Sir Syed Ahmed Khan articulated the identity and existential issues of Muslims in India through various means, including his writings, educational initiatives, and political advocacy.

• Critique of Orthodox Practices: Sir Syed observed the stagnation and rigidity within Muslim society due to orthodox practices and superstitions. He believed that these factors were hindering the progress and future prospects of Muslims in India. Through his writings and speeches, he called for a reformation of these practices and emphasized the importance of rationality and modernity.
• Advocacy for Western Education: One of Sir Syed's major contributions was his advocacy for Western-style education among Indian Muslims. He believed that education in modern sciences, languages, and social sciences was crucial for the advancement of the community. He established modern schools and the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College (later Aligarh Muslim University) to provide such education.
• Promotion of Urdu Language: Sir Syed played a significant role in promoting Urdu as a unifying language among Indian Muslims. He saw Urdu as a language that could bridge linguistic and cultural gaps within the Muslim community and advocated for its adoption as a lingua franca.
• Identity in a Diverse Society: Sir Syed recognized the diverse cultural and religious landscape of India. He emphasized the need for Indian Muslims to adapt to changing times and engage with modern knowledge while preserving their cultural and religious identity. This included fostering interfaith relations and promoting a nuanced understanding of Islamic teachings.
• Political Engagement: Sir Syed was actively engaged in political dialogue and action. He established organizations like the Muhammadan Association and advocated for Muslim representation in civil services and legislative bodies. His efforts aimed to address the political marginalization and challenges faced by Muslims in British India.
• Perspective on Partition: While not explicitly advocating for partition, Sir Syed's writings and speeches reflected concerns about the future dynamics between Hindus and Muslims in post-British India. He raised questions about power-sharing and potential conflicts, suggesting that a peaceful coexistence might require a reconfiguration of political structures.

Overall, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan's articulation of Muslim identity and existential issues in India combined elements of reform, education, cultural preservation, and political engagement. His multifaceted approach continues to influence discussions on Muslim identity and empowerment in the Indian subcontinent.