The All India Muslim Business Startup Network (AIMBSN) hosted its first annual conference on November 26th, 2017 in Pune.
AIMBSN is an initiative aimed at driving Muslim involvement in India’s startup and technology economy. Dr Tausif Malik organized the AIMBSN and the first annual conference; Dr Malik has a long history of involvement in business, technology, and community organizing.
The event’s theme and vision was “connect, support, inspire and grow” and to involve the Muslim community in stimulating the business sector and developing opportunities for the next generation.
Dr. Tausif Malik said, “AIMBSN is India’s only ecosystem to connect Indian Muslim entrepreneurs, businesses, investors and startups.”
AIMBSN ecosystem hopes to plan for its members business conferences, networking and startup events across India; a social network, AIMBSN.com, where individuals and businesses can discuss businesses, requirements, and investment opportunities; incubators and accelerators – to be set up in the future in tandem with minority institutions, and a AIMBSN venture capital fund in 2018 with investments from NRI Indian Muslims who want to invest in their original homeland.
Chicago based Dr Tausif Malik founder of the AIMBSN highlighted that Islam promotes entrepreneurship and contribution to one’s motherland. He also said that the event is to align with the policies of Indian government such as Startup India, Digital India, Skill India and Make in India.
Cryptocurrency entrepreneurs based in the US, Sameer Gitay and Quayaum Quamar, introduced blockchain technology. The event saw the launch of SocketsplugnPlay.com to cater to the growing demand for blockchain, fintech, ICO and cryptocurreny services.
Among the startups showcasing at the conference were Berry IT, a startup dealing with robotics and e-learning; Miswak Toothbrush, the world’s first miswak toothbrush); two startups called, SQr Infotech and Viands – dealing in blockchain and crytocurrency, and TravelonEmi.com, a travel company offering interest free EMI.
source: http:www.bwdisrupt.com / BW Disrupt / Home> Entrepreneur / by BW Online Bureau / November 29th, 2017
In an effort to unite Bhatkallis residing in Dubai and other parts of the United Arab Emirates, the “AUZ Blast Edition 2” cricket tournament is set to commence in Dubai on October 26, 2024. The tournament is being organized by the Dubai-based Bhatkal companies, AUZ real estate and Nuha General Trading.
Providing details to the media, Ismail Mohtisham, the media coordinator of the organizing committee, explained that the purpose of the tournament is to bring together young cricket enthusiasts and players who are working in different parts of Dubai and the UAE, and to provide them with a platform to showcase their talent and take their skills to new heights.
The spectacular cricket event will not only serve as a source of entertainment for the cricket fans of Coastal Karnataka living in the UAE but will also offer young players from Bhatkal and surrounding areas an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities on a prominent stage.
The auction for the players will be held on October 6, with the first match scheduled for October 26.
Mohtisham further shared that eight teams will participate in the tournament, with a total of 220 players registering their interest. Each team will consist of 16 players, including three guest players.
The winning team will be awarded a trophy along with a cash prize of AED 10,999, while the runner-up team will receive a trophy and AED 6,999. Individual performances will also be recognized, with a Man of the Match award for each game and the prestigious Man of the Tournament award for the best overall performance.
“The tournament format will feature eight teams divided into two groups, with each team playing three league matches,” Mohtisham added. “The top four teams will qualify for the playoffs, promising plenty of excitement and competition.”
In addition to the thrilling cricket matches, fans can look forward to an exciting atmosphere with snacks and gift hampers on offer, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone attending the AUZ Blast Edition 2.
All matches will be held at Al Batayah Stadium in Sharjah.
It is important to note that Sundays are official holidays in Dubai and the UAE, while most companies have half-day holidays on Saturdays.
According to the schedule, the tournament will kick off on the evening of Saturday, October 26, with the opening ceremony, followed by the first match at 9:30 PM. On Sunday, October 27, the first match will be played at 10:00 AM, the second at 2:00 PM, and the third at 5:30 PM. For the next two weeks, on November 3 and November 10, four matches will be held on Sundays. On Saturday, November 16, two matches will take place, and on Sunday, November 17, the second semi-final and the final match will be played.
source: http://www.sahilonline.com / Sahil Online / Home> Gulf News / by IG Bhatkal / S O News Service / October 04th, 2024
Dr. Afreen Mubeen Sheikh, a native of Mangaluru has made her hometown proud when she recently won the SHE Award in Dubai for her dedicated service to her profession and for contributing to the cause of women empowerment in UAE.
Dr Afreen is an alumnus of K S Hegde Medical Academy where she pursued her MBBS. She later did her Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland.
Dr Afreen is a mentor and coach for foreign medical graduates seeking medical licensure in the UAE. She is a women’s health consultant in Mamahood, Dubai. Her expertise and guidance have empowered countless mothers to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. She has also successfully founded a women’s modest fashion brand by name ’Hayaa by Afreen’ in Dubai and also has a popular blog page by name ’The Whitecoat Mama’ on Instagram.
She uses the platform to raise awareness about women’s health and Gulf medical exams. She’s not only a respected medical professional and social media influencer but also a brand ambassador for several renowned brands in the UAE. Dr Afreen’s inspiring journey and her achievements were featured in a popular Dubai magazine ’Xpatzhub’ in October.
Dr Afreen is married to Dr Mohammad Mubeen who is a Paediatric Intensivist.
In honor of its achievement of over 90,000 deliveries, Thumbay University Hospital, UAE’s largest private academic hospital owned and managed by Thumbay Group, hosted a special event.
The festive occasion took place at the Thumbay Medicity (Al Jurf, Ajman), offering an evening filled with joy, laughter, and memorable experiences for the attendees present.
Since the first delivery in January 2003, Thumbay Healthcare has successfully conducted over 90,000 deliveries, significantly contributing to its growth and establishing itself as the UAE’s most sought-after family hospital for maternity care. The Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBG) department serves approximately 35,000 patients annually and is equipped with 10 state-of-theart labor and delivery rooms, a dedicated OBG emergency unit, and specialized operating theatres. Additionally, there is a postnatal ward with private rooms for new mothers, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment during their recovery.
The event was graced by the presence of Chief Guest Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder President of Thumbay Group, along with Akbar Moideen Thumbay, Vice President of Thumbay Healthcare.
The celebration featured various activities designed to engage both children and adults. Highlights included balloon twisting, magic shows, face painting, and a best-dressed babies’ contest, with three winners announced. The event culminated in a cake-cutting ceremony that signified the growth and joy shared by infants and their families over the years.
Attendees also had the chance to participate in a raffle draw, with five winners receiving surprise gifts aimed at enhancing their parenting experience. A dedicated photo booth was available for families to create personalized keepsakes. Additionally, parents received vouchers for a health check-up valued at AED 3,499, available for AED 399, as well as a free dental consultation.
“As we commemorate the remarkable achievement of 90,000 deliveries within our hospital family, we recognize the profound honor of being part of these significant milestones in the lives of so many. It is a privilege to support the early development of each child, who represents the hope for a healthier and brighter future. Together with their families, we take pride in witnessing the growth, milestones, and vast potential that these new lives will contribute to our community. This milestone reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional care and nurturing the next generation, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive,” said Akbar Moideen Thumbay, Vice President of Thumbay Healthcare.
The hospital also offers an affordable maternity package, further enhancing its commitment to accessible and quality care for families. Maternity package at Thumbay University Hospital includes consultations with specialist gynecologists, free delivery booking, and antenatal classes. Priced at AED 5,499 for normal deliveries and AED 8,999 for C-section deliveries, the package is designed to diagnose, monitor, and prevent health issues, promoting healthier lifestyles for expectant mothers.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / October 16th, 2024
Accept Happy Women’s Day from Hello Mumbai News.com Team :
Each year, Hello Mumbai News takes the privilege to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8th to propagate and recognize women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements through featuring stories on their successful journey in their field and to call for gender equality
This is with a goal to raise awareness about the need to end gender-based violence, promote women’s leadership, celebrate their contributions, promote entrepreneurs, startups and advocate for women’s economic empowerment around the World.
