Indian calligrapher Ghulam Mohiuddin transcribed this manuscript.
pix: SPA
Jeddah:
A two-century-old Quran manuscript, transcribed in India, is now on display at the Islamic Arts Biennale at the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Indian calligrapher Ghulam Mohiuddin transcribed this monumental Quran manuscript on the 6th of Muharram, 1240 AH (August 31, 1824 AD) in northern India. It was designated as a waqf (endowment) for the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, reflecting India’s deep historical ties to Islamic art and heritage.
Measuring an extraordinary 139.7 × 77.5 cm, the manuscript is embellished with gold, deep-colored pigments, and a cover originally encrusted with rubies, emeralds, turquoise, and peridot, making it one of the rarest Quran copies on display, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
The text is written in black Naskh script, with a Persian translation in red Nastaliq, showcasing the Indo-Persian calligraphic style of the era.
Historical records indicate that the manuscript arrived in Madinah in the mid-13th century AH and was initially placed near Bab As-Salam before being moved to the mosque’s treasury during restoration in 1273 AH (1857 AD).
In 1302 AH (1884 AD), it was rebound by Hajj Yusuf bin Hajj Masoom Nemankani, a scholar and manuscript expert from Uzbekistan who later settled in Madinah.
Now preserved at the King Abdulaziz Complex for Endowment Libraries in Madinah, this rare Indian-transcribed Quran is a key attraction at the Biennale, celebrating India’s historical ties with the Islamic world and its legacy of artistic excellence.
source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> Middle East / by Sakina Fatima, X / March 12th, 2025
A painting combats drugs.Horses displaying power in colour.
Renowned artist Akbar Saheb has been immersed in the field of art for over 50 years. He has been living and working in Dubai since 1996, and has been honoured with the Golden Visa for his many artistic achievements and exceptional creative contributions to the UAE, his adoptive country, and India, his home country.
His vast collection of artworks, inclusive now of over hundreds of paintings, spans various mediums, including those created in oil, acrylic, watercolour, and more recently, sculptures. His exhibitions extend to both global and local audiences. Among others, he has had a notable solo exhibition done in a new style he calls “Depthism” at Jehangir Art Gallery Mumbai (2023).
Later, he hosted another art event in Delhi. The theme was tolerance and Akbar Saheb says that “many people, including foreigners, were mesmerised by the artworks and their creative ideation.”
In 2024, he had a solo exhibition at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club in Dubai. “It was a huge highlight of my creative career,” says Akbar Saheb. His artistic prowess has transcended borders, earning him recognition from the Indian government also. He has been invited to participate in governmental initiatives, such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat (Conversations of the Mind) book.
He was the only artist selected to illustrate the volume; it won him recognition in the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House) and with the public also, during the official launch of the volume. In 2022, he showcased his artwork in 6 solo exhibitions held across India, supported by the Indian Prime Minister’s Office. The shows were held in Ahmedabad, Baroda, Surat, Rajkot, Delhi and Varanasi; they were attended by many VIPs. Akbar created a collection of 55 paintings which served as platforms that presented India’s progress and the transformative impact of Mann Ki Baat initiatives.
Akbar Saheb in a contemplative mood.
The seeds of Akbar’s artistic journey were sown at the tender age of seven. Despite the absence of significant family support, he diligently pursued his passion for art. He began by crafting shop signboards and assisting college students with biology drawings, to finance his sketching material. Years later, his creative flair propelled him to leading advertising agencies, where he specialised in illustration with airbrush techniques. His dedication to art ultimately took him from India’s Bangalore and Mumbai, where he worked in major companies, to Dubai.
His paintings, especially those of horses, feature a bold use of colour and a fearless instinct to show movement. The firm brushstrokes are the vectors of the energy, vitality and dynamism of the animals. The pictures bring memories of the work of Indian artist M. F. Husain, whose horses too portrayed majesty and power.
