Category Archives: Business & Economy

Architect Imran Abbas Shaikh: The visionary behind India’s finest Mosques

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Pune, MAHARASHTRA :

Architect Imran Abbas Shaikh and some of the mosques he designed.

Architect Imran Abbas Shaikh, a visionary based in Pune, Maharashtra, exemplifies the transformative power of architecture. With a passion for blending modern design with cultural heritage, Imran has developed a diverse portfolio ranging from innovative urban projects to iconic cultural landmarks. Renowned for his distinctive approach, he has redefined architectural design, particularly in the creation of mosques. His designs for these sacred spaces often include facilities like hospitals, museums, libraries, and community kitchens, showcasing his dedication to empowering the community. Through his work, Imran Abbas Shaikh has set a new standard for integrating functionality with tradition, earning widespread acclaim for his contributions to architecture.

Muhammad Bin Abdullah Mosque’ in Dhannipur, Ayodhya district, Uttar Pradesh.

The Early Years

Mr. Mohammad Imran Abbas Shaikh, hailing from Pune, Maharashtra, has traversed an extraordinary journey from his roots to emerge as one of the most prominent architects of our time.

His architectural firm, Cubix Architects, situated in his hometown, reflects his deep-rooted connection to the place that nurtured his talents. Growing up, Imran was distinguished by his unique approach and a penchant for creative thinking, qualities that would later define his illustrious career as a visionary architect. However, it was the unwavering support and belief of his father that truly ignited Imran’s passion. His father instilled in him the notion that architecture was not merely about envisioning structures, but about crafting an unwavering future that could bring about positive change. This paternal guidance became the driving force behind Mr. Mohammad Imran Abbas Shaikh’s relentless pursuit of architectural excellence.

Islamic School and Institutional Campus, Phaltan, Maharashtra.

Educational Background 

Imran Shaikh’s educational journey was marked by a pursuit of excellence from the outset. Beginning with his early schooling split between SSPM and Children’s Academy in Shivaji Nagar, Pune, he demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and innovation. His high school years at Poona College laid the groundwork for his academic prowess, setting the stage for his subsequent achievements.

Imran’s passion for architecture led him to Bharati Vidyapeeth, where he honed his skills and emerged as a consistent topper throughout his degree. Even after completing his formal education, Imran’s dedication to his field remained unwavering. He continues to share his expertise and insights by delivering lectures and guiding Ph.D. aspirants, leaving an indelible mark as an inspirational figure for aspiring architects and youngsters alike. His contributions as a guest lecturer have not only enriched the minds of his students but have also sparked a newfound enthusiasm for architecture among many.

Islamic Spiritual Centre of Maulana Sajjad Nomani – Neral, Maharashtra

Inspiration Behind Choosing Architecture as Career 

Imran Shaikh always had a keen interest in travelling, exploring, and various forms of art. After high school, he decided to pursue architecture as a career, a field that had always intrigued him. Imran often spoke about how his father was his biggest motivator, playing a significant role in his journey to becoming a successful architect. During Imran’s college years, his father would proudly share his accomplishments with everyone. Imran’s fondness for art and his unique, abstract perspective on things have been evident throughout his career. Each of his projects bears a distinctive touch, showcasing his artistic vision and innovative approach.

“Modern technologies have made the youth increasingly dependent, resulting in a lack of motivation and original ideas. To foster change, it is essential to reduce dependency on readymade materials and encourage wholehearted engagement in learning, exploration, and hands-on activities. As long as a person is away from mental pollution, they can do wonders”

How Does Imran Shaikh See Architecture 

Imran Shaikh states that architecture is a profession that has existed since the dawn of mankind, tracing its origins back to Adam (AS). Since the beginning, people have sought shelter, making architecture an integral part of human existence. This concept is not limited to humans; some of the best architectural forms can be seen in birds and animals. According to him, architecture starts with a dot, which evolves into a line, then a triangle, and gradually forms complex shapes and designs. The journey beginning with a simple dot encapsulates the essence of architecture.

His favourite works

The ‘Muhammad Bin Abdullah Mosque’ in Dhannipur, Ayodhya district, Uttar Pradesh, is under construction and spans 4,500 square metres.

Dar e Arqam

This mosque will include various facilities such as a hospital, community kitchen, library, and research centre.