We, Hello Mumbai News Team have compiled a list of noteworthy and inspiring Entrepreneurs drawn from across the Country.
We hope their stories will inspire one and all. So guys read on:
There is a tremendous growth in Muslims foraying into Entrepreneurship in the country. Amid the World celebrating the International Women’s Day, Hello Mumbai News is taking the privilege to interview the Muslim Entrepreneurs from Mumbai and so forth in their Series International Women’s Day.
As of now Women Muslim Entrepreneurs have defied this stereotype even as cashing in on the rapidly growing market for Muslim-focused Business.
Muslim Women Entrepreneurs are and have proved they are nothing less. Today they are into varied businesses and are growing with it on their own merits.
They have adopted the business and labour practices of global capitalism.
Muslim Women Entrepreneurs have made a mark in Mumbai and they have emerged as successful at entrepreneurship.
Sana Khatri:
Famous As: Business Entrepreneur
Hello Mumbai News: Could you please Introduce yourself to our readers?
Sana Khatri: Hi. I am Sana Khatri, I was born and brought up in Mumbai and hail from a Muslim Menom Community. Though I was an housewife earlier, presently, I am the Founder of Grace Network Event and Exhibition Company.
Hello Mumbai News: What Inspired you to venture into your own Business?
Sana Khatri: Well, being a Muslim Woman I observed that there is a lot of potential and talent in our Muslim Women but there is no specific platform for them to explore their talent. Hence decided to do it. Moreover, I belong to a business family background, so business is in my blood. And in a bid to empower and promote Women Entrepreneurs, I decided to start this business.
Hello Mumbai News: What Challenges you faced as a Woman Entrepreneur and how did you overcome them?
Sana Khatri: Look, In every business challenges occur and it is very common. So for me to create a network of women professional and Entrepreneurs was a Big challenge. I became very active on social media and did hard work on ground level. From person to person i created this platform.
Hello Mumbai News: Tell us something about your Start-up and how people can benefit from it?
Sana Khatri: My startup company name is Grace Network which provides a platform to MSME and women Entrepreneurs to showcase their products. We organise Exhibition twice a month in different parts of Mumbai. Women Entrepreneurs participate in this Exhibition display their products and get benefits. In last five years and as of now, we have organized more than 24 Exhibition across Mumbai.
Hello Mumbai News: Where did your Inspiration come from?
Sana Khatri: I was inspired by my Family members and my Husband
Hello Mumbai News: Do you feel that in India there are enough structures and facilities put in place to assist women to expand their Startup Journey?
Sana Khatri: Yes. India is a Very huge Market and our present Government is doing good to support MSMES and small Startup.
Hello Mumbai News: How you balance your professional and personal life .
Sana Khatri: Well, though quite difficult, yet, I managed. In this, I always had the support from my Husband.
Hello Mumbai News: What advice would you give to someone who is aspiring to be a Women Entrepreneur?
Sana Khatri: My sincere advice is to be positive and increase confidence. Y will definitely get success.
Hello Mumbai News: Which Woman Inspired you?
Sana Khatri: Quite obviously my Mother.
Hello Mumbai News: What is your message on International Women’s Day?
Sana Khatri: Yes.To Empower Women Empower Nation. Happy Women’s Day.
Hello Mumbai News: Being a Muslim Woman Entrepreneur what type of challenges and difficulties you faced.
Sana Khatri: Frankly speaking my biggest challenge is to bring Muslim Women Entrepreneurs under one roof. Our Community Women follow Pardhaa still now. And being a Muslim Woman Entrepreneur, Networking among Women is the biggest challenge
Hello Mumbai News: What’s your vision and future plan about your startup?.
Sana Khatri: Well, I want to make Grace Network a big platform across India and to promote Women Entrepreneurship culture among Muslim women. Very soon I will be organising an Exhibition in every district of Maharashtra and Big Metro cities of India.
Hello Mumbai News: Do you agree Mumbai being a financial capital a good Market for Startup and Entrepreneurs?
Sana Khatri: Yes of course. No doubt about it. In Mumbai Entrepreneurship culture is growing day by day among women Entrepreneurs.
Sanaubar Aijaz Malik:
Famous As: Business Entrepreneur
I am Sanaubar Aijaz Malik the owner of Glamour and Style a well-known clothing brand in Mumbai. I was born and brought up in a Muslim family in South Mumbai.G
I graduated in psychology from St Xaviers College and postgraduated in counselling psychology. My life’s journey was so very professional as a psychologist to begin with. I then got the opportunity to join a special school run by an NGO as principal and administrator and dedicated nearly 15 years for the upliftment of underprivileged women and children with special needs. This was a different level of contentment altogether for me. I have such precious and unforgettable memories of these days of my life.
Alhamdulillah born in a well educated Muslim family, all my family members were professionals, I did not have to face any societal pressure. The school where I worked was run by an NGO run by broad minded women themselves. Being a psychologist, I knew the importance of mother’s role in the development of children so I left my ideal and secure job to give time to my two kids, Anam and Jawaad, thanks to my supportive husband Aijaz and in laws. My hobbies were reading, handicraft making, stitching, embroidery, painting, dress designing and so much more… During this time my husband had to shift to Pune for work and our kids started growing up. As a result I now had few hours free for myself. I then started giving voluntary vocational training to underprivileged women and children with special needs, helping them to lead independent self reliant lives. Suddenly, my life turned upside down with my mom’s death due to cancer, my own and my husband’s ill health. It was during this phase that I started selling self created handicraft items and dress material to keep myself busy and distract myself from such circumstances. Alhamdulillah, we overcame this depressive phase and grew stronger. Then came the lockdown that changed the lives of so many people. It affected my life too but in a positive way. My online sales improved Alhamdulillah. I also got involved in a lot of charitable work. I noticed that a few karigars and tailors were out of their jobs. Some even left the city. I then thought of getting suits stitched and selling so that they could feed their families. I participated in a lot of exhibitions where I met a lot of other women entrepreneurs especially those who organized exhibitions and encouraged small business owners. No act of goodness and hardwork goes wasted. Blessings of all those who were helped led to the brand called GLAMOUR AND STYLE today. Glamour and Style grew into a successful brand in a significantly short span of time. Today, we have a team of karigars each expert in their own forte, team salesgirls, team of photographer and models, a team handling my social media, a graphic designer and so on. From an individual person handling business, glamour and style is benefitting so many people, both men and women who work from home. Another major aim is satisfaction of customers. We are continuously striving to make the best exclusive designs at affordable rates especially for middle class families. Thanks to my supportive husband Aijaz Malik, my family and friends, who always encourage and motivate me, i have been able to reach here. During lockdown many businesses failed and women came to the forefront supporting the family. The only advice that i can give someone who is an aspiring women entrepreneur is to never give up. Allah taala is watching. If your intentions are good, you will get success. Faith, willpower, hardwork and perseverance pays.
I take inspiration from wife of our beloved Prophet(pbuh) Hazrat Khadija (r a) who was a successful Muslim woman entrepreneur. Fashion is a signature of your unique style and it has a lot of scope. Today, Sanaubar Aijaz Malik’s Glamour and Style is a well known ladies clothing brand boutique located at Dongri, Mumbai. The place vibrates with hues and sophisticated designs….a candy to the eyes. It deals in ready to wear Indian attires, keeping in mind the customers budget and latest trends. The price range is super affordable without stooping on the quality. You can pick a lovely casual wear cotton outfit @ just Rs 1200/- Each suit made is exclusive. One of its kind. They have sizes from Small( S or 36) to 5XL (or 50). Available at our outlet are Stitched and semi stitched Kurtis/tunics. Casual cotton and lawn suits embellished with laces. Festive collection with embroidery and patch work. Premium and designer party wear collections. and much more. You can WhatsApp on 9833873378 Website www.glamourandstyle.in Instagram glamourand.style Address: 233, Bundar bldg, SVP Rd, Next to Buland Darwaza, opp. Khoja Kabrastan, Dongri Mumbai 400009. There are over 1000 suits available to select from. Shop is open 11am to 9 pm Monday to Saturday. Courier facility is also available all over India. Best quality at affordable prices. We match style and class with luxury and comfort. With the changing mindset, Inshaallah Muslim women will continue to make great strides in the business world in the days to come. In future, I see myself continuing my endeavour of helping the needy and impacting the lives of people so that the world could become a better place to live in. Inshaallah I plan to expand my business to cater to the needs of more and more people. On women’s day the only message that I want to give to all women entrepreneurs is to maintain quality of life. You need to balance your family, career, health as well as friends. This will automatically lead you to success. If I could do it, you can do it too. Happy women’s day.
