ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book highlights Sir Syed Ahmad Khan's contribution to the collective life of India. It examines Sir Syed’s role as a public figure who set up several institutions for producing a vibrant civil society in India at the height of British rule. The book draws upon Sir Syed’s biography of his maternal grandfather Khawaja Fariduddin Ahmad that contains essential details about Sir Syed’s family, and his traits. It also examines what Sir Syed did for the uplift and empowerment of Indians in his official capacity. The book focuses on Sir Syed’s unpalatable views on female education. It explains that Sir Syed launched a campaign through his periodicals to thwart the futile endeavour to recreate the past. The book presents a detailed analysis of Sir Syed’s journalistic writings and how he convinced Muslims to eschew their irrational and emotional outlook.