Remarkably, it will be the first mosque in India to feature five minarets, symbolising the five pillars of Islam: profession of faith (shahada), prayer (namaz), almsgiving (zakat), fasting (roza), and pilgrimage (hajj). The mosque will be pentagon-shaped, further reflecting the significance of the five pillars. Additionally, it will boast a water and light show and house the world’s largest Quran, measuring 21 feet in height and 36 feet in width.

Architect Imran Abbas Shaikh

Some of architect Imran’s finest works include:

1-KAUSAR BAUGH MASJID – PUNE, MAHARASHTRA

2-ISLAMIC SPIRITUAL CENTRE OF MAULANA SAJJAD NOMANI – NERAL, MAHARASHTRA

3-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – PHALTAN, MAHARASHTRA

4-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – NEPAL

5-MASJID MUHAMMAD BIN ABDULLAH INDO ISLAMIC CULTURAL – BABRI MASJID, UP AYODHYA

5-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – BANGLADESH

Building a Better Society

Apart from his architectural achievements, Imran Shaikh is actively involved in education through his nonprofit ‘Human Embrace Foundation’, based in Pune. This foundation is dedicated to educating children from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they have access to quality education and opportunities. Imran’s commitment to this cause has made a significant impact, inspiring many young people. His dedication and success serve as a powerful role model for youth, encouraging them to strive for excellence and make a positive difference in their communities. Through both his architectural work and his educational initiatives, Imran Shaikh exemplifies the values of innovation, compassion, and community empowerment.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Positive Story / by Fiza Memon / May 25th, 2024

Indian Muslim cultural heritage is indelible

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), Leaders, World Opinion

INDIA :

Like it or not, modern Indian culture is still heavily indebted to the legacy of the Mughals and the nawabs.

Stamps of both tangible and intangible heritage of India’s prosperous Muslim reign are still vivid, despite more than two centuries of indifference, ingratitude and insolence that followed.

From language and art to cuisine and architecture, every aspect of Indian cultural landscape has strong traces of Muslim sounds, flavours and colours that continue to trickle down from an era that drew the world to India.

Like it or not, modern Indian culture is still heavily indebted to the legacy of the Mughals and the nawabs. The Persianate culture that was dominant well into the decline of the Muslim dynasties, continues to influence our customs and traditions.

Intangible heritage
Whether we call it Hindi or Hindustani, the language that is spoken by most Indians, especially in North India, took shape in the hallowed halls of the Mughal Delhi and Nawabi Lucknow.

Though, it’s been nearly two centuries since the sun set upon the fortunes of the Mughals, their cuisine is still in the ascendancy and gaining in popularity everyday. Can a party be complete without the biryani and kebabs?

Urdu may not be a particularly favoured language of our times, but no Urdu basher could be averse from the influence of its sweet melody. Despite some serious attempts at its erasure from the public consciousness, Bollywood or Hindi Cinema still has some strong strands of Urdu in its rapidly morphing personality.

The indelible Urdu legacy lies at the very heart of ‘Hindi’ cinema’s golden era, with some of the best dialogues and songs that most of us swoon over being still its biggest treasure trove.

As much as its intangible legacy, the tangible legacy of the Muslim architects still remains the biggest tourist attractions in India. Not just the Taj Mahal and the Jama Masjid of Delhi, Muslim architects have left towering symbols of aesthetic excellence in architectural marvels such as the Qutub Minar and the Charminar.

Besides Delhi, Agra and Lucknow, cities such as Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Aurangabad and Bijapur wouldn’t have existed without their Muslim patrons. Their Muslim character is hard to miss despite consistent attempts at altering their nature.

The magnificent monuments, among the greatest landmarks of the tangible human heritage, are so deeply etched on the landscape and the psyche of India, that they have become synonymous to the grandeur of the Muslim ascendancy in India.

Artisanal legacy
But, more than the glowing architecture, it is the enterprising artisanal traditions that continue to have the greatest traces of Muslim influence. Importantly, Muslims continue to preserve this legacy against all odds.

From the Pashmina Shawls and Banarasi Sarees to the Rogan Art and Bidriware, some of India’s best known handmade traditions are painstakingly preserved by Muslim artisans, maintaining a living heritage that can be traced to the patronage of the Great Mughals, the Bahamanis, the Adil Shahis, the Nizams and others.

It is no secret that the Mughals were the great patrons of art, craft and industry, with creativity, innovation and industry flourishing during their rule, making India the most prosperous country in the world.

