The 146th birth anniversary of renowned freedom fighter, journalist, and poet Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar was observed on Tuesday with respect and reverence. Born on December 10, 1878, in Rampur, India, he passed away on January 4, 1931, and was laid to rest in Jerusalem.
According to the Mohiban-e-Jauhar Forum Pakistan, seminars and events were organized nationwide, including in Karachi, under the auspices of various political and religious organizations. Speakers paid tribute to Jauhar’s invaluable contributions to the freedom struggle and highlighted his pivotal role in shaping the independence movement.
In a message, Tariq Shadab, head of the Asian Union Forum, described Jauhar as a leading figure in the Khilafat Movement and one of the founders of Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi. He also founded the English newspaper Comrade, which gained widespread popularity both in India and abroad due to Jauhar’s brilliant writing skills. In addition, Jauhar launched the Urdu daily Hamdard, known for its fearless expression and bold editorial stance.
Shadab emphasized that Jauhar spent a significant portion of his life in prison due to his active participation in the freedom struggle. He faced trials for sedition, including one at Karachi’s Khaliq Dina Hall, and was imprisoned in Karachi’s Central Jail for some time.
Prominent social leader Mahfooz Nabi Khan noted in his tribute that Jauhar excelled academically, securing first place in his BA exam from Allahabad University and completing the ICS examination at Oxford University. Jauhar’s intellect and mastery of English and Urdu made him an influential voice in journalism and politics.
He was a driving force behind the Khilafat Movement of 1919 and the Non-Cooperation Movement, and his efforts led to the establishment of Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi. Despite severe illness, he traveled to London in January 1931 to attend the Round Table Conference, where he boldly demanded India’s independence.