An adaptation of Benyamin’s 2008 best-selling Malayalam novel, ‘Aadujeevitham: The Goat Life’, starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, follows the real-life story of Najeeb, a Malayali immigrant labourer in Saudi Arabia.
Music composer A R Rahman. | Photo Credit: Velankanni Raj B
A.R Rahman has won the prestigious Hollywood Music in Media Awards 2024 for the background score of Aadujeevitham: The Goat Life in the Independent Film (Foreign Language) category.
Director Blessy who received the award on Rahman’s behalf at the gala ceremony in Los Angeles shared the news with The Hindu.
The HMMA Awards are considered the bellwether award for the Oscars. Earlier this week, Blessy told The Hindu that he was holding screenings in the US to make a bid for the Academy Awards in the general category.
“I truly believe Rahman has woven magic with both the songs and the background score. The BGM alone captures the character’s struggle, the raw emotion of their fight for survival in the desert. In a way, the score itself tells its own story, mirroring the depth of the character’s emotions,” he had said.
In a strong field, Rahman was competing against Segun Akinola for Girl You Know It’s True, Arli Liberman and Tiki Taane for Ka Wahawhai Tonu, Hao-Ting Shih and Tae-Young Yu for Mongrels, Karzan Mahmood for The Seed of the Sacred Fig and Sandro Morales-Santoro for The Shadow of The Sun for the jury’s nod.
An adaptation of Benyamin’s 2008 best-selling Malayalam novel, the Malayalam film follows the real-life story of Najeeb, a Malayali immigrant labourer in Saudi Arabia. The film stars Prithviraj Sukumaran and Jimmy Jean Louis, K.R. Gokul and Amala Paul.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Entertainment> News / by The Hindu Bureau (headline edited) / November 21st, 2024
Sahitya Akademi New Delhi organised Grand Literary Function today (19 Nov 2024) at Muslim Eduational Trust Baghat Barzulla Srinagar about Dr. Syed Amin Tabish, his journey of life including his contributions to Literature, Health care and Research.
Prof Mushtaq Sidiqi fr VC IUST was the Chief Guest and Mohammad Rafi Fr District Development Commissioner was the Guest of Honour. Prof Farooq Fayaz, Prof Shad Ramzan, Abdal Mehjoor and Mohammad Amin Bhat were also in the presidium.
Aafiya Geelani, Principal Muslim Educational Trust welcomed the Guests.
Prof. Shad Ramzan presented the key note address. Among other things he praised the wisdom, scientific acumen and poetic excellence of Dr Tabish.
Prof.Tabish in his address spoke at length about his journey of life, from childhood till date.
He said “a tough life needs a language – that is what literature offers – a language powerful enough to say how it is. It is not a hiding place. It is a finding place.” He also spoke about poetry in digital age – creativity, innovation, professional practice and intellectual progress.
He emphasized the need of providing students innovative web- based solutions to literature.
He spoke about most crucial issues confronting the society like drug addiction, misuse of mobile phones by children and limits of screen time, increasing gaps between parents and children, road traffic accidents of teenagers.
He said that the Universe has 200 billion stars, two trillion galaxies and 13 lac creations. Human being is just one out of them. He said that everyone has to qualify to another world of heaven.
Dr. Tabish stressed the need of promoting our mother tongue. Out of 7000 languages in the world, 230 are spoken in Europe, 2200 in Asia including 415 in India. 3000 languages are in danger of vanishing. Languages are living and dynamic. When a language dies, a world dies with it, he said.
Dr. Tabish also responded to various questions asked by some intellectuals in audience.
Prof. Mushtaq Sidiqi appreciated the contributions of Dr Tabish to literature and Healthcare in general and as an Author of 16 books in particular. He hailed the administrative skills and integrity of Prof Tabish. He also said that science has limitations while God doesn’t.
Dr Amin Tabish’s latest book “Sourmali Shaam” a collection of poems was released/launched on the occasion.
