A ‘family get-together’ will be organized at Al Qusais Amity School in Dubai on Saturday, February 15, under the auspices of the UAE ‘Sahebaan’ community.
‘Sahebaan’ is an Urdu-speaking Muslim community from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.
This ‘Family Get-Together’ will be held from 4 PM to 11 PM, and several programs will take place during this time, said program organizer and patron H.M. Afroz Assadi.
He stated that a felicitation program will be held to recognize children studying in the UAE who have scored more than 90% marks, as well as those who have achieved success in sports.
The chief guests of the event will be ‘Sahebaan’ community leaders, businessman and Hidayat Group President Hidayatullah Abbas, non-resident businessman, Philanthropist and owner of Nash Engineering Company in Dubai K.S. Nisar Ahmed, along with several other dignitaries.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 12th, 2025
Muhammad Ashif Karnire, CEO of Saudi Arabia-based Expertise Contracting Company Limited, was honoured with the prestigious ‘Global Beary of Business Youth Icon’ award at the Beary Mela 2025. The event was held on Sunday at the Etisalat Academy Grounds under the auspices of the Bearys Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI), UAE.
Karnataka Assembly Speaker UT Khader graced the event as the Chief Guest.
Karnataka Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa, Indian Ambassador to Dubai Satish Kumar Sivan, State Hajj Minister Rahim Khan, Bengaluru Shanthi Nagar MLA NA Haris. Vice-President of the Government’s Non-Resident Indian Directorate Dr. Aarti Krishna, social worker Dr. Ronald Colaco, Thumbay Group founder president Dr. Thumbay Moideen, renowned non-resident Indian businessman and CEO of Al Muzain, Saudi Arabia, Zakaria Jokatte, Expertise Contracting Limited Director K.S. Sheikh Karnire, UAE Bearys Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI) UAE Unit President Hidayat Addoor and others were present on the occasion.
The award recognized Muhammad Ashif Karnire’s exceptional contributions to the industry and his outstanding achievements. Karnire, who heads the prestigious Expertise company in Jubail, Saudi Arabia, had previously been honoured in 2021 by Dr. Ausaf Saeed, the Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, for his community services and professional excellence.
Founded in 2008, Expertise is a leading industrial services provider in Saudi Arabia, employing over 15,000 professionals and operating more than 7,500 pieces of equipment. The company serves a wide range of industries, including petrochemicals, oil and gas, fertilizers, steel, cement, water treatment, and power generation. Headquartered in Jubail Industrial City, Expertise has established a strong presence with branches across Saudi Arabia.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 14th, 2025
Doctorates awarded for transformative contributions to Medical Education, Healthcare Innovation
Dubai, UAE :
Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder President of Thumbay Group, has been awarded two distinguished honorary doctorates in recognition of his outstanding contributions to medical education, healthcare innovation, and philanthropy. The accolades were conferred by Chitkara University, India, and Fergana Medical Institute of Public Health, Uzbekistan, further solidifying his impact on the global healthcare landscape.
At a grand ceremony held at Chitkara University, Chandigarh, India, Dr. Moideen was conferred with the Doctor of Literature (D.Litt) Honoris Causa for his exemplary leadership in advancing medical education, pioneering healthcare initiatives, and fostering innovation in the sector. The award acknowledges his relentless commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and shaping future generations of medical professionals.
Additionally, Fergana Medical Institute of Public Health, Uzbekistan, honored Dr. Moideen with an Honorary Doctorate, celebrating his visionary role in international healthcare collaborations and his dedication to fostering academic excellence in the medical field.
With these latest honors, Dr. Moideen now holds a total of four honorary doctorates, a testament to his remarkable leadership and visionary contributions.
Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Thumbay Moideen stated, “I am deeply honored to receive these prestigious recognitions. This is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the unwavering commitment of the entire Thumbay Group towards transforming healthcare and medical education globally. We will continue to push boundaries in innovation, ensuring accessible, high-quality healthcare and education for all.”
Driving Forward Thumbay Group’s Vision 2028, With these accolades further fueling his mission, Dr. Moideen is steadfast in leading Thumbay Group’s Vision 2028, a strategic roadmap aimed at making Thumbay Group a global leader in healthcare, medical education, research, and wellness innovation.