Akbar Saheb is not merely an artist; he is a compassionate soul with a deep commitment to humanity, particularly towards children with disabilities. Through specialised painting classes and international collaborations, he empowers the children to express their artistry. “I strive to inspire children to embrace art, fill their minds with colours, and explore the world through creativity,” he says.
He has launched painting classes and charitable projects for disabled children, providing them a space for artistic expression and has also auctioned paintings for donations and charity. In an interview, Akbar shared his experience working with the children. “Engaging with these children and witnessing their resilience and creativity is truly humbling,” he said. “They inspire me and remind me of the beauty and strength within each person. Through such efforts, I hope to inspire others too to support and uplift special children, as they live their life and pursue art. Together, we can create a more inclusive and caring society.”
A composition by Akbar Saheb..
Alongside art sessions, the activities he initiates are aimed at raising resources for the development of children with special needs. His aim is to provide them with the necessary assets, materials and educational opportunities to nurture and develop their artistic talent. Investing in their growth, he believes, can create a future where every child, regardless of his or her ability, can thrive and contribute to the community.
Akbar’s extensive portfolio showcases an eclectic array of creative concepts, themes and styles – he has exhibited his works worldwide. “Recently,” he says, “I was invited to do live painting during the Gold Cup final at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club. Both the teams involved played well; it was an intense match and ended in a tie. But finally, the UAE Polo team broke through, winning the final. My painting was gifted to the winning team for their amazing performance and playing skills!”
A painting titled Black Money.
Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was the Patron of the event, for the sixth time, and also led the winning UAE team. Sheikha Maitha was the first woman from the UAE to represent the country in the Olympics, in 2008.
Akbar Saheb is known to numerous celebrities and prominent people; many of them own his paintings. He has produced multiple works depicting the UAE’s culture, and the growth of the country. The 18×7 foot, 50 year golden jubilee painting; paintings on Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; plus over 50 paintings on UAE culture, are among his prized creations. His works range from commissions given by well-known individuals, to paintings done for his own satisfaction. Themes include horses, polo, history and culture and human existence, among others.
source: http://www.gulftoday.ae / Gulf Today / Home> Culture / by Muhammad Yusuf, Features Editor / February 24th, 2025
Nuruddin Ahmed standing in front of the arch of Science Fair
Two decades ago, Nuruddin Ahmed created a stir by bringing the sinking of the Titanic to life on stage in live theatre.
Over the years, he has also brought to life the 5,000-year-old Maya civilization and Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandava kingdom from the Mahabharata, in Durga Puja mandaps.
A National Award-winning sculptor and art director, Ahmed is currently leading the Pathsala session of the Assam Sahitya Sabha. He has previously made headlines for displaying models of iconic structures like the Taj Mahal, the Colosseum, and the Great Wall of China during Durga Puja.
Nuruddin Ahmed played a significant role in organising the 77th Pathsala session of the Assam Sahitya Sabha. The first-ever Science Fair held on the Sahitya Sabha grounds from January 31 to February 4 attracted lakhs of visitors from across India and abroad.
For those unfamiliar, the Assam Sahitya Sabha is a key guardian of Assam’s cultural and literary heritage, playing a vital role in promoting the language, culture, literature, and dignity of the northeastern state.
A scene inside the Science Fair
The organization, founded in 1917 by pioneers like Padmanath Gohanibarua and Sarat Chandra Goswami, is celebrating its 108th year by hosting a science fair alongside its literary activities for the first time.
In an interview with Awaz-the Voice, Assam, Nuruddin Ahmed shared that, while he has been involved in sculpture and art direction for decades, this is his first time organizing such a large-scale science fair.
“I have organized many science fairs and also worked with the Assam Science Technology & Environment Council. The Pathsala session of the Assam Sahitya Sabha features 21 departments related to science and technology,” he said. These include institutions such as the Indian Army, National Science Centre, Aryabhatta Science Centre, Oil Corporation of India, Numaligarh Oil Refinery, Assam Agricultural University, North Eastern Space Application Centre, Tezpur University, Gauhati University, and the Shipping Corporation of India.
