Seminar on the Historical Contributions of Muslims in Bengal Held at Aliah University

Bangadarpan:
On the first day of a two-day history conference organized by the Centre for Research and Excellence (CRE), a significant seminar titled “Contributions of Muslims in Bengal and the Evolution of Their Historical Trajectory” was held at the Park Circus Campus of Aliah University.

Researchers, teachers, professors, and students presented scholarly papers addressing various dimensions of history. Senior faculty members of the university chaired different academic sessions, followed by in-depth discussions on the presented papers.

The seminar was graced by Prof. Amit Dey, Ashutosh Chair Professor and Head of the Department of History, University of Calcutta, as the chief guest and keynote speaker. In his address, he emphasized that the presence of Muslims in Bengal should not be viewed merely through the lens of political power, but also through their lasting contributions to administrative systems, education, literature, architecture, and social structure. He stressed the need for objective, research-based evaluation of these contributions in historical studies.

Dr. Masihur Rahman, Chairman of the West Bengal Welfare Trust, attended the seminar as a special guest. He noted that history should be perceived not only as a record of past events but also as a vital element in shaping contemporary society. He highlighted the role of Muslims in fostering communal harmony and Bengal’s pluralistic culture, describing it as a significant chapter that must be accurately presented to future generations.

Other speakers included Prof. Dr. M. Sazzad Alam Rizvi, Assistant Professor, Presidency University, Kolkata, and Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq Hussain, Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of History, Aliah University.

The seminar witnessed active participation from researchers, academicians, students, intellectuals, and educationists. The interactive question-and-answer session reflected keen interest and engagement from the audience.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Masiur Rahman, Director of the Centre for Research and Excellence, who expressed gratitude to all speakers, guests, and participants. He expressed optimism that such research-oriented historical discussions would continue in the future. The seminar was moderated by Saeed BS Al Mamun, researcher at the University of Calcutta and Convener of the History Summit.