Jamia declares solidarity with beleaguered painter M F Husain

New Delhi, Oct 3 (UNI) Eminent writer Qurratulain Hyder, who passed away recently, renowned painter Maqbool Fida Husain and noted film maker Shyam Benegal will be conferred honoris causa degrees by the Jamia Millia University at its annual convocation here on October 30.

Besides, the university will also honour sarod maestro Amjad Ali Khan.

''Like the rest of the world, the University holds all four of them in high esteem as makers of modern India, and in the case of M F Husain we wish to express our solidarity with the beleaguered artist,'' a university spokesperson here said.

Established on October 29, 1920, the university celebrates its 87th year of existence. Its Founder's Day marks the beginning of a week-long festival called Talimi Mela(Educational Festival) from October 29 to November 2.

Vice President Hamid Ansari will be the chief guest and Minister for Human Resource Development Arjun Singh guest of honour.

The Convocation will be held at 0400 hrs on Tuesday, 30th October at the university.

UNI