Dr. Abdul Basit Syed Frsa, the founder of the International NGO ‘World Humanitarian Drive,’ has been awarded the prestigious ‘Freedom of the City of London’ for his exceptional contributions to fostering UK-India relations and making a global impact in the fields of education, humanitarianism, and trade. The ceremony took place on September 18, 2023, at the Guildhall in London, where Dr. Abdul Basit Syed Frsa was presented with this esteemed honor.
The tradition of awarding the ‘Freedom of the City of London’ dates back to 1237, making it one of the oldest British capital traditions still in practice today. Though primarily symbolic, being granted the title of ‘Freeman’ carries certain responsibilities associated with the Lord Mayor’s position.
Dr. Abdul Basit Syed Frsa, firmly believing that he and his fellow international humanitarians are the torchbearers of a civilized society, consistently organizes peace and educational programs through his organization, World Humanitarian Drive (WHD). These programs include initiatives such as Trade for Peace, The Science Bazaar, and World Moral Day.
The Science Bazaar event organized by Dr. Abdul Basit Syed Frsa in Chennai, India, on March 6 and 7, 2020, showcased 834 innovative inventions and tools designed to meet the needs of differently-abled individuals worldwide. This event also provided a platform to promote India’s distinct innovations on a global scale.
Furthermore, through his initiative Trade 4 Peace, Dr. Abdul Basit Syed Frsa collaborates with world leaders, dignitaries, and renowned speakers from over 25 countries to support India’s vision for sustainable development goals. This initiative emphasizes the integration of developing nations like India into the global economy and promotes businesses as a pathway to peace.
Prominent figures such as Queen Elizabeth II, Florence Nightingale, Winston Churchill, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Margaret Thatcher, as well as modern-day legends like Professor Stephen Hawking and Morgan Freeman, share the legacy of the Freeman Title. The Freedom Certificate was presented by the Chamberlain of the City of London during the ceremony held at London’s Guildhall.
Ramesh Awasthi, Chairman of the National Media Club of Bharat, praised Dr. Abdul Basit Syed Frsa for his remarkable achievement during the award ceremony. Dr. Abdul Basit Syed Frsa was led to the court by a Beadle dressed in a top hat and frock coat, while the Chamberlain conducted the unique ceremony wearing a traditional ermine-trimmed robe, accompanied by the Clerk of the Court in a silk gown. Dr. Abdul Basit Syed Frsa signed the Freeman’s Declaration Book and read the ‘Declaration of a Freeman’ as part of the ceremony.
With his dedication to promoting peace, education, and trade, Dr. Abdul Basit Syed Frsa continues to make a significant impact both nationally and globally. His recognition with the ‘Freedom of the City of London’ highlights his invaluable contributions and serves as an inspiration to others in the humanitarian sector.
