Tag Archives: Muslim Women of India

Mangaluru: BIT Students excel at VTU Convocation

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Thasneem Khalid and Ayshuthul Sajeena

Mangaluru: 

Students of Bearys Institute of Technology (BIT) have made the institution proud with their achievements at the 24th Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) Annual Convocation held today.

Thasnim Khalid, an M.Tech CSE graduate, secured the 8th rank with a CGPA of 9.43 and received her award during the ceremony.

Ayshuthul Sajeena, another M.Tech CSE graduate, achieved the 5th rank with a CGPA of 9.53. However, she could not attend the event due to the recent passing of her father.

The BIT management, faculty, and staff have congratulated both students on their accomplishments, appreciating their hard work and dedication.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / February 08th, 2025

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

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

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

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

AMU Junior Resident Doctor Bags Best Paper Award at National Event in Mumbai

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Dr. Fasna K receiving the best paper award at Mumbai

Aligarh:

Dr. Fasna K, a Junior Resident-III in the Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Dr. Z.A. Dental College, Aligarh Muslim University got the Best Paper Award at the 21st National Postgraduate Convention of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry (PedoSoch 2025), held in Mumbai, recently.

Her Guide, Prof Saima Yunus Khan, Chairperson of the department congratulated Dr. Fasna on the achievement.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / February 05th, 2025

Delhi Elections 2025: Shifa Ur Rahman’s Wife Nooreen Calls for Justice at the Ballot Box; Tahir Says AAP is Mirroring BJP’s Hindutva Agenda

Okhla, DELHI :

Shifaur Rehman with AIMIM leaders

New Delhi :

The air is thick with political tension in the bustling lanes of Delhi’s Okhla constituency as the assembly elections in the city draw near. A determined and vocal leader, Nooreen Fatima rallies the crowd with the chant, “Bolega Okhla, Jeetega Insaf (Okhla will speak, justice will win).”Fatima is campaigning for her husband, Shifa Ur Rehman, an outspoken anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) activist, who has been behind bars since April 2020. Accused of being involved in a conspiracy to incite riots in Northeast Delhi, he faces serious charges, but his supporters believe the allegations are baseless.

Steadfast in her mission, Fatima tells the voters, “We could not get justice in the courts, but we trust you to deliver it at the ballot box.” Her voice reverberates through the streets and seemingly resonates with the people of Okhla who still seek justice for what they perceive as wrongful incarcerations.Talking to TwoCircles.net, Fatima explained why her husband decided to contest the elections despite his lack of political experience and imprisonment for five years. “We are a part of this society. Politics is part of our life,” she said. “Although Shifa-ur-Rahman has no political background, he has always had an interest in politics. We are not gullible people. It is not that Shifa does not understand the political landscape. In the past, he was very much involved.”

Nooren Fatima campaigning

She continued, “Owaisi Sahab took a risk by giving us a ticket, something no big party would do. They want big faces, not freshers. But Owaisi took that risk, and now people are learning about Shifa. This is a platform for us, and for that, we are grateful.”

Often seen leading the charge, Fatima passionately addresses the core issues that have plagued the community. “The education system in Okhla has failed us. The healthcare system is a mess. The government promises a lot but delivers little. People need better schools, better hospitals and better opportunities. We will fight for these rights.”

She argues that the local government’s “neglect” has only exacerbated the community’s problems, with basic infrastructure such as roads and drainage systems still in disrepair.

She has a conviction in fighting for her husband. “We cannot just sit back and watch as our future is decided by others,” she said. “It is time for people to rise and take charge. Our fight is not just for Shifa; it is for all of us who have been wronged.”

Rehman’s candidacy, endorsed by All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi, has apparently stirred the community.

Once a stronghold for the Congress, the Okhla constituency has shifted to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in recent years, thanks to the party’s emphasis on local issues like education and healthcare. Many now believe AAP is the best hope for keeping the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) from gaining ground in the area.

Reflecting on the bigger picture of the elections, Fatima emphasises the need for unity and focus. “This is not just about our family, it is about the future of the community. We need leaders who will fight for justice, for education, for healthcare, for our rights,” she says. “I appeal to the people of Okhla to consider who is genuinely fighting for them and who is merely playing political games. We have had enough of broken promises. Now is the time for real change.”

Always direct, Fatima also critiques the state of politics in the region. “I want to appeal to the people to vote wisely. Take into consideration how the candidate addresses your issues. Making emotional speeches and issuing hollow statements will not resolve the various issues. They will be resolved if your issues are genuinely taken into account. Think about Shifa’s sacrifices, his nature, and the difficulties he has faced.”