Through his visionary leadership, Dr. Thumbay Moideen continues to turn this ambitious vision into reality, ensuring that Thumbay Group remains at the forefront of healthcare and education innovation. With its rapid expansion and digital transformation strategies, Thumbay Group is on track to achieving and further cementing its status as a global powerhouse in healthcare and education. His relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with a commitment to social impact, is driving the group’s expansion and shaping the future of the industry.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / March 03rd, 2025
India’s first Net-Zero (on-site solar energy) Retail Experience Centre, curated by Bearys Innomark, has set a new benchmark in sustainable architecture and green innovation. The project, which houses the globally renowned furniture brand MillerKnoll, is a testament to Bearys’ longstanding commitment to eco-friendly development and responsible urban design.
The launch event, attended by industry leaders, architects, project management consultants (PMCs), and clients, marked a significant milestone in India’s journey toward sustainable commercial spaces. The occasion was graced by Chief Guests N A Haris Nalapad, MLA of Shanthinagar and Chairman of the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), Kartik Shethia, Managing Director for APMEA, International Contract, MillerKnoll, Syed Mohamed Beary, Founder & CMD, Bearys Group and Mazhar Beary Executive Director, Business Development & Retail, Bearys Group. Their presence highlighted the importance of sustainable infrastructure in shaping the future of urban development.
For decades, Bearys has been at the forefront of green building initiatives, blending innovation with environmental responsibility.
The MillerKnoll Experience Centre is a reflection of this ethos, demonstrating how cutting-edge design can coexist with sustainability. With on-site solar energy ensuring a Net-Zero footprint, the space is more than just a retail hub—it is a model for the future of responsible commercial development.
The event was not just about unveiling a new retail space but reinforcing a collective vision for a greener tomorrow. By championing sustainable design, Bearys continues to inspire the industry, proving that business growth and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand, the group said in a press statement.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / February 15th, 2025
Football is more than just a game for six-year-old Zidaan Jamadar—it’s a dream in the making. At an age when most children are still discovering their interests, Zidaan is already making his mark on the football field, earning recognition for his skill, discipline, and passion for the sport. With an impressive tally of 148 goals across multiple tournaments, the young footballer from Belagavi is proving to be a name to watch in Indian football.
Zidaan’s journey in football is intertwined with his father, Mohammed Siraj Jamadar’s love for the game. Siraj, a businessman, grew up playing football locally but never had the opportunity to pursue it professionally due to the lack of infrastructure and awareness about the sport in India during the 1990s. Watching international football was a challenge back then, with only limited broadcasts available on Doordarshan. It was only with the arrival of cable television that Indian fans got better access to global football leagues. When the Indian Super League (ISL) was launched in 2013, it reignited Siraj’s passion for the sport. The introduction of international players alongside Indian talent gave him hope that football in India would gain the recognition it deserved. He wished for a son who could pursue the dream he had to let go of—and in 2018, Zidaan was born.
Zidaan’s journey in football began in 2022 when he was just three years old. Enrolled at BFC Soccer Schools in Belagavi, he quickly stood out for his enthusiasm and ability to grasp the game’s fundamentals. His first coach, Abhishek Vincent Harry, fondly remembers his early days. “I vividly recall the first time he joined us at just 3.5 years old. While new to the game, his determination and love for football were evident from the beginning. Watching him perform in the Casa Grand BFC Soccer Shield was truly inspiring. I look forward to seeing him don the blue jersey of the Indian national team one day,” Harry shared.
As he grew, Zidaan moved to the Belagavi United Football Academy (BUFA), where he began playing in the Under-7 KSFA Youth League. His coach at BUFA, Nikhil Bhajantri, was immediately impressed by his talent. “From my very first session, I could see he was a natural. At just five years old, he displayed a deep understanding of the game, quick learning ability, and remarkable dribbling skills. In his first KSFA Youth League match against Raman Sports Academy, he scored a hat trick, playing a crucial role in our victory. He’s truly gifted,” Bhajantri said.
