In a historic moment, Hamza Hussain and Altaf Hussain, two brothers serving in Karnataka’s law enforcement, have been honored with the President’s Award for Meritorious Service on India’s 76th Republic Day.
Hamza Hussain, Superintendent of Police (S.P.) Commandant, 12th Battalion, KSRP, Tumkur, has been recognized for his leadership in critical police operations and public safety. His brother, Altaf Hussain, Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) at Wilson Garden Police Station, Bangalore, has played a vital role in crime prevention and community policing.
The award, one of the highest honors in Indian law enforcement, acknowledges their dedication, integrity, and commitment to justice. Their achievement is a proud moment for Karnataka and the nation, inspiring future generations of police officers.
The brothers expressed their gratitude, stating, “This award is a tribute to all officers who tirelessly serve the nation. We dedicate it to our department, colleagues, and family for their unwavering support.”
Their recognition on Republic Day underscores their exceptional service in upholding law and order, marking a milestone in Karnataka’s police history.
source: http://www.islamicvoice.com / Islamic Voice / Home> Cover Story / Vol. 37-03, No. 448 March 2025
Maulana S M Rabey Hasani Nadwi, Rector Nadwatul Ulama and President All India Muslim Personal Law Board, was a distinguished scholar of Islam. He was a man of literature and composition.
He passed away on April 13 in Lucknow.
Scion of an illustrious Syed family that produced a host of scholars, thinkers and spiritual preceptors like Shah Alamullah Hasani (d.1685), Syed Ahmad Shaheed (d.1831), Hakeem Syed Abdul Hai Hasani (1923), Dr Syed Abdul Ali Hasani (d.1961 ), Syed Muhammad Al- Hasani (1979), Syed Maulana Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi (d.1999), Maulana S M Wazeh Rasheed Nadwi (d.2019) and so on.
Almighty Allah bestowed upon Maulana Rabey extraordinary knowledge and wisdom. His multifaceted genius can be discussed in various ways. Maulana Rabey was a great Islamic scholar, a thinker, an educationist, a historian, a litterateur, a theologian, a teacher, a reformer, an orator, a journalist, a jurist, a writer, a philanthropist, a biographer of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), a spokesman of the poor and the like.
He was a true replica of his predecessor Maulana S Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi. He was Maulana Ali Miyan’s nephew and a confidante for several decades.
Maulana Dr Abdullah Abbas Nadwi writes, “Sheikh Rabey was with Sheikh Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi at all times, whether at home or during a journey. He represented Sheikh Nadwi on many occasions and spoke on his behalf. If Sheikh Nadwi accepted any responsibility, it was Sheikh Rabey who was to implement it.
He further says, “Maulana Rabey’s looks had become like that of Sheikh Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi.”
Education qualifications
Maulana Rabey was born in 1929 at Takiya Kalan, Raebareli, U.P. He had his elementary education at home and got higher education at Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow. Eminent personalities like Maulana S Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi, Maulana Mohammad Shah Haleem Ata, Maulana Mufti Mohammad Saeed, Maulana Syed Hameeduddin, Maulana Oais Nagrami were his teachers. After completing education at Nadwatul Ulama, he went to Deoband and became a student of Maulana Syed Husain Ahmad Madani and other distinguished Ulama there.
He also spent about one year in Hijaz (Western Saudi Arabia) where he gained considerable benefits from prominent scholars.
Career heights
Maulana Nadwi writes, “My grandfather, Syed Khaliluddin Ahmad Hasani (nephew of Syed Shah Ziaun Nabi Hasani) who was a prominent landlord had made special arrangement for my father to acquire necessary skills to take care of his personal and household needs. Thus, my father’s responsibilities were limited to taking care of matters pertaining to land and agriculture. He made our maternal uncles (Sheikh Nadwi and his older brother Dr Syed Abdul Ali Hasani) responsible for our education and upbringing.”
He derived considerable benefit and inspiration from them. In a true sense, Dr Abdul Ali planted the seed of worthiness in him and Maulana Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi nurtured it.
Undoubtedly, he was a man of noble qualities. He was a paragon of morality. He never showed egotism, pride, and haughtiness. He had a throbbing heart for the entire nation. He met everyone cheerfully.
He was kindhearted and righteous person. He possessed sturdy intellect and common sense.