Their generous patronage and facilitation meant artisans from different parts of the world made a beeline to India, adding new forms of craft to a landscape that was already full of life.

From muslin and brocade to diamonds and jewellery, the artisans of India produced some exquisite handmade goods that drew traders from all over the world to India.

Mughal India – World’s biggest economy

During the peak of the Mughal rule in India, when Aurangzeb Alamgir was at the helm, India accounted for 27 per cent of the world’s economy, greater than the GDP of the entire Europe combined.

Until the mid-18th century, when British started gaining greater control over some parts of the country, India was the biggest exporter of manufactured goods across the world.

Despite the unparalleled rapacity and depravity of the colonial administration that had led to the near extinction of the Indian craft traditions a century ago, Indian handicrafts survived largely through the resilience and industry of the artisans.

Though, the policy of erasure continued even after the British left India and continues till this day, Indian artisanal communities have shown remarkable resilience against the onslaught of monopoly, ruthlessly cruel economic policies and unfavourable terms and conditions.

Many craft clusters have also faced communal apathy, discrimination and prejudice.

Under such extreme conditions, it is nothing short of a miracle that ancient handmade craft traditions survive in India.

Story of Bidriware
The tale of the Bidriware, primarily practised by Muslims, is one such story of skill, struggle and survival.

Bidriware is poetry crafted in metal

Cast in an alloy of copper and zinc, with silver and gold wires or sheets inlaid or overlaid, a Bidriware artefact is so graceful in its appearance that an indulgent heart longs to feel and touch it, if not wear it!

For more than five centuries, Bidriware objects have been must have pieces of adornment among the royalties and nobilities such as Mughal emperors, Rajput kings and Nawabs of Bengal to Bahmani, Adil Shahi and Vijayanagara Sultans (yes, the Vijayanagara kings loved to call themselves sultans!).

In the pre-modern era, the Nizams of Hyderabad have been the biggest patrons of this magical craft, not only collecting the artefacts such as hookahs (sheesha), vases, vanity boxes, ewers and pitchers, but also relocating several artisans to Hyderabad.

However, despite the early 20th century migration of artisans and losing patronage, Karnataka’s northern town of Bidar continues to remain a hub of Bidriware.

With all of the kingdoms and fiefdoms gone, ancient Bidriware items along with other surviving royal antique pieces are a collector’s treasure now, gracing the leading museums across the world.

The Origin
Though, the Bidri metal craft has its origins in medieval Persia, Bidriware in its distinct Indian form blossomed in the capital of the early 15th century Bahmani Empire.

The tale of Bidriware, primarily practised by Muslims, is a story of skill, struggle and survival

The Bahmanis were renowned for their exquisite sensibilities for art and architecture, hence it is no surprise that a complex and intricate enterprise such as the Bidri metal craft originated in their royal atelier.

This, perhaps, is among the last few influences that the medieval Bahamanis continue to have on modern India.

Reinvention
Despite the spell Bidriware has on art aficionados and connoisseurs of craft, the enterprise has seen a steady decline over the last few decades, with only a few masters working their magic.

Currently, the city of Bidar has around 150 registered artisans, but only a handful of artisans in the town have the depth of knowledge and the deftness of skills required to be called a master.

MA Rauf Siddiqui is a national-award winning master craftsman who is reinventing Bidriware, catering to the modern aesthetic sensibilities

Among the few masters is the national award-winning artisan MA Rauf Siddiqui.

Even as the overall scene of the Bidriware tradition is not particularly encouraging, the Shilpi Guru-winner is quietly reinventing the traditions, ably-assisted by his young and enterprising children.

Modernising the techniques, motifs and methods, the family has several generations involved in the craft, adopting latest softwares to come up with new patterns and using social media to reach new frontiers.

However, the traditional expression of the art-form continues to find patrons, even as the newer expressions in wearable forms give the craft a new lease of life.

Empowering the community
Many Muslim communities in India sit on a huge treasure trove of craft traditions that have been part of the country’s cultural, economic and political legacy for centuries.

Many of these traditions are withering away due to multiple factors, including lack of upgrade or inability to adapt to the changing landscape, little government support and poor marketing.

With necessary attention and support we can not just preserve this precious legacy of India and Indian Muslims, but can also make hundreds of these craft clusters economically independent and sustainable.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Arts & Culture> Forces / by Shafaat Shahbadari / Radiance News Bureau / September 26th, 2023

Ex bureaucrat Moosa Raza passes away at 87: A Journey of dedication, integrity, and public service

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Chennai, TAMIL NADU:

Moosa Raza

Ex bureaucrat Moosa Raza has passed away in Chennai on Thursday. He was 87. He is survived by his son and two daughters.

