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Abdul Hameed Remembered as Educationist, Institution-Builder and Champion of Humanity

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NEW DELHI :

Rich tributes paid to the legacy of renowned Unani medicine at a seminar in New Delhi; speakers recall his multifaceted contributions to Ghalib Academy.

New Delhi :

Rich tributes were paid to Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the visionary institution-builder, educationist, Unani physician and champion of humanity, at a seminar organised at the Ghalib Academy here recently to mark his 118th birth anniversary.

Eminent Unani medicine experts, writers, academics and scholars recalled his multifaceted contributions to medicine, education, Urdu language and literature, public welfare and humanitarian service. Several speakers also presented papers highlighting different aspects of his life and enduring legacy.

Welcoming the participants, Dr Aqeel Ahmad, secretary of the academy, said Hakeem Abdul Hameed laid the foundation of the Ghalib Academy in 1935 after acquiring land near the tomb of Mirza Ghalib. The academy, he said, was among the earliest institutions established by Hakeem Abdul Hameed and has continued the tradition of commemorating its founder’s birth anniversary every year.

Delivering the presidential address, eminent litterateur Dr G R Kanwal said Hakeem Abdul Hameed had rendered an “unforgettable service” to Urdu through the establishment of the Ghalib Academy.

“He spoke little, slept little and ate little,” Dr Kanwal said, describing him as a simple and unassuming person. The Ghalib Academy was inaugurated by Dr Zakir Husain, then President of India and a noted admirer of Mirza Ghalib, he added.

Dr Kanwal said Hakeem Abdul Hameed remained detached from honours and recognition. “Honours and awards were contrary to his nature. In the real sense, he was a Bharat Ratna. He was a leader of humanity. Sufism was reflected in his actions. He was a man of action—Abu-ul-Amal,” he said.

Dr Amanullah of the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) said Hakeem Abdul Hameed, guided by patience, gratitude and contentment, transformed Hamdard, founded by his father, into a major institution.

Prof. Akhtar-ul Wasey, former president of Maulana Azad University, Jodhpur, said Hakeem Abdul Hameed’s mother had raised him “like a living saint”. Recalling his contribution to education, he said Hakeem Abdul Hameed established the Rabia Girls Public School in Old Delhi and later set up an English-medium school in Sangam Vihar. The latter, he said, has attracted families living abroad seeking quality education for their children.

Prof Wasey said the establishment of the Ghalib Academy marked an exceptional contribution to Urdu language and literature. Hakeem Abdul Hameed also launched Hamdard Sehat, helping to pioneer medical journalism, he added.

Dr Syed Farooq, CEO of Himalaya Drugs, described Hakeem Abdul Hameed as a remarkable personality with a deep interest in education. He established a hospital in Burhanpur and extended assistance to people in need, Dr Farooq said.

Presenting a paper titled “Hakeem Abdul Hameed: Hikmat, Services and a Beacon of Humanity,” Hakim Nazish Ihtisham Azmi said Hakeem Abdul Hameed occupied a prominent place in India’s modern intellectual, medical and social history.

His contributions, he said, illuminated and strengthened several fields, including Unani medicine, higher education, public welfare and humanitarian service. He described Hakeem Abdul Hameed’s life as a rare combination of knowledge and action, moral excellence, institution-building, personal discipline and sincerity of purpose.

Dr Rakhshanda Roohi from Jamia Millia Islamia, presenting a paper titled “Champion of Linguistic Harmony: Hakeem Abdul Hameed,” said his contributions went far beyond medicine and education. He played an important role in promoting national integration, India’s composite Ganga-Jamuni culture, and cultural and linguistic harmony between Hindi and Urdu, she said.

Dr Roohi said Hakeem Abdul Hameed had established the Indian Project at the Ghalib Academy under the leadership of Prof Mohammad Hasan, reflecting his commitment to India’s composite cultural heritage.

Dr Samar Jahan, a teacher in a govt school, also presented a paper highlighting the life and multifaceted services of Hakeem Abdul Hameed.

