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
In a remarkable display of dedication, Farhana I M has secured second rank in M.Tech Computer Science and Engineering under Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU).
What makes her achievement extraordinary is not just academic excellence but the journey behind it. A mother of three, she balanced family responsibilities while pursuing higher education, proving that determination breaks barriers. Her story is a testament to the boundless nature of passion for learning.
Born to Ismail Kundapur and married to Imran Kundapur, Farhana shares a close bond with her brother-in-law, Mohammed Ashif Karnire, CEO of Expertise Contracting Company in Saudi Arabia.
Reflecting on her journey, Farhana credits her love for education and the desire to set an example for her children as her driving forces. She hopes her success inspires other mothers and students to pursue their aspirations despite challenges.
Her accomplishment stands as a beacon of motivation, encouraging students and professionals alike to chase their dreams with dedication and perseverance.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / February 16th, 2025
In a ground-breaking medical achievement for coastal Karnataka, doctors at Indiana Hospital & Heart Institute have successfully implanted the region’s first-ever artificial intelligence (AI)-driven, leadless pacemaker in an elderly woman. This milestone marks a significant advancement in cardiology and reinforces Mangaluru’s reputation as a hub for cutting-edge healthcare services.
The patient, who had been suffering from Tachybrady syndrome, a condition where the heart alternates between dangerously fast and slow rhythms, had been hospitalized multiple times over the past year due to heart failure. After extensive evaluation, doctors recommended a radiofrequency ablation and pacemaker implantation.
However, a traditional pacemaker was not a viable option due to the patient’s pre-existing infection and high risk of recurrent sepsis. Conventional pacemakers use leads connected to the heart and positioned on the chest wall, which can pose serious infection risks for vulnerable patients.
To overcome these challenges, a team of experts, led by Dr Yusuf Kumble, chief interventional cardiologist at Indiana Hospital, along with Dr Maneesh Rai (Electrophysiologist), Dr Garry Valerian Pais (Consultant Interventional Cardiologist), Dr Sukhen Shetty (Cardiac Anaesthetist), and Dr Pradeep, opted for an innovative, leadless pacemaker solution.
Unlike traditional devices, this self-contained pacemaker is implanted directly into the heart through a minimally invasive procedure via the groin, eliminating the need for external leads or chest wall placement. This significantly reduces infection risks and complications, making it a safer, more effective option for patients prone to infections. Following the successful implantation, the team also performed radiofrequency ablation to treat the patient’s arrhythmias.
“This achievement underscores the exceptional expertise of our cardiology team and our commitment to bringing cutting-edge medical technologies to Mangaluru and beyond,” said Dr Yusuf Kumble. “By implanting the first AI-driven wireless pacemaker in coastal Karnataka, we have further established Indiana Hospital as a leader in interventional cardiology, not just in Karnataka, but across India.”
The leadless pacemaker is smaller, more efficient, and less invasive than conventional devices, providing patients with enhanced quality of life while minimizing associated risks.
With this pioneering procedure, Indiana Hospital and Heart Institute continues to set new benchmarks in advanced cardiac care, further cementing Mangaluru’s position as a center for innovative medical interventions in India.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld.com / Home> Top Stories / by Media Release / February 18th, 2025
Shaik Zakeer Hussain receives the Janasadbhawana Civil Society Awards, 2018 in journalism.
Bengaluru:
The Cognate’s founder and editor, Shaik Zakeer Hussain, has been awarded the Janasadbhawana Civil Society Awards, 2018 in the category of journalism for his coverage on fraudulent ‘Halal’ investment companies in Bengaluru.
The awards have been instituted by Bengaluru-based NGO Janasadbhawana, which has been working for the reformation and rehabilitation of undertrial prisoners in the city’s Central Jail in Parappana Agrahara. The awards are designed to promote and recognise notable work in the field of journalism, social activism, and administration. The award was presented to Zakeer by Faiz Akram Pasha, the founder trustee of Janasadbhawana on December 3.