Sanaa Gaazi:
Famous As: Mehndi Artist
Hello Mumbai News: Could you please Introduce yourself to our readers?
Sanaa Gaazi: Hi. Privileged to connect with Hello Mumbai News. I am Sana Gazi, born and brought up in Mumbai and hail from a Muslim Community. Though I was an housewife earlier, presently, I am the Founder of Sana Gazi Mhendi Artist Beauty Startups.
Hello Mumbai News: What Inspired you to venture into your own Business?
Sanaa Gaazi: Well, Since my child i was interested in Beauty Industry specially in Mhendi Design. From the day one my mother supported me a lot and i joined Mhendi classes done course. After this i decidedly to make it a professional. and decided to start this business.
Hello Mumbai News: What Challenges you faced as a Woman Entrepreneur and how did you overcome them?
Sanaa Gaazi: Look, In every business challenges occur and it is very common. So for me to create a network of women client was a Big challenge. I became very active on social media and did hard work on ground level. From person to person i created this platform.
Hello Mumbai News: Tell us something about your Start-up and how people can benefit from it?
Sanaa Gaazi: My startup company name is Sana Gazi Mhendi Artist which provides a Mhendi designing specially Dubai flavour.our speciality is Designing which women like it very much.
Hello Mumbai News: Where did your Inspiration come from?
Sanaa Gaazi: I was inspired by my Mother Family members and my Husband
Hello Mumbai News: How do you balance your professional and personal life .
Sanaa Gaazi: Well, though quite difficult, yet, I managed. In this, I always had the support from my Husband.
Hello Mumbai News: What advice would you give to someone who is aspiring to be a Women Entrepreneur?
Sanaa Gaazi: My sincere advice is to be positive and increase confidence. Y will definitely get success. Work hard belives in your self
Hello Mumbai News: Which Woman Inspired you?
Sanaa Gaazi: Quite obviously my Mother.
Hello Mumbai News: What is your message on International Women’s Day?
Sanaa Gaazi: This International Women’s Day, is very special for me, because it was on this auspicious day that I got married. This women’s day marks my 4th Marriage anniversary. I want to give special message to all women to support and help each other grow together and Make Nation strong.
Hello Mumbai News: Being a Muslim Woman Entrepreneur what type of challenges and difficulties you faced.
Sanaa Gaazi: Frankly speaking my biggest challenge is to create good quality client because Mhendi is an Art and its difficult to convince the client about Designing.
Hello Mumbai News: What’s your vision and future plan about your startup?.
Sanaa Gaazi: I want to make Sana Gazi Mhendi Artist a Big beauty Startup through this platform i want launch Mhendi classes want to teach poor and needy girls.Through my Mhendi art i want to support my society.
Hello Mumbai News: Do you agree Mumbai being a financial capital a good Market for Beauty Startup and Entrepreneurs?
Sanaa Gaazi: Yes of course. No doubt about it. In Mumbai Entrepreneurship culture is growing day by day among women Entrepreneurs.
Farzana Imran:
Famous As: Makeup Artist
Predominantly Business is a male-dominated world, and in the Muslim community, where female modesty is held at a premium, one might assume that was doubly the case.
But as of now Muslim Women Entrepreneurs are making a Huge impact they have defied this stereotype even as cashing in on the rapidly growing market for Muslim-focused Business.
Like other Non-Muslim women entrepreneurs who have conquered the Male Counterparts in every field of profession, so too Muslim Women Entrepreneurs are and have proved they are nothing less. Today they are into varied businesses and are growing with it on their their own merits.
One such ambitious charismatic and vibrant is Farzana Imran recognised as Zaana Make-up Artist.
Hello Mumbai News took the opportunity to catch up with the enterprising Make-up artist for an exclusive interview on International Women’s Day. Excerpts of the interview.
Hello Mumbai News: Hi. Farzana, welcome to Hello Mumbai News. Could you please introduce yourself to our readers.
Farzana: Hello. This is Farzana Imran, a Make-up artist.
Hello Mumbai News: Farzana, how did u foray into the beauty business?
Farzana: Well, I forayed into the beauty business way back 4 years ago as makeup artist and a subsequently an hairstylist.
Hello Mumbai News: How would you Describe your Signature Look.
Farzana: I have always attempted to enhance one’s inner beauty, Pakistani bridal look and elegant party makeups are my signature looks. It has been my passion towards makeup and engaged in beauty industry is all that I had always wanted and it was my cherished dream.
Hello Mumbai News: What made you come up with your Own Make up line.
Farzana: Beauty is endless and one doesn’t need to look fair as far as beauty is defined, but just that you need to be a good hearted person to look beautiful…..(but a lil mascara never hurts)
Hello Mumbai News: Please throw light on your speciality and services you provide.
Farzana: It has always been my priority to provide with the best of service to my clients. I also visit venues where there is a need for makeup. And also visit accept destination wedding makeups
Hello Mumbai News: Which elements of job that attracts and you most enjoy?
Farzana: Well, I just love doing eye makeup and enhance eyes. As a saying goes “Keep going and never stop your bank account has more numbers than your mobile number”.
Hello Mumbai News: What type challenges you have you encountered amid your professional Journey.
Farzana: Yes. I did have had to face lot of hassles but by the grace of God I could hustle, bustle fight and bounce back. Let me tell you that Women are blessed with power if whatever they decide they will ultimately succeed in life
Hello Mumbai News: Whom have you looked up for inspiration?
Farzana: Yes, amid peels of laughter, Parul Gurg a seasoned Makeup artist is my inspiration and touchwood I am fortunate to have a very supporting husband so everything gets managed. Am accessible on @zaana_makeup_artist and on Mob No. 9022696457
Fatima Qureshi:
Famous As: Beauty Entrepreneur
Hello Mumbai News: Could you Introduce yourself for our readers.
Fatima Qureshi: I am Fatima Qureshi, Beauty Expert by profession.
Hello Mumbai News: What Inspired you to venture into your Business?
Fatima Qureshi: It was the need of the hour and an Urge to be self-dependent.
Hello Mumbai News: What Challenges have you faced as a Woman Entrepreneur and how did you overcome them.
Fatima Qureshi: Well, amid taunt from the society as this profession was not appreciated in those days. Then traveling to places for work. Maintaining balance between home and work
Hello Mumbai News: Tell us something about your Start-up and how people can benefit from it.
Fatima Qureshi: For venturing into any business one has to invest a lot of money. Hence, I started giving tuitions and then utilized that money as a freelancer beautician.
Hello Mumbai News: Where Did your Inspiration come from?
Fatima Qureshi: It was a safe job as I had to deal with females.
Hello Mumbai News: Do you feel that in India there are enough structures and facilities put in place to assist women to expand their Startup Journey?
Fatima Qureshi: No
Hello Mumbai News: How do you balance your professional and personal life.
Fatima Qureshi: I organize my work as per priority. It’s difficult but I systematically manage it.
Hello Mumbai News: What advice would you give to aspiring Women Entrepreneur?
Fatima Qureshi: Just go for it. Achieve your dreams. Make the Impossible possible.
Hello Mumbai News: What Women Inspire you.?
