Monthly Archives: February 2025

Rare 1900s Urdu typewriter, manuscripts displayed at exhibition in Hyderabad

Arts, Culture & Entertainment

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Exhibition showcases rare literary treasures, including 1937 Osmania University textbook and 1931 Urdu translation of Goethe’s Faust.

  Rare books and manuscripts on display at exhibition in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: 

Book lovers and history enthusiasts in Hyderabad were in for a rare treat as The Kabikaj Foundation in collaboration with the Deccan Archives Foundation hosted an exhibition of rare books and manuscripts on Friday, February 7.

The exhibition took place at Thrivesome Cafe and Community, Jubilee Hills which showcased a curated selection of literary treasures, including a 1937 Osmania University history textbook, a 1931 Urdu translation of Goethe’s Faust, Masnavis of Maulana Rumi works from the historic Nawal Kishore Publications, and rare prints from Hyderabad’s now-extinct presses.

The exhibition was organised to commemorate the birth anniversary of renowned Hyderabad poet Riasat Ali Taaj (1930–1999). The exhibition featured a curated selection of books from his collection, preserved by his family and presented by his grandson, founder of The Kabikaj Foundation, Riasath Ali Asrar.

Rare literary gems on display at Hyderabad exhibition

The Hyderabad exhibition showcased a remarkable collection of rare books and manuscripts, including:

  • A mid-1900s Urdu typewriter (Remington Portable 5), a rare artefact highlighting the evolution of Urdu script in typewriting technology
  • A 100-year-old Masnavi of Mawlana Rumi, Mirat-ul-Masnavi, published by Azam Steam Press, Hyderabad
  • A 1937 history textbook for matriculation, from Osmania University, featuring a 1937 South Asia map and the original Osmania University logo
  • Early and first editions of Urdu translations of Goethe’s Faust and Conan Doyle’s The Poison Belt from the early 1900s.
  • Rare lexicons, including:
    • Farhang-e-Asafiya (1970)
    • Dakhni Urdu ki Lughat (1969)
    • Lughat un Nisa (1917)
    • Kalaam-e-Nanak ma’ Farhang (1970)
    • Ruq‘at-e-Alamgeeri, a collection of letters by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, published in Hyderabad in 1911, with references to the first Asaf Jah of the Asaf Jahi dynasty.
    • An 1893 Ottoman-era Arabic edition of Alf Laylah wa Laylah (The Arabian Nights), published in Egypt.
    • Nawal Kishore publications, including:
      • Singhasan Batteesi (a collection of Indian folklore, 1953).
      • Masnavi-e-Bustan of Saadi Shirazi (a 150-year-old edition).
    • Tulsi Das’s Ramayan in Perso-Arabic script, published in 1913.
    • Justice Syed Mahmood’s Urdu translation of the 1872 Law of Evidence Act, published in 1893.
    • Transactions of the Indian History Congress: Fifth Hyderabad Session (1941) and The Hyderabad Code (1951).
    • A mid-1900s Urdu typewriter (Remington Portable 5), a rare artefact highlighting the evolution of Urdu script in typewriting technology.

A mid-1900s Urdu typewriter (Remington Portable 5) (Photo: By Arrangement)

Young Urdu poet Riasath Ali Asrar provided a detailed commentary on each book, guiding visitors through their historical and literary significance.

As part of the Kabikaaj Foundation’s ongoing efforts to raise funds for book preservation, a series of postcards featuring artwork and inscriptions from the rare books on display were available for purchase at the Hyderabad exhibition. Those with a passion for history, preserving culture and literature would be able to take home a unique piece of literary history which would in turn help in supporting the foundation’s vital work in archiving, digitising, and restoring rare manuscripts.

A series of postcards featuring artwork and inscriptions from the rare books on display (Photo: By Arrangement

Established in Hyderabad in December 2021, The Kabikaj Foundation is dedicated to preserving and promoting rare books and manuscripts of literary, cultural, historical, academic, religious, and traditional significance, organising exhibitions and events bringing together people with similar passion.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> Hyderabad / by News Desk X / February 08th, 2025

International kho kho girl Nazia Bibi brings cheers to her tribe, J&K

Amazing Feats, Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion

Kalakappar Village (Nagrota Tehsil), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Heavily garlanded Nazia Bibi with her family including her grandmother, and visitors at her home

Weeks after the nomadic Gujjar-Bakerwal community of Jammu and Kashmir plunged into a state of shock as 17 tribesmen, women and children died of a mysterious disease in village Budhaal in Rajouri, a young woman has brought cheers to and restored the pride of the community.