Since starting his football journey, Zidaan has consistently delivered outstanding performances in tournaments across the country, playing in under-6, under-7, and under-8 categories organized by KSFA, FC Goa, and Bengaluru FC. His goal-scoring record is remarkable, with 50 goals for Little Gaur in Goa, 8 goals in the Win More Trophy in Bangalore, 3 goals for AFC Belgaum, 4 goals in the Super Cup FC Goa, 9 goals in the GFL Mini League Belagavi, 20 goals in GFL Belagavi, 20 goals in KSFA Bangalore 2023, 42 goals in KSFA Bangalore 2024, and 4 goals in the Casa Grand Soccer Shield 2025.
His performances have not gone unnoticed. AIFF-certified coach Vishal Kamu from the Manas Sports Development Foundation (MSDF) Academy praised the young footballer’s dedication. “From day one, Zidaan stood out. His hunger to learn, his passion for the game, and his ability to take on challenges make him an exceptional player. He’s focused and hardworking, qualities that will take him a long way,” Kamu noted.
Zidaan’s dedication to football has earned him several accolades, including the Most Valuable Player award from FC Goa Little Gaur, GFL Belagavi, and KSFA 2024.
He was also named Best Player of the Tournament at the BFC Soccer Shield 2025.
He currently holds the record for being the highest goal scorer for the Blue Cubs of the All India Football Federation in the Under-6 category and the top scorer in the Karnataka State Football Association.
Even at this young age, Zidaan follows a disciplined lifestyle that supports his game. His father proudly shared, “Zidaan always carries home-cooked food prepared by his mother to practice. Unlike other kids, he stays away from junk food. His focus and discipline are beyond his years, and as a family, we will always stand by him, no matter what.”
Currently competing in the Little Gaur 2024-25 matches in Goa, Zidaan continues to sharpen his skills and set new benchmarks. With his talent, dedication, and the constant support of his family, he is on a promising path to making a mark in Indian football.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / February 18th, 2025
Former member of the Legislative Council and editor of the Hindi newspaper Bidar Ki Awaaz and the Urdu newspaper Surkh Zameen, Qazi Arshad Ali
Bidar:
Former member of the Legislative Council and editor of the Hindi newspaper Bidar Ki Awaaz and the Urdu newspaper Surkh Zameen, Qazi Arshad Ali (75), passed away on Monday, March 3, due to a heart attack.
He is survived by his wife, son, and three daughters.
Qazi Arshad Ali had served two terms as a Legislative Council member and had also held positions as Chairman of the Bidar Urban Development Authority and President of the Congress district unit.
Political leaders, journalists, and residents of Bidar have expressed their deep condolences on his demise.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / March 03rd, 2025
Developed by KMC Mangalore team led by Dr. Haroon, Dr. Sameena, Dr. Chiranjith
Mangalore:
A patent application for a groundbreaking medical device, Device for Monitoring Gynaecological Disorders, has been officially published, marking a significant achievement for the team of doctors and student inventors from Kasturba Medical College (KMC) Mangalore.
The device is designed to enhance early detection and diagnosis of gynaecological disorders. It incorporates a flexible probe, a rotational brush for effective sampling, and an enzyme-coated detection system, improving precision and efficiency in clinical examinations.
The innovation is credited to Dr. Haroon H, Dr. Sameena H, and Dr. Chiranjit Ghosh from MIT, along with student inventors Krisha Janaswamy, Shashank Sanjay, Adithya Harikrishnan Namboothiri, and Shubham Bhusari.
The official Twitter handle of KMC Mangalore also recognized the accomplishment, congratulating the team for their work in medical innovation.
Dr. Haroon is son of M. Hussain and late Akhila Begum from Arehalli village in Hassan while Dr. Sameena Haroon is daughter of KA Sadiq and Maimoona.
Renowned Urdu scholar, poet, and educator Dr. Haneef Shabab from Bhatkal has been selected for the prestigious Karnataka Urdu Academy Award 2024 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Urdu literature. The award will be presented to him on February 27 at a special ceremony in Bengaluru.
