Bihar is on top of the list of Sahitya Akademi Awardee for 2020. Three litterateurs including Anamika of Muzaffarpur figure in the coveted national list. She is the first woman in the country to receive the Sahitya Akademi Award in Hindi for her poetry collection.
The 80-year-old Kamalkant Jha, who hails from Jayanagar in Madhubani, would get the award for his story collection ‘Gachh Rusal Achhi’ published in Maithili language.
The most discussed award is that of the famous storyteller Hussain-ul-Haq of Urdu, who lives in New Karimganj. He was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award for his novel Amavas Mein Khwab. (Dreams in dark night).
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has congratulated Hussain-ul-Haq for getting Sahitya Academy Award. In a message to all three, the Chief Minister said it was a matter of great pride for Bihar that three of Bihar’s writers were named to receive the Sahitya Akademi Award. The entire Bihar is proud of them,” he said.
Hussain ul Haq has not been keeping good health. He returned home from Delhi where he had gone for treatment. This honour has brought cheers to the family. They shared happiness by distributing sweets.
Haq’s younger brother Dr Ain Tabish is Head of the department of English in Mirza Ghalib College, Gaya. Tabish told Awaz-the Voice, “Bhaiya receiving this honor is a big day for the family. It will inspire young writers and also make people realise that writing on social issues is relevant.”
Hussain ul Haq’with family and his books
Born in Sasaram in 1949, Hussain ul Haq’s writings are mostly on human bond and the middle-class society. According to Ahmed Sagir, a young writer who is close to Haq, in 1991, Hussain ul Haq’s first novel ‘Bolo Mat Chup Raho’ (Don’t speak; keep quiet) made waves. His second novel,‘Farat’ published in 1994, got him more limelight and recognition. For some reason, Hussein-ul-Haq didn’t write for a long period. The third novel ‘Amavas Mein Khawab’ hit the stand in 2071 and it sold like hotcakes. It made a great impact in the world of Urdu literature. He has been awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award for this novel. The novel is based on a story about the changing socio-political environment in the time period between 1930 and 1950.
Hussain-ul-Haq has a deep affinity with Sufism. His family is the successor to the legacy of a great Sufi Saint and also the caretaker of his tomb – khanquah. His father, Maulana Anwarul is a well-known personality of Sasaram. Hussain ul Haq says he has imbibed the thinking and the way of understanding things from his father.
Though the family is settled in Gaya, their relationship with Sasaram remained intact. The influence of Khanqahi culture and Sufiism has played role in Haq’s focus on human bonds in his writing.
Hussain ul Haq, who retired as head of the Urdu department and proctor of Magadh University has also published eight story collections, three novels, and half a dozen other books.
After Abdul Samad, Mazhar Imam, Ilyas Ahmed Gaddi, Professor Jabir Hussain he is the fifth Urdu writer from Bihar to receive the Sahitya Akademi Award.
Hussain ul Haq’speaking at a function
Friday brought in a lot of happiness in the Haq family. In the morning, the first news came that Hussain ul Haq has been awarded the Shamim Nikhat Memorial Fiction Award in UP and he will be honored on 13 March at Lucknow. The organisation confers writers with a sum of Rs 50,000 and a memento. Haq will skip the award due to his ill health.
By the evening came the news of the Sahitya Academy Award filling the home with happiness and joy.
Ain Tabish says this award will have a big impact in the Urdu world as the message that writing based on serious issues and principles is still valued today.
Sahitya Akademi Award is the top award for Indian literature and is given away for 20 Indian languages. Among the recipients of this award are senior Congress leader and former Union Minister of Karnataka Veerappa Moily.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home>Story / by Seraj Anwar, Patna / March 13th, 2021
The novel, Akhri Sawarian (The Last Rides), by Syed Mohammed Ashraf woven around a well-knit plot, captures the reader’s attention at its outset. Written in first person, it begins with the anguish and curiosity carefully embedded in the structure of the narrative through introducing an enigmatic ancestral memoir comprising a travelogue which constantly keeps us on tenterhooks till its magical mystery is unraveled at the end.
