birth anniversary of Maulana Muhammad Ali Jauhar, the esteemed first Vice-Chancellor and founder of Jamia Millia Islamia, a splendid Jauhar dinner unfolded in the heart of Delhi. The event, meticulously orchestrated by the students of Old Jamia Millia Islamia, graced the expansive lawns near 9 No Park Kalindi Kunj—a picturesque setting despite the bone-chilling winter temperatures. This celebration drew a significant gathering from the Jamia community in Delhi, surrounding areas, and participants from Jamia Millia Islamia, creating an unforgettable occasion.
Distinguished guests, including diplomat Dr Ziaur Rahman, Former Member of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly Shah Alam (Gudu Jamali), and the eminent former President of the Student Union, Samajwadi Party MP from Rajya Sabha Javed Ali Khan, added a notable touch to the gathering of scholars and alumni, making it a rare and significant occurrence.
However, the event stirred varied responses among attendees. Some raised concerns that such occasions should transcend mere socializing and should instead be instrumental in initiating positive contributions to society. Criticism surfaced regarding the prevailing trend of these gatherings focusing predominantly on food and drink within both the Aligarh and Jamia communities.
Syed Anwar Kaifee, an alumnus of Jamia Millia Islamia, expressed his views, stating, “Partaking in biryani in the name of Maulana Mohammad Ali is well and good, but what are the alumni of Jamia and Aligarh showcasing on this occasion?” Kaifee proposed the establishment of Jauhar schools, libraries, and coaching arrangements in every district to support underprivileged children preparing for competitive exams, emphasizing the capacity of alumni in the corporate, political, and business sectors to make significant contributions to such initiatives.
Mohammad Shadab Sarwar, a graduate of Jamia Millia Islamia, lauded the alumni meet as a wonderful gathering, bringing together both new and old students, alongside senior leaders who were former students of Jamia. He encouraged thoughtful actions and positive messages to emanate from such platforms, emphasizing the potential for impactful initiatives.
In contrast, Saiyad Shahnawaz, a Political Science Ph.D. holder from the university, expressed concerns about the prevalent focus on food-centric events, remarking, “It seems that we are not able to do anything else and think beyond kebabs and biryani.”
Despite the varying opinions, the dinner received overall positive feedback, with alumni member Mohd Rashid sharing, “There was such a smile on every face at the Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar dinner. The success of this gathering is evident in the joy of every participant.”
Senior journalist Afroz Alam Sahil said, “I don’t know how much peace Maulana’s soul will get from this ‘Jauhar Dinner,’ but I can say that seeing the condition of Jamia Millia Islamia and the Muslims in the country, his soul must be in pain. It would have been better if this ‘Jauhar Dinner’ had been organized on Maulana’s death anniversary so that the organizers would have been rewarded for feeding the ‘mentally poor.'”
Noorullah Falahi, a dedicated social worker and translator, praised the Jamia Alumni’s initiative, deeming it gratifying and commendable. He underscored the university’s vital role in the country’s development, reflecting on Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar’s legacy as an academic and cultural symbol. Noting the university’s role in education and the freedom struggle, Noorullah emphasized the importance of utilizing the essence of Maulana Jauhar’s vision for the country.