Moosa Raza’s life is a testament to dedication, integrity, and a deep-rooted commitment to public service. Born on 27th February 1937 in Minambur, a small village in Tamil Nadu, India, Moosa Raza’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected bureaucrat and prolific writer is marked by his unwavering principles and tireless efforts to make a positive impact on society.

Education played a pivotal role in shaping Moosa Raza’s worldview. He displayed exceptional academic prowess from a young age, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in English Language and Literature from Madras Presidency College, now Presidency College, Chennai. His academic achievements were exceptional, winning seven college medals across various disciplines. This included a First Class First in his degree, a testament to his dedication and intellectual acumen.

In 1958, Moosa Raza embarked on a dual path of academia and civil service. He was appointed as an Assistant Professor of English at Presidency College, his alma mater, while also preparing for the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS) examinations. His commitment to both teaching and public service underscored his multifaceted talents and passion for contributing to society.

In 1960, Moosa Raza’s dedication paid off as he was selected for the Indian Administrative Service for Gujarat in his first attempt. This marked the beginning of a distinguished career that spanned over three decades and left an indelible mark on India’s administrative landscape.

Throughout his career, Moosa Raza held several key positions that showcased his leadership abilities and commitment to public welfare. He served as Collector and District Magistrate in various districts of Gujarat, managing critical responsibilities such as flood relief operations and drought management with unparalleled dedication and effectiveness. His tenure as Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Gujarat and later as Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir demonstrated his administrative acumen in handling complex governance challenges.

Moosa Raza’s contributions extended beyond government service. He played pivotal roles in prestigious industrial and commercial enterprises, including chairing the National Textiles Corporation and Gujarat State Fertilizers Company Ltd. His strategic leadership helped turn around struggling enterprises, saving thousands of jobs and contributing to Gujarat’s industrial growth.

In recognition of his exemplary service and contributions to society, Moosa Raza was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2010, one of India’s highest civilian honors. This prestigious accolade is a testament to his lasting impact and dedication to public welfare.

Apart from his illustrious bureaucratic career, Moosa Raza is also a celebrated author. His book “Of Nawabs and Nightingales” offers a glimpse into his early experiences in the Indian Administrative Service, showcasing his keen observations and insights into governance and society. He has also authored books on spirituality and personal reflections, such as “In Search of Oneness” and “Khwab-e-Natamaam” (Incomplete Dreams), showcasing his diverse literary interests and philosophical depth.

Moosa Raza’s contributions go beyond professional achievements. He has been actively involved in educational initiatives, serving as the chairman of the South Indian Educational Trust (S.I.E.T.) and supporting initiatives for women’s education, dyslexic children, and communal harmony.

In his personal life, Moosa Raza is a devoted husband and father, exemplifying the values of family and community that underpin his life’s work.

Moosa Raza’s journey from a small village in Tamil Nadu to a revered bureaucrat, accomplished author, and dedicated advocate for societal progress embodies the essence of service, leadership, and intellectual pursuit. His life and legacy continue to inspire generations, reminding us of the transformative power of individuals committed to making a positive difference in the world.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Obituary / by Muslim Mirror / May 08th, 2024

Rifah Chamber of Commerce and Industry Delhi Hosts Business Networking Event

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NEW DELHI :

New Delhi :

The Rifah Chamber of Commerce and Industry Delhi Chapter organized a business networking event at India Islamic Cultural Centre, here Saturday. The event saw the participation of various manufacturers, traders and service providers and industrialists from Delhi and nearby areas such as Ghaziabad, Noida, and Gurgaon.

The program commenced with a high tea session where attendees mingled and networked with each other over refreshments. Following this, the program began with recitation of the Quran, setting a spiritual tone for the event. Mr. Sultan Salahuddin, State President of Delhi, initiated the proceedings with his opening remarks.

Mr. Salahuddin Ahmad, ex-National Admin of Rifah, conducted a presentation on how manufacturers, traders and services providers could introduce their companies effectively during such networking events. All the manufacturers, traders and service providers presented their companies in accordance with the provided guidelines.