Meanwhile, in Mustafabad, another Muslim-majority constituency in North East Delhi, the mood is similarly charged. The area still feels the scars of the 2020 riots, where 53 lives were lost, 38 of them Muslims, and the subsequent arrests of students and activists.

Tahir Hussain, a former AAP councillor, remains behind bars. He is accused of murder and riot-incitement. His wife, Shama Anjum, has stepped up to carry his political torch, campaigning fiercely for his innocence. “The allegations against him are baseless,” she asserts, drawing from her personal pain and conviction. “He is not a rioter. He is a victim.”

Out on a six-day custody parole granted by the Supreme Court, Hussain is campaigning in his constituency, where he is contesting as an AIMIM candidate. “I had announced six months ago that I will contest from Mustafabad. All the parties knew this… they all announced their candidates just a few days ago. None of them reached out to me. The AAP and the Congress could have, but they were scared that the BJP will make this a poll issue,” he tells TwoCircles.net.

Tahir Hussain with Owaisi and others from AIMIM

Hussain expresses gratitude towards the AIMIM, saying, “I am grateful to Owaisi that he gave me a chance. He is a seasoned politician… Parties that I spent time with, I shared meals with and campaigned for, abandoned me. But an unknown person showed faith in me. He hugged me and fielded me on party symbol.”

While Hussain faces political isolation from his former allies, his personal connections with Mustafabad are deep-rooted. “I have grown up here, got married and had children in Mustafabad. I love my people and rule their hearts,” he says. Despite the challenges, he remains confident in his campaign and asserts that he is “banking on 30 years of hard work”.

Further criticising the AAP, he says, “For the last 10 years, Kejriwal has not even shown his face to us. The people will not fall for their trap this time. There is so much work to be done here.”

As posters demanding justice for Hussain adorn the walls of Mustafabad, the political landscape becomes more complex. The AAP has fielded Adil Ahmad Khan, promising a more developed and educated constituency, but criticism lingers over the party’s alleged failure to adequately address post-riot rehabilitation. Attempting a comeback with Ali Mehdi, another local leader, the Congress is challenging the AAP’s grip on the area, while the BJP’s candidate, Mohan Singh Bisht, aims to consolidate Hindu votes by focusing on “justice” for riot survivors within the Hindu community.

The AIMIM’s decision to field Rehman and Hussain, both tied to the 2020 riots, has ignited intense emotional support among Muslim voters, but it also raises concerns about vote fragmentation.

The stakes have never been higher for Okhla, Mustafabad, and the broader political landscape in Delhi. The February 5 elections will not only be a contest of power but a struggle for justice, dignity and the future direction of the city’s diverse communities.

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> India News> Indian Muslims / by TwoCircles.net Staff Reporter / February 01st, 2025

Zakia Jafri, A Symbol of Resistance, Passes Away

Khandwa District, MADHYA PRADESH / Ahmedabad, GUJARAT :

Zakia Jafri, wife of former Congress MP Ehsan Jafri – the Legal Crusader who became a Symbol of Resistance, died at her residence in Ahmedabad Saturday February 01, 2025.

Mumbai: 

Zakia Jafri, wife of former Congress MP Ehsan Jafri – the Legal Crusader who became a Symbol of Resistance, died at her residence in Ahmedabad Saturday February 01, 2025.

Zakia Jafri was 86.

Zakia Jafri is survived by sons Tanveer and Zubair, and daughter Nishrin. “Mom passed away at around 11:30 AM”, she told media.

Zakia Jafri’s sad demise was later shared with the world by Rights Activist, Journalist and Author, Teesta Setalvad.

“Zakia Appa a compassionate leader of the Human Rights Community passed away just 30 minutes ago!” Teesta Setalvad wrote on her X account around 01:30 PM Saturday.

“Her visionary presence will be missed by the nation, family. friends & world! Rest in Power and Peace Zakia appa!” Teesta wrote while condoling Zakia Jafri’s death.

Originally from Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh, Zakia Jafri had shifted to Ahmedabad, Gujarat in 1971. This after living in a refugee camp after her home in Khandwa was burnt during the 1969 communal riots.

Zakia Jafri’s husband Ehsan Jafri was a freedom fighter and Member of Parliament.