“Zakeer has been recognised for his relentless coverage of fraudulent companies in Bengaluru, who have systematically targeted and looted the Muslim community in the name of religion,” said Faiz Akram Pasha, while presenting the award.
The other recipients of the Janasadbhawana Civil Society Awards, 2018 in the field of journalism were, Vikhar Ahmed Sayeed of the Frontline Magazine, Muneer Ahmed Jami of The Siasat Daily, Shahid Qazi of Zee Salaam, Mohammed Asharaf Ali Rashadi of the Daily Salar, Neyamathulla Hameedi of Rashtriya Sahara, and Ansar Azeez Nadwi of Seedhi Baat.
source: http://www.thecognate.com / The Cognate / Home> News / by The Cognate News Desk / December 03rd, 2018
The ‘Beary Mela-2025’ was inaugurated in a grand ceremony at the Etisalat Academy Ground on Sunday.
Organised under the aegis of the UAE Bearys Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI), the event was inaugurated by S.M. Rasheed Haji, President of the Mangaluru Bearys Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI), who extended his best wishes.
Speaking as the chief guest, Zakariya Jokatte, CEO of Al Muzain in Saudi Arabia, stated that the Beary community is known for its peaceful and harmonious nature. He emphasised the importance of preserving the community’s culture and continuing initiatives that benefit the community.
During the event, he announced that the next Beary Mela would be organised in Saudi Arabia after the Eid celebrations in 2026.
Hidayath Addoor, President of the UAE chapter of BCCI, delivered the presidential address.
Other dignitaries present included Umar U.H., President of Beary Sahitya Academy, Golthmajalu Razak Haji, Badruddin, Imtiyaz, and Ronald Martis.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 09th, 2025
The Indian Nawayath Forum (INF) has appointed its new office bearers for the term 2025-2028, with Aftab Kola assuming the role of President. Hashim Mohtesham (Barni) and Fayyaz Mohtesham have been named as the first and second Vice Presidents, respectively.
Adil Nagarmat has been entrusted with the responsibilities of General Secretary, while Gufran Lanka will serve as Secretary. The forum’s financial management will be overseen by Treasurer Ummer Khalifa, and Faizan Lanka has been designated as the Internal Auditor.
The Indian Nawayath Forum, a prominent organization working for the upliftment and welfare of the society, plays a crucial role in social, educational, and cultural initiatives. With a strong commitment to community development, the newly appointed team aims to carry forward the organization’s objectives and address various issues concerning the Nawayath people.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / February 10th, 2025
He can afford to hand out fistfuls of Liv.52 to anyone feeling liverish, although he would prefer to sell the pill. As Meraj Manal says, one Liv.52 is bought every second somewhere in the world. The only ayurveda pill among the 12 bestselling medications in India, Liv.52 has powered its manufacturer The Himalaya Drug Co into the ranks of Big Pharma in India.
But ask Manal to sell a slice of his privately-held company and you are shown the door. Many consumer care companies have tried to acquire a stake in Bangalore-based Himalaya. Dealmakers know it is not up for sale, but they do not give up hope or stop making bids.
Why should they? Himalaya, started by Manal’s father, the late M. Manal, in 1930 to make herbal tablets in the Himalayan town of Dehradun, is today an established brand in over 70 countries with about 160 products – 66 in pharma, 63 in personal care, nine in baby care and 22 in animal care.
After India, its three top markets are West Asia, Russia and the CIS, and South East Asia. In 1999, Himalaya took its personal care range into global markets, piggybacking the equity of its pharma products.
Figures are not available, but Manal says turnover has crossed Rs 1,000 crore on the back of Liv.52, some similar pills and the personal care products. “Liv.52 is one of the biggest successes of my father,” says Manal, Chairman of Himalaya Global Holdings, which owns the nine operating subsidiaries in different regions.