Fatima Qureshi: To be Enthusiastic Positive Confident
Hello Mumbai News: What is your message on International Women’s Day.
Fatima Qureshi: Nothing is impossible for a WOMAN. Stand up for yourself.
Hello Mumbai News: Where can our readers find you and keep in touch with you.
Fatima Qureshi: On Instagram and Facebook @Femsglamour
Hello Mumbai News: Being a Muslim women Entrepreneur what type of challenges and difficulties you faced?
Fatima Qureshi: Too much restrictions on work timings and travel
Hello Mumbai News: What’s your vision and future plan about your startup?
Fatima Qureshi: I am a self-starter who intend to make the most of every opportunity that life offers me I want to become an inspiration for all the women who want to become an inspiration for others I want to help all those to achieve their goals.
Hello Mumbai News: Tell us in brief about your services.
Fatima Qureshi: We deal with all types of skin and beauty services.
Hello Mumbai News: Do you agree Mumbai being a financial capital a good Market for Startup and Entrepreneurs?
Fatima Qureshi: Yes, by all means.
Aisha Tabrez Chinoy:
Famous As: Food Entrepreneur
Hello Mumbai News: Could you Introduce yourself for our readers.
Aisha: I am a mother of 2 lovely kids, housewife and an entrepreneur who loves to hustle and wants to make an identity for myself in the society and be an inspiration for a lot of females to do something on their own.
Hello Mumbai News: What Inspired to start your Business.
Aisha: the challenge that I was going through in the kitchen specially while making birista where we had to peel onions, cut, chop and fry them to make birista inspired me to make kitchen life easy for a lot of kitchen queens and also my passion for cooking.
Hello Mumbai News: What Challenges have you faced as a Woman Entrepreneur and how did you overcome them.
Aisha: There have been end number of challenges that I have faced… Taking care of joint family, kids, household chores, staff, sales, manufacturing and many more challenging… But I am fortunate enough to have my husband who is the strongest pillar of my life and also for S.A Foods. He has a lot of experience in the corporate world dealing into sales and customer service. He’s always ensures to share and implement his experience in S.A Foods…
Hello Mumbai News: Tell Something about your Start-up and how people can benefit from it.
Aisha: Firstly all our products are all made using the finest ingredients and we offer premium quality marinades, birista, ginger garlic paste, chutneys, mayos to make kitchen life easy and zaikedaar for kitchen queens. We have more than 5000 customers and they all share their feedback that our products have made their kitchen life very easy and zaikedaar.
Hello Mumbai News: Do you feel that in India there are enough structures and facilities put in place to assist women to expand their Startup Journey.
Aisha: It is only the will, passion and persistence that helps you achieve your goals whether it is India or any location in the world. Make use of the resources available and looking for solutions to your problem is the key to success.
Hello Mumbai News: How you balance your professional and personal life .
Aisha: It is difficult and challenging… But when your husband and your family support understands you passion and you dream you can do wonders. I am fortunate alhamdulillah to have a strong family with very strong values and also my staff who are more like my family… Then it becomes easy to distribute your work load. Special thanks to my entire staff of S.A Foods.
Hello Mumbai News: What advice would you give to someone who are aspiring Women Entrepreneur
Aisha: Only 1 advice… Understand what makes you happy and work on your product/service daily… Love what you do and also be consistent… It’s you persistence and determination that will give you name and then everything falls in place.
Hello Mumbai News: What’is your message on International Women’s Day.
Aisha: Love yourself, be confident about the work you do. Make your own identity not to compete with anyone, but just to discover your strength and discover yourself.
Hello Mumbai News: Being a Muslim women Entrepreneur what type of challenges and difficulties you faced.
Aisha: A challenge is a challenge when you don’t have anyone to support you… But alhamdulillah I am blessed with best husband, parents, in-laws and my entire S.A Foods family who have been my strength and never made me feel if there’s any challenge. I see a challenge and alhamdulillah my husband comes up with a solution and my entire staff supports to complete those challenges.
Hello Mumbai News: What’s your vision and future plan about your startup.
Aisha: Ek hi vision hai… Make life easy and zaikedaar for all the kitchen queen… #hargharsafoods
Hello Mumbai News: Tell us brief about your services.
Aisha: We offer home delivery services and any customer can book their products through our website, Instagram and WhatsApp. We also keep on uploading new recipes on Instagram for our customers so that they know how they can prepare some yummy recipes for their own family easily. We also share more than 150 recipes through WhatsApp to make their kitchen life easy and zaikedaar.
Hello Mumbai News: Do you agree Mumbai being a financial capital a good Market for Startup and Entrepreneurs.
Aisha: I was born and bought up in Mumbai… There is always a lot of scope to start your own business and make a name for yourself. Just believe in yourself and make small progress daily. Naam ke liye kaam karo… Kaam khud ho jayega…
My mom and my mother in law who coincidentally has same name Sabera n of course my name Aisha and that’s the initial in S.A Foods… Their never to give up attitude inspires me and I am blessed to have them in my life.
Nikhat Khan:
Famous As: Makeup Artist
Hello Mumbai News: Could you introduce yourself for our readers.
Nikhat Khan: Nikhat khan as makeupbykhan I am professional makeup and hair artist
Hello Mumbai News: when and how did you get into beauty industry
Nikhat Khan: Makeup is my passion and in makeup industry I am since 3 yrs
Hello Mumbai News: How would you Describe your Signature look.
Nikhat Khan: The best way to create a signature look is to think about what is you want to accentuate about your natural beauty and then play around and see what makes you feel best
Hello Mumbai News: what made you come up with your own makeup line
Nikhat Khan: It’s my passion which made me come up with my makeup line
Hello Mumbai News: What is beauty for you
Nikhat Khan: It’s our strength and self confidence to know that with or without makeup the real beauty is “you”
Hello Mumbai News: Tell something about your specialty and service you provide
Nikhat Khan: We provide makeup that should look soft elegant and natural
Hello Mumbai News: which elements of job do you most enjoy
Nikhat Khan: As a makeup artist you have the power to make beautiful when ur clients see them in the mirror after your final touch the smile that you see on their face is “princeless”
Hello Mumbai News: Do you have any tips or advice for Aspiring makeup artist
Nikhat Khan: You should have a strong passion for the makeup industry and you should be creative
Hello Mumbai News: What type challenges have you faced during your professional Journey
Nikhat Khan: We all have to accept a challenge in every job how to balance it it’s up to us
Hello Mumbai News: What’s your message on International Women’s Day
Nikhat Khan: Happy Women’s day to all the incredible women ! “Not just today but everyday “
Hello Mumbai News: who is your favourite makeup artist
Nikhat Khan: Mine favourite makeup artist is Nasreen ma’am coz she’s the one where I am today she’s my makeup guru
Hello Mumbai News: how you balance your professional and personal life
Nikhat Khan: We should be very calm in both personal and professional life
Hello Mumbai News: when our readers can find you and keep in touch with you
Nikhat Khan: I m on Instagram as makeupbykhan3 WhatsApp on 9082958822
Yasmin:
Famous As: Makeup Artist
Hello Mumbai News: Could you Introduce yourself for our readers.
Yasmin:My name is yasmeen i am a professional makeup artist
Hello Mumbai News: when and how did you get into Beauty Industry.
Yasmin: I just love to do makeup right from my childhood but I tried it as a profession after my marriage by getting inspiration from all the ladies out there in the industry who just want to pursue something on their own.
Hello Mumbai News: How would you Describe your Signature Look.
Yasmin: As I said I just love doing makeup but my clients and friends love how I do box liner and nude makeup a lot as it enhances the natural beauty of the person irrelevant of their ethnicity.
Hello Mumbai News: what made you come up with your Own Make up line.
Yasmin: Nothing just a passion for makeup and a love of sharing the knowledge which I have.
Hello Mumbai News: What is Beauty for you.
Yasmin: To me, beauty is all about being comfortable in your skin, its about knowing and accepting who you are.