The most striking aspects of his life were his istighna (expecting nothing from anyone except Allah) sincerity, simplicity, and piety. He meticulously followed Sunnah (traditions of the Prophet). Like his predecessor Maulana S Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi, he led a pious and exemplary life. He was a true descendant of salaf saliheen (pious lineage).
Teacher par excellence
Maulana S M Rabey Hasani Nadwi was appointed as teacher in 1949. He was a dedicated to his profession. He was an embodiment of all sublime qualities and virtues necessary for a good teacher. His method of teaching was unprecedented.
Teaching was his sword that he wielded so effectively that very few people could match. Scores of students quenched their thirst for knowledge from him.
He left a galaxy of students behind who impart education in their respective areas. No doubt, it is an everlasting tribute to him. His myriad contributions in the field of education will always be remembered.
Rector of Nadwatul Ulama
After the demise of Maulana S Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi, Maulana Rabey was elected Rector of Nadwatul Ulama in 2000. Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama made great strides in various fields of education under his rectorship. Besides various hostels, separate building for higher classes, grand halls, extension of central Mosque and Matbakh (Mess) have also been constructed under his rectorship. He dedicated his entire life to the cause of Nadwatul Ulama’s growth. He played a constructive role in Nadwa’s progress and development. His remarkable contributions and achievements in the cause of Nadwatul Ulama will always be remembered.
President of Muslim Personal Law Board
After passing away of Maulana Qazi Mujahidul Islam Qasmi, Maulana Rabey was elected the fourth President of the board on June 22, 2002. For two decades, Maulana Rabey held the post. He played a pivotal role in tackling key issues faced by the Board. Accordingly, scores of important issues have been solved during his tenure.
Truly speaking, he was an erudite scholar. The comprehensive knowledge and intellectual brilliance of Maulana Rabey had been acknowledged by his contemporaries. Because of his vast knowledge in all the religious and secular sciences, he had been entrusted with many important positions and offices, and was also conferred several prestigious awards, including President Award for his outstanding service in the arena of Arabic language and literature.
Positions held the Maulana
Rector, Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow
President, All India Muslim Personal Law Board
President, World Forum of Islamic Literature
Member of Makkah-based Muslim World League
Executive Member of Darul Uloom Deoband
Patron, Islamic Fiqh Academy, New Delhi
President ,Academy of Islamic Research and Publication, Lucknow
Patron, Maulana Azad Memorial Academy, Lucknow
Member Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (UK)
The awards
President Award in 1982 and; Shah Waliullah Award by Institute of Objective Studies, New Delhi in 2015.
His writings
He was a prolific writer. He authored more than four dozen books in Arabic and Urdu. His literary work is multidimensional. His creative work is complete in itself. He wrote almost in every style in prose. His various books are included in the syllabus of different institutions including Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow. Some of his major publications are as under:
He was also an accomplished journalist. Because of his vast knowledge in all religious sciences, including jurisprudence, and a profound knowledge of different languages like Urdu, Arabic, English, Persian and the likes, he forthrightly shed light on every subject at length. Hundreds of articles are to his credit. He was a patron of five magazines published from Nadwatul Ulama.
The passing away of Maulana Rabey Nadwi is also a personal loss to me. Like his younger brother Maulana S.M.Wazeh Rasheed Nadwi(1933-2019), he had also been a great inspiration to me. My first book, “The Plain Truth” had been released by him in 2008. He also gave Rs.5,000 to me as reward. I have been lucky enough that my latest book, “Islam and Education” was also released by him on March 21, 2023 at Guest House of Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama.
The most surprising event was his last journey. His funeral prayer was led twice. The first funeral prayer was led by Dr Saeedur Rahman Azami Nadwi at Nadwa and the second was led by Maulana S Bilal Abdul Hai Hasani Nadwi at Takia Kalan. He was laid to rest in his ancestral graveyard at Takia Kalan, Rai Bareli.
Dr Obaidur Rahman Nadwi is a faculty member of Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama
source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> Featured Articles / by Dr Obaidur Rahman Nadwi / May 13th, 2023
In the heart of Meghalaya, where Christianity is deeply woven into the cultural fabric, Syedullah Nongrum stands as a prominent figure, embracing both his Khasi and Muslim identities.
As the General Secretary of the Shillong Muslim Union (SMU) for the past three decades, Nongrum has played a pivotal role in safeguarding and uplifting the Muslim community while fostering interfaith harmony.