___________________________
I get 3 or 4 offers a year: Meraj Manal
Meraj Manal, 62, has always let his business heads to do the talking. In a rare interview with BT’s K.R. Balasubramanyam, he explains why he does not want outside investments, and why values count more than profits. Edited excerpts
How did your father get into the herbal medicine business? My father spent his lifetime gathering knowledge about traditional household remedies, standardising them, testing them for safety and efficacy and demonstrating them to doctors. He was the first who thought of producing herbal medicines in tablet form so doctors can prescribe them… Whenever he heard about a remedy, he would jot it down on a plain card to work on them later. We have tens of thousands of such cards stored in boxes. Our toothpaste is a product from one such card scribbled 40 years ago.
Why are you still not a public company? I don’t want a rupee from anyone other than the bank, because it is difficult to explain what we do to a shareholder. Can I accept outside investments and allow these cards (pointing to the stacks of his father’s cards) to disappear? Our whole philosophy, our value system is so different, how do I explain this to investors? All my children – four daughters and three sons – think so.
Do you get offers? I receive three or four offers a year. Multinationals have spoken to me and one of them even said we are the nugget of the herbal industry. If I accept these offers and put that money in a bank, I would no doubt get millions every month… What will I do with that money? I don’t want the liability of someone else’s money with me, big or small. Once you accept outside investment, they will start advising us on things like cutting the number of curries in the lunch at our canteen… or the staff transport. They will ask us why you are doing this and that. There is no “why” here. This is how it is. Since we are closely held, I have the luxury to say profits are not everything.
How much of your revenues goes into R&D? In this company, there is no limit on expenses on R&D. That is the only division without a budget. These (pointing to the cards) have to be converted into products.
How are you professionalising the company? As you grow, you need people who know more than you do. You cannot reach the next step unless you professionalise…. We will reserve the holding company for family members and the subsidiaries will have only professionals. We have separated ownership from management. Family members will be responsible for nurturing our value system. I don’t want family members on the business side. If they have energy, they are free to go out and pursue their interests.
So a family member becomes part of the holding company by default? Admission is not by default. They must have something to contribute….My son heads the US business, and not because he is my son, but because he is a professional who knows the US market the best. He is doing remarkably well.
What about this Deputy Chairman’s post? I created the post two years ago and appointed Ravi Prasad for a very special reason. To send a strong message that the operational head does not have to be a Manal. People were astonished and are happy about the decision. Like any CEO of any other region, my son too reports to Ravi. (Ravi Prasad was elevated as Executive Chairman in October. He leads the global management team.)
Are you satisfied with your growth? The growth we have had is more than satisfactory. If I want more than that, then we are greedy. We crossed Rs 1,000 crore in revenues last year. I don’t know much about finances. Professionals handle that. I just sign on the papers. …When I joined the business in 1965, the revenues were Rs 40 lakh…. The way we are growing in North and South America tells me that 20 years from now, they could possibly be our largest markets by volume.
Where is Himalaya headed? We will never move from our core competence. I am not for diversifying. I am not a person who can do other things. Opportunities for growth are unlimited and there is no real need to diversify. Our global operations have taught us many things. The country does not matter. As long as there are homes with people, we will go there.
_______________________________
Research backbone Although Himalaya’s reliance on Liv.52 has come down after both its new as well as old pharma products picked up steam in the market, and it launched personal care products, it all began with this blockbuster, whose recipe was among the many jotted down by Manal’s father on a card.
(Himalaya’s future lies in thousands of similar cards with notes that are stacked in boxes in Manal’s room.) The 52nd formula was a hit. Manal senior’s aim had been to make herbal remedies available in tablet form, scientifically tested for efficacy, identified by name and prescribed by doctors. The passion for research continues.
Ravi Prasad
Himalaya has raised its research, development and manufacturing standards so that its products clear regulatory hurdles abroad. “Apart from ayurvedic institutions, we also do clinical trials in leading allopathic institutions both in India and abroad,” says Ravi Prasad, Executive Chairman of Himalaya Drug Company, who leads the team of professionals worldwide.
“The regulatory picture is not clear in many countries and in some countries our standards have been recognised as the benchmark,” he says. Himalaya’s R&D facility, he says, is one of the biggest for an ayurveda manufacturer, with about 120 multidisciplinary scientists. As Manal proudly declares, R&D is the “backbone” of the company.