Hello Mumbai News: Tell Something about your speciality and services you provide.
Yasmin:My specialty is makeup and knowledge in it and that is the service that I provide, by the grace of Allah I am very good at it
Hello Mumbai News: which elements of job do you most enjoy.
Yasmin:you know, when we are done with our work and we receive a beautiful smile and positive feedback from the client, that’s it that’s the best part of the job which I enjoy
Hello Mumbai News: Do you have any Tips or advice for Aspiring Make up Artist.
Yasmin:Do what you love and love what you do, and follow your passion blindly don’t run after fame make your work shout out your name and fame will come running after you.
Hello Mumbai News: What type challenges have you faced during your professional Journey.
Yasmin:Nothing can be achieved without any challenges as being a married woman and a mother the difficulty level for starting a career at this time of life is way up high and the list is way long enough from the tension of who’s gonna look after the children to how well everything will be managed. But as they say, where there is a will there is a way, everything will be managed gradually.
Hello Mumbai News: What’s your message on International Women’s Day
Yasmin:A woman can do anything she is willing to do, the only thing she needs is just a small backing from the family and people around her. She may not be strong physically but strongest emotionally and mentally.
Hello Mumbai News: who is your favourite Make up Artist.
Yasmin:The makeup artists who inspire me and whom I admire a lot are Khushi Virani, Sheena Kaur, and Meenakshi Dutt. No comments the best in the industry.
Hello Mumbai News: How you balance your professional and personal life.
Yasmin:My personal and professional life are way more different and wide apart but we have to balance between them like they both are connected with a rope of family support, sacrifices, passion, and enthusiasm for the work and you have to balance yourself on it, the stronger the pull is the stiffer the rope gets and so it gets easier to balance between them. Just ignore the “char log” who are always behind your back and come to disbalance your life.
Hello Mumbai News: when our readers can find you and keep in touch with you.
Yasmin:my instagram id Yasmeen–makeup–artist Makeup by yasmeen86 My youtub id Yasmeen shaikh Yasmeenshaikh4230
Mehvash Arfat shaikh:
Famous As: Business Entrepreneur
Hello Mumbai News: Could you Introduce yourself for our readers.
Mehvash Arfat shaikh: Mehvash Arfat shaikh Owner of Selfcare_station21 I deal in Oriflame Company products. Oriflame guarantees the quality of any Product which carries the Oriflame name and certify that they are manufactured by, or for us to meet the highest standards of quality. We are confident that our Customers will find our Products satisfactory in every way.
Hello Mumbai News: when and how did you get into Beauty Industry.
Mehvash Arfat shaikh: One year back Wanted to help & empower women to work with zero investment at their own time like work from home. We help all women and teenagers to be entrepreneurs…with zero loss…and zero investment..
Hello Mumbai News: How would you Describe your Signature Look.
Mehvash Arfat shaikh: You’re never going to get your best work done if you’re not satisfied with all aspects of your life.
Hello Mumbai News: What is Beauty for you.
Mehvash Arfat shaikh: A beautiful person is someone who stays true to themselves and their spirit; someone who is self-confident and can make you smile.
Hello Mumbai News: Tell Something about your speciality and services you provide.
Mehvash Arfat shaikh: When you register as Oriflame Brand Partner you will be one of our partners. You can take advantage of the opportunities we offer to make money by selling our products to others and to potentially build its own network of advisers.
Hello Mumbai News: which elements of job do you most enjoy.
Mehvash Arfat shaikh: Make people belive in themself …. And start earning from their own business. Being successful doesn’t just mean making a lot of money. It means achieving success in all aspects of life
Hello Mumbai News: What’s your message on International Women’s Day
Mehvash Arfat shaikh: Women are an inspiration to everyone. Cheers to all women on Women’s Day 2023! There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.
Hello Mumbai News: How you balance your professional and personal life.
Mehvash Arfat shaikh: Organising your day and making a schedule for yourself will help in having a stress-free day. working from home can actually be the most efficient way to get things done.
source: http://www.hellomumbainews.com / Hello Mumbai News / Home> Mumbai Local / by Aleem Shaikh / March 08th, 2023
Unpacking the politics behind the Indian fashion industry’s biggest—but unsung— shareholders
Photo: Bikramjit Bose
At first glance, Indian jewellery brand Olio’s Instagram feed looks like any other of its kind: a visually resounding moodboard of sorts, chock full of Bollywood references, 90s nostalgia, and whimsical photos of its maximal, statement jewellery that is unforgettably cool.
But dig just a little deeper and you’ll find that beyond the beautiful aesthetics and jewellery accents, Olio isn’t afraid to make a cultural, social, or political statement. Case in point, when user ‘Shreya’ left a review for Olio’s website accusing them of ‘misinformation’ for attributing the origins of the haath phool to the Mughals “who brought it to the country by way of Persia,” as per Olio. But ‘Shreya’ claimed that the haath phool “is a Hindu jewellery that has nothing to do with Mughals”. So, Olio dedicated a post as ‘a history lesson for Shreya’ on how the Mughals played a pivotal role in shaping the art of jewellery-making in India. More on that later in the story.
In a country with over 5,000 years of history, the rise and fall of countless civilisations, the reign of rulers from all over the world, and 200-year-long colonisation, to deem something purely from one cultural corner is an abject erasure of aspects of the history of one the world’s oldest civilisations. “It’s just so crazy that people just want to rewrite history. We are so multicultural, and it comes from our history; there’s beauty in this diversity,” exclaimed Aashna Singh, one-half of Olio’s founding duo.
This might seem like any other incident of someone confusing their facts about history, but the erasure of the part of history that Singh is referring to is specifically that of Mughal and Islamic influence on India.
As represented by ‘Shreya’, there seems to be an increasingly divisive and communally charged sentiment amongst people bent on homogenizing what is a polychromatic amalgamation of cultural influences on our clothes, jewellery, art, culture, culinary history, among others, and in effect, risking the oblivion of its colourful tapestry of heritage, something Singh witnessed first hand with her brand. “That was the first time we took a strong stance about something, and it was very interesting to see the reaction to that. I mean, you also get a lot of love, and people who appreciate it appreciate it a lot. But then there have been customers who wrote to us saying they’re not going to shop with us again because they were just so upset by it, which is scary.”
But what does jewellery, and its design history, have to do with the country’s current inflamed state of religion-based viewpoints? According to Umair Shah, co-founder of a creative studio that works with lifestyle brands, and an amateur historian, a lot. “We need to understand that most of the ancient craft we cannot simply call ‘ours’ because everything has a nuanced historical aspect.
If you talk of silk that is used to adorn idols in the temples, it came through the Silk Route from China.
If we talk of carpet weaving in Kashmir, it came with Shah Hamdan, a Persian saint, scholar, and religious leader of the 14th century AD.
Zardozi came with the Safavid empire in Iran; what Suzani is in Central Asia just became Sozani in India.
All of these arts and crafts that are now celebrated in India have a cross-cultural, cross-boundary relation or derivation. And you will find that often the people who are carrying forward these traditional skills today in India may have ties that originated from those regions.”
“It serves as an element of forming your identity. One of the biggest reasons behind that was the absence of a caste system that could be related to any profession, whereas a majority of the population in medieval times were working as per their caste. But with a lot of Muslims, they were doing any kind of job that was fitting for them. Incidentally, one of the most important industries for India happened to be textile.” Shah further added that when we erase the association of religious identity, its ensuing history and heritage, with the karigars, we risk losing the identity and the history of the craft itself.
Make no mistake, India appreciates, celebrates, and continues to buy what is commonly known as ‘Mughal’ art and design, but Shah pointed out that’s only the case until something starts looking “too Muslim”. “A lot of crafts that we see in the market are popular because we have a tendency of fetishising anything that’s ‘Mughal’, so to speak. But the fetishisation is for the craft only, and not for the karigar. You don’t want to be associated with their religious identity.”
