WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The Aligarh Alumni Association of Metro Washington (AAA-DC), a leading non-profit organization committed to preserving the legacy of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), launched its Golden Jubilee year with a vibrant Eid Milan celebration at the Rockville Senior Center in Maryland. This milestone event began a year-long commemoration of five decades of community service, educational support, and cultural enrichment.
The evening began on a spiritual note with Ezzah Haziq’s soulful recitation of a Qur’anic sura. AAA-DC President Afzal Usmani welcomed the guests, emphasizing the importance of commencing the Jubilee year with Eid Milan—an occasion that beautifully symbolizes unity, gratitude, and renewal. He reiterated AAA-DC’s mission to promote education, cultural heritage, and social harmony in the spirit of AMU’s founding ideals.
Mohammad Basil’s thoughtful address reflected the vision and enduring impact of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, AMU’s visionary founder, whose legacy continues to guide generations toward enlightenment and progress.
Maryam Usmani, Shumaila Imran, and Mohammad Basil conducted an interactive trivia quiz on AMU’s history to engage the younger generation. Children who answered correctly received prizes, adding a festive and educational dimension to the evening.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the Sir Syed Lifetime Achievement Awards, recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to education and community service:
Mr. Tariq Husain, a former World Bank executive and lifelong advocate for educational initiatives, was inspired by his proud AMU alumni parents.
Dr. Syed Amir has been a guiding force within AAA-DC for over two decades, and his leadership has been instrumental in elevating the association’s educational mission.
Dr. Razi Raziuddin and Dr. Arati Raziuddin were recognized for their unwavering dedication to AAA-DC’s goals.
Mr. Mustafa Hashmi (posthumously), a former president and devoted leader, was also honored with a lifetime scholarship established in his name at AMU.
Accepting his award, Mr. Tariq Husain said, “Sir Syed Ahmad Khan has been a towering figure of inspiration for me since childhood. I’m deeply honored to be recognized by AAA-DC, which has long served as a beacon of education and community upliftment.”
Dr. Syed Amir reflected on the event’s success, calling it “a glittering celebration entirely orchestrated by the younger generation of Aligarhians—a sign of continuity and renewal.” He acknowledged the pioneering contributions of past leaders, including Drs. Abdullah, Rafat Hussain, Razi Raziuddin, Arati Raziuddin, Tariq Farooqi, Fazal Khan, Aftab Ansari, Hashima Hasan, Ms. Farzana Farooqi, Ms. Shakila Raza, and Ms. Ayesha Khan, who have gracefully passed the torch to new leaders.
A soulful musical performance by the Montgomery Nawabs, a Gaithersburg-based ensemble of South Asian professionals, elevated the evening. Their renditions of ghazals and songs captured the audience’s imagination and underscored the rich cultural heritage cherished by the AMU community. The group includes Dr. Mohammed Akbar, Khursheed Bigram, Dr. Qazi Hamid, and Mir Karamath Ali, who exemplify intellectual pursuit and artistic expression.
The event was honored by the presence of distinguished leaders from various community organizations, including Aquil Ahmed (University of Karachi Alumni Association), Arif Mahmood (Harf-e-Sukhan), Mohammed Akbar (Hyderabad Association of Washington Metropolitan Area), Nasir Chippa (Association of Indian Muslims), Nuzaira Azam (Global Beat Foundation), Parvez Uppal (Pakistan Association), Shah Fazal Abbas (Arbab-e-Zauq), and Tahira Aziz (Urdu Academy of Maryland). Notable attendees also included Afshan Nizami, daughter of the late Z. A. Nizami, founder of Sir Syed College of Engineering and Technology in Karachi, as well as Saeeda Huque and Firoza Salahuddin, whose presence was warmly acknowledged.
Founded in 1975, AAA-DC has grown into one of North America’s most prominent AMU alumni organizations. With a robust calendar of events—including the annual Sir Syed Day Celebration, International Mushaira, Independence Day Mushaira & Kavi Sammelan, and community picnics—the Association fosters Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb and strengthens cultural bonds.
AAA-DC also raises funds for scholarships at AMU and supports community education centers across India. Its partnerships with organizations such as the Association of Indian Muslims (AIMS), the Hyderabad Association of Metro Washington Area (HAWMA), the Federation of Aligarh Alumni Associations, the National Council of Asian Indian Associations (NCAIA), and the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin, Metro-Washington (GOPIO-Metro Washington), have broadened its humanitarian reach and impact.
As AAA-DC enters its 50th year, it continues to uphold the timeless values of Aligarh—education, enlightenment, and unity. The association invites the community to participate in its upcoming signature events, including the Sir Syed Day Celebration in October, the Annual International Mushaira, and the Independence Day Mushaira & Kavi Sammelan.
Mohammad Haziq ably coordinated the Eid Milan event and served as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies. Treasurer Salman Shahid concluded the night by extending heartfelt thanks to all volunteers, participants, and guests for their enthusiastic support and contributions to a memorable evening.
The author thanks Mr. Afzal Usmani and Dr. Mohammad Akbar for the photographs.
(Based on a press release issued by Zafar Iqbal, PhD)
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