Founded in 1905, the Shillong Muslim Union (SMU) holds a legacy older than the All India Muslim League, which was established a year later in 1906. The union has had a long history of leadership, with none other than India’s former President, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, serving as its first president in 1964.
Madina Mosque, Shillong, Meghalaya
“I had extensive discussions with the former President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed about the welfare of the Muslim community in Meghalaya,” Nongrum recalls. Determined to revive the organization, his first step was to set up a dedicated office in Shillong. Over the years, he has worked relentlessly to protect and enhance SMU’s assets, ensuring its service to all communities, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion.
When Nongrum took over in 1982, SMU’s properties were in disarray, and opportunists had begun to take advantage of the situation. “The guest house and orphanage were dilapidated, and the Idgah ground was in terrible shape,” he says.
Determined to transform these neglected assets into centers of growth and learning, Nongrum spearheaded the construction of Madina Masjid, the only glass mosque in India.
This magnificent structure in Shillong is not just a place of worship, it also has an Islamic learning center; houses a school for underprivileged children, and a higher education college with modern facilities in science, arts, and technology.
Syedullah Nongrum (third from left) with former Nagaland Governor RN Ravi (second from right)
Beyond Shillong, SMU has successfully sponsored four other mosques and multiple graveyards in different districts of Meghalaya.
Nongrum, son of Subartan Bibi Nongrum and Late S.K. Abdullah, hails from the state’s oldest Khasi-Muslim family. The son of Late Subartan Bibi Nongrum and Late S.K. Abdullah, he holds a unique place in Meghalaya’s political landscape.
He is the only tribal Muslim to have been elected to the Meghalaya State Assembly, representing Rajabala constituency since 1993. He has served as a cabinet minister, advocating for the rights and development of his people.
A painting of President APJ Abdul Kalam inside the Madina mosque library
His contributions extend to education. He played a crucial role in establishing Umshyrpi College which has over 3,500 students. “We ensure that education reaches the underprivileged, regardless of their community or background,” he emphasizes.
For Nongrum, SMU is not just an institution for Muslims—it is a platform for all communities. His vision transcends religious boundaries, as reflected in his role as a founder member of the Shillong All Faith Forum, a collective that promotes communal harmony and mutual understanding among different religious groups.
“We follow the traditions of the land. As an obedient Khasi Muslim, I am committed to carrying forward the good work for the betterment of Meghalaya,” Nongrum asserts.
His journey is a testament to resilience, leadership, and inclusivity. In a region where identities are often defined by religion and ethnicity, Syedullah Nongrum has emerged as a bridge between communities rooted in their respective cultures.
(The writer is an independent journalist based in North East India)
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Jhumur Deb, Shillong / Februarty 26th, 2025
Altaf Hussain, Artisan and chief decorator of Ram Leela Utsav
The death of Altaf Hussain, one of the well-known artisans whose family had been involved in decorating the venue of Raas Mela Utsav, a famous cultural event of the city of Cooch Behar of West Bengal is being widely mourned across the state.
Altaf Mian, 70, passed away on Saturday. He was buried in Cooch Bihar, located about 7.5 hours drive from Kolkata.
His family, popularly known as ‘Altaf Mian’, had been organizing the famous ‘Raas Mela Utsav’ of Cooch Behar for a long time.
For forty years, Altaf Hussain was involved in decorating the venue of the Raas Leela Utsav – a play based on the life of Lord Krishna, particularly romantic and naughty interactions with Gopis the local young women, at the Madan Mohan temple every year in November.
Altaf Hussain was famous for designing the archway of the Raas Mela festival.
Even Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed deep grief over his death.
Altaf Hussain had not been well for two years. For this reason, his son Aminur Hussain take charge of decorating the ‘Ras Leela Utsav’
Work
Altaf Hussain was being treated at MGN Medical College Hospital in Cooch Behar.
As soon as the news of his death came in, a big crowd of his admirers gathered at his house in the Harin Chaura area. Hindus and Muslims, children, old and young alike came to pay their respects. Women were seen weeping.
A pall of gloom fell on the city. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, joined his admirers in expressing grief and offering condolences to his family.
She also directed the Cooch Behar district administration to bury Altaf Hussain with state dignity.
What is Raas Mela festival?