Ehsan Jafri and his family had provided shelter to dozens of Muslim families at their Gulbarg Society in Ahmedabad during the 2002 Gujarat riots.

But, the society, considered to be a safe haven because of Jafri family’s stature, too was targeted by the rioters who burnt alive and killed at least 68, including Ehsan Jafri.

Zakia Jafri later fought a long legal battle to seek justice for the 2002 Gujarat riot victims. She had also challenged the SIT clean chit given to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was Chief Minister Gujarat, during the riots.

During the long legal battle she was threatened and later cajoled by different means and tactics. She however remained firm.

Zakia Jafri is likely to be laid to rest beside her husband in Ahmedabad.

Condolences pour in

Meanwhile, condolences are pouring in from different circles after the demise of Zakia Jafri.

Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, in his condolence message said, “Zakia Jafri, an unwavering voice for the victims of the 2002 Gujarat riots, is no more. The widow of former MP Ehsan Jafri, who was brutally murdered by a Sangh Parivar-led mob, she dedicated her life to the pursuit of justice. Her relentless fight leaves behind a legacy of courage and resilience. Her memory will continue to inspire us in our fight against communalism and divisive forces.”

Congress Spokesperson, Pawan Khera, wrote, “Zakia Jafri died today. Her Hope for justice had died in her life time. She chronicled the history of ‘New India’ through her tears, her sobs, her fight and her defeat.”

Hyderabad MP and AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi in his condolence message wrote, “Zakia Jafri watched her husband being murdered by a mob in 2002. For nearly two decades, she fought a lonely legal battle against some of India’s most powerful men, never showing fear. She passed away today. May Allah grant her peace and strength to her loved ones.”

Sanjiv Bhatt (IPS) who was posted in Gujarat during the 2002 Godhra Riots condoled Zakia Jafri’s death in these words.

“Zakia Jafri Ji was an unshakable voice of truth against power. For decades, she fought not just for justice, but for truth, dignity and the very soul of our democracy. Her strength in the face of unimaginable loss will forever inspire us. Today, India has lost a true warrior, but her courage will live on! Rest in power, Zakia Ji!!”

Condoling the death of Zakia Jafri, Journalist and TV Anchor Rajdeep Sardesai worte: “Sad news: Zakia Jafri, whose husband and former Cong MP Ehsan Jafri was brutally killed in the 2002 Gujarat riots passed away today. For years, she fought a valiant battle for justice. When even an MP’s wife struggles to be heard, imagine the plight of an ordinary citizen. And yet, she remained steadfast and courageous till the end. Refused to give up.”

Mumtaz Patel, daughter of Congress leader Ahmed Patel, condoled Zakia Jafri’s death in these words.

“Zakia Jafri ji, symbol of resilience and an unwavering voice for justice, is no more. Her fight for truth and accountability in the face of unimaginable tragedy will always be remembered. May she rest in power.”

My heart goes out to the brave lady #ZakiaJafri who fought against these devils and those three judges who betrayed you . But they all will have to pay for their karmas before they depart from this world,this also includes the supreme leader . pic.twitter.com/JQUZTueTuI— Ravinder Kapur. (@RavinderKapur2) February 1, 2025.

“Zakia Jafri, widow of former parliamentarian Ehsan Jafri, who was killed by a Hindutva mob in the 2002 Gujarat genocide, Zakia Jafri Survived in genocide and become the relentless voice of Justice”, Noor Mahvish, a lawyer, wrote on X.

“Zakia Jafri . A life time of a fight for justice 23 years out of the 85 she spent on this earth ,waiting for justice for the killing of her husband along with the people they tried to protect inside Gulberg Society in Gujarat 2002”, a social media user, who identifies her as Realm of Bohemia, wrote.

“Brave and fearless, she fought for Justice till the end”, an activist wrote.

“She left this world fighting for justice and showing the whole world how to never give up”, Razia Pathan, an activist, wrote.

source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> India / by ummid.com News Network / February 01st, 2025

Tahsildar of Humnabad Anjum Tabassum Honoured on National Voters’ Day

Kalaburagi (Gulbarga) / Humnabad (Bidar District), KARNATAKA :

Humnabad:

Anjum Tabassum, Tahsildar of Humnabad in Bidar district of Karnataka was presented with an award for her excellent performance as Assistant Electoral Registration Officer during Parliamentary elections 2024.

State governor Thawarchand Gehlot gave away the award to her on National Voters’ Day in Bengaluru on January 25.