“This initiative by the Assam Sahitya Sabha is a welcome move and will play a crucial role in fostering a scientific mindset among the youth,” said Nuruddin Ahmed, a Sangeet Natak Academy Award winner.
Science Fair at Pathsala
Nuruddin Ahmed has been designing arches for the venue of the Assam Sahitya Sabha sessions held in different parts of Assam for the past three decades. He was also closely involved during the 1987 session at Pathsala, Bajali district.
At that session, Nuruddin worked on the museum and archway. He is proud of his association with the Pathshala Sahitya Sabha session after 38 years and thanked the local MLA and Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass for this.
“I have a special passion for the Pathsala session. The Sahitya Sabha session was held here in 1987. “I am grateful to the welcoming committee president and Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass for giving me this opportunity this time”, Ahmed said.
The art director told Awaz that he began decorating the venue on January 19 and completed the work by January 30 and handed it over to the management committee. A group of 16 artists collaborated to decorate the Science Fair for the public, with Nuruddin Ahmed’s two sons, Dwip and Raj Ahmed, also contributing to success of the event..
Nuruddin Ahmed, who has revived the traditional arches of temples and sculptures in various parts of Assam, has prepared the tableau of the state of Assam for several Republic Days.
Nuruddin Ahmed has been creating and painting idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses for many years. Despite facing challenges at the beginning, as idolatry is forbidden in Islam, his works are now embraced with love and reverence by both Hindus and Muslims.
The Pandal of Indian Army at the Science Fair
During the Sharadiya Durga Puja last year, Nuruddin Ahmed brought Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandava kingdom in the ancient Hindu epic Mahabharata, to life. His creation received praise at the Athgaon Public Durga Puja Mandap in Guwahati. Indraprastha, which means “The city of Indra,” is believed to have been located in the area where present-day New Delhi stands.
The Assam Sahitya Sabha is the guardian of Assam’s cultural and literary heritage. It has played a great role in promoting the language, culture, literature and dignity of the North Eastern Space Application Centre.
The organization was founded in 1917 by pioneers like Padmanath Gohanibarua and Sarat Chandra Goswami. In its 108th year for the first time a science fair is being organized along side literary activities.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Mukut Sharma, Guwahati / February 05th, 2025
Mir was among 139 Padma awardees announced on Saturday, making him one of only two Padma Shri awardees from Jammu and Kashmir this year
Farooq Ahmad Mir’s 60 years of artistry earn Padma Shri
Srinagar :
In a heartfelt tribute to the art of craftsmanship, Farooq Ahmad Mir, a master shawl weaver from Srinagar, was conferred the prestigious Padma Shri award on January 25. At 73 years old, Mir embodies the spirit of dedication, having devoted over six decades to a craft that intertwines patience with artistry.
Mir was among 139 Padma awardees announced on Saturday, making him one of only two Padma Shri awardees from Jammu and Kashmir this year.
Starting his journey at the tender age of 10, Mir’s story resonates through generations. “Pashmina artisans require patience, much like education. It teaches us about the intricate nuances of our craft,” he reflects, drawing parallels between learning and weaving. Hailing from a lineage of artisans, Mir has not only preserved but revitalised the Kani shawl tradition, once favored by Mughal, Afghan, Sikh, and Dogra rulers.
Mir’s influence extends beyond his family; he has painstakingly taught the art of Kani shawl weaving to over many individuals in Srinagar’s old city.
“In a world where modern careers are alluring, many aspiring artisans are deterred by societal perceptions and a lack of patience for traditional craft,” he notes. Yet, Mir’s commitment to his heritage has inspired not only his children, skilled weavers in their own right, but countless young men and women in his community.
“Your work should speak for itself,” Mir shares humbly when asked about his relative anonymity in a world that often celebrates flashy accolades over dedication. His contributions, however, haven’t gone unnoticed. He has received multiple national and state awards, including recognition from Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself.
The exquisite Kani shawls, woven using cane needles rather than shuttles, can take between four to eighteen months to create. However, the beauty of this art form is in jeopardy. As younger generations lean towards more modern occupations, the skills required to produce these heirlooms risk fading away. Mir’s tireless efforts aim to ensure this heritage is not lost.