Nazia Bibi, a 21-year-old college student has become the first athlete from J&K to win gold in the International Kho Kho championship. Nazia, who hails from village Kalakappar of tehsil Nagrota on the outskirts of Jammu city, is a member of the Indian women’s Kho Kho team which recently lifted the maiden World Cup in Delhi by trouncing Nepal in a convincing victory.

Nazia Bibi also became one of the few tribal women from J&K to reach the international level in sports.

Her achievement is more important given the fact that the Gujjar-Bakerwal community is backward and also conservative in its outlook for women.

However, Nazia today doesn’t hold any grudges against her family for asking her to stop playing because of society’s disapproval.

International Kho Kho player Nazia Bibi

“I can understand when my family asked him to stop playing since people made uncharitable comments and fun of me because I didn’t wear a conventional dress while practicing. I had my Chachu (Uncle) Master Iqbal who is a teacher to fall back upon. I would explain to him my problems in pursuing Kho Kho and he, in turn, convinced my father,” she said.

Her father Sabar Ali is an unlettered person and earns his livelihood by rearing cattle – sheep and goat. Nazia has a sister and two brothers and the family lives in a two-room house in the village.

A BA fifth-semester student of the Padma Shri Padma Sachdev Govt College for Women Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, Nazia says lifting the gold cup for India was her proudest moment and brought her struggle to a logical and happy end.

“Today, at 21, I am overwhelmed as so many people are coming to congratulate me. It’s too much for me to handle,” she says in a video interview to a local channel.

Nazia is amused to see her relatives and neighbours announcing that they would encourage their children to play sports as well.

“One person’s struggle can open opportunities for so many,” she said.

Nazia was invited by the LG Manoj Sinha to the Raj Bhawan for a meeting. The DIG of Jammu felicitated her for her achievement.

Advocate Zulkarnain Choudhary, a community activist said Nazia should be given a decent job of the rank of a gazette officer by the J&K government, as is done in other cases.

Nazia however says her struggle and achievement must bring focus on better infrastructure for sports. “We don’t have good stadiums or coaching family in Jammu. Practicing in an open field and on mats indoors are so different,” Nazia said.

Nazia Bibi with LG Manoj Sinha and officials of the Kho Kho association

As a promising athlete, she says she was encouraged by her teachers in the local school and also by the J&K Kho Kho association officials.

“I continued playing kho kho because it doesn’t require expensive tools and sports kits. However, my skill was honed in the national camps for which I was selected. Also, a team game requires you to bring sharp skills to the table.”

Nazia said she practices three hours at home and for 7-8 hours in the camps. “Joining the preparatory camp for the International Kho Kho competition was very helpful. It brings discipline in an athlete and also makes one realize of competition.”

An international gold medal in hand though Nazia wants to forget her struggle against society’s attitude. She said, “Even I felt uncomfortable with the tracksuit and uncovered hair because we, as tribal women, are conditioned to conservative dressing.”

Her father Sabar Ali says, “I am an illiterate person. I would get upset with people making jokes about my daughter’s dress and her sports. Today, the same people are coming to congratulate us and I am so happy.”

Sabar Ali and his five brothers live close by in the village and have unity. Advocate Choudhary who visited the 2-room house of Nazia told Awaz-the Voice, “They are a simple and pure united family. I don’t think they fully understand the scope of their daughter’s achievements.”

Fighting society in pursuing one’s passion is not so easy for women.

Nazia says at one stage she had decided to give up. As luck would have it Nazia was playing for India and the team won gold unmindful of the celebrations of her brother’s wedding back home.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Aasha Khosa, New Delhi / February 04th, 2025

American Specialty Foods Co wins prestigious Westford Award for Business Excellence

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA/ Maryland, U.S.A / Dubai, U.A.E :

Dubai: 

American Specialty Foods Co has been honored with the prestigious Westford Award for Business Excellence in the Food & Beverage category. The award was presented at a grand ceremony held at Madinat Jumeirah, Mina Al Salam, Dubai, on January 24, 2025.