This prestigious recognition is a testament to her outstanding efforts and dedication during the Lok Sabha Elections 2024. Her hard work has paid off, and this award is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her commitment to ensuring free and fair election.

Anjum Tabassum Lashkari from Gulbarga cracked the Karnataka Administrative Services (KAS) in 2014. She did her masters from Gulbarga University and had schooling earlier in Shahbad town.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Latest News / by Mohammed Atherulla Shariff / January 27th, 2025

Remembering the person behind the first Republic Day of India

NEW DELHI :

Badruddin Tyabji, the grandson of freedom fighter and third Congress President by the same name, was entrusted with arrangements for the inaugural Republic Day celebrations in 1950.

HISTORIC: National Stadium during the first Republic Day Parade. Old Fort is also visible

Every year on January 26, the Tyabji family sit together in their posh West End Colony house (near Vasant Vihar) to watch the Republic Day Parade which holds special significance for them.  

Their late patriarch Badruddin Tyabji, a 1936 batch Punjab cadre Indian Civil Service officer, was responsible for looking after the arrangements of January 26, 1950 functions: first at the President House and later at Irwin Stadium (now Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium). 

Tyabji’s painter wife Surayya Tyabji made the prototype of the Tri-colour on paper based on which the flag of cloth for Republic Day was made in Connaught Place.

“Just a couple of weeks before the first Republic Day, Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru entrusted me to look after the arrangements of the January 26 functions,” Tyabji told this writer in his south Delhi house in 1994. 

He was also member secretary of the Constituent Assembly.  

“I was called by Pt. Nehru and he gave me the huge responsibility for the historic day. I used to live at Sujan Singh Park during those days.” 

From that day onwards, the tall and gracious Tyabji moved from the President House (now Rashtrapati Bhavan) to Irwin Stadium several times a day to finalise the arrangements as time was running out for the big day.

HAPPY FAMILY: The Tyabji clan including Laila Tyabji (centre, front row), who is a social worker, designer, writer and crafts activist

The big day for which Tyabji had worked so hard was also hectic for Rajendra Prasad, the soon-to-be first President of independent India. He marked the momentous occasion with a visit to Raj Ghat to pay homage to Gandhiji. He remained there for around 15 minutes. 

But before the would-be President of India could get to the President House, C Rajagopalachari, the Governor General of India, had already reached there. The latter used to live in the double-storeyed bungalow at the then 10, Hastings Road, which was later renamed after him as Rajaji Marg. Edwin Lutyens, the chief architect of New Delhi, also lived in the bungalow, and so did Pranab Kumar Mukherjee, who also lived in that house after demitting his office of President of India.

“Dr Rajendra Prasad was sworn in as the country’s first President at around 9 am by the Governor General of India, C. Rajagopalachari. Rajvanshi Devi, his wife, and other family members were also there. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by over 500 guests, who had assembled inside the Durbar Hall. President Sukarno of Indonesia and several members of the Diplomatic Corps, members of the Constituent Assembly and prominent citizens had graced the occasion. The President was dressed in black achkan, white churidar and a white Gandhi cap. Pandit Nehru and his other Cabinet colleagues were sworn in soon after Rajendra Prasad,” recalled Tyabji, who was named after his grandfather, the third President of Indian National Congress. 

Immediately after returning from Raj Ghat, Rajendra Prasad was sworn in. The Chief Justice of India, Sir Hiralal Kania, read the oath of office in Hindi. President Prasad repeated it sentence by sentence. 

“The outgoing Governor General, C. Rajagopalachari; our first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, beaming with pride and joy; the Deputy Prime Minister, Sardar Patel; cabinet ministers, judges of the Supreme Court and the Auditor-General of India, were present in the hall to witness the historic moment of India’s history. Pandit Nehru and his other cabinet colleagues were sworn in soon after.”

The national emblem of Ashoka Pillar with three lions was placed in the Durbar Hall for the first time near the throne where the British Viceroys used to sit. 

A smiling statue of Lord Buddha was also placed behind the throne for the first time. Rajendra Prasad, the President, who greeted the large gathering smilingly with folded hands, made a short speech in Hindi and English, stating that it was a memorable day in our annals. 

“Let us begin by offering our thanks to the Almighty Power who has enabled us to see this day; to the Father of the Nation who showed us and to the world at large his infallible method of Satyagraha, and led us on along it to freedom and to the numberless men and women, whose suffering and sacrifice have rendered the attainment of independence and establishment of this sovereign democratic Republic possible.”