Last year in October, an Indianwear brand was forced to remove its ad after online outrage poured in over using an Urdu phrase, ‘Jashn-e-Riwaaz’, meaning ‘celebration of customs’ for their Diwali campaign. “Deepavali is not Jash[n]-e-Riwaaz. This deliberate attempt at abrahamisation of Hindu festivals, depicting models without traditional Hindu attires, must change. And brands should face economic costs for such deliberate misadventures,” tweeted a political leader. A year prior to that, in October 2020, a prominent jewellery brand’s ad faced similar outrage, this time for supposedly promoting “Love Jihad” in an ad that showed a pregnant Hindu woman escorted by her Muslim mother-in-law for her baby shower ceremony. The jewellery giant eventually took the ad down from all its digital platforms.
Kallol Datta, a Kolkata-based clothes-maker and finalist of the Jameel prize, is of the opinion that the root of the problem doesn’t lie in the lack of awareness of Persian and Mughal design influences. The problem is in a different ballpark and, as Datta predicts, is set to snowball into something of a different scale in the future. “Right now, you have fascists posting instructions on social media on how to do away with Urdu words in your vocabulary and substitute them with Hindi words. This could soon also include instructions on design language.”
Amidst Indic and Mughal influences, and the black and white of what’s ‘our’ history, and what’s not lies a line that is extremely blurred. The line being of who influenced what, and at exactly what point in time, or if a ruler’s reign affected change in the architecture or design of the era. When an idea is inspired by somewhere else it is often transformed into something new.
That’s why Pramod Kumar KG, who is the managing director of Eka Archiving Services, founder director of the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, and the first director of the Jaipur Literature Festival, emphasizes the importance of looking at the history of design, in all its forms, from a much more nuanced lens. “We look at something and we assume that this is Mughal design. We don’t realize that this is an assimilation of different things over the centuries which has come down to us in a certain form. We have brilliant portraits of, say, Jahangir wearing a bandhani patka waistcloth, bandhani being a technique that is more indigenous to the country or to the subcontinent. So this constant moving back and forth existed. Sometimes it’s convenient for us to look at something and say, ‘That’s Mughal, this is Rajput, this is Hindu, this is Muslim’. But the fact of the matter is that all of them are incredibly layered – designs, motifs, and even garments. It’s not a blanket answer and I really wish people would look at it that way and realize that we are far more than just one or the other.”
When I asked Sarthak Kasliwal, the youngest partner at Jaipur’s iconic jewellery institution, The Gem Palace, what he makes of such ‘influence’, he replied with a much more simplified version: “Artists always get inspired from different places. There’s no originality in anything in the sense that the first was also created by getting influenced by something else. So no one can actually own it. You date back in history, you say it because you know that part. You can trace it back. But to what date? And what about before that?”
Beyond debates and discussions of history, heritage, and lineage of craft forms, something much more tangible lies at stake – the livelihoods of generational Muslim karigars if their art is disassociated from their identity. But why should the fashion industry care? As per Datta, “The pattern cutters, sewing machinists, hand embroiderers, weavers, dyers and printers – a majority of people engaged in fashion production are Muslims. Fashion gets to profit off of culture and craft. But you cannot profit off the labour of an entire community and stay quiet when the same community is subject to intimidation, diminished access to education and livelihood.”
But as Kumar pointed out, “Everybody’s just too scared to speak up at all, to say anything contrary that’s also important. Be it celebrities or designers, nobody wants to toe that line. But by being silent, you’re equally a party to the problem.” That is why Shah thinks that designers and design houses hiring Muslim karigars need to step up. Beyond fair pay and regular work, Shah insists that they need to be given assurance that they work in an unprejudiced environment. “Beyond getting their work done by the karigars, designers need to be aware of the situation in the country and the realities of the lives of the people who are working for them. All these people don’t have a voice today. If they are getting humiliated or threatened, they will likely not know what to do about it. They need reassurance that the brands they’re working with will at least be their voice if something untoward happens.”
The way ahead is, undoubtedly, a more inclusive and diverse design and cultural sentiment wherein every influence is celebrated as part of the country’s fabric, agreed Kasliwal who envisions the same as a young businessperson and the heir of a prestigious design institution.
Singh and her partner Sneha Saksena, too, shared that they intend to use their privilege and Olio’s platform “to do the right thing”, even if it costs the brand a few angry customers or negative reviews. “ Fashion can be very frivolous sometimes. It’s just jewellery at the end of the day. Like, what am I doing? I’m just trying to sell jewellery. But if we can have an impact by using our privilege and our platforms to protect the most vulnerable, then why not? Because otherwise, what’s the point of it all?”
source: http://www.vogue.in / Vogue India / Home> Fashion / by Shubhangana Das / September 23rd, 2023
Dr. Mustafa A. Barbhuiya at his workplace in the US
Hailing from a remote village in southern Assam’s Hailakandi district, Dr. Mustafa A. Barbhuiya has been selected among top 100 most influential people in Pathology, specifically, as one of the Top 20 Heroes of Pathology in US for this year.
Featured in ‘The Pathologist Power List’ 2024, Dr Mustafa has demonstrated innovation, leadership, and achievement in the field of Pathology. But the journey of Dr Mustafa to achieve this coveted position was not so easy.
Dr Barbhuiya completed his elementary schooling (HSLC/10th) in Sanuhar Ali Memorial High School, Bahadurpur, a remote village in Hailakandi district of southern Assam. During those days in the early nineties, his village neither had electricity nor had motorable road communication.
Dr Barbhuiya Mustafa with his family
“I used to cycle from my village on muddy roads to attend Advanced Mathematics and Science classes in Hailakandi town. I went to Gurucharan College, Silchar, Assam for 12th and Bachelor of Science with a major in Zoology and pass course in Botany, Chemistry and other science and language electives,” Dr Barbhuiya told Awaz – The Voice.
He studied further in Jiwaji University, Gwalior for Masters and PhD in Biochemistry which paved his way to become a Clinical Biochemist and a Molecular Biologist.
“I will remain ever grateful to two of my teachers who helped me to become what I am today. One is Prof. Baby Singha (Retired) of Department of Zoology, Gurucharan College, Silchar with whom I have specialized in the subject of Parasitology and I have never looked back. The other teacher who actually got me into Clinical Biochemistry was Late Prof. Meenu Rai, former Head of Biochemistry, College of Life Sciences, Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.
“My PhD guide Prof. Pramod K. Tiwari shaped me as the future molecular biologist with whom I have not only learnt about science of medicine, study of diseases but several life lessons that I continue to carry as of today,” Dr Barbhuiya said.
Dr Barbhuiya with his collegaues
Dr Barbhuiya completed his PhD in Biochemistry Jiwaji University, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh in July, 2013. He went to Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA in July 2013 to pursue advanced postdoctoral training.
“The ultimate goal was to return to India and set up my own laboratory around clinical biochemistry and molecular diagnostics in my home state Assam. But the circumstances after completion of my postdoctoral training in Johns Hopkins and lack of securing a suitable job back in India compelled me to pursue things in the United States. I further completed my clinical chemistry fellowship in Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA and have become a practicing clinical biochemist and clinical laboratory director,” he said.
Dr Barbhuiya currently holds the position of section medical director overseeing the Clinical Chemistry and Point of Care Testing operations of Baystate Health Pathology services across Western Massachusetts, USA. He provides clinical consultation to physicians and other healthcare providers regarding the laboratory test interpretations in the subspecialty area as systems consultant.
Dr Barbhuiya with other renowned pathologists
He ensures that the clinical laboratory meets several US federal and local state regulations delivering timely and accurate diagnosis for patients. He is accountable for the effective management and administrations of clinical operations of the Clinical Chemistry and Point of Care Testing service within the Baystate Health Pathology operations. He also serves as Assistant Professor of Pathology; Healthcare Delivery and Population Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School- Baystate Regional Campus.