The award was received by the company’s Founder and CEO, Hany M. Haneef, along with Co-founder and Director, Shahanaz Haneef. Expressing his gratitude, Haneef stated, “I am truly honored to receive this award. It belongs to our incredible team, partners, and supporters. Success is built on dedication, teamwork, and excellence. This is just the beginning; there is so much more ahead.”

Established in 2013, American Specialty Foods Co has grown into a leading provider of premium global food solutions. Headquartered in Maryland, USA, the company also has offices in New York, Mexico, the UK, and the UAE. With a distribution network spanning over 50 countries, the company offers more than 20 specialty food categories and actively participates in major international food trade events worldwide.

The Westford Awards recognize outstanding business achievements across various industries, providing winners with greater visibility and networking opportunities. “This recognition further cements American Specialty Foods Co’s position as a leader in the specialty food and beverage sector,” a statement from the company added.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / January 31st, 2025

Nuruddin wins accolades for designing Science Fair of Assam Sahitya Sabha

Arts & Crafts / CraftsPersons (wef. January 14th, 2025), Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy

ASSAM :

Nuruddin Ahmed standing in front of the arch of Science Fair

Two decades ago, Nuruddin Ahmed created a stir by bringing the sinking of the Titanic to life on stage in live theatre.

Over the years, he has also brought to life the 5,000-year-old Maya civilization and Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandava kingdom from the Mahabharata, in Durga Puja mandaps.

A National Award-winning sculptor and art director, Ahmed is currently leading the Pathsala session of the Assam Sahitya Sabha. He has previously made headlines for displaying models of iconic structures like the Taj Mahal, the Colosseum, and the Great Wall of China during Durga Puja.

Nuruddin Ahmed played a significant role in organising the 77th Pathsala session of the Assam Sahitya Sabha. The first-ever Science Fair held on the Sahitya Sabha grounds from January 31 to February 4 attracted lakhs of visitors from across India and abroad.

For those unfamiliar, the Assam Sahitya Sabha is a key guardian of Assam’s cultural and literary heritage, playing a vital role in promoting the language, culture, literature, and dignity of the northeastern state.

A scene inside the Science Fair

The organization, founded in 1917 by pioneers like Padmanath Gohanibarua and Sarat Chandra Goswami, is celebrating its 108th year by hosting a science fair alongside its literary activities for the first time.

In an interview with Awaz-the Voice, Assam, Nuruddin Ahmed shared that, while he has been involved in sculpture and art direction for decades, this is his first time organizing such a large-scale science fair.

“I have organized many science fairs and also worked with the Assam Science Technology & Environment Council. The Pathsala session of the Assam Sahitya Sabha features 21 departments related to science and technology,” he said. These include institutions such as the Indian Army, National Science Centre, Aryabhatta Science Centre, Oil Corporation of India, Numaligarh Oil Refinery, Assam Agricultural University, North Eastern Space Application Centre, Tezpur University, Gauhati University, and the Shipping Corporation of India.

“This initiative by the Assam Sahitya Sabha is a welcome move and will play a crucial role in fostering a scientific mindset among the youth,” said Nuruddin Ahmed, a Sangeet Natak Academy Award winner.

Science Fair at Pathsala

Nuruddin Ahmed has been designing arches for the venue of the Assam Sahitya Sabha sessions held in different parts of Assam for the past three decades. He was also closely involved during the 1987 session at Pathsala, Bajali district.

At that session, Nuruddin worked on the museum and archway. He is proud of his association with the Pathshala Sahitya Sabha session after 38 years and thanked the local MLA and Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass for this.

“I have a special passion for the Pathsala session. The Sahitya Sabha session was held here in 1987. “I am grateful to the welcoming committee president and Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass for giving me this opportunity this time”, Ahmed said. 

The art director told Awaz that he began decorating the venue on January 19 and completed the work by January 30 and handed it over to the management committee. A group of 16 artists collaborated to decorate the Science Fair for the public, with Nuruddin Ahmed’s two sons, Dwip and Raj Ahmed, also contributing to success of the event..

Nuruddin Ahmed, who has revived the traditional arches of temples and sculptures in various parts of Assam, has prepared the tableau of the state of Assam for several Republic Days.

Nuruddin Ahmed has been creating and painting idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses for many years. Despite facing challenges at the beginning, as idolatry is forbidden in Islam, his works are now embraced with love and reverence by both Hindus and Muslims.