Among others who were present, included the reputed authors, writers and poets Abdal Mehjoor, Rukhsana Jabeen, Shamshad Kralwari, Ahmad Ali Fayaz, Wali Waheed, Shakeelu Rahman, Shaukat Shafi, Saududin Saadi, Mohiudin Andrabi, Prof Nelofer Nehvi, Mohamad Yousuf Shaheen Shaheen, Arshad Sauleh, Dr Shahnwaz Hamid of SKIMS, Dr Wahid Raza, Imtiaz Bogami, Sarim Iqbal, Shahi Mumtaz, Rehana Kouser, Gulal Kasmiri, Sahil Dar, etc. Dr. Rouf Adil conducted the programme.(KNS).
source: http://www.knskashmir.com / Kashmir News Service / Home> J & K / by KNS Desk, Srinagar / November 19th, 2024
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
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.
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
Prem Nazir brought the golden era to the Malayalam film industry. He made a place in the hearts of people with his acting and generosity. In his 39 years of career, he made such records related to cinema which are almost impossible for the actors of today’s era to make or break.
Image Source : X / India’s first superstar was Prem Nazir
Whenever we talk about the most successful actors of India, then the names of Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Dilip Kumar or Kamal Haasan come to our minds. But do you know there was a bigger superstar than these actors who made such records that are impossible to touch even today? Today we are going to tell you about that Indian superstar, who has given not one or two but 700 hit films.
Who was India’s first superstar?
We are talking about Prem Nazir, the superstar of Malayalam films of the 50s. Yes, the veteran star of Malayalam cinema is also called the actor who brought the golden era of Malayalam cinema. Prem’s acting was so powerful that every director of that era wanted to cast him in his film. Talking about Prem Nazir’s record, he made many big records like doing the most films, most double roles, most triple roles and about 130 films with the same heroine. Due to this, not two or three but 39 of his films were released in the year 1979.
How is Nazir different from other superstars?
To understand how great Prem Nazir’s record is, we tell you through a comparison. The biggest name in Indian cinema, Amitabh Bachchan, has less than 60 hit films as a lead actor, out of which 10 are blockbusters. Now comes the talk of South superstar Rajinikanth, who has a record of more than 80 hits and more than a dozen blockbusters. Let us now talk about the three Khans as well. Salman Khan has given 39 hit films out of which 15 are blockbusters, followed by Shah Rukh Khan who has given 34 hit films including 10 blockbusters. Aamir Khan is far behind with 20 hit films including 6 blockbusters.
You will be surprised to know that even after adding the hit films of all these actors, they do not even come close to the number of hits of Prem Nazir along with 50 of these being blockbusters. He played the lead role in more than 700 films due to which his name is recorded in the Limca World Record.
Other records in the name of Prem Nazir
Prem Nazir has many other records to his name. He worked with 85 heroines. Till the year 1975, Prem worked with actress Sheela in a total of 130 films. This is because he considered Sheela as his lucky charm. He played double roles in more than 40 films. Apart from this, he also appeared in triple roles in three films.
Nazir is also remembered for his compassion
Prem Nazir’s presence is a big reason why the Malayalam film industry was called the Golden Age. Prem was such an actor that if any of his films flopped, he would immediately ask the producer to start another film. The actor would take out dates from his busy schedule and do the producer’s films so that his losses could be compensated.
source: http://www.indiatvnews.com / India TV / Home> News> Entertainment> Celebrities / by Satish Verma, New Delhi / November 12th, 2024
‘Taeweedatu Nnajah’ (Success Mantras), a motivational book in Arabic by Doha-based Indian author Dr Amanulla Vadakkangara, has made debut at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair, drawing a diverse audience of multinational readers.
Dr Mariyam Shinasi, a prominent author and cultural figure from the UAE, officially released the book at the Writers Forum on Wednesday.
She praised Dr Amanulla’s efforts in crafting an inspirational work in Arabic, commending the unique accomplishment of a non-Arab author publishing a motivational text in the language and showcasing it at one of the world’s leading book fairs.
“Indians in general, and Keralites in particular, have shown a keen interest in Arabic language and literature. Publishing a motivational book by a non-Arab is indeed commendable,” Dr Shinasi remarked.
At the event, the first copy of the book was received by NVBS CEO Benazir Manoj, and Founder and Chief Coach Manoj Sahib Jan.
Several notable personalities attended the launch, including Saleem Ayyanath, Lipi Akbar, and the author himself.
The book has been published by Lipi Books from Calicut, India.
source: http://www.qatar-tribune.com / Qatar Tribune / Home> Nation / by Tribune News Network / November 17th, 2024
What is more exciting is that Ajay was trained by a visually impaired instructor from Malappuram.