Prof. Shareef Husain Qasmi, formerly associated with the Persian Department in Delhi University, recalled several scholarly and research-related episodes from Hakeem Abdul Hameed’s life. He said many important medical works were written in Persian until the time of Aurangzeb. Hakeem Abdul Hameed arranged for such works to be translated and also established an institution called Islamic Studies, where Arabic works were translated.

Syed Ausaf Ali headed the institution and played an important role in advancing its work, Prof Qasmi said.

The seminar was attended by a large number of scholars, writers, academics and other prominent personalities, including Dr Nigar Azim, Shama Afroz Zaidi, Zaheer Ahmad Barni, Prof Moazzamuddin, Mazhar Mahmood, Dr Tabassum Shadab, Prof Salim Qidwai, Advocate Sharfuddin Ahmad, Sarfaraz Ahmad Faraz, Ehteram Siddiqui, Kamaluddin, Arif Husain, Shamim, Abu Noman, Ravi Patwardhan, Khizr-ul-Islam, Khursheed Bano, A Bari Masoud, Saud Akhtar, Menak Aston Sufi, Sadiq Shirwani, Shri Kant Kohli, Parveen Vyas, Pawan Kumar Tomar, Nitin Chadha and Sabiha, among others.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India / by Abdul Bari Masoud / September 20th, 2026

Hakim Abdul Hameed: Visionary who turned medicine into a mission

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DELHI :

Hakim Abdul Hameed and campus of Jamia Hamdard

Life should be significant, not merely long. While some people make their lives significant by amassing wealth, others contribute to society and future generations. Hakim Abdul Hameed was one such rare individual. He is the founder of Jamia Hamdard, a deemed-to-be University located in South Delhi, which is celebrating its Foundation Day on September 14.

Abdul Hameed was born in Delhi on September 14, 1908. His life story is not merely that of a physician but of a man who transformed a family legacy of medicine into a vast movement encompassing education, research, healthcare, and public service.

His family was deeply involved in medicine and social service; his father, Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed, had established ‘Hamdard Dawakhana’ in 1906. ‘Hamdard’ in Urdu means one who empathises with others’ pain. This very sentiment became the guiding principle of Hakim Abdul Hameed’s entire life. He inherited not just a business from his father, but a responsibility. He strived to build Hamdard into an institution that would benefit every stratum of society.

Hakim Abdul Hameed was a practitioner of Unani medicine, yet his vision extended far beyond the treatment of the human body. He understood that for Unani medicine to be passed on to the coming generations, it required systematic teaching, rigorous research, and incorporating modern scientific methods.

He believed that tradition and modern science were not at odds; rather, by preserving the valuable aspects of ancient medical systems, they could be further fortified through scientific inquiry and research. This vision changed him into a pivotal pillar of Unani medicine.

The year 1947 was exceptionally difficult for the country. Partition had impacted millions and created an atmosphere rife with mistrust, violence, and uncertainty. Yet, even amidst such turmoil, Hakim Abdul Hameed was contemplating the establishment of institutions for the India of the future. It was during this period that he founded the Hamdard Charitable Trust and resolved to dedicate Hamdard’s earnings to the service of society. This decision speaks volumes about his character; he viewed wealth not as something to be hoarded for personal gain, but as a trust held for the benefit of society.

Subsequently, he established more institutions — the Hamdard Tibbi College and the Indian Institute of Islamic Studies in 1963; the Hamdard National Foundation in 1964, and the Hamdard College of Pharmacy in 1972.

Gradually, other institutions such as the Hamdard Education Society, Hamdard Public School, Ghalib Academy, and the Hamdard Institute of Historical Research were also added to this fold. He sought to create a comprehensive system where pharmacy, education, history, culture, and research could flourish alongside medical treatment.

The culmination of Hakim Abdul Hameed’s long-standing efforts came in 1989, when the institutions he had established were amalgamated into one to grant ‘Jamia Hamdard’ the status of a to-be Deemed University. This marked a significant achievement, realising a dream and the hard work of decades. He became its founding Chancellor. Hamdard’s own funds and his personal resources played a major role in establishing this university.