The Pandal of Indian Army at the Science Fair

During the Sharadiya Durga Puja last year, Nuruddin Ahmed brought Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandava kingdom in the ancient Hindu epic Mahabharata, to life. His creation received praise at the Athgaon Public Durga Puja Mandap in Guwahati. Indraprastha, which means “The city of Indra,” is believed to have been located in the area where present-day New Delhi stands.

The Assam Sahitya Sabha is the guardian of Assam’s cultural and literary heritage. It has played a great role in promoting the language, culture, literature and dignity of the North Eastern Space Application Centre.

The organization was founded in 1917 by pioneers like Padmanath Gohanibarua and Sarat Chandra Goswami. In its 108th year for the first time a science fair is being organized along side literary activities.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Mukut Sharma, Guwahati / February 05th, 2025

Vogue Theater Committed to Promoting Urdu Language, Theatre, and Creative Activities

Arts, Culture & Entertainment

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Mumbai:

The sixth annual festival, “Discover,” celebrated young creative talents with enthusiasm, recognizing efforts to provide them a platform. Organized by Vogue Theatre in collaboration with Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, the state-level Urdu drama competition and children’s festival successfully took place at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. The event showcased the richness of Urdu language and literature while offering young talents an opportunity to express their creativity. Schools from Mumbai, its suburbs, and other districts participated, making it a vibrant confluence of artistic expression.

Engr. Adnan Sarkhot, President of Vogue Theatre, who has been associated with Urdu theatre for over 30 years and actively works for children’s creative development, led the event to its grand success. Notable guests, including Padma Shri Dr. Zaheer Kazi, IPS Qaiser Khalid, Dr. Sheikh Abdullah, Zahid Khan, and Zakir Khan, lauded Team Vogue’s initiative, emphasizing the importance of such programs in preserving Urdu for future generations.

As in previous years, “Discover” featured various competitions, including drawing, mono-acting, Urdu and English story writing, quizzes, and drama. More than a contest, the festival served as a learning experience, building confidence and refining students’ artistic skills. The participants’ creative performances left a lasting impression on the audience.

Experts from Mumbai, Bhiwandi, and Solapur judged the competitions. Awardees included Principal Saba Patel, who received the Innovative Principal Award, while Raja Baghban (Solapur) and Sajid Dolar (Malegaon) were honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for their contributions to education and literature. Additionally, for their outstanding performances in Urdu drama and academic excellence in SSC exams, Zara Feroz Shaikh (Mira Road) and Aashna Wahid Ansari (Mumbra) received the Rising Star Award.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Arts & Culture / by Radiance News Bureau / February 08th, 2025

Nawab Shaffan Khan, heir of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan, passes away – Urdu News Bareilly

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, First War of Independence 1857 / Naval Mutiny 1946 / Others PreIndependece (wef. July 27th, 2022), Freedom Fighters (under research project), Leaders, Martyrs of the Nation, Royal Families, PreIndependence -Descendants (wef. Jan 02nd,2022), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bareilly, UTTAR PRADESH :

Nawab Shafan Khan, the heir of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan, who kept the Rohilkhand region free from British rule for eleven months during the 1857 freedom movement, has passed away.

Nawab Shafan Khan breathed his last at the age of 80. The sacrifices of his ancestors are recorded in golden words in the pages of history.

Death of Nawab Shaffan Khan, heir of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan

Nawab Shafan Khan, a resident of Shahabad area of ​​Bareilly city, has passed away. He was laid to rest in Bhor graveyard near his home after Zuhr prayers. He was the heir to a great family whose ancestors ruled not only Bareilly but also in about 9 surrounding districts. His great-grandfather Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan had set a great example of bravery and sacrifice in the style of his namesake.

He was a hero of the 1857 revolution. He was born in 1791 into a Nawab family. He was the grandson of Rohilla Sardar Hafiz Rehmat Khan.

The slogan of revolution was raised in Meerut on 10 May 1857 and when the news of it reached Bareilly on 14 May, preparations were intensified here too. On 31 May, Khan Bahadur Khan and his generals and soldiers, led by Subedar Bakht Khan, declared a rebellion against the British government.

Tomb of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan

The then magistrate, civil sergeant, jail superintendent and principal of Bareilly College, “C.Buk”, were killed by the revolutionaries. By five in the evening, the revolutionaries had taken control of the Bareilly division.

On June 1, these revolutionaries took out a triumphant procession. When the procession reached Kotwali, a large number of Bareilly citizens crowned Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan and elected him the Nawab of the Bareilly division.