The birth of the Republic was celebrated by the masses in the Capital through Prabhat Pheries (early morning movement of people singing patriotic songs). Outside the Durbar Hall, there were unforgettable scenes of jubilation. Large crowd of men, women and children had assembled in the forecourt of President House. 

People raised slogans of Gandhiji-ki-jai and Vande Mataram

After a dignified ceremony was held at the President House, the scene shifted to Irwin Stadium. The new President travelled to the stadium in a horse-drawn carriage and Delhi’s roads were lined up with enthusiastic crowd standing along the five-mile route with the Tri-colour in their hands. A huge crowd greeted the President’s entourage when it reached the vicinity of Connaught Place. And when the first President of India reached the stadium, he was welcomed with a booming 31-gun salute. 

According to Tyabji, “Rajendra Prasad made a brief speech at the stadium. Later, students from various schools of the Capital presented cultural programmes.” 

Old timers still recall that there were very few policemen guarding the VIPs inside the stadium. After the programme, the leaders mingled with the people. Nehru was mobbed by his admirers. He spent a good 20 minutes with them. 

Tyabji, who could not sleep for several days ahead of the big occasion, was there managing the affairs carefully with his colleagues. Following very cold weather days in Delhi, brilliant sunshine greeted the Capital on January 26, 1950. 

It was India’s defining moment, the day India truly freed itself from the shackles of colonialism to become a Republic. A truly sovereign state. 

The talk of the first Republic Day cannot be complete without discussing the role of Tyabji’s wife, Surayya, in the making of the first Tri-colour.  

According to Tyabji, “Once the Constituent Assembly finalised our Tri-colour with Ashok Dharma Chakra inside the flag, I was asked to furnish the model of Tri-colour on both paper and cloth.” 

Without wasting any time, Badruddin Tyabji went straight to his Sujan Singh Park residence and asked his wife Surayya to make the Tri-colour on paper. She did not disappoint her husband. Once she made it on paper, Tyabji carried the design to the now defunct SC Tailors at Regal building of Connaught Place and asked them to make the Tri-colour in cloth. The rest, as they say, is history.

After retirement from government service, Tyabji also served as the Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University in the 1960s. 

He finally settled in Delhi and passed away in 1999. His wife, Suraiya, had died before him.

During one of our meetings, Tyabji had told me that when he came to Delhi from Hyderabad to appear for ICS examination, he was staying in Daryaganj. 

He used to take a tonga to reach Metcalfe House in Civil Lines to appear for his examinations. 

“Delhi was a very small city then. Except for old Delhi and villages, there was not much here. New Delhi was coming up,” he had said. 

When India was divided on the basis of religion in 1947, he was perhaps one of the only two Muslim ICS officers who opted to stay in India instead of accepting Islamic Pakistan.

OFFICER RANK: Badruddin Tyabji was a 1936-batch ICS officer of Punjab cadre. His wife, Surayya was a painter

Tyabji’s first son, Hindal Ahmad, was an IAS officer. He passed away last year. 

Tyabji’s daughter, Laila Tyabji is a noted social worker, designer, writer and crafts activist. She is one of the founders of Dastkar, a Delhi-based non-governmental organisation working for the revival of traditional crafts in India. 

Like in the past, the Tyabji family would watch the annual parade this year too. After all, they are the true and proud first family of India’s Republic Day. Yet, they are so self-effacing.

source: http://www.thepatriot.in / The Patriot / Home> Cover Story / by Vivek Shukla / January 26th, 2024

Muslim Ambulance Society’s 93-yr Legacy of Compassion and Service

Mumbai (South), MAHARASHTRA :

Established in 1932, the South Mumbai-based organisation continues to serve humanity with dedication and inclusivity

Mumbai :

The Muslim Ambulance Society, a renowned medical and social service organisation based in South Mumbai, has completed 93 years of unwavering dedication to the welfare of people, irrespective of religion or caste. Established on 24th July 1932, the organisation has evolved from a small shop on Chakla Street, Muhammad Ali Road, into a respected pillar of support for those in need.

To commemorate this milestone, a grand function was organised on Friday (January 24) at the Islam Gymkhana in Marine Lines.

Dr Abdul Rauf Samar, President of the Muslim Ambulance Society, highlighted the organisation’s rich history and core objectives, emphasising its inclusive approach. “The society aims to provide social and medical services to the poor and the needy regardless of religion and caste. A clear example of this was in the early days when a fellow countryman injured during Ganpati immersion was transported to the hospital by one of our ambulances,” he shared.