Dr Barbhuiya has set up a global non-profit organization, Foundation for Advancement of Essential Diagnostics, both in the USA and India. “My next goal is to take my non-profit foundation activities to low and middle-income countries around the world and locally serve in underserved areas of the United States,” he added.
Academically, Dr Barbhuiya is making efforts to continue his research areas of interest. His primary areas of research are studying biliary tract (liver and gallbladder) cancer mechanisms, discover biomarkers of diagnostic and therapeutic values.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Daulat Rahman, Guwahati / October 27th, 2024
Chathiramanai village (Perambalur district) /Tiruchi, TAMIL NADU :
A. Basheer Khan, right, and his son Mohamed Imran, of Tiruchi demonstrate the oil spill filtration device that they have designed and obtained a patent. / | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
A. Basheer Khan, 62, and his son B. Mohamed Imran, 28, of Tiruchi recently received a patent for a device that they designed to remove oil spill from seawater through filtration along coastal areas.
The recognition was given on September 24 by the Patent Office and is valid for 20 years from the date of filing.
“At present, the technology to deal with oil spill on land is limited. Our device uses a low-energy method to draw out the oil contaminated water from a targeted area, and after filtering, pumps cleaned water back into the sea. The filtered sediment has to be processed further for eco-friendly usage,” Mr. Khan told The Hindu.
Mr. Khan, who retired as a machinist at the Ordnance Factory Tiruchi (OFT) in 2023, was interested in engineering from a young age while growing up at Chathiramanai village, Perambalur district. “ I studied at an Industrial Training Institute in the 1980s and apprenticed at Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL). I used to be inspired by mechanical objects and science concepts to invent my own machines. In 2017, when an outbound empty tanker collided with an inbound loaded oil tanker in Ennore, Chennai, the crude oil was spread all over the coastal areas. I decided to design something to deal with such situations, and started working on the concept from 2018,” he said.
A prototype of the device is available at his home. It consists of a metal tank with two sections for polluted and clean water. The inlet pipe is lined with fine nylon mesh and sieved sand to allow free movement of water contaminated with oil.
During a demonstration on Saturday, Mr. Khan mixed machine oil into water in one section of the device and created ‘waves’ in it with the help of a small steel snack plate fitted to a pulley and sewing machine motor. To guide the water into the filtering inlet pipe, a manually operated shutter fixed with multiple springs is placed at the mouth of the targeted area. In a matter of minutes, the oil and grease were separated from water.
Mr. Imran, who helped his father in research and trials, said the prototype had potential for commercial development. “In the event of an oil spill, our machine can help not only save the environment, but also keep salvage workers safe from direct exposure to harmful chemicals,” he said.
source: http://www.tartv.in / TARTV / Home / by admin / October 19th, 2024
While debate on Jama Masjid’s decision to disallow women from visiting the premises for non-praying activities rages on, it is time to look at some of Capital’s mosques built by women.
All photos: Mohd Shehwaaz Khan
Women may have been restricted from entering Jama Masjid for non-prayer activities due to a recent decision by the committee of the Mughal-era mosque that was seemingly miffed by those making social media videos, but there is no denying the contribution of women in many mosques across the country.
Even in the Capital, some of the old iconic mosques have been built – rather commissioned to be built — by women. Patriot takes you through some of these iconic monuments.
Mubarak Begum Masjid (Randi Ki Masjid)
Lying among tall buildings, shops of machine parts as well as clusters of electric wires running from one pole to another, the double-storeyed Mubarak Begum Masjid – also known as Randi ki Masjid (courtesan’s mosque) – serves as a reminder to a more peaceful and simpler time. The honking of vehicles and the shouting of vendors and labourers on the street that faces the mosque and runs from Hauz Qazi to Lal Kuan comprise the hustle-bustle of old Delhi. The mosque, however, reminds one of a different era.
The upper floor consists of a prayer chamber and the ground floor has toilets. The central one of the three red-and-white striped domes, which collapsed in 2020, is covered by black canvas.
Even in the Capital, some of the old iconic mosques have been built – rather commissioned to be built — by women. Patriot takes you through some of these iconic monuments.
Mubarak Begum Masjid (Randi Ki Masjid)
Lying among tall buildings, shops of machine parts as well as clusters of electric wires running from one pole to another, the double-storeyed Mubarak Begum Masjid – also known as Randi ki Masjid (courtesan’s mosque) – serves as a reminder to a more peaceful and simpler time. The honking of vehicles and the shouting of vendors and labourers on the street that faces the mosque and runs from Hauz Qazi to Lal Kuan comprise the hustle-bustle of old Delhi. The mosque, however, reminds one of a different era.
The upper floor consists of a prayer chamber and the ground floor has toilets. The central one of the three red-and-white striped domes, which collapsed in 2020, is covered by black canvas.
COURTESAN’S LEGACY: Masjid Mubarak Begum is famously known as Randi Ki Masjid
“A lot of people come here for the first time and say that they feel as if they have been here for years,” says the Imam of the mosque after the prayer, smiling in admiration. The imam has been looking after the mosque for the last 17 years.
The mosque was constructed in 1823 by Bibi Mahru Tun Mubarak-ul-Nisa Begum (Mubarak Begum), a nautch girl from Pune, who came from a Brahmin family and converted to Islam after she married General David Ochterlony, who was the British Resident in Delhi during the time of Emperor Akbar Shah II.
Ochterlony was a ‘white mughal’ who was known for his lavish lifestyle, his love for hookahs and mistresses. Mubarak Begum was one of the 13 wives of the British official. After the death of Ochterlony in 1825, Mubarak Begum married a Mughal nobleman who fought in the 1857 mutiny against the British.
According to Scottish scholar William Dalrymple, the Begum’s house was famous for Mughal culture where the Mughal prince Mirza Farhatullah Baig organised the last Urdu mushaira before the Mughal empire was overthrown by the British.
Due to the early profession of the Begum, the mosque is famously known as Randi Ki Masjid. The randis or courtesans, during the Mughal period, were highest in the order of women entertainers, who were skilled not only in dance, but also singing, conversation and poetry. It is said that young nawabs were sent to learn the art of conversation with randis. They were called city’s divas who were visited by the rich and powerful – who often shared with them the secret of the city and society.
Asked about how the mosque is perceived by the visitors and people in the area, the caretaker says: “The courtesans at that time were not as we understand them today. They were respectable and influential women. Many tourists come here and ask if the mosque was built by a prostitute. All of this is best left in history books. All I know is that whoever built, must have built it with good intention and halal (legitimate) money.”
People in the area were embarrassed by the infamous name of the mosque. When one asked them where Randi Ki Masjid was located, they chuckled and laughed, before hastily pointing at the Mubarak Begum Masjid.
During the Mughal era, so many Mughal princesses built mosques. In Bengal, mosques had side corridors with lattice walls for women.
– Ziya Us Salam, journalist and author of Women in Masjid
Sunehri Masjid
A couple of kilometres away from Mubarak Begum Masjid, stands a mosque built in 1747 by khwajasara (eunuch) Jawed Khan and emperor Ahmad Shah Bahadur’s mother Qudsiya Begum. It is located in a corner, just opposite the busy Nishad Raj Marg and Red Fort parking. This mosque is often confused with the Sunehri Masjid of Chandni Chowk, which was built a few decades earlier – in early 1720s – by a Mughal noble, Raushan-ud-Daulah, during the reign of Mughal emperor Mohammad Shah Rangila.
However, the one at the Red Fort is often called the Parking Waali Sunehri Masjid.
Qudsiya Begum, whose real name was Udham Bai, was introduced to the Mughal court as a nautch girl. In the court, she met Muhammad Shah Rangila who became fond of her and eventually married her. With time, she became influential in the court: even appointing the mansabdars (high rank holder such as civil or military officers) who would enforce the rule of the Emperor.
After the death of her husband, she served as a regent to her son Ahmad Shah Bahadur from 1748 to 1754. Known for her generosity and influence, Qudsia provided the Begums and the late emperor’s children with pensions using both her personal money and government finances.