In the course of the illusive journey of the protagonist who is glued to the chariot of time is seen passing through, and rejoicing the tremendous hues associated with the blossoming of socio-cultural life of the vast Indian society. The narrator, a master craftsman, despite being aware of the futility to remain entangled to his ancestor’s fascination to Central Asia’s mighty ruler Emir Timur, cannot abruptly circumvent from this central trope as it is the only peg to hang on to the storyline. However, his full attention is diverted to main predilections i.e., the celebration of the confluence of ethnicity and the portrayal of cultural bonds of fraternity between individuals of different creeds and diverse identities. The stunning visual effects of a vast thriving society characterized by its homogeneity, valor and wisdom promises a prominent place in the annals of India’s multi-cultural history.
Ardent lover of Nature
The narrator is an ardent lover of Nature and its splendid ethereal beauty especially in rustic environment. He is always found in its realm freely mingling with simple human beings, birds and animals and enjoying the fragrance of the wild fruits and flowers.
Jammu, an innocent charming girl from a destitute family being kept in the landlord’s family and the protagonist nursing a clandestine liaison with her despite his tender age, seems to be natural, especially when the girl herself appears to be smitten with his innocent gestures.
Nevertheless, forced by the destiny when she is married to an old man with two grown up siblings from the previous marriage, she doesn’t bemoan her fate. She rather keeps her spirit high and does everything for the children except succumbing to her husband’s libidos. Her bold stand in the face of repression and her desire to a dignified existence is remarkable. Noting its poignant narration, it is reminiscent to a story by Tagore though in a different situation, depicting the absurdity of child marriage in ancient times.
Here he is looked after by the innocent girl in a spirit which only a mother or sister can afford to display. Akhri Sawarian is neither a didactic novel nor has any edifying quality. However, keeping in view, the protagonist’s own code of conduct, self esteem and ethical parameters though much less than Premchand, he is definitely a critical insider who despite having amorous tendencies never ventures to trespass a certain moral barrier in his relationship. Here the narrator unlike any other feminists seems to be more realistic, conscious and sympathetic to the cause of women empowerment.
Enriched with inter-textual references, frequent flashbacks, tropes and motifs, this novel, a fine example of cultivated aesthetic and literary taste, never deviates from its path and primary aim of retrieving and showcasing the glimpses of a culturally fascinating and vibrating Indian society.
Strategies are many
There are several strategies converged in the plot and the texture right from the time of conception to structuring the narrative to justify the projection of a particular view of life in the novel. One of them is to ensure the protagonist growing up and not attaining abrupt maturity so as to be able to witness and be a part in his childhood of the generally pastoral serenity, its soothing ambiance and the panoramic view.
The nuanced and incisive description of abject impoverishment, onslaught of maladies, the convergence of the people on mass scale at special occasions, empathy, quarrels on ordinary things, yearnings, deprivations, simplicity in attires and imaginations and a firm belief in rituals and sacraments bring forth the clear picture of a society.
Now in the last stage of the fast changing scenario, we come across a stage where we see the protagonist albeit in a new Avatar. Sitting in the carriage drawn by the galloping horses in the dust of time, surmounting hurdles, passing through rough terrain, lesser known places and locations. Through this arduous journey, we are transported to a completely different and highly perturbing level of existence where the protagonist is now capable to comprehend the purpose of life. Though distraught and shattered, he is seen in this mist, conversing with his better half who is helping her husband to navigate through the ravaging river of time. This phase is marked by the presence of sharpening intelligence and probing glances of our hero’s life companion. She becomes instrumental in decoding the mystery surrounding the small purse and the great grandfather’s travelogue. It is a great redeeming factor in settling an intriguing paradox. It also opens the possibility of a plethora of other wounds to be inflicted by the arrows of time in the days to come. Now as the story proceeds on the predictable lines, a depressingly brooding protagonist seated as usual in his moving coach, now in familiar locations, though initially reluctant, relents willy-nilly to his equally subdued and stressed wife’s persuasions to shed some light and unfold the long held mystery around the ancestral box, being the life threatening crux of the problem.
She exclaims: Your great grandfather’s old wallet has become the tormenting scabbard of Timur. It has kept you since your childhood on the tenterhooks.
