A rare collection of Syud Hossain’s books donated to Maulana Azad Library

ALIGARH  : A treasure of books and hand-written articles of eminent independence activist and journalist Syud Hossain were donated to Maulana Azad Library, Aligarh Muslim University.

Syed Hossain was a freedom fighter and a reputed English journalist besides being an alumnus of MAO College. He was known as a journalist on three continents and also edited several newspapers and magazines including the Bombay Chronicle (Bombay), Independent (Allahabad), India (London), Yaad-e-Watan, and The New Orient (New York).

The collection of eight books, twenty hand-written articles, and documents was presented to University Librarian, Prof. Nishat Fatima by Prof. Shafey Kidwai (Department of Mass Communication) on behalf of Syud Hossain’s US-based nephew, Mr. Syud Iqbal Ahmad.

The invaluable treasure of historical documents has been preserved in the newly established Freedom Movement Section of the Maulana Azad Library.

Prof Shafey Kidwai informed that the collection includes four rare books authored by Syud Hossain, out of which two books are on Mahatma Gandhi, namely, ‘Gandhi: The Saint and Statesman’ and ‘Gandhi: I Knew Him’.

The treasure trove also includes a collected work of Syud Hossain’s speeches and writing titled ‘Dr. Syud Hossain: A Glimpse of His Life, Speeches and Writings.

Syud Hossain was a distinguished alumnus of MAO College and had played a significant role in the freedom struggle through his nationalistic journalism. He was an important member of the Home Rule League and actively participated in the Khilafat and Non-Cooperation Movement.

Prof. Nishat Fatima thanked Syud Iqbal Ahmed for the precious gift and said it was an apt occasion for such benevolence on his part while India is celebrating its 75th year of independence.