Today, it is important to remember that Jamia Hamdard was not backed by government machinery or a corporate conglomerate. Behind it lay the conviction of a single individual who believed that education could be the greatest service to society.

To remember Hakim Abdul Hameed merely as a builder of institutions would be to diminish his true stature. He was, first and foremost, a physician; understanding others’ pain was intrinsic to his nature. In his view, treating a sick person and providing a poor child with the opportunity to study were acts stemming from the same spirit of compassion, and he strove throughout his life to improve the human condition.

The body is healed through medicine, while the mind is nurtured through education. Hakim Sahib regarded both as integral parts of a singular mission of social service. Perhaps this is why the institutions he founded accorded equal importance to the humanities, history, and culture alongside hospitals and medical education.

Hakim Abdul Hameed’s contributions were recognised both within the country and across the globe. He was honoured with the Padma Shri in 1965 and the Padma Bhushan in 1992. In 1983, the then Soviet Union honoured him with the Avicenna Award. During the final years of his life, he also served as the Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University.

However, considering his personality, it seems likely that he derived greater satisfaction from helping a needy person receive medical treatment or enabling a poor student’s education than from these accolades. For him, achievement was not merely about receiving awards but about making a difference in someone else’s life.

Hakim Abdul Hameed passed away in 1999, yet his work did not end with his departure. Even today, thousands of students study in the institutions he established, patients receive treatment in his hospitals, and the work of research and education continues to flourish.

The Jamia Hamdard campus is more than just a cluster of buildings; it stands as a testament to the idea that if an individual rises above personal interests to think about society, they can achieve a great deal for future generations. Hakim Sahib established these institutions much like a wise person plants a tree—knowing full well that while he might not live to sit in its shade, others certainly will. This was the most beautiful aspect of his life.

Today, the greatest challenge facing everyone associated with his institutions is ensuring that his legacy is not confined merely to names and monuments. The very meaning of ‘Hamdard’ is to understand the pain of others and strive to alleviate it. Hakim Abdul Hameed’s life teaches us that a person’s true legacy lies in the institutions and ideas that others carry forward long after they are gone. This is the legacy Hakim Abdul Hameed left behind. Carrying it forward is not just a matter of honour; it is our responsibility.

Author Prof. (Dr) M. Afshar Alam, is a Former Vice-Chancellor, Jamia Hamdard

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Personality-News / by M Afshar Alam / September 13th, 2026

Syed Shahabuddin’s legacy commemorated by distinguished speakers at Delhi’s Ghalib Academy

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BIHAR / DELHI :

New Delhi :

The 19th Memorial lecture commemorating the esteemed Urdu journalist Mahfoozur Rahman was held at the Ghalib Academy in Nizamuddin, Delhi. Mahfoozur Rahman, a distinguished journalist from India, was among the eminent Muslim journalists who passed away on February 6, 2010. Every year, one or two such memorial lectures are organized to honour his invaluable contributions.

This year’s lecture centred on the theme: “Syed Shahabuddin’s National and Milli Services.” Urdu journalist Wafa Azmi of Rashtriya Sahara newspaper, Delhi, delivered a meticulously prepared discourse on this subject. He emphasized that amidst those dedicated to religion, politics, culture, journalism, and social service, the late Syed Shahabuddin remains a prominent ambassador and distinguished IFS officer. Azmi underscored that omitting his name from discussions would be a disservice not only to him but also to society at large.

Wafa Azmi shared that Shahabuddin was born on November 4, 1935, near Gaya in Bihar—though some accounts suggest Ranchi as his birthplace. After completing his early education locally, he moved to Patna for higher studies, earning an MSc from Patna University. He also served there as a faculty member for a few years. During this period, he prepared for the Union Public Service Commission exams, qualified, and secured a high rank in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS).

His diplomatic career began as Deputy Consul General in New York. Over the years, Shahabuddin represented India in various countries, serving as an ambassador and diplomat. In 1978, he voluntarily retired from diplomatic service and ventured into Indian politics to address national issues.