‘Raas Mela festival’ is an artistic presentation of Lord Krishna’s dance with his consort Radha and gopis of Braj. This dance festival of Radha-Krishna is also mentioned in Bhagwat Purana and Geet Govinda.
The ‘Raas festival’ of Cooch Behar district is quite famous. It lasts a fortnight This ‘Raas Mela Utsav’, which lasts for fifteen to twenty days, starts on 15 November and continues till the first week of December. This ‘Raas Utsav’ is also called ‘Winter Carnival’ in Cooch Behar.
This ‘Raas Mela Utsav’ has been going on in Cooch Behar district for two hundred years. It is said that this happened for the first time during the time of the 17th king of Cooch Behar Harendra Narayan. His descendants celebrated it with pomp and show.
During the time of Raja Madan Mohan, the format of this festival changed. It was during this time that Altaf Hussain’s ancestors were given the responsibility of decorating this festival. For the first time, big arches were erected and this tradition continues.
The attraction of this ‘Raas Mela Utsav’ spread far and wide and people were drawn to see this festival.
So far the Raas Mela Utsav of Cooch Behar was only disrupted twice – in 1912 when cholera disease spread and the second time in 2020 during the Corona pandemic.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Jaynarayan Prasad, Kolkata / March 04th, 2025
The Southern India Plywood Manufacturers’ Association (SIPMA) held its General Body Meeting on February 22, 2025, bringing together industry leaders and experts to discuss key issues affecting the plywood sector.
The meeting, held in Bangalore, focused on crucial matters such as the QCO order, sustainability initiatives, emission norms, and industry standards. Discussions also included labour welfare and modernization efforts aimed at improving productivity in the sector.
A major highlight of the meeting was the election of new office bearers. Dr. Prashant MA was elected as the President of SIPMA. He is currently the Director of AK Apple Ply, a company founded by the late M. Ahmed in 1984. Originally from Kochi, Dr. Prashant has been associated with AK Apple Ply for over three decades, having joined the company in the 1990s. He gained valuable experience under the mentorship of M. Ahmed and played a key role in expanding the company’s operations. Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Prashant acknowledged the vision of his late mentor and said he was honored to take on the responsibility of leading SIPMA to serve the plywood industry.
Alongside Dr. Prashant, Jitendra R Patel, Managing Director of Raaj Wood Products in Nelamangala, was elected as Vice President, and K. Hariraya Kamath from Karnataka Plywood in Sullia, Karnataka, was appointed as Secretary.
During the event, SIPMA also recognized the contributions of industry veteran Siraj Bhai of Veneer Mills by presenting him with the Lifetime Achievement Award. A member of SIPMA since 1980, he has dedicated his career to the growth of the plywood sector and has been actively involved in its development.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / February 25th, 2025
A ‘family get-together’ will be organized at Al Qusais Amity School in Dubai on Saturday, February 15, under the auspices of the UAE ‘Sahebaan’ community.
‘Sahebaan’ is an Urdu-speaking Muslim community from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.
This ‘Family Get-Together’ will be held from 4 PM to 11 PM, and several programs will take place during this time, said program organizer and patron H.M. Afroz Assadi.
He stated that a felicitation program will be held to recognize children studying in the UAE who have scored more than 90% marks, as well as those who have achieved success in sports.
The chief guests of the event will be ‘Sahebaan’ community leaders, businessman and Hidayat Group President Hidayatullah Abbas, non-resident businessman, Philanthropist and owner of Nash Engineering Company in Dubai K.S. Nisar Ahmed, along with several other dignitaries.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 12th, 2025
Muhammad Ashif Karnire, CEO of Saudi Arabia-based Expertise Contracting Company Limited, was honoured with the prestigious ‘Global Beary of Business Youth Icon’ award at the Beary Mela 2025. The event was held on Sunday at the Etisalat Academy Grounds under the auspices of the Bearys Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI), UAE.
Karnataka Assembly Speaker UT Khader graced the event as the Chief Guest.
Karnataka Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa, Indian Ambassador to Dubai Satish Kumar Sivan, State Hajj Minister Rahim Khan, Bengaluru Shanthi Nagar MLA NA Haris. Vice-President of the Government’s Non-Resident Indian Directorate Dr. Aarti Krishna, social worker Dr. Ronald Colaco, Thumbay Group founder president Dr. Thumbay Moideen, renowned non-resident Indian businessman and CEO of Al Muzain, Saudi Arabia, Zakaria Jokatte, Expertise Contracting Limited Director K.S. Sheikh Karnire, UAE Bearys Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI) UAE Unit President Hidayat Addoor and others were present on the occasion.