Dr. Shabab, a veteran in the field of Urdu literature, has dedicated his life to teaching, research, and literary enrichment. As a poet, mentor, and academic, he has made significant efforts to preserve and promote Urdu through scholarly writings and literary works. His research and critical analyses have played a vital role in nurturing a new generation of Urdu scholars. With over 25 years of experience as an Urdu teacher at Shams English Medium School in Bhatkal, he has influenced countless students.
Throughout his career, Dr. Shabab has actively participated in seminars, workshops, and literary festivals, fostering a deeper appreciation for Urdu poetry and prose. His writings are not just academic but also deeply reflective of cultural values, emotions, and social issues.
One of his most celebrated works is the poem “Aur Line Cut Gayi,” which poignantly addresses the issue of female foeticide. Written as an emotional dialogue between a deceased child and her mother, the poem has received international acclaim for its profound social message.
Apart from poetry, Dr. Shabab has significantly contributed to Urdu journalism, writing insightful articles and critiques on various cultural and societal matters. He has also authored two books: “Sulagte Khwaab” (1997) and “Lahu Lahu Mausam” (2009), both collections of his poetry.
The recognition by the Karnataka Urdu Academy is a testament to Dr. Shabab’s lifelong dedication to Urdu literature and his impact on the literary world.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Award / by Radiance News Bureau / February 26th, 2025
Heart Lamp is one among the 13 books chosen by the 2025 International Booker Prize judging panel, headed by Max Porter.
Banu Mushtaq. File | Photo Credit: The Hindu
“It is an honour for Kannada that a work written in our language is getting this recognition,” said Hassan-based Kannada writer, advocate and activist Banu Mushtaq, whose collection of stories Heart Lamp, translated by Deepa Bhasthi, has found a place in the long list for the International Booker Prize 2025.
Heart Lamp is one among the 13 books chosen by the 2025 judging panel, headed by Max Porter. The judges made their selection from 154 books submitted by publishers. The shortlist of books will be announced on April 8 and the winner will be announced on May 20.
Heart Lamp, is a collection of 11 short stories written by Banu Mushtaq between 1990 and 2023. “So far I have brought out six collections of short stories in Kannada. Among them, 11 were chosen for the collection Heart Lamp,” said Ms. Mushtaq.
What judges said
The judge panel, in its comment on the collection, stated, “Written in a style at once witty, vivid, colloquial, moving and excoriating, it’s in her characters – the sparky children, the audacious grandmothers, the buffoonish maulvis and thug brothers, the off-hapless husbands, and the mothers above all, surviving their feelings at great cost – that Musthaq emerges as an astonishing writer and observer of human nature, building disconcerting emotional heights out of a rich spoken style.”
Earlier, an English translation of a collection of her short stories Haseena and Other Stories won English PEN translation award for the year 2024. That was also translated by Deepa Bhasthi.
Early years
Ms. Mushtaq began writing in the progressive literary movement in Karnataka in the 1970s and 1980s, which gave voice to several people from dalit and minority communities, including strong women’s voices in Ms. Mushtaq.
Some of her early writings were published in Lankesh Patrike, for whom she also worked as a correspondent for some years. The writer remains a committed voice in the progressive circles, and remained critical of forces that divide people among lines of caste, class, gender and religion.
Among her important works are Hejje Moodida Haadi, Benki-Male, Edeya Hanate, Badavara Magalu Hennalla (short stories), Kubra (novel) Odde Kannina Baagina (poetry), Ibbaniya Kaavu (essays) and Kautumbika Daurjanya Kayide (on Domestic Violence Act). Haseena has also been made into a film, directed by Girish Kasaravalli.
The late Kannada writer and Jnanpith awardee U.R. Ananthamurthy was also nominated for Man Booker International Prize in 2013, but did not win it.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Books> Author / by The Hindu Bureau / February 26th, 2025
A painting combats drugs.Horses displaying power in colour.
Renowned artist Akbar Saheb has been immersed in the field of art for over 50 years. He has been living and working in Dubai since 1996, and has been honoured with the Golden Visa for his many artistic achievements and exceptional creative contributions to the UAE, his adoptive country, and India, his home country.