Mr. Sayed Ahmed Saood, a seasoned business coach and strategic management consultant, shared insights into the challenges of marketing and proposed solutions based on his extensive experience in the field. Mr. Rashid Kamal Lari presented his company, Larson Paint, as a sponsor of the event and highlighted its contributions.

The program concluded with a powerful speech by Mr. S. Ameenul Hasan, the Chairman of Rifah, who emphasized how Rifah is evolving into an eco-friendly platform for the benefit of manufacturers, traders and service providers. He also enlightened the audience about the leadership skills of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the successful principles of business in Islam.

Mr. Salimullah Khan, Ameer Halqa Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Delhi, expressed gratitude to all participants and the Rifah Delhi team for organizing the event successfully.

The business networking meet facilitated valuable interactions among manufacturers, traders and service providers, providing them with insights, networking opportunities, and a platform to showcase their businesses. It also underscored Rifah’s commitment to fostering a supportive and environmentally conscious business environment.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / May 06th, 2024

Mansoor Ali Khan: My agenda is Bangalore Central and Bangalore centric and Bangalore people

Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA:

Mansoor Ali Khan will be fighting the Lok Sabha election from the Bangalore Central Parliamentary Constituency as a Congress candidate.

source: youtube.com

Mansoor Ali Khan will be fighting the Lok Sabha election from the Bangalore Central Parliamentary Constituency in Karnataka as a Congress candidate.

Mansoor Ali Khan discusses his plans for Bangalore Central, polarization and dynasts in politics.

source: http://www.thesouthfirst.com / The South First / Home> States> Politics / by Nilan Patrick Pinto / April 21st, 2024

Meet Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed, the man behind Rooh Afza: Know about his journey, family & net worth

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Leaders, World Opinion,

Philbit , UTTAR PRADESH / NEW DELHI:

For the unversed, Rooh Afza was originally created by a Unani hakim as a herbal concoction to beat the heat, however, it went on to become a staple across India and Pakistan.

Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed, Rooh Afza, Rooh Afza net worth, Rooh Afza founder, Rooh Afza journey, Rooh Afza pakistan, Rooh Afza india, lifestyle

Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed is the founder of Hamdard that created Rooh Afza as a herbal drink that would help people stay cool in the summer. 

Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed’s education

Born in 1883, Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed studied the origin of Urdu and Persian languages. He went on to acquire the highest degree in unani system of medicine.

Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed’s career

In 1906, Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed decided to set up a herbal shop at House Qazi in Delhi. In 1920, his small shop turned into a production house. Selecting herbs and syrups from traditional Unani medicines, Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed created a drink to fight heat strokes – He named it Rooh Afza, which in Urdu means ‘something that refreshes the soul.”

In 1910, an artist called Mirza Noor Ahmad prepared the labels of Rooh Afza in several colours. It was printed under special arrangement by the Bolton Press of the Parsees of Bombay (Mumbai) since there were no coloured printers at that time.

Journey of Rooh Afza

The partition of India in 1947 played a role in the journey of Rooh Afza. Hakim Abdul Majeed’s eldest son decided to stay in India, but his younger brother Mohammad Saeed wanted to live in Pakistan. He started Hamdard from two rooms in Karachi and in no time the business flourished. As per Sadia Rashid, Hakim Mohammad Said’s daughter, her father gifted the business to the people of Bangladesh after their independence in 1971.

Having said that, Rooh Afza gained more popularity in India. The bottles were deigned in Germany and were initially introduced in a glass bottle, but was later changed to plastic. In 2019, Rooh Afza faced shortage in supplies owning to the lesser availability of herbs needed to make the drink.

Other brands under Rooh Afza

Over the years, Rooh Afza launched products like Pachnaul, Safi, Rogan Badam Shirin. 

source: http://www.financialexpress.com / Financial Express / Home> FE Leisure> Business News> Lifestyle / by FE Lifestyle / May 13th, 2023

Meet India’s richest Muslim woman, who owns property worth crores, runs company worth of 28,773 crore, her business is..

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Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

She is the daughter of billionaire Rafique Malik, the company’s chairman. Her grandfather, Malik Tejani, founded it in 1955 in Mumbai. Farah has guided Metro Shoes into a new era of modern retail. The company’s brands include Mochi, Metro, and Walkway.

article-main
(Image source: LinkedIn)

Eid Ul Fitr was celebrated throughout the country. Amid celebrations, you may be left wondering if you are asked about the wealthiest Muslim woman in the country. The name of the country’s richest Muslim woman is Farah Malik Bhanji. She is the managing director of the Metro brand, which sells premium shoes. Her net worth is more than Rs. 26000 crore. Farah Malik plays an important role in giving the Metro brand a new identity.