The award recognized Muhammad Ashif Karnire’s exceptional contributions to the industry and his outstanding achievements. Karnire, who heads the prestigious Expertise company in Jubail, Saudi Arabia, had previously been honoured in 2021 by Dr. Ausaf Saeed, the Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, for his community services and professional excellence.
Founded in 2008, Expertise is a leading industrial services provider in Saudi Arabia, employing over 15,000 professionals and operating more than 7,500 pieces of equipment. The company serves a wide range of industries, including petrochemicals, oil and gas, fertilizers, steel, cement, water treatment, and power generation. Headquartered in Jubail Industrial City, Expertise has established a strong presence with branches across Saudi Arabia.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 14th, 2025
Doctorates awarded for transformative contributions to Medical Education, Healthcare Innovation
Dubai, UAE :
Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder President of Thumbay Group, has been awarded two distinguished honorary doctorates in recognition of his outstanding contributions to medical education, healthcare innovation, and philanthropy. The accolades were conferred by Chitkara University, India, and Fergana Medical Institute of Public Health, Uzbekistan, further solidifying his impact on the global healthcare landscape.
At a grand ceremony held at Chitkara University, Chandigarh, India, Dr. Moideen was conferred with the Doctor of Literature (D.Litt) Honoris Causa for his exemplary leadership in advancing medical education, pioneering healthcare initiatives, and fostering innovation in the sector. The award acknowledges his relentless commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and shaping future generations of medical professionals.
Additionally, Fergana Medical Institute of Public Health, Uzbekistan, honored Dr. Moideen with an Honorary Doctorate, celebrating his visionary role in international healthcare collaborations and his dedication to fostering academic excellence in the medical field.
With these latest honors, Dr. Moideen now holds a total of four honorary doctorates, a testament to his remarkable leadership and visionary contributions.
Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Thumbay Moideen stated, “I am deeply honored to receive these prestigious recognitions. This is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the unwavering commitment of the entire Thumbay Group towards transforming healthcare and medical education globally. We will continue to push boundaries in innovation, ensuring accessible, high-quality healthcare and education for all.”
Driving Forward Thumbay Group’s Vision 2028, With these accolades further fueling his mission, Dr. Moideen is steadfast in leading Thumbay Group’s Vision 2028, a strategic roadmap aimed at making Thumbay Group a global leader in healthcare, medical education, research, and wellness innovation.
Through his visionary leadership, Dr. Thumbay Moideen continues to turn this ambitious vision into reality, ensuring that Thumbay Group remains at the forefront of healthcare and education innovation. With its rapid expansion and digital transformation strategies, Thumbay Group is on track to achieving and further cementing its status as a global powerhouse in healthcare and education. His relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with a commitment to social impact, is driving the group’s expansion and shaping the future of the industry.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / March 03rd, 2025
India’s first Net-Zero (on-site solar energy) Retail Experience Centre, curated by Bearys Innomark, has set a new benchmark in sustainable architecture and green innovation. The project, which houses the globally renowned furniture brand MillerKnoll, is a testament to Bearys’ longstanding commitment to eco-friendly development and responsible urban design.
The launch event, attended by industry leaders, architects, project management consultants (PMCs), and clients, marked a significant milestone in India’s journey toward sustainable commercial spaces. The occasion was graced by Chief Guests N A Haris Nalapad, MLA of Shanthinagar and Chairman of the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), Kartik Shethia, Managing Director for APMEA, International Contract, MillerKnoll, Syed Mohamed Beary, Founder & CMD, Bearys Group and Mazhar Beary Executive Director, Business Development & Retail, Bearys Group. Their presence highlighted the importance of sustainable infrastructure in shaping the future of urban development.
For decades, Bearys has been at the forefront of green building initiatives, blending innovation with environmental responsibility.
The MillerKnoll Experience Centre is a reflection of this ethos, demonstrating how cutting-edge design can coexist with sustainability. With on-site solar energy ensuring a Net-Zero footprint, the space is more than just a retail hub—it is a model for the future of responsible commercial development.