His vast collection of artworks, inclusive now of over hundreds of paintings, spans various mediums, including those created in oil, acrylic, watercolour, and more recently, sculptures. His exhibitions extend to both global and local audiences. Among others, he has had a notable solo exhibition done in a new style he calls “Depthism” at Jehangir Art Gallery Mumbai (2023).
Later, he hosted another art event in Delhi. The theme was tolerance and Akbar Saheb says that “many people, including foreigners, were mesmerised by the artworks and their creative ideation.”
In 2024, he had a solo exhibition at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club in Dubai. “It was a huge highlight of my creative career,” says Akbar Saheb. His artistic prowess has transcended borders, earning him recognition from the Indian government also. He has been invited to participate in governmental initiatives, such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat (Conversations of the Mind) book.
He was the only artist selected to illustrate the volume; it won him recognition in the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House) and with the public also, during the official launch of the volume. In 2022, he showcased his artwork in 6 solo exhibitions held across India, supported by the Indian Prime Minister’s Office. The shows were held in Ahmedabad, Baroda, Surat, Rajkot, Delhi and Varanasi; they were attended by many VIPs. Akbar created a collection of 55 paintings which served as platforms that presented India’s progress and the transformative impact of Mann Ki Baat initiatives.
Akbar Saheb in a contemplative mood.
The seeds of Akbar’s artistic journey were sown at the tender age of seven. Despite the absence of significant family support, he diligently pursued his passion for art. He began by crafting shop signboards and assisting college students with biology drawings, to finance his sketching material. Years later, his creative flair propelled him to leading advertising agencies, where he specialised in illustration with airbrush techniques. His dedication to art ultimately took him from India’s Bangalore and Mumbai, where he worked in major companies, to Dubai.
His paintings, especially those of horses, feature a bold use of colour and a fearless instinct to show movement. The firm brushstrokes are the vectors of the energy, vitality and dynamism of the animals. The pictures bring memories of the work of Indian artist M. F. Husain, whose horses too portrayed majesty and power.
Akbar Saheb is not merely an artist; he is a compassionate soul with a deep commitment to humanity, particularly towards children with disabilities. Through specialised painting classes and international collaborations, he empowers the children to express their artistry. “I strive to inspire children to embrace art, fill their minds with colours, and explore the world through creativity,” he says.
He has launched painting classes and charitable projects for disabled children, providing them a space for artistic expression and has also auctioned paintings for donations and charity. In an interview, Akbar shared his experience working with the children. “Engaging with these children and witnessing their resilience and creativity is truly humbling,” he said. “They inspire me and remind me of the beauty and strength within each person. Through such efforts, I hope to inspire others too to support and uplift special children, as they live their life and pursue art. Together, we can create a more inclusive and caring society.”
A composition by Akbar Saheb..
Alongside art sessions, the activities he initiates are aimed at raising resources for the development of children with special needs. His aim is to provide them with the necessary assets, materials and educational opportunities to nurture and develop their artistic talent. Investing in their growth, he believes, can create a future where every child, regardless of his or her ability, can thrive and contribute to the community.
Akbar’s extensive portfolio showcases an eclectic array of creative concepts, themes and styles – he has exhibited his works worldwide. “Recently,” he says, “I was invited to do live painting during the Gold Cup final at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club. Both the teams involved played well; it was an intense match and ended in a tie. But finally, the UAE Polo team broke through, winning the final. My painting was gifted to the winning team for their amazing performance and playing skills!”
A painting titled Black Money.
Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was the Patron of the event, for the sixth time, and also led the winning UAE team. Sheikha Maitha was the first woman from the UAE to represent the country in the Olympics, in 2008.
Akbar Saheb is known to numerous celebrities and prominent people; many of them own his paintings. He has produced multiple works depicting the UAE’s culture, and the growth of the country. The 18×7 foot, 50 year golden jubilee painting; paintings on Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; plus over 50 paintings on UAE culture, are among his prized creations. His works range from commissions given by well-known individuals, to paintings done for his own satisfaction. Themes include horses, polo, history and culture and human existence, among others.
source: http://www.gulftoday.ae / Gulf Today / Home> Culture / by Muhammad Yusuf, Features Editor / February 24th, 2025