Born into a weaver’s family in Srinagar, Mir’s start was modest. Despite barriers to formal education, he channeled his passion into honing his skills, becoming one of the finest artisans in Kashmir. Alongside his successful weaving career, he managed to educate his siblings and inspire a new wave of artisans dedicated to preserving Kani shawl weaving.
In an age driven by industrialisation, the importance of handmade products is gaining renewed appreciation globally. Mir stands as a pioneer in safeguarding this cultural legacy, instilling pride in his craft and ensuring its continuation across generations. His handcrafted Kani shawls have not only found a place in the hearts of locals but also captured the attention of international clientele, including the Ambani family and major corporations like Tata and Aditya Birla Group.
Farooq Ahmad Mir’s journey exemplifies resilience and dedication. As an unsung hero of the Kani shawl tradition, he reminds us that true artistry thrives in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to emerge into the light.
Director Handicrafts and Handloom, Mussarat Islam in a tweet on social media extended heartfelt congratulations to Farooq Ahmad Mir on being awarded #PadmaShri 2025 for his significant contributions to Kani Shawl weaving and the preservation of Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage.
source: http://www.greaterkashmir.com / Greater Kashmir / Home> Business / by Mukeet Akmali (headline edited) / January 26th, 2025
A legacy of craftsmanship is slowly fading into obscurity in the quiet lanes of Rajgarh, Madhya Pradesh. A family of Muslim jewellers, whose silver jewellery designs once captivated the rural heartland, have spent over six generations perfecting their art. Adored by countless women in villages, their intricate silverwork remains unmatched in the region. Yet, despite their unmatched skill and devotion, they have never been able to secure the recognition they deserve.
While they have brought distinction to larger jewellers, they struggle to establish an identity of their own. What began with hopes of creating a unique legacy now faces the grim reality of unfulfilled dreams, as the next generation begins to shy away from this art form.
Originally from Losal village in Rajasthan’s Sikar district, Eliasuddin moved to Rajgarh’s largest city of Biawara almost 55 years ago with his father and three brothers. They hoped to take their craft to new heights and believed that their unique art would bring them fame and success.
However, after more than half a century, they remain simply skilled craftsmen. Their work is limited to sustain their families. Seeking more secure and rewarding careers, the next generation is now stepping away from the family tradition. They say that the job only brings enough to survive, not thrive.
Eliasuddin explains that they specialise in ‘Pola’ work — a technique that involves crafting silver jewellery, particularly popular in rural areas. “We are from Losal village in Rajasthan’s Sikar district. We came from Jaipur to Rajgarh about 55 years ago and began our work in Biawara city. Local gold and silver traders provide us with work, and we design jewellery using our skills. We do not have logos or names on our designs. Most of our work is done by hand, with very little use of machinery. We even create our own tools by hand, as we often need specific designs that are not available in the market,” he says.
The family has been in this craft for six generations, with Eliasuddin’s sons and brothers continuing the work. Now 97, his father is still an expert in the art. Despite this legacy, their financial situation has remained difficult. “We dedicated our entire lives to this craft, but we have never been recognised for it. We never achieved the success we thought would come with our hard work. No matter how much we poured into it, we never got the recognition we deserve,” he says.
Altaf Hussain, Eliasuddin’s eldest son, adds, “We work hard, but we are just making ends meet. I am sending my son to pursue an MBA, and I hope the next generation steers away from this field. My father brought us here 55 years ago, and today, we still operate our business from a rented shop.”
Meanwhile, sharing his concerns, Eliasuddin’s younger son, Irshad, says, “I have two young children who go to school, but we cannot afford to send them to a private school because their fees are too high. Despite this, we continue to hope they will study and grow, as we never received the recognition or success, we feel we deserve from this work.”
All Photographs by the author
source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> India News / by Abdul Waseem Ansari, TwoCirlces.net / January 01st, 2025