She is the daughter of billionaire Rafique Malik, the company’s chairman. Her grandfather, Malik Tejani, founded it in 1955 in Mumbai. Farah has guided Metro Shoes into a new era of modern retail. The company’s brands include Mochi, Metro, and Walkway.

As of December 8, the company’s market capitalisation was Rs 35,117 crore. Farah is the second of five daughters. His father, Rafique, has a real-time net worth of Rs 21697 crore as of 12 April.

Farah has more than 20 years of experience in the footwear industry. She has played a key role in reimagining the company for the new era. She began her career in marketing before moving on to revamp Metro Brands Limited’s technology roadmap and supply chain. The company was listed in December 2021. The late billionaire investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala’s wife, Rekha, owns a minority stake in Metro Brands.

She pays close attention to detail, is well-versed in business, and has a sense of style. The footwear company has experienced growth for both the company and its employees under her leadership. She has played a crucial role in forging connections with international companies like Skechers, Crocs, and Clarks in addition to forging close bonds with more than 250 reliable vendors. She contributed to the network’s growth from 100 stores in 2010 to 598 locations across 136 Indian cities.

At the close of trading on Wednesday, Metro Brands Ltd. saw a rise to Rs. 1058. Rs. 1,440.45 is the stock’s 52-week high level, and Rs. 784.45 is its 52-week low. Metro Brands’ shares opened at Rs 1044 at the start of the trading session on Wednesday. Subsequently, it increased by over 20 rupees, closing at 1058. The company cap is of Rs 28,773 crore. 

source: http://www.dnaindia.com / DNA / Home> Business / by Varnika Srivastava / April 12th, 2024

AMU Professor Saima Yunus Khan gets First Copyright from Government of India for her work on Dental Caries

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), Leaders, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH:

AMU Faculty Becomes First Indian To Receive IADR Fellowship

Prof Saima Yunus Khan, Chairperson, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Dr. Z.A. Dental College, Aligarh Muslim University has been awarded the Copyright by the Government of India for her original innovative work on an evidence based Indian Caries Risk Assessment tool for the children up to 6 years of age.

She started to work on the project in 2021, on receiving the John Clarkson Fellowship from the Prestigious International Association for Dental Research.

Being the first Indian to receive this fellowship, she worked in collaboration with Dr. Gerald Niznick, College of Dentistry, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences University of Manitoba, Canada.

According to Dr. Saima, the CRA tool would be beneficial to the Indian children as it addresses the risk factors of early childhood caries of Indian preschoolers. It’s a small compact tool form which can be used with ease by the masses in hospital or field settings.

The Dean, Faculty of Medicine and the Principal, J.N. Medical College, Prof Veena Maheshwari, and the Principal, Dr. Z. A. Dental College & Hospital, Prof R.K. Tewari congratulated Prof. Saima on her exemplary achievement.

source: http://www.amu.ac.in / AMU, Aligarh Muslim University / Home> Public Relations Office (headline edited & additional pix edited) / April 02nd, 2024

A noble soul passes away

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Aurangabad /Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA:

It was December 2001. I was at Dr Rafiq Zakaria’s beautiful, book-lined study at Cuffe Parade house in South Mumbai. In that spacious room Allama Iqbal vied for space with William Wordsworth and Mirza Ghalib sat alongside Shakespeare. World religions and their prophets and pundits were there in plenty. So were heroes and heroines of India’s freedom struggle. Present also were a few villains amidst a pantheon of popular leaders. Muhammad Ali Jinnah could not have been absent. He was there too.

In fact, Jinnah those days was in the intellectual air on both sides of the Indo-Pak border. The Outlook magazine had sent Dr Rafiq Zakaria’s book on Jinnah ‘The Man Who Divided India’ to noted Pakistani journalist Najam Sethi for review and he had panned the book. In the review Sethi had also suggested that Dr Zakaria should have heeded advice of his wife Fatma Zakaria who had tried to stop him from wiring the book, suggesting, “I think you should leave Jinnah alone for a while.” Dr Zakaria had written a rejoinder to Sethi’s piece and explained that he could not help but write about a man responsible for not just dividing India but breaking the social cohesion of the subcontinent Muslims. First, Muslims were divided between two countries–India and Pakistan. Subsequently, a part of Pakistan broke away, leaving Muslims divided in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The blood-curdling riots that accompanied these divisions had left Dr Zakaria deeply disturbed and could not rest till he took the grief off his chest.

