Pakistan High Commission, Dhaka organised a seminar titled “The Legacy of the Nawab: An Ode to the Life and Times of Sir Salimullah Bahadur” to commemorate the 155th birth anniversary of Nawab Sir Salimullah Bahadur and pay tribute to his enduring contributions as a visionary statesman, philanthropist, educationist and one of the foremost architects of Muslim political consciousness in South Asia.

The seminar was attended by eminent academicians, historians, researchers, media representatives and distinguished members of the Nawab family, including Nawabzada Khwaja Samiullah Askari, the great-grandson of Nawab Sir Salimullah Bahadur.

In his welcome address, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Mr. Imran Haider, welcomed the distinguished guests and members of the Nawab family. Paying tribute to Nawab Sir Salimullah Bahadur, he said that his vision, leadership and public service played a defining role in the political awakening of the Muslims of the subcontinent and laid the foundation for their struggle for political rights, which ultimately culminated in the creation of Pakistan.

He highlighted Nawab Sir Salimullah’s historic role in facilitating the establishment of the All-India Muslim League in Dhaka in 1906 and underscored his lasting contributions to education, public welfare and the development including his  support for educational institutions.

The seminar featured insightful presentations by eminent speakers who reflected upon different dimensions of Nawab Sir Salimullah Bahadur’s life and legacy.

Dr. Mohammad Alamgir of the Asian University of Bangladesh traced the history of the Nawabs of Dhaka and highlighted Nawab Sir Salimullah’s leadership during a transformative period in Bengal’s history.

Prof. Nahid Afrose Kabir of BRAC University spoke on his pioneering contributions towards education in East Bengal, noting that his vision and philanthropy brought about far-reaching social transformation and continues to inspire future generations.

Mr. Zafar Sobhan, former Editor of Dhaka Tribune and Editor of CounterPoint, reflected on Nawab Sir Salimullah’s contribution to the evolution of Muslim political thought and his vision for the political representation and collective advancement of the Muslims of the subcontinent.

Nawabzada Khwaja Samiullah Askari shared personal reflections on his great-grandfather’s enduring legacy and emphasised the importance of carrying forward his ideals of public service, education and responsible leadership.

At the conclusion of the seminar, the High Commissioner presented souvenirs to the distinguished speakers .

A photo exhibition showcasing rare photographs and archival material depicting the life, legacy and lasting contributions of Nawab Sir Salimullah Bahadur was also organised on the occasion.

Special prayers were also offered for the departed soul of Nawab Sir Salimullah Bahadur.