Heir of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan

An example of the bravery of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan is that despite the numerous atrocities and abuses of the British government and being a powerful ruler, he kept the Bareilly division free from the rule of the British government for eleven months.

However, later, the British government arrested Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan while fighting a war at one place. He was brought to the same Kotwali where he was awarded the title of Nawab. He was imprisoned and kept in an unknown place.

Then on February 24, 1860, the hero of the urban people was brought on foot to the Kotwali and hanged on the same day at 7:10 am. A strange silence fell in the city and darkness prevailed.

Heir of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan

To prevent any unrest in the city after the hanging of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan, his body was taken to the district jail in an armored police vehicle and buried in the premises of the district jail.

Heir of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan

The special thing is that he was buried with irons. Even today, the irons are clearly visible on the head of his grave. The British government had also buried Khan Bahadur Khan in the prison premises so that people could not gather at his grave and there would be no further excitement in the revolution.

Now let us mention Nawab Shafan Khan, the heir of Khan Bahadur Khan. He struggled for life and livelihood till his last breath. Despite belonging to the Nawab family, his family had to face difficulties for years or even their entire lives. Despite this, the struggle did not end in his life till his last breath.

According to his younger brother Nawab Liaquat Khan, Nawab Shaffan Khan’s health had deteriorated for the past five days. He was unable to go to the mosque to offer prayers during those days. Due to the weak financial condition of the family, he was undergoing treatment at home. But in the morning, his health deteriorated further and he died after a few moments.

source: http://www.etvbharat.com / ETV Bharat – Urdu / Home> Urdu> State / by Urdu translation into English / July 02nd, 2021

Mahakumbh: Farhan Alam saved Ramshankar’s life to emerge as hero

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Uniquely Indian - Inter Faith (wef. February 08th, 2023)

Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), UTTAR PRADESH :

PIC

New Delhi

“When you help someone, you don’t think of his religion or sect; saving a life is human and a duty. Religion also teaches that human life is the most precious thing in the world.”

This is what Farhan Alam, a young lawyer and social worker from Prayagraj, who saved Ramshankar by giving him timely CPR  when the former suffered a heart attack during the Mahakumbh at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, said. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency treatment done on someone who se breathing or heartbeat has stopped.

Last week’s incident came to light when a video of Farhan Alam administering the life-saving procedure on Ramshankar went viral on social media. In the clip, Farhar is seen applying pressure with both hands on the chest of an unconscious Ramshankar as his wife and child are seen crying.

Later it was revealed that Farhan Alam had saved the life of Ramshankar, a devotee who had come to Maha Kumbh.

Speaking with Awaz-the Voice, Farhan Alam said this was not unusual for him. “It was a part of my responsibility that I performed well. The important thing is that I tried reviving him through CPR and Allah helped me.”

pix02

Remembering the incident, he said, “I was posted at the railway station, but one of my colleagues Muhammad Arshad told me about the passing out of a devotee on the walkie-talkie. I rushed there within a few minutes. He was unconscious and his breathing had stopped. I quickly started the CPR procedure. After a few moments of hard work, he started breathing; his heart was beating. As the wave of life ran through Ramshankar, it also rejuvenated the people around – onlookers and most importantly his child and wife.”

Farhan Alam is working with UNICEF on behalf of the Prayagraj-based NGO HAQ that works on child rights. Along with HAQ, he is also the founder of Prim Rose Siksha Sansthan.

Farhan’s interest in volunteering as a social worker comes from his late father Dr. Noor Alam. In 1994, he trained the Railway Protection Force personnel in emergency medical assistance procedures.

However, Farhan Alam says saving life is always a challenge; so it was in the case of Ramshankar. “I can do my best with all the courage I have. The rest is Allah’s will”.

Farhan Alam told Awaz-The Voice that before the Maha Kumbh, he trained  Railway Protection Force jawans led by Inspector Shiv Kumar Singh in the run-up to the Mahakumbh. He imparted them training on administering CPR. This was part of the preparations for the Mahakumhb which is expected to be visited by a record 45 crore people.

Farhan Alam says that the Maha Kumbh Mela is the center of the faith of Hindus, but we all respect it and the residents of Prayagraj are ready to take up every kind of responsibility for its smooth conduct as “All devotees are our guests.”