While he gave an interview to me for the ‘Indian Express” on why he wrote this book and the debate it had generated, he told his office staff that he would not entertain any telephone calls or visitors for the next one hour. Dr Zakaria was holding forth forcefully in the closed room when unexpectedly and suddenly the door opened and Fatma Zakaria, in yellow salwar-kameez clutching a page, breezed in. “The secretary is so terrified after you asked her not to disturb you that she pleaded with me to come. This needs your signature and has to be faxed urgently,” Fatma said, got the paper signed and left quickly.

The Zakarias, husband and wife, complimented each other. One half left in 2005. The better half departed yesterday. She was 85. Her famous son, US-based author and Television anchor Fareed Zakaria couldn’t have encapsulated his feelings in a tweet better than this: “My mother, Fatma Zakaria, passed away last night at 85. She lived a long, rich, eventful life, with children and grandchildren whom she adored. She loved this photograph.” The photograph that I use with this essay is the one Fareed Zakaria tweeted. She is survived by, apart from Fareed, her son Arshad Zakaria and step son Mansoor Zakaria and step daughter Tasneem Mehta Zakaria.

Life was never the same again in Mumbai after Dr Rafiq Zakaria had exited. Life at the beautiful educational campus Dr Rafiq Zakaria built in Aurangabad will never be the same again after Fatma Zakaria’s departure. After Dr Zakaria’s death in 2005, Fatma had stepped in to carry on the educational legacy her famous educationist, politician and Islamic scholar husband had left behind.

As you enter the green campus, a sense of gratitude for the Zakarias grips you. For years, Dr Zakaria and then his wife Fatma nursed this seat of learning, endowing it with institutions of repute. Most politicians use their constituencies to scale heights and abandon them once they leave politics and walk into sunset. Few remain clung to their constituencies till they die. Dr Rafiq Zakaria belonged to the second category. “He is the architect of modern Aurangabad and Mrs. Fatma Zakaria was a big pillar of support to him. I don’t think Dr Zakaria could have done so much in the fields of politics, education and scholarship without her,” says eminent Urdu scholar and linguist Prof Abdus Sattar Dalvi who have known the Zakarias for the last five decades. Prof Dalvi had also translated Dr Zakaria’s seminal work Iqbal: Poet and Politician in Urdu.

Fatma was Dr Zakaria’s first reader and critic too. With their children flown out of the nest and into the wider world where they planted victory flags on as varied fields as Investment Banking and Journalism, it was Fatma who provided the much-needed inputs as well as emotional support to Zakaria who heads so many institutions and i wrote so prolifically till his end.

Fatma had worked under legendary editor and ‘dream boss’ of every fledgling journalist, Khushwant Singh, and knew how to curb verbosity in a sentence and straighten a complex paragraph. In book after book that Dr Zakaria churned out, he acknowledged the unpaid services of this able, inhouse editor. She knew Urdu too and could write on arts and literature with as much felicity as she could do political pieces. The biggies she had interviewed included Indira Gandhi, Margaret Thatcher and Jaya Prakash Narayan.

Bachi Karkaria, M J Akbar, Bikram Vora, Jiggs Kalra, Badshah Sen and Ramesh Chandran were her contemporaries when they worked with “The Illustrated Weekly of India” under the stewardship of Khushwant Singh. When I informed Akbar about Fatma’s death yesterday, he reacted with a few words: “What a tragedy. I am saddened.” Akbar was so close to the Zakarias that once I heard him saying, “I feel adopted by the Zakarias.” Perhaps no book launch of Dr Zakaria–and he had at least one or two every year—was held without Akbar as one of the speakers. The speed with which Dr Zakria wrote books, published and launched them left us youngsters amazed. I once joked when he informed me about the launch of yet another book: “Dr Sahab, now I have left count of the number of your book launches and book readings I have attended.” This couldn’t have been possible without the meticulous planning Fatma Zakaria did and tireless support she provided.