Himalaya knows the key to growth lies in its ability to create more patents. The US Patent and Trademark Office has granted it patents for its sunscreen, under-eye cream, laxative, sedative, immunestimulant, anti-acne range and hairloss cream, and 76 applications are pending. It has just released in the US markets a new type of tablet in which the binders are also derived from herbs. “No company has done this before, and we have filed for a process patent,” says Ravi Prasad. Until the 1990s, Himalaya’s portfolio had only pharma remedies. It entered the equally lucrative consumer care market with some 20 products under the Ayurvedic Concepts range in 2001. Two years later, it created the umbrella brand Himalaya Herbal Healthcare. It also began opening exclusive outlets: there are 130 shops in India and 25 in Singapore, Malaysia, South Africa and the Cayman Islands.
Dream run According to Ravi Prasad, Himalaya’s personal care products are growing much faster globally than pharma products, because pharma faces tough regulations in some countries. As of now, Himalaya gets 58 per cent of its revenues from pharma products, but that seems set to change. Saket Gore, Business Head of the consumer products division, says: “Today, we are the market leaders in face washes in the UAE, India and Malaysia.”
According to The Nielsen Co figures for April-June 2010, Himalaya face washes had a 17.8 per cent market share in India, less than two percentage points behind multinationals Hindustan Unilever Ltd and L’Oreal. Himalaya’s individual products also face competition from firms that are strong in one or just a few products, such as Colgate in toothpaste and Fair & Lovely in face masks. Doctors have been Himalaya’s biggest brand ambassadors in pharmaceuticals.
Philipe Haydon, President & CEO for pharmaceuticals, says Himalaya is in touch with about 3.75 lakh doctors and reaches 94 per cent of pharma retailers. “We are the modern face of ayurveda in India and our medical representatives promote products with scientific detailing,” says Haydon, who is also the CEO of the Asia Pacific region. In ayurveda retail, Himalaya competes with the likes of Dabur, Charak, and Baidyanath
Source: Indian Pharmaceutical Market rankings based on Org SSA report / Aug 2010
__________________________
Internationally, consumer care and pharma contribute equally to revenues. “In 20 years from now, North and South America could possibly be our largest markets by volume. They are very big on herbal medicine,” says Manal. These markets are headed by his son Nabeel, 36.
The Prognosis Industry observers believe that while Himalaya has built a cult in Liv.52, it needs more such blockbusters to make up for its low-key marketing and a distribution network weaker than that of rivals such as Dabur India.
“Today, the brand Himalaya is recognised and closely associated as a natural remedy, but on the personal-care front it sends out no cues to a consumer. This is important in the FMCG category where it competes with many others,” observes Kannan Sitaram, a former chief operating officer of Dabur.
Analysts say that opening shop-in-shops and branded stores is a good strategy. “But brandbuilding investments are required so that consumers will walk into a shop only for the Himalaya display. Also, being positioned as a mass brand, it needs greater presence and investment in distribution,” says Sitaram. But the company has to figure out if its returns are justified. “After all, rentals are going up,” he says.
In pharma, Himalaya is stronger. “It has very sharply- positioned products for the eyes, liver, bones and so on. It is also present in areas that are not crowded. Besides, it spends huge sums on R&D and can compete with some of the best pharma companies in India,” says R.B. Smarta, Managing Director, Interlink Marketing Consultancy.
This also gives it an edge in global markets, where the demand for natural, ayurvedic and herbal remedies is growing. “They have very precise and extensive documentation on each of their ingredients, that can withstand the rigor of clinical trials. Their patents also stand them in good stead,” says Smarta.
By buying raw materials directly from growers, collectors and nongovernmental organisations, Himalaya keeps costs under control. Recently, it signed an agreement with the Sikkim government to prepare farmers in organic farming of herbs and sustainable collection. In September, Himalaya, along with a few others, came under fire from the Centre for Science and Environment or CSE, which claimed that Himalaya’s honey contained antibiotics beyond the stipulated standards. Ravi Prasad denies the charge. “The same batch was tested at three independent laboratories and none found any trace of antibiotics.