He says being from Prayagraj it’s “our responsibility and duty to protect them till they return from the Kumbh Mela. I believe that this is the Maha Kumbh of brotherhood and communal harmony. There are also Muslims here who volunteer to serve crores of devotees. Muslim volunteers work day and night with great pride to help the devotees.”

pix03

Farhan Alam told Awaz-The Voice that at the Maha Kumbh Mela, there is no difference between Hindus and Muslims. “No one stopped us from serving because of our religion nor did anyone object. We, the people of the city, consider it our social and human responsibility to serve the visitors. We all work with the spirit that we should tackle problems that devotees might face. Volunteers have no religion; they are in the service of humanity.”

Later, Farhan Alam met Ram Shankar in the hospital in Prayagraj. All those in the hospital came to meet and thanked him for his act. However, Farhan Alam was happy to see Ramshankar’s smiling countenance.

Interestingly, Farhan Alam also shared a video clip in which he is seen administering CPR on a devotee at a religious festival on social media.

Speaking as a volunteer, Farhan Alam told Awaz that this incident demonstrated to common devotees how much preparations have been done by the administration for the Mahakumbh.

People are praising Farhan Alam for this deed and calling him the real hero of Mahakumbh.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / posted by Aasha Khosa, ATV / January 30th, 2025

India’s Top Muslim Business Tycoons: Shaping the Nation’s Global Prestige

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, Science & Technology, Travel & Tourism, World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , ,

INDIA :

From technology to hospitality, Muslim businessmen are raising India’s stature on the global stage

New Delhi :

In the ever-evolving world of business, several prominent figures are not just shaping the Indian economy but also placing the country on the global map. Among them, six Muslim businessmen stand out, with their remarkable ventures spanning across various sectors, such as technology, healthcare, retail, and hospitality. These influential entrepreneurs are enhancing India’s image worldwide, further solidifying its position in the global business arena.

Azim Premji – The Tech Magnate Azim Premji, often regarded as the richest Muslim businessman in India, has played a pivotal role in the growth of India’s technology sector. As the chairman of Wipro, one of the country’s largest IT companies, Premji’s leadership has helped the company expand its reach across various international markets. His contributions extend beyond the business world as well. “India’s rise in the global tech landscape is closely tied to Wipro’s innovation and excellence,” said Premji. Through Wipro, Premji has established himself as a philanthropist, with substantial donations to charitable causes.

Meraj Manal – The Herbal Business Visionary Meraj Manal, the driving force behind the success of ‘Himalaya,’ India’s prominent herbal company, is known for his dedication to promoting natural wellness. His business expertise has helped Himalaya expand into a globally recognised brand, selling products in over 90 countries. Manal attributes his success to innovation and a commitment to quality. “We’re not just selling products; we’re selling a way of life,” he shared. His continued success has played an essential role in reinforcing the global appeal of Indian herbal and natural products.

Rafiq Malik – Footwear Industry Leader Rafiq Malik, founder and owner of ‘Metro,’ one of India’s leading footwear brands, has seen significant international growth. His entrepreneurial vision has positioned Metro as a key player in the retail space, both in India and abroad. Under his leadership, Metro has expanded its footprint, contributing to the growing demand for Indian brands in global markets. “Metro is about more than just shoes; it’s about delivering quality and style to every customer,” said Malik.

Yusuf Ali – Hospitality and Retail Mogul Yusuf Ali, owner of ‘Lulu,’ one of the largest retail chains and shopping malls in many world countries and in India, has firmly placed his mark in the retail and hospitality sectors. With Lulu Mall’s presence in multiple countries, his business is recognised globally. From large-scale shopping centres to luxury hotels, Yusuf Ali’s diverse portfolio is a testament to his entrepreneurial prowess. “Our mission is to provide an unparalleled shopping experience for our customers, no matter where they are,” Yusuf Ali explained.

Other Notable Names
While Premji, Manal, Malik, and Yusuf Ali are among the most prominent, several other Muslim businessmen are also contributing significantly to India’s economic growth. Their ventures span multiple industries, from healthcare to infrastructure, highlighting the diversity and dynamism of Muslim entrepreneurs in India.