The society has also been instrumental during emergencies, including epidemics and communal riots. “We have consistently provided aid without discrimination, setting an example of humanity and service,” Dr Samar added.

He further introduced other key officials of the society, including Vice President Anwar Pashuri, Honorary Secretary Tanveer Hawa, Honorary Treasurer Iqbal Mauledina, and Ibrahim Kolsawala. Together, they carry forward the vision of the society’s founders: Ibrahim Haroon, Ayub Haroon, Noor Muhammad Dhyan, Muhammad Hussain Samar, Akbar Ali Khan, and Abdul Rahim Bachuseth.

The society’s impact is not confined to Mumbai. “Apart from Mumbai, our branches are also providing medical services in other provinces of the country. A new branch is set to open on Duncan Road in South Mumbai,” Dr Samar announced.

Highlighting their ongoing efforts, he said, “Since 1973, we have provided free treatment to TB patients. We also arrange free vaccinations for children under our supervision. These initiatives have been possible due to the generous support of philanthropists, and we hope to continue serving humanity with the same dedication in the future.”

The Muslim Ambulance Society’s 93-year journey of compassion and service stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and their ability to uplift society at large. The event aimed to celebrate this legacy while inspiring future generations to continue the noble mission.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslim / by Team Clarion / January 26th, 2025

Ramsha Ansari of Bhopal Becomes DSP, Inspires Muslim Girls to Join Civil Services

Bhopal, MADHYA PRADESH :

Beating all odds, the girl with a humble background secures a position in the top 10 of the Madhya Pradesh State Public Service Commission MPPSC exam

New Delhi :

In a remarkable achievement, Ramsha Ansari has made it to the top 10 in the Madhya Pradesh State Public Service Commission (MPPSC) exam, securing sixth position with a score of 878 out of 1575 marks. This accomplishment not only marks a significant milestone in her life but also serves as an inspiration for Muslim girls and women, breaking barriers and challenging the belief that higher education is out of their reach.

Ramsha, who hails from an ordinary family in Bhopal, will soon contribute to law and order in the state as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). “It is a matter of great pride and responsibility. I’m excited to serve my state and work for justice,” she said during a conversation with the media at her residence.

Ramsha’s success is a beacon of hope for many young Muslim girls, who often face societal and familial pressures limiting their opportunities in education. “We need to invest in education the most,” Ramsha emphasised. “It is the only weapon with which we can uplift our families, society, and country.”

Belonging to a family with limited financial resources, Ramsha’s journey is one of determination and perseverance. Her father, Ashraf Ansari, is a retired clerk from the Agriculture Department, while her mother, Sanjeeda Ansari, is a homemaker. Despite financial challenges, her family always emphasised the importance of education. “The support of my family has been invaluable,” Ramsha said, adding that her elder sister, who is a chartered accountant, has been a major source of inspiration for her.

Ramsha began her journey toward civil services after completing her BA in Economics Honours from Excellence College, Bhopal. She later completed an MA in History through distance learning at IGNOU and cleared the UGC-NET-JRF exam. Initially, Ramsha focused on preparing for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams but later shifted her focus to the MPPSC after facing setbacks.

Her journey wasn’t without obstacles. “I attempted the MPPSC exam multiple times. I cleared the preliminary and main exams twice but couldn’t get selected due to the interview scores. However, I never gave up,” Ramsha shared. It was after seven years and four attempts that she finally achieved her dream.

When asked about the time commitment needed for such an exam, Ramsha advised that aspiring candidates must dedicate 8 to 10 hours of study every day. “While the exact duration depends on personal ability and guidance, if you prepare with full focus for 2 to 3 years, it should be sufficient. But even if you don’t succeed initially, you must keep going with double the effort,” she stressed.

Apart from her studies, Ramsha also helped prepare students for the MPPSC exam at a coaching institute in Bhopal. “The positive environment created by my teachers, family, and even my students was a constant source of motivation,” she said.

Ramsha’s message to the Muslim community, especially to girls, is simple but powerful: “Education is the key to change. It can better not only our lives but also the lives of others around us. I urge Muslim youth and girls to aim for civil services. We must be a part of the progress of our nation.”

Ramsha Ansari’s success story is a testimony to the resilience and the transformative power of education. Through her achievements, she has not only changed her own life but has become a role model for many girls who now dare to dream big.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslim / by Clarion India / January 24th, 2025