Dr. Zafarul-Islam Khan a senior journalist, scholar and author shared his long-standing association with Shahabuddin, recalling that he was brought into the national fold by him. Initially a journalist, Shahabuddin invited him to participate in the All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mashawarat, where he was soon appointed General Secretary and later President. Dr. Zafarul-Islam praised Shahabuddin’s deep trust in him, both professionally and personally.

He recounted a personal experience from a 2003 trip to Kashmir with Shahabuddin, where sharing a room revealed his inner greatness—his early morning Fajr prayer and recitation of the Quran. Dr. Zafarul-Islam also highlighted Shahabuddin’s unwavering commitment to Indian constitutional principles, always insisting that all actions be within the framework of the Constitution, which he regarded as a sufficient safeguard of rights.

Furthermore, he mentioned that Shahabuddin launched the English-language magazine “Muslim India,” which he published from 1980 to 2000. In 2002, Shahabuddin asked him to resume publication, which he did for two years before halting due to financial constraints. Later, Shahabuddin revived the magazine, which continued to be published for several more years.

Dr. Zafarul-Islam lamented that although “Muslim India” was a quality publication, its readership remained limited, and it often operated at a loss. Despite this, it featured valuable discussions on Muslim and national issues. He revealed that he had compiled Shahabuddin’s editorials into two volumes, which are soon to be published and have been personally proofread by him. He also shared plans to publish a comprehensive volume of all Shahabuddin’s writings.

He clarified that Syed Shahabuddin was not a populist leader—a view reinforced after the demolition of the Babri Masjid. Moreover, Dr. Zafarul-Islam recounted Shahabuddin telling him that the idea of boycotting January 26, the Republic Day or wearing black bands was not his but originated from Azam Khan, and that Shahabuddin was compelled to accept it.

Senior journalist Masoom Moradabadi highlighted Shahabuddin’s heroic role during the Shah Bano case, when the Indian Muslim Personal Law Board launched the largest post-independence movement among Muslims, with Shahabuddin’s speeches drawing crowds in the hundreds of thousands.

Prof. Naseer Ahmad Khan, a close associate of Shahabuddin, expressed regret that despite his stature as a respected leader across educated circles and among the masses, only a modest funeral was held—attended by a few officials from Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, the Muslim League, and other organizations. He contrasted this with the funeral of Maulana Muhammad Ahmad Samar, which saw an estimated two to 2.5 lakh mourners, highlighting society’s oversight of Shahabuddin’s immense contributions.

Father Solomon George, the guest of honour, remarked that the stories and media reports about Shahabuddin barely scratch the surface of his efforts in social welfare and minority rights. As a fellow minority, he emphasized the importance of reflecting on why minority leaders often become vulnerable at critical moments, especially in today’s India.

Mr. Nisar Khan moderated the event, which was attended by notable Urdu personalities and presided over by retired Professor Abdul Haq of Delhi University, an esteemed scholar of Urdu and Persian literature.

In his presidential address, Professor Abdul Haq expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to participate in this gathering. He extended heartfelt congratulations to Shahabuddin, recalling his first meeting with him during Chandrashekhar’s tenure as Prime Minister. He reminisced that Shahabuddin was then a shining star in Muslim politics, actively listening to the Prime Minister’s serious discussions on the Babri Masjid issue.

This event served as a fitting tribute to a truly remarkable leader who left an indelible mark on society through his dedicated service and unwavering principles.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> Politics> Society / by Zillur Rahman Haider / December 02nd, 2025

Renowned Journalist Jalaluddin Aslam’s Anthology ‘Naqd-o-Nazar’ Released at Ghalib Academy

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INDIA :

New Delhi:

Veteran journalist and writer Jalaluddin Aslam was honored at Ghalib Academy with the release of his selected anthology of essays, Naqd-o-Nazar. The event brought together distinguished scholars, journalists, and literary figures, who acknowledged Aslam’s lifelong dedication to writing and journalism.