These businessmen not only continue to lead successful ventures but also serve as role models for the younger generation, proving that entrepreneurship knows no bounds. Through their business acumen, these individuals are ensuring that India continues to grow as an economic powerhouse on the global stage.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editors Pick> India / by Team Clarion / December 07th, 2025

Uddhav Thackeray Felicitates Arif Bamane for Rescuing 35 Mumbai Ferry Passengers 

Amazing Feats, Bravery Awards, Citations, Commendations etc (since April 14th, 2024), Community Involvement / Social Issues

Mumbai, MAHARASTHRA :

New Delhi : 

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday felicitated Arif Bamane who rescued around 35 passengers following the collision of a Navy speedboat with a passenger ferry off the Mumbai coast that resulted in the death of 15 people.

In a post on X, the party informed about the felicitations. The post also contains photographs of Thackeray with Arif.  

“Arif Bamane, who showed bravery in saving the lives of 35 passengers in the Nilkamal boat accident, was honoured by party chief Hon. Uddhavsaheb Thackeray. Shiv Sena leader MP Arvind Sawant, Secretary MLA Milind Narvekar and Deputy Leader MLA Manoj Jamsutkar were present on this occasion,” said the party. 

The tragic maritime accident occurred on December 18 near Mumbai when an Indian Navy boat collided with the passenger ferry Neelkamal causing it to capsize. The ferry was headed to the Elephanta Caves from Gateway of India. A total of 101 people were rescued.

According to reports, on receiving a distress call, Arif and his team rushed to the accident site, traversing a distance typically covered in 18–20 minutes in just eight minutes. Describing the horrific scene to reporters, Arif said, “It was devastating. People were crying for help, some floating on the waves, while others struggled to stay afloat without life jackets. I saw a little girl lying motionless, with her lungs filled with water. I also rescued a newborn who wasn’t breathing and revived him by hanging him upside down.”

Arif, aboard his boat Porwa, a pilot vessel used to assist larger ships in anchoring, led his team in pulling people out of the treacherous waves. While many at the Gateway of India stood as helpless spectators, praying for the victims, Arif jumped into action. His priority was the vulnerable — children and women — whom he dragged to safety, calmed with reassuring words, and provided them with life jackets.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editors Pick> India / by Team Clarion / December 24th, 2024

Small Acts, Big Rewards: Kifayatullah Malik’s Quest to Empower Underprivileged

Community Involvement / Social Issues, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Lawaypora Village (Bandipora), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Bandipora, Kashmir:

Growing up in Lawaypora, a small village in bandipora, Kifayatullah was the first child in his family to attend school. His father is a farmer. Kifayatullah soon realized that many children in his community were deprived of this basic right.

Kifayatullah Malik told TCN, “My desire to serve the community was sparked by the difficulties and hardships I encountered during my school days. I was driven to social work by a dream that no other child should experience the hardships I endured”.

Kifayatullah Malik, 25, is a mountaineer, young leader, and social worker. He graduated from the University of Kashmir with a master’s degree in social work. As a committed social worker, he advocates for Underprivileged people, especially women, children, and youth.

Children in hilly regions are encouraged to play sports and go to school by Kifayatullah. Additionally, he gathers used textbooks and gives them to students in need.

In remote areas such as Ketson, Dakhi, Dangarnar, Chinchar, he has set up awareness camps on topics including drug misuse, environmental sustainability, and women’s empowerment. His efforts in social forestry and tree planting are also worth mentioning.

He mentioned the lack of finance as the main obstacle, adding that I primarily rely on crowd-funding to carry out my purpose.

Kifayatullah Malik is currently the district coordinator for REACHA (Research and Extension Association for Conservation of Horticulture and Agro-forestry), which works to increase economic opportunities, enhance education, and close the digital divide in underprivileged areas of J&K. In addition, he has served under “Bal Raksha Bharat,” an organization that is vital to improving rural communities’ access to healthcare, education, and livelihood.

President Draupadi Murmu presented him with the esteemed President’s Award for Social Work and Community Welfare in 2021-22. Other honors that Kifayatullah has received include the Best Forest Friend Award for planting trees from the Jammu and Kashmir Social Forestry Department, the Ambassador of Humanity Award 2024, the Global Human Rights Award, the ADG’s Appreciation Award 2019, and the award for social work in 2024.

Kifayatullah Malik says, having millions is not necessary to make a difference. A small act of kindness can have a significant impact. Simple actions like providing guidance to a child, giving someone a book or a pen, feeding a poor family can bring great rewards. Try it and see the positive change you can create!

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> India News> TCN Positive / by TCN News / February 07th, 2025