The event was not just about unveiling a new retail space but reinforcing a collective vision for a greener tomorrow. By championing sustainable design, Bearys continues to inspire the industry, proving that business growth and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand, the group said in a press statement.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / February 15th, 2025
Football is more than just a game for six-year-old Zidaan Jamadar—it’s a dream in the making. At an age when most children are still discovering their interests, Zidaan is already making his mark on the football field, earning recognition for his skill, discipline, and passion for the sport. With an impressive tally of 148 goals across multiple tournaments, the young footballer from Belagavi is proving to be a name to watch in Indian football.
Zidaan’s journey in football is intertwined with his father, Mohammed Siraj Jamadar’s love for the game. Siraj, a businessman, grew up playing football locally but never had the opportunity to pursue it professionally due to the lack of infrastructure and awareness about the sport in India during the 1990s. Watching international football was a challenge back then, with only limited broadcasts available on Doordarshan. It was only with the arrival of cable television that Indian fans got better access to global football leagues. When the Indian Super League (ISL) was launched in 2013, it reignited Siraj’s passion for the sport. The introduction of international players alongside Indian talent gave him hope that football in India would gain the recognition it deserved. He wished for a son who could pursue the dream he had to let go of—and in 2018, Zidaan was born.
Zidaan’s journey in football began in 2022 when he was just three years old. Enrolled at BFC Soccer Schools in Belagavi, he quickly stood out for his enthusiasm and ability to grasp the game’s fundamentals. His first coach, Abhishek Vincent Harry, fondly remembers his early days. “I vividly recall the first time he joined us at just 3.5 years old. While new to the game, his determination and love for football were evident from the beginning. Watching him perform in the Casa Grand BFC Soccer Shield was truly inspiring. I look forward to seeing him don the blue jersey of the Indian national team one day,” Harry shared.
As he grew, Zidaan moved to the Belagavi United Football Academy (BUFA), where he began playing in the Under-7 KSFA Youth League. His coach at BUFA, Nikhil Bhajantri, was immediately impressed by his talent. “From my very first session, I could see he was a natural. At just five years old, he displayed a deep understanding of the game, quick learning ability, and remarkable dribbling skills. In his first KSFA Youth League match against Raman Sports Academy, he scored a hat trick, playing a crucial role in our victory. He’s truly gifted,” Bhajantri said.
Since starting his football journey, Zidaan has consistently delivered outstanding performances in tournaments across the country, playing in under-6, under-7, and under-8 categories organized by KSFA, FC Goa, and Bengaluru FC. His goal-scoring record is remarkable, with 50 goals for Little Gaur in Goa, 8 goals in the Win More Trophy in Bangalore, 3 goals for AFC Belgaum, 4 goals in the Super Cup FC Goa, 9 goals in the GFL Mini League Belagavi, 20 goals in GFL Belagavi, 20 goals in KSFA Bangalore 2023, 42 goals in KSFA Bangalore 2024, and 4 goals in the Casa Grand Soccer Shield 2025.
His performances have not gone unnoticed. AIFF-certified coach Vishal Kamu from the Manas Sports Development Foundation (MSDF) Academy praised the young footballer’s dedication. “From day one, Zidaan stood out. His hunger to learn, his passion for the game, and his ability to take on challenges make him an exceptional player. He’s focused and hardworking, qualities that will take him a long way,” Kamu noted.
Zidaan’s dedication to football has earned him several accolades, including the Most Valuable Player award from FC Goa Little Gaur, GFL Belagavi, and KSFA 2024.
He was also named Best Player of the Tournament at the BFC Soccer Shield 2025.
He currently holds the record for being the highest goal scorer for the Blue Cubs of the All India Football Federation in the Under-6 category and the top scorer in the Karnataka State Football Association.
Even at this young age, Zidaan follows a disciplined lifestyle that supports his game. His father proudly shared, “Zidaan always carries home-cooked food prepared by his mother to practice. Unlike other kids, he stays away from junk food. His focus and discipline are beyond his years, and as a family, we will always stand by him, no matter what.”
Currently competing in the Little Gaur 2024-25 matches in Goa, Zidaan continues to sharpen his skills and set new benchmarks. With his talent, dedication, and the constant support of his family, he is on a promising path to making a mark in Indian football.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / February 18th, 2025