It was the launch of Zakaria’s book ” Indian Muslims: Where Have they Gone Wrong?” at the Nehru Centre in Mumbai. The 900-odd capacity auditorium was houseful with young college students (Dr Zakaria and, Fatma after him, was chairperson of the Maharashtra College in Mumbai) occupying a substantial number of seats. As always, Fatma Zakaria didn’t figure among those who graced the stage. When Akbar rose to speak, he inquired about Fatma Zakaria who was seated among the audience. Akbar requested her to come on stage. She refused and was seemingly embarrassed for being invited to the stage. Leaving her to where she felt comfortable, Akbar went on to say: “It is only Dr Rafiq Zakaria who can turn a book launch into a public meeting.”

A couple of years after Dr Zakaria’s death, Islamic scholar and secretary general of the Wisdom Foundation, Dr Zeenat Shaukat Ali, and I were in Aurangabad to participate in a seminar political scientist Dr Zaheer Ali had organized. Historian and ex-VC of Jamia Millia Islamia Prof Mushirul Hasan too had flown in from Delhi. After the seminar, Zeenat Shaukat Ali and I went to see Fatma Zakaria in her office. She was in fine fettle, command of things and ran the show meticulously. We chatted for a while and then she told us not to leave without visiting Dr Sahab’s grave on the same campus.

Zeenat Shaukat Ali and I walked down the paved pathway and reached a small patch of land where Dr Zakaria’s open-to-sky grave squats. With several couplets of Allama Iqbal adorning the place, it resembles a Sufi saint’s last resting place. After a long, eventful life, Fatma Zakaria joined her husband. They will be there till the creator calls them up, along with all of us, on the Judgement Day.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> India / by Mohammed Wajihuddin in Beyond the Burqa, India, TOI / April 07th, 2021

REAL HEROES : ‘Bharat ki Beti’ Uzma Fatima Leaves Blazing Trail of Bravery in Srisailam Power Plant Fire; Saving 4 Lives Cost her Own Life

Amazing Feats, Bravery Awards, Citations, Commendations etc (since April 14th, 2024), Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hyderabad, TELANGANA:

Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi fondly refers to girls as Bharat ki Beti. One such Bharat ki Beti Uzma Fatima, 26, an assistant engineer at the Srisailam Power Plant in the Telangana State left a blazing trail of bravery as she saved 4 of her colleagues from the fire reportedly caused due to short circuit a few days ago.

Modi also says: Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save girl child, educate girl child). Young Hyderabadi Uzma’s bravery can make us say: Beti Padhao, Beti Bachaati (Educate girl child, she will save you)!

Thousands of girls have been raped and burnt to death. Many others have been burnt to death for dowry. But when girls get a chance, they save the families and the nation. Uzma Fatima was a notch higher in the sense that she saved those 4 colleagues, who were not even her own family. She put humanity first!

Uzma Fatima’s father Mohammed Zubair runs a footwear business at Chappal Bazar in Hyderabad. He has three daughters and a son. The elder daughter is married. Uzma Fatima was his second daughter and was unmarried. His youngest daughter is in the eighth standard.

Mohammed Zubair’s son Mohammed Minhaj who is a degree college student told that his family is in a state of shock due to the sudden tragedy. According to him, Uzma Fatima was working in Srisailam Power Station as an Assistant Engineer for the past four years. The CCTV footage of the fire accident shows that Uzma had come out of the fire engulfed place. According to the survivors, she saved 4 (four) of her colleagues. She went back to bring out the other assistant engineers trapped there. She could not come of the tunnel along with eight other colleagues. The brave engineers perished in the fire.

It may be recalled that women were finally given combat roles in the Indian Army after a long struggle. Uzma’s sacrifice proves that women are second to none in bravery. Women are our best bet to save our country within and on our borders. Rani Laxmi Bai of Jhansi proved her bravery in the battlefield against the British. Every girl in our country is a potential Rani Laxmi Bai. They prove it when they get chances. Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi may certainly be feeling proud about the sacrifice of Bharat ki Beti Uzma Fatima.

A fitting tribute to Uzma’s memory would be institute a gallantry award her name and also rechristen Srisailam Power Plant as Uzma Fatima Power Plant. It will not only generate electricity but it will also generate bravery for our future generations of girls to emulate.

The Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) should pay tribute to Telangana’s daughter Uzma Fatima by naming a major road in Hyderabad after her. The Malakpet Railway Station near her residence can be named as Uzma Fatima Railway Station. Are Modi ji and KCR Garu listening?

source: http://www.beyondheadlines.in / Beyond Headlines / Home> Real Heroes / by Dr. Ahmed Moinuddin Siddiqui / August 25th, 2020