Mahesh Bhatt wants Bharat Ratna for AMU founder

Bollywood film director and activist Mahesh Bhatt has demanded the Bharat Ratna for Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) founder Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.

Bollywood film director and activist Mahesh Bhatt has demanded the Bharat Ratna for Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) founder Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.

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A programme was held on Monday evening in New Delhi to release a re-print of Sir Syed's book Asbab-e-Baghawate-e-Hind. A large number of people signed a memorandum demanding Bharat Ratna for Sir Syed, editor of the Aligarh Movement magazine Jasim Mohammed said.

Releasing the book, Bhatt said Sir Syed was a "shining jewel" who had made tremendous contribution to the society and education. His daughter and actress-producer Pooja Bhatt said Sir Syed's Aligarh movement "was designed to build self-confidence among Muslims and lead the community towards a more progressive future".

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan (Oct 17, 1817 – March 27, 1898) was a teacher, politician and social reformer. He founded the Muhammadan Anglo Oriental school in Aligarh May 24, 1875 that later became Aligarh Muslim University.