This leads to the opening of a Pandora’s Box of hazardous historical events, fancies and hallucinations spread over a long period of time. During recounting the chain of events, one is struck with disbelief to see the pathetic scenes of the fettered skeleton of the last Mughal emperor; Bahadur Shah Zafar perched in a bullock cart passing through the rugged surface all the way to be incarcerated in Rangoon. In the meanwhile the wheel of chariot moves forward to the delight of the chronicler to a tempestuous journey undertaken by the protagonist’s great grandfather in his younger days to Samarkand, in murky past and his illusory encounter with a bed ridden and mutilated legendary despot Emir Timur.
In the technique of sub-plot along with the main story there is also a rare moment when the narrator to his utter bewilderment, suddenly discovers that his great grandfather is being gifted with the snippet of the royal sword’s scabbard and a relic by the mighty hands of none other than Timur himself. After revealing this secret to his wailing and sobbing wife, he seems to be all the more desperate to be under the spell of lunacy that needs immediate medical attention. This part of the narrative culminating to the final closure becomes more interesting because of the protagonist’s realization of the social polarization, simmering discontent and unintelligible contradictions in the society at large. He, who had never envisaged such dreadful lurking images earlier, gets traumatized.
By way of ensuring tranquility and spiritual solace, he is led during a frosty winter night to a secluded corner in Mehrauli at Delhi. However, owing to mental inconsistency, delusion, persisting gloominess and strange feelings, lying in his beloved wife’s lap he looks around with his eyes wide open as a shudder runs down his spine with the constantly blowing freezing gusty winds.
The narrator in order to epitomize his idea of a synthetic national identity has frequently employed the analogy of “Assorted Fragrance” which signifies India’s century’s old multi-cultural and ethnic diversities.
The hanging clouds of haze and fog appeared to him like gigantic civilizational legacies being snatched and driven away by the thugs on the wings of time. With little hope to see them again, shivering with high fever in the freezing atmosphere, he is weeping profusely and bemoaning as he is fully disillusioned with the new found realities of time and feels himself completely misfit to reconcile with the changed vocabulary of social etiquette replaced with tardiness of behaviors and degrading moral bonding. Sitting beside the citadel of a vast and magnificent cultural repository, he murmurs to himself in utter chaos and suffocation, the couplet of Mirza Ghalib.
Mauj-e-Khoon, Neelay Samandar Ka Safar Karti Hui,
Dajla Roshan Kabhi Is Rang say Ganga Roshan
Blood laden waves passing through the blue oceans
It’s colour, blazing Tigris often Ganges
Notwithstanding the fact that the narrator is fully aware of the implicit subversion of our ethos and a perceptible indiscretion in people to people relations, he doesn’t necessarily commit himself to pinning down the obvious reasons or casting aspersion on anyone for wrecking-havoc in the society. He prefers instead to deal with the effects rather than the reasons of the turmoil, thereby restricting himself to merely lamenting and bemoaning the loss of the mosaic of cultural identity.
Even against the backdrop of the shifting sands of the historic realities in the subcontinent, the narrator riding high on the back of the unbridled horse of the time, though in pensive, mood is still ready in bardic fashion to go extra miles to see a new sun rising from the dusty horizon. Worries and tensions writ large on his countenance, an anguished protagonist with an indomitable flickering spirit, at times appears engrossed in the futile act of thwarting the course of the tidal waves and the next moment sitting on the threshold of humanity awaiting a miraculous return of the caravan lost in the wilderness. Contemplating in melancholic mood, he mutters in a state of soliloquy wondering about a formidable humanity vanishing with little hope to emerge again from the whirl pool .of the ravaging river of time. It’s reflective of his amazingly unwavering resilience to cope with the harsh reality of the moment with fortitude but with little hope.
However, it is not to be forgotten that the awe inspiring picturisation of mental images, enormous capacity to traverse through the wide spectrum of human emotions and tantalizing depiction of the fictional realities of life are definitely the outcome of a highly skilled, sharply focused and a calibrated mind of the artist which has found full expressions in this novel in terms of its unconventional craftsmanship, terrific sense of impish humor, irresistible quest for wit and irony taking precedence over many other devices and attributes of linguistic and literary manifestations.
Akhri Sawarian is another post-partition trail blazer of Syed Mohammed Ashraf though tragic at the core shall stay in our thought and imagination.
Qazi Obaidur Rahman Hashmi is a distinguished Adjunct Professor of Urdu at Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi. His dedication to Urdu literature and education is highly appreciated.
source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> Featured News> Books / by Qazi Obaidur Rahman Hashmi / June 27th, 2024
Hussainul Haq’s novel “Amawas Mein Khwab” initiates a new debate on the Hindu-Muslim relationship.
REFLECTING REALITY Hussainul Haq
At a time when people cherish to be lied to, what can scare away the spectre of an unprecedented assault on the very idea of truth? Is truth a sociological reality or an unachievable ethical reality? Does the narrative of homogeneity set in motion by new information technology produce a kind of immodesty that allows us to recognise falsehood but we still treat it as if were a reality? Does our intent on peddling fantasy as a fact correspond to “Suspended Disbelief” that Coleridge found essential for literature? These frightening and unsettling questions thrown up by the post-truth period are impeccably sewn together in a novel of a celebrated Urdu novelist and short story writer Hussainul Haq and his latest novel has been doing rounds in the Urdu knowing circles of the subcontinent.
His recently published novel, “Amawas Mein Khwab” (Dreaming in the last night before the new moon), poignantly tells a tale of Ismael Rajai, who lost all his family members in a communal riot but a marked Indian passion for free-flowing of inter-personal relationship unencumbered by religious and cultural affinity and uncontaminated by self-interest enabled him to begin a new life. Ismael, lived in Bombay, Bhiwandi and Patna, and is exposed to many cultures and as a power loom owner, teacher, a friend of a landlord, a father and a thinking human being, he tries to understand why common people do the uncommon to transform themselves. His stint as a lecturer at a college in Bihar provides him with a space where several mediations are carried out. Arousal of mass-hysteria in the name of caste and religion acquaints him with the aggressive and self-destructive potential of conflict and disharmony. His tantalising journey of a new life transcends inadequacies and presents a higher level of synthesis where being apart and being together emerge a reality as audaciously as they can.
The book cover
Ismael’s struggle reveals new insight and a fresh perspective on several issues plaguing the country.
Believable narrative
At a time when religious passions are running high and the concept of peaceful existence is being threatened, the novelist initiates a new debate on Hindu-Muslim relationship. Direct intervention of a well known scholar or a reference to a widely acclaimed text lends credibility to the narration and the reader takes pleasure in passages that are explicitly historical.
One of the characters of the novel asserts: During the reign of Mohammad Bin Qasim, the religious places of Christians, Jews and Hindus were treated equally. Quran describes Sabaen (an ancient nation of star worshippers) as people of the book though there was hardly any mention of book related to them. Even in the time of the second caliph, Zoroastrians were given the status of people of the book and why this status still eludes Hindus?
For his doctoral thesis, Ismael chooses a topic that baffles his friend Anil Sharma. Anil finds the topic “Muslims’ Contribution in Ancient India” inadmissible but Ismael argues: “One has to concentrate on the culture, language and ideologies that dominated India before Mohammad Bin Qasim. In what way, the arrival of Mohammad Bin Qasim and saint, Ali Hajveri, affected the culture. Did anyone notice a creative interaction at epistemological or ideological level, if yes, what are the traces, this question has tremendous research potential?”
“Yes, it is a fertile topic, but you have to work hard,” Anil nodded.
Ismael, living a comfortable life in Bihar, lost his life in a blast and it spells doom for his life. His daughter Nayela landed up at a brothel and the son Quidar finally got whatever he longed for. The novel ends with a positive note and Hussainul Haq creates an autonomous space which has its own logic of unfolding of interpersonal relationship involving cooperation and conflict and it also reveals dark underpinnings for our dreams for a strong nation.
For Hussain, humanity is undoubtedly grasping breath but he is courageously on the side of rational and truth loving liberals who want to understand what instils a strong sense of grief and chaos in us. Hussain’s elegant prose illuminates conflict of nostalgia, loneliness and social consciousness astutely and he makes it clear that we tend to lie to ourselves with a bad conscience and the ever-increasing ethical relativism and blooming narcissism reflected in selfies is nothing but an act of self-deception.
Hussainul Haq’s new novel turns attention to the episodes of real life that outstrips fiction and his novel is a testimony to what Philip Roth says: The culture tosses up figures almost daily that are the envy of any novelist.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Books> Authors> Going Native / by Shafey Kidwai / February 16th, 2018
Dr. Aakif Anjum with his supervisor Dr. A.A. Shaikh
Malegaon:
In a city where the dreams of many are shaped by the resilience of its people, there is one story that stands out as a beacon of perseverance, intellect and boundless ambition. This is the story of Dr. Aakif Anjum Shaikh Usman, who, in 2024, made history by becoming the first person from Malegaon to earn a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering. His journey, from a small hamlet to the prestigious National Institute of Technology (NIT), Surat, is not just one of academic success, but of overcoming adversity, defying odds and inspiring future generations.
Growing up in Malegaon, Aakif was shaped by the values of education instilled by his late father, Shaikh Usman, a primary school teacher. His father’s influence was pivotal in cultivating Aakif’s deep passion for learning and academic excellence. “My father always believed that education was the key to a better future,” he recalls. “He taught me to never give up, no matter how difficult the journey.”
Aakif’s academic journey began at The Malegaon High School and Junior College, where he laid the groundwork for the challenges ahead. It was here that he first realised the importance of hard work and perseverance. After completing his schooling, Aakif pursued his Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) degree in Mechanical Engineering at the PREC Engineering College in Loni, Maharashtra, where he graduated in 2016.
His thirst for knowledge and ambition propelled him to further his education, leading him to pursue a Master of Technology (M.Tech.) in Mechanical Engineering from the Government College of Engineering, Karad, Maharashtra, in 2018.
But Aakif’s aspirations did not stop there. He set his sights on a Ph.D. at the prestigious National Institute of Technology Surat (NIT Surat), a dream that seemed distant for a young man from Malegaon. In 2024, after years of dedication and hard work, Aakif achieved what many thought impossible — he earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering. He became a trailblazer for future generations in his city.
From right Dr. Aakif Anjum and his research team
Under the mentorship of Dr. A.A. Shaikh, head of the Mechanical Engineering department at NIT Surat, Aakif conducted groundbreaking research that spanned various facets of optics and laser technologies. His research resulted in 19 published papers in prominent international journals, including Elsevier, Optics and Laser Technology, Infrared Physics and Technology and the Journal of Engineering Research.
His work has earned him recognition on global platforms, with his discoveries being presented at two international conferences. Aakif is also the proud holder of a patent in laser technology, with another patent currently under review.
Aakif’s research was not just academic; it was also practical and impactful. His work was backed by two rounds of funding from Gujarat’s Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP), an initiative designed to support young innovators. This recognition from the Gujarat government underscored the real-world applicability and inventiveness of his contributions to the field of mechanical engineering.
Further amplifying his global influence, Aakif has collaborated with esteemed institutions such as King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Saudi Arabia, Khalifa University in Dubai and Deakin University in Australia. These collaborations have solidified his place in the global scientific community, further highlighting Malegaon’s potential to contribute to cutting-edge research and technological advancements.
Dr. Aakif Anjum Shaikh Usman’s achievements are a testament to the power of education, perseverance and the importance of supporting one’s community. By becoming the first Ph.D. recipient in mechanical engineering from Malegaon, he has opened the doors to a future where the youth of Malegaon and beyond can dream big and aim high.
Aakif’s journey is a shining example of how dreams can be realised through dedication, hard work and the unshakeable belief in the transformative power of education.
As Malegaon celebrates the achievements of one of its own, Aakif’s story serves as a beacon of hope for countless aspiring engineers, scientists and innovators in his city and beyond. His journey, from a small hamlet to the hallowed halls of NIT Surat, is a reminder that with determination, no goal is too distant and no dream too big.
source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> Indian Muslim / by SN Ansari, TwoCircles.net / November 19th, 2024
Manki Village (Honnavar Taluk,Uttara Kannada District), KARNATAKA / Medina, SAUDI ARABIA :
Riyadh:
Abdulqadir Mohammed Meera Shaikh, a student from the Islamic University of Medina and hailing from Manki village in Honnavar Taluk, Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, has won the first prize in the prestigious Arabic Language and Culture Competition.
Held in Riyadh and organised by the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, the competition saw over 1,000 students from various nationalities showcasing their skills in Arabic language proficiency and cultural understanding.
Abdulqadir’s exceptional performance earned him a gold medal and a significant cash prize.
It is no longer true that women in Kashmir cannot work or run businesses. As circumstances change, people’s mindsets are evolving as well. Nowadays, there is hardly any difference in how entrepreneurship is perceived by both men and women; they are working side by side and competing equally.
Breaking barriers and forging their paths in business, Kashmiri women are shining in vibrant colors. Another inspiring example is Sania Zehra, a 20-year-old resident of Balhama, who is a champion in beekeeping.
She is not only the backbone of her family’s longstanding business but also a shining example for her entire community. Sania said that beekeeping has been her grandfather’s business, which her father took over, and now she is in this line of work as the third generation.
Sania Zehra taking care of the bees
A Kashmiri beekeeper, Sania Zehra, displays a beehive full of honeybees at a farm in Pampore, south of Srinagar. Zehra, a young girl from Balhama on the outskirts of Srinagar, is working to revive her familyÕs beekeeping tradition, along with her father. Beekeeping in Kashmir requires more care during the winter as temperatures drop below zero degrees, making the bee farming a challenge.
“In the beginning, I used to help my father, but I often felt bored and just tried to pass the time. I never thought I would develop an interest in it, but today I am so passionate that I handle everything from beekeeping to its marketing myself.”
She mentioned that the profits from the business have enabled her to grow further, and she is also involved in import-export activities. Sania reflected on why she chose beekeeping when there are many other businesses: “Beekeeping is mentioned in the Quran; it carries great blessings from Allah. It doesn’t matter that I am a girl; what matters is the capability to work. I believe that beekeeping is a respectable profession and also has healing properties.”
She acknowledged that no journey is easy, especially in Kashmir and for women. “I faced a lot of trolling at the start, even from close relatives, but Alhamdulillah, I never lost heart. I always tried my best to focus on my work, and today I am genuinely satisfied.”
Honey bees sit on the hand of a Kashmiri beekeeper at a farm in Pampore, south of Srinagar. Zehra, a young girl from Balhama on the outskirts of Srinagar, is working to revive her familyÕs beekeeping tradition, along with her father. Beekeeping in Kashmir requires more care during the winter as temperatures drop below zero degrees, making the bee farming a challenge.
Sania stated that not only does she earn a decent income, but her beekeeping business has also allowed her to expand into other ventures. “I produce beauty products, wax, and even green pollen from beekeeping.” She emphasized that the government is providing support for this business, and anyone interested can approach the concerned department to gather complete information about these schemes.
In her message, she said, “No job is too small. One should work with dedication and honesty, and Allah will bless even the smallest of efforts.”
The trend of women in business is on the incline in Kashmir. For centuries, women have battled a stereotype that involves staying home to cook, clean, and care for the family. However, a new generation of young female entrepreneurs is overcoming all the challenges. As per the figures, under the Prime Minister’s Employment Guarantee Programme (PMEGP), 14,943 projects have been established by women in the last three years. This initiative has played a vital role in promoting women’s participation in the workforce.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home>Story / by Basit Zargar, Srinagar / November 19th, 2024
Professor Jawaid Iqbal, an eminent academic from the Department of West Asian Studies and North African Studies, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has been appointed as Vice-Chancellor of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) in Rajouri, Jammu. He has taken over the charge of his office. His appointment was made by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on October 15, 2024, for tenure of three years.
Prior to this appointment, Professor Iqbal held several key administrative roles at AMU. He served as the Dean of the Faculty of International Studies and Chairman of the Department of West Asian and North African Studies. He also held the position of acting Vice Chancellor of AMU.