GOLDEN TIMES: Sunehri Masjid was built by Qudsiya Begum for Jawed Khan khwajasara (eunuch)
It is believed that Qudsia had an affair with Jawed Khan khwajasara, who was also the Darogha (police chief) under Mohammad Shah Rangila and a eunuch-superintendent of the zenana (women) quarters. This proximity between the two led to the construction of the Sunehri Masjid. It was built by the efforts of Jawed Khan and commissioned by Qudsiya Begum, as written on its epitaph:
‘sayi-e-nawab-bahadur sahib-e-lutf-o-karam
saakht tameer-e-haseen jawed aali dastgaah’
(By efforts of Nawab Bahadur, the bestower of rewards and grants,
Jawed of high reach and commands, was constructed this beautiful structure)
As expected, those who came for prayers were unaware of the history of the mosque despite an inscription outside the mosque. The grave of Qudsiya Begum lies in the backyard of the mosque.
Khairul Manazil Masjid
Situated just opposite to Purana Quila (Old Fort), the Khairul Manazil Masjid is often confused by the visitors to be a part of the Quila. Many tourists enter the mosque thinking they are visiting the monument and are surprised when the caretaker of the mosque asks them to remove their shoes as they move into the prayer chamber.
The confusion stands valid as the mosque is in complete ruins, just like the monument opposite to it. The hauz (ablution tank) is not functional and there is no electricity in the premises. The prayer chamber serves as a permanent abode for pigeons and the inscription on the walls is hard to make sense of.
There were many mosques built by women in regular spaces in the past. The bigger ones, such as Fatehpuri Masjid and Khairul Manazil mosque, stand as a testament to this.
– Rana Safvi, author and historian
The three walls with small rooms – which were once part of the madrasah – also lie in dilapidated state. It is currently protected and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
“We just offer prayers three times a day here, that is Asr (afternoon), Zuhr (midday) and Maghrib (sunset) – along with the Friday prayers. It is because the mosque is a heritage sight,” says the caretaker of the masjid.
Khairul Manazil, which literally translates to ‘best of houses’, has a numerical value that corresponds to the year of the construction of the building, 969 hijri as per Islamic calendar or 1561–1562 AD.
IN RUINS: Prayers at Khairul Manazil mosque are offered three times a day
It was commissioned by Maham Anga, the wet-nurse of the Mughal emperor Akbar, and is believed to be the first mosque in Delhi commissioned by a woman. Anga served as the de facto regent and the young emperor’s political advisor. The inscription on the central arch of the mosque reads that Shihabuddin Ahmad Khan assisted in its erection.
The ASI attempted to ban Islamic prayers in the mosque in 1992 but without success.
Zeenat-ul-Masajid
Zeenat-ul-Masajid was built by Zeenat-un-Nisa, the second daughter of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, in 1700 AD. The mosque is famously known as Ghata Masjid, which may perhaps be derived from its proximity to a bank (ghat) of the river Yamuna back then or the tall minarets that touch the clouds (ghata).
While a mosque can be a place of prayer for men, it isn’t quite so for women. It is a place of dignity, safety, protection, and aid. A woman’s mosque, that which focuses on preserving all these things, is the solution to most of our problems.
– Huda Ahsan, architect and independent researcher
The locals in the area dearly call the mosque Ghata Masjid and are unaware of its real name.
The part of Daryaganj, where the mosque is located, is also known by the name of Ghata because of the presence of the mosque.
The caretaker of the masjid says that the mosque is rarely visited by tourists and only attended by the men who come to pray. The Jama Masjid at opposite Urdu Bazaar, constructed by Zeenat-un-Nisa’s famed and adored grandfather, Shah Jahan, is thought to have served as an inspiration for the mosque.
OLD TREASURE: Zeenat-ul-Masajid, famously known as Ghata Masjid, is inspired by Jama Masjid in old Delhi
Like in many mosques in the Capital, the hauz (or ablution tank) is not functional but the mosque remains in good condition despite some signs of decay. The mosque is constructed on a plinth. It has three marble domes and seven arched entrances opening to the prayer chamber. Two towering minarets flank the mosque’s front and support an octagonal pavilion made of white marble. In the quaint campus of the mosque, there is no one present except the caretakers.
During the first war of independence, when the Mughal emperor in Delhi joined the uprising against the British in 1857, the mosque experienced some dark times. After the Mughals and the British sepoys lost the war, the mosque was first used by the British as a barrack and later converted into a bakery.
The grave of Zeenat-un-Nisa was also destroyed. However, on the southern corner of the mosque, a tomb for the princesses has been rebuilt as a memorial. The mosque is surrounded by plants of a variety of flowers, especially roses.
Fatehpuri Masjid
Of all the mosques Patriot visited, only Fatehpuri Masjid had visitors flocking in numbers. The hauz of the mosque is full with tap water – which in the past was fed with water directly from Yamuna – and tourists often sit by its side. The mosque is the second largest in Delhi after Jama Masjid and it was built in 1650 by Fatehpuri Begum, one of emperor Shah Jahan’s wives who was from Fatehpur Sikri.
“The number of visitors to this mosque are just a tad lesser in number than Jama Masjid,” said one of the caretakers of the mosque.
Surprisingly, one found as many women in the mosque as men.
VISITING HISTORY: Women visitors at the Fatehpuri mosque
The mosque has a fluted dome made of red sandstone with a kalash (inverted lotus) on top.
The mosque has a conventional design with seven-arched entrances in the prayer hall and is surrounded by minarets. One of the minarets is under construction.
The Shahi Imam of the mosque attends visitors who come to tell him their dukh-takleef (complaints) and seek his blessings as well as medicines.
The room of the Imam is occupied mainly by women who had come to pay him a courtesy call and seek his blessings and prayers. Interestingly, the women sitting with the Imam were unaware that the mosque was built by a woman.
GRAND WELCOME: One of the three main gates of Fatehpuri Masjid that opens to Lal Quan
The mosque has three main gates, one of which opens to Chandni Chowk and the other two to Lal Kuan and Old Delhi Railway Station.
source: http://www.thepatriot.in / Patriot / Home / by Mohd Shehwaaz Khan / Delhi NCR / December 08th, 2022
Master-craftsman Ghulam Rasool Khan had once made a shawl using 360 individual pieces of ‘jamawar’. He has produced several other priceless jamawar designs for which he has received several state and national level awards including the prestigious Padmashree (2021).
Though Khan has not lost passion for this work, he regrets that the new generation does not take much interest in the craft and says the machine-made cheap varieties posed a great threat to the sector.
“Now, we have machine-made shawls that sell for Rs. 5000 and are no match for the original jamawar. This is the biggest threat to this craft as there is no match for a hand-made piece. This art requires a lot of hard work and patience but nowadays artisans do not have the patience,” Khan told reporters during a Craft Safari to Amda Kadal area of the old city on Saturday.
The safaris had been started in the wake of Srinagar making it to the coveted list of the United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in Crafts and Folk Arts Category for the year 2021.
Khan said they also used to receive orders worth Rs. 100 cr for ‘Arabi Rumal’ annually but due to entry of fakes, they had stopped receiving the same.
“There was a time when there was a great demand for Arabi rumal. The ones we make have different and intricate artwork that is not usually available in the market. There was a time when we used to receive orders to the tune of Rs. 100 cr annually from the elite Arabs. Unfortunately, the same has stopped now,” he said.
An official of the Handicrafts Department said the master craftsman had received several awards in recognition of his hard work.
“Though many artisans have received Padmashree, Ghulam Rasool Khan is the only one who has received it for his jamawar works. He has also received several other awards at the state and national level. His enthusiasm, patience, and knowledge of the colours and designs enabled him to bring out the extraordinary work. He also made a shawl using 360 individual pieces of jamwar to make the pattern,” the official said.
source: http://www.thekashmirmonitor.net / The Kashmir Monitor / Home> Kashmir> Latest News / by M Aamir Khan / October 22nd, 2022
