ZAFAR ALI KHAN (1873-1956): A CREATIVE GENIUS AMONG THE FREEDOM FIGHTERS

Abstract

Zafar Ali Khan had an acumen and flair found in Muslim Punjabi literates. He was a politician, a parliamentarian, an orator, a writer, a poet and a journalist. Zafar Ali Khan’s distinction in the history of urban Muslim leaders was his passionate discourse and equally revolutionary editorials in Zamindar against the Imperial policies of the British government. He was a staunch believer in politics of activism rather than politics of negotiation, therefore; he spent one- third of his life in prison.  His stance regarding various people and groups changed rapidly throughout his life which indicates his mental development that surprises his followers as well as his opponents. An analysis of his life may help in understanding this enigmatic leader of the Muslims of the Indian Subcontinent. The main objective of this paper is to highlight the contribution of Maulana Zafar Ali Khan as anti-feudal, and anti-imperialist. Besides, the paper analyses his personality and his influence causing constantly changing opinions and views about his contemporaries, groups, and the British government.