Padma Shri awardee Professor Akhtarul Wasey, delivering the presidential address, praised Jalaluddin Aslam’s remarkable contribution to literature and journalism. “He has devoted his entire life to the service of pen and paper. Even in his advanced years, his commitment to writing remains unshaken,” he remarked. Prof. Wasey further emphasized that Naqd-o-Nazar reflects Aslam’s deep thoughts and ideological perspectives and should reach a wider readership.

Renowned journalist Masoom Moradabadi highlighted the humanitarian aspect of Aslam’s life, stating, “The essays in his latest book reflect his deep concern for the nation and community. His life has been marked by selfless service to the needy and deserving.” He underscored that Aslam’s engagement in journalism and literature has always been driven by sincerity rather than financial motives.

Senior journalist Suhail Anjum commended Aslam’s contributions to Urdu language and literature through journalism and writing. “His anthology Naqd-o-Nazar is of archival significance and serves as a valuable resource for researchers,” he stated.

Editor of Urdu Book Review, Mohammad Arif Iqbal, noted that Naqd-o-Nazar contains thought-provoking essays, demonstrating Aslam’s intellectual depth and analytical prowess.

Dr. Syed Ahmed Khan, national president of the Urdu Development Organization, acknowledged Aslam’s silent yet profound contributions to the Urdu language. “Few writers and journalists have served Urdu as selflessly as he has,” he asserted.

Dr. Aqil Ahmed, Secretary of Ghalib Academy, extended his congratulations to the author and urged him to publish his unpublished works as well. Several other prominent figures, including Feroz Hashmi, Javed Rahmani, Dr. Mufti Anwar Javed Dehlvi, and K.L. Narang Saqi, also lauded Aslam’s literary journey.

Among the notable attendees were Maulana Arshad Sirajuddin Maki, Dr. Khurshid Alam, Hakim Aftab Alam, Mohammad Naushad Nadwi, Israr Ahmed Ujini, Danish Rahman, Faizan, Rehan, Zeeshan, Mohammad Owais, Mohammad Hanif, Nadeem Arif, and Mohammad Imran Kannauji.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Abu Zaid.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Arts & Culture> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / February 20th, 2025

Rich tributes paid to founder of Jamia Hamdard Hakeem Abdul Hameed

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NEW DELHI :

HakeemAbdulHameedMPOs24oct2018

New Delhi:

Birth anniversary of noted Hakeem Padma Bhushan Hakeem Abdul Hameed was celebrated on September 14, 2018. Former Rajya Sabha MP and noted journalist Shahid Siddiqui delivered the lecture on ‘Hakeem Abdul Hamed, a great thinker, philosopher and his role in the construction of the nation’ as Chief Guest. The programme was presided over by Prof Syed Ihtesham Hasnain Vice Chancellor Jamia Hamdard. Prof Ihtesham Hasnain said late Hakeem Abdul Hameed was ‘Hamdard’ in the real sense.

Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof Ahmed Kamal, registrar Saud Akhtar, relatives of Hakeem Abdul Hameed from India and Pakistan, a large number of teachers, officers and students were present on the occasion.

Late Hakeem Abdul Hameed, a renowned physician, was the Founder-Chancellor of Jamia Hamdard, which he established with his own resources. A great philanthropist, thinker and visionary, he set up several institutions with the funds of Hamdard Wakf Laboratories. Some of the esteemed institutions established by him include Hamdard National Foundation, Hamdard Education Society, Hamdard Study Circle, Hamdard Public School, Hamdard Institute of Historical Research, Ghalib Academy, Centre for South Asian Studies and Business & Employment Bureau.

Hakeem Abdul Hameed was honoured by several national and international awards including the Avicenna Award presented by the erstwhile USSR in 1983. He was conferred with Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan by the Government of India. He was also an honorary member of the Academy of Medical Science of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh. In October 2000, the Research Centre for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA) Istanbul, Turkey, presented IRCICA Award for Patronage in Preservation of Cultural Heritage & Promotion of Scholarship to Hakeem Saheb posthumously.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> India> News  / by Rasia / September 15th, 2018