Noushad & Ajay Balu
Alappuzha :
As the allotted time for the work experience events was almost to end, Ajay Balu, a Class V student from Rahmania School, Kozhikode, was busy crafting items from waste materials.
A regular participant at the State School Science Fair for the past three years, the visually impaired 10-year-old boy was thrilled to learn arts, attend the event and acquire more skills. “I have learnt to make craft items from waste materials and made swings, tables, chairs etc here. I have been trained by my teachers for the past two months and am excited to participate in these events,” says Ajay.
What is more exciting is that Ajay was trained by a visually impaired instructor from Malappuram. Noushad T has been working in the field of teaching art and craft to students with special needs for more than two decades now. “Being a visually impaired person, I was trained by several teachers in my school days. Now I am passing it on to these children,” he says, adding that children with special needs are skilled in arts. “There may be challenges. These children, however, show a talent for comprehending and completing tasks quickly. It is an advantage,” he adds.
As many as 957 students from 43 special schools across the state participated in the work experience category for visually and hearing impaired students in LP, UP, high school and higher secondary sections, held on Saturday. The competition was held in 22 categories.
At another end of the hall was G Vishnu, a Class X student, making life-like sculptures out of clay which won him the first prize in the category. Vishnu, a hearing-impaired artist, had bagged the first prize in clay modelling competitions for the past five years in the State School Science Fair in the work experience category and was also the first prize winner in cartoon and painting competitions in the State School Arts Fest.
Vishnu, a student of Fr Agotino Vicini’s Special School in Kochi, has been trained by Kochi-based sculptor Stanley from a very young age. “Training kids with difficulties is a task in the initial stages. But when they find interest in the craft, they grasp it quickly. Vishnu is an exceptionally talented student and you can see that in the art he made with years of training,” said Stanley.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Good News / by Anna Jose & Manisha VCS / November 17th, 2024
Aiming to contribute a breakthrough in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) treatment, Mangaluru girl Salwa has successfully completed her Ph.D. in a unique area of pharmaceutical research focused on developing lipid nano-carriers for oral delivery of an anti-Alzheimer’s drug. Her research offers promising advancements in the treatment of AD, a condition affecting millions globally and growing in prevalence.
Guided by Dr. Lalit Kumar, former Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutics, and co-guided by Dr. C Mallikarjuna Rao, Professor of Pharmacology, both from the Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Salwa’s work addresses the urgent need for more effective drug delivery mechanisms to treat Alzheimer’s beyond temporary relief.
Alzheimer’s, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, has been challenging to treat due to limited therapeutic options, especially those capable of effectively reaching the brain. Her research seeks to improve brain-targeted drug delivery using lipid nano-carriers, potentially offering a scalable, industry-ready solution that could change the approach toward treating Alzheimer’s disease and provide real improvements in quality of life for patients.
The young researcher has a strong academic background, having qualified for the Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT) with an All India Rank (AIR) of 724, which earned her a fellowship for postgraduate studies. She was awarded a prestigious National Doctoral Fellowship (NDF) from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and received intramural research funding from Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) for her Ph.D. research.
Alzheimer’s, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, has been challenging to treat due to limited therapeutic options, especially those capable of effectively reaching the brain. Her research seeks to improve brain-targeted drug delivery using lipid nano-carriers, potentially offering a scalable, industry-ready solution that could change the approach toward treating Alzheimer’s disease and provide real improvements in quality of life for patients.
The young researcher has a strong academic background, having qualified for the Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT) with an All India Rank (AIR) of 724, which earned her a fellowship for postgraduate studies.
She was awarded a prestigious National Doctoral Fellowship (NDF) from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and received intramural research funding from Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) for her Ph.D. research.
Throughout her doctoral journey, Salwa received multiple honors, including travel grants from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the University of Toronto, and the International Brain Research Organization (IBRO). She was also a recipient of the PRAISE award for two consecutive years (2022 and 2023), alongside numerous research publications and patents.
Her parents, the late Abdul Samad and Sahira Banu, and her siblings have been an enduring inspiration throughout her academic and research journey. The young researcher’s future plans include furthering her work to explore how her developed nano-carrier system could support neuronal regeneration, potentially advancing Alzheimer’s treatment options for millions worldwide.