The AMU fraternity feels immense pride in his elevation to this prestigious role, said Professor Naima Khatoon, Vice Chancellor, AMU, adding that it is a testament to the high standards of scholarship and leadership cultivated at AMU.
Prof Mohammad Gulrez, and Prof. Mohammad Azher, Chairman of the Department of West Asian and North African Studies at AMU, also congratulated Prof Iqbal on his new role.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Uncategorized / by Radiance News Bureau (headline edited) / November 19th, 2024
The sudden demise of veteran bureaucrat and author Shehzad Mohammad Khan, widely known as S.M. Khan, has left many in shock and grief. Social media is flooded with tributes, with admirers remembering him as a person of “utmost humility and generosity,” reports the ATV.
S.M. Khan passed away on Sunday at the age of 67 after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife and three children. His last rites took place today in his hometown of Khurja in Uttar Pradesh’s Bulandshahr district, according to family sources.
Khan’s passing marks the end of an era in the Indian Information Service (IIS) and public relations field, where he set benchmarks for loyalty and dedication throughout his illustrious career.
Born on June 15, 1957, in Khurja, S.M. Khan completed his education at Aligarh Muslim University and the University of Wales, England. Joining the IIS in 1982, he held several critical roles over the years.
One of his most prominent assignments was serving as the spokesperson for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) between 1989 and 2002. During this time, he skilfully handled media communications for high-profile cases such as the Harshad Mehta financial scandal, Bofors scandal, and Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.
From 2002 to 2007, Khan served as Press Secretary to President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. His tenure included managing the President’s media relations and accompanying him on national and international tours. Inspired by Dr. Kalam, Khan authored Awami Sadar (The People’s President), which shed light on lesser-known aspects of the former president’s life.
Khan also played a pivotal role in shaping Indian media through his work as the Director General (News) of Doordarshan, where he oversaw coverage of significant events such as National Film Awards and Dada Saheb Phalke Award. Additionally, he served as Director of the Directorate of Film Festivals (DFF), representing India at prestigious platforms like the Cannes and Berlin Film Festivals.
Beyond his professional achievements, Khan was deeply involved in fostering interfaith harmony as a trustee of India Islamic Cultural Centre (IICC). Elected Vice President of the IICC in 2019, he dedicated himself to promoting mutual understanding across communities.
S.M. Khan maintained a strong bond with his alma mater, Aligarh Muslim University, serving as a member of its Court and the Executive Council. His efforts in promoting education and cultural understanding continue to inspire many.
His passing is a significant loss to the nation, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, humility, and dedication.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Obiturary / by Radiance News Bureau / November 19th, 2024
Nadeem Ahmed, the dynamic founder of ‘Indians in Sydney’, has been awarded the prestigious NSW Government Community Service Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the Indian diaspora and broader community in New South Wales.
The award acknowledges individuals whose work has significantly enhanced the quality of life for members of their community, and Nadeem’s tireless efforts have made a lasting impact on the lives of many.
A leader with compassionate and vision
Since founding ‘Indians in Sydney’ in 2007, Nadeem has devoted himself to creating a supportive and inclusive community for Indian migrants and residents. What began as a modest initiative has grown into the largest Indian community platform in NSW, now boasting over 135,000 members.
Under his compassionate leadership, ‘Indians in Sydney’ has become a beacon of unity, where cultural heritage is celebrated, newcomers are supported, and vital connections are made across generations.
Upon receiving the award, Nadeem expressed his gratitude, saying, “This recognition is not just for me but for everyone who has been part of Indians in Sydney. We are a collective force of people who care about each other and who are passionate about giving back to the community. I am truly humbled by this award, and it motivates me to continue serving and building stronger connections within our society.”
With a passion for connecting people and promoting Indian culture, Nadeem started organising events and activities that celebrate heritage and address the unique needs of the diaspora community.
Nadeem says his vision was to create a space where people could support one another, share their stories, and find a sense of belonging in a new land. “Little did I know it would grow into something so much bigger than myself,” he reflected.
Nadeem also extended his heartfelt thanks to Nathan Hagarty MP for his endorsement, noting, “I am deeply grateful to Nathan Hagarty MP for his continuous support. His faith in our mission has been an incredible source of encouragement. Together, we aim to create a more inclusive and compassionate community where everyone feels welcome.”