Our technical team will soon meet the CSE with these findings and seek its comments,” he says.
No entry Manal does not run day-to-day affairs and has professionalised the company by elevating Ravi Prasad as the executive head, so that his father’s legacy grows independent of the family. “My father’s life’s mission was to help people and we will move in his footsteps,” says Manal, who follows the modest example set by his father. (In September, when Ravi Prasad called on Manal at his apartment in Dubai, the chairman travelled with him to Himalaya’s office in the Metro and then took a bus to attend another meeting.)
Of Manal’s seven children, only Nabeel works for the company. Two daughters are married and homemakers, and the other two daughters and a son are still studying. One son works in the financial sector in the US. Manal is content with bank funding, and proud of his 40-yearold relationship with Union Bank of India. In turn, M.V. Nair, the bank’s Chairman and Managing Director, says its long relationship with Himalaya is a wonderful example of a banker- entrepreneur growth story.
Himayala’s requirement of funds depends on projects. It borrowed Rs 100 crore two years ago from the bank to make its manufacturing unit in Bangalore compliant with European and American standards.
Dealmakers and investment bankers are not put off by Manal’s “No Entry” board. Recently a personal-care multinational contacted Bangalore’s Viedea Capital Advisors, looking for a sizeable stake in Himalaya. Deepak Srinath, cofounder of Viedea, says: “The management did not entertain any conversation on the subject.”
Himalaya, Srinath says, is a dream mandate for any investment banker because it has all the ingredients that a PE or strategic investor looks for – a highly credible brand name, an impressive product portfolio, a professional management and profitability.
“Also, the promoters have a reputation for being ethical,” says Srinath. According to the India head of an American PE firm, Himalaya is an ideal target since its capex needs are not large and can be met by internal accruals and bank funding. Such companies usually give robust returns.
But Manal is focused on different things: “The scope for growth is unlimited. As long as there are homes with people, that family is our customer. We don’t recognise borders.”
With inputs by Shamni Pande
source: http://www.businesstoday.in / Business Today.in / Home> News> BT Magazine> Features / by K R Balasubramanyam / Print edition / November 28th, 2010
Review of Dr. Javed Jamil’s book “A Systematic Study of the Holy Qur’ān”
Dr. Javed Jamil has already earned wide acclaim for his innovative and holistic approach on the world affairs and for his concept of Applied Islamics, which implies examining the scientific theories, international ideologies and developments in the light of Islamic principles and presenting Islamic Paradigms/Models/Definitions/Concepts/Programmes in different areas of knowledge in Natural Sciences, Social Sciences as well as Health Sciences. His books like “Muslims Most Civilised, Yet Not Enough?”, “Muslim Vision of Secular India: Destination and Roadmap”, “Justice Imprisoned”, “Economics First or Health First?” have brought a new approach based on the facts and figures, which have not only highlighted the failure of the modern systems in creating a healthy and peaceful world but have also successfully countered the propaganda by Western and other forces against Islam. His latest book, “A Systematic Study of the Holy Qur’ān” may well become his most applauded work in coming times because of, (using the title of the Foreword by Former Vice Chancellor of University of Hyderabad, Padamshri Prof. E Hasnain,) its “Unique Insight into the Wondrous Verses of the Holy Qur’ān”. It will be worthwhile here to quote a passage from the Foreword:
“What attracted my attention at the very outset was the caption on the cover of the book. The book describes Qur’ān as “a humble endeavour to make a Systematic Study of the Holy Qur’an in terms of the Systems Almighty God created in the Universe, on the Earth, in Human Life, and the System He wants man to establish and adhere to with the aim of building a Healthy and Peaceful World and ensuring a Successful Life in the Hereafter”. This is a categorical confirmation of the fact that, in Qur’ān there are a very large number of verses, which describe the Creation and Functioning of the Universe as a whole and the Functioning of the Earth, including its flora and fauna. There is absolutely no doubt that, if human