Transformative community initiatives
Nadeem’s vision for ‘Indians in Sydney’ is one that extends beyond social connection—it is about making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families.
Several of the group’s key initiatives reflect this mission, including Winter Drive, Meal for Everyone Drive, Samvaad, Journey, Indians in Sydney Gala Event.
Nadeem’s leadership was instrumental in organising the recent Indians in Sydney Gala Event , which celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day that was a remarkable success, bringing together leaders, dignitaries, and community members to celebrate the achievements of the Indian community and reinforce the group’s ongoing mission to promote inclusivity and cultural exchange.
Looking ahead
With the NSW Government Community Service Award serving as a testament to his exceptional leadership, Nadeem is more determined than ever to continue his journey of service. The recognition highlights not only his personal achievements but also the tireless efforts of the ‘Indians in Sydney’ community to create positive change.
For those inspired by his work, Nadeem’s message is clear: “There is always more we can do, and together, we can make a lasting impact. Our journey is just beginning.”
Indians in Sydney is the largest community group for Indians in New South Wales, dedicated to fostering social connections, cultural pride, and charitable initiatives.
Through a wide range of programs, including meal drives, cultural events, and support services for migrants, the group serves as a vital resource for the not only to Indian diaspora in Australia but to Wider Australian Communities
source: http://www.amust.com.au / AMUST / Home> Community> Featured / by Imtiaz Khan / October 29th, 2024
Crescent AusIndia Inc held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday 10 November 2024 in Brisbane, together with a family BBQ sausage sizzle bringing together an impressive turnout with members gathering to celebrate the association’s achievements and reaffirming their shared commitment to its mission.
AGM 2024
The association dedicated to Muslims of Indian origin in Queensland was founded in 2023 by a group of passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds – university professors, doctors, engineers, and professionals from various fields united by a shared dedication to fostering the Indo-Australian spirit.
The association has rapidly expanded its influence and membership base becoming a prominent and respected entity within the Queensland community groups. The current Management Committee was re-elected for 2025 ensuring continuity and renewed vision for the association’s goals in the new year.
Under the advice and guidance of Dr Javaid Khan and Dr Abdul Sattar, the elected office bearers include Mr Yousuf AliKhan (President), Aunty Janeth Deen OAM (Vice President), Mr Aamer Mustafa (Secretary), Mr Mohammed Ameen Soofi (Treasurer), Mr Athiq Mohamed (Joint Treasurer), Mr Arif Mohamed (Joint Secretary), along with committee members Mrs Naghma Khan, Mr Siraj Basha, Mr Irfan Hashim and Mr Faraz Junaidi.
Mr Vaseem Khan holds the key role of Public Relations Officer (PRO) maintaining the association’s public presence.
The journey over the past year has been marked by key events and accomplishments that reflect their commitment to community engagement and support throughout the year participating in significant events such as joining ANZAC Day commemorations, hosted Eid Dinner welcomed over 150 attendees, and engaging with Queensland Police’s Muslim Reference Group, involvement in the India Day Fair.
The association has also been vocal against discrimination, supporting community forums like “Action Against Islamophobia”. These activities allowed the association to build meaningful relationships with local authorities, diplomatic representatives, and other cultural organisations.
Crescent AusIndia celebrated Gandhi Jayanti with GOPIO honouring Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy of peace and unity, representation at the FICQs Diwali event and most recently were represented at the inaugural events for Queensland’s new Indian Consulate, furthering its presence as a key organisation within Queensland’s multicultural landscape.
Crescent AusIndia is a proud member of larger bodies like the Federation of Indian Communities Queensland (FICQ) and Queensland Muslims Inc (QMI), contributing to broader community initiatives.
Moving forward, Crescent AusIndia aims to deepen their engagement, broaden their reach, and continue building a strong foundation for the Indian Muslim community in Queensland.
If you share our vision and want to join the like-minded people! Visit Crescent AusIndia website for more info and the membership form – crescentausindia.org.au
source: http://www.amust.com.au / AMUST / Home> Community> Featured / by Aamer Mustafa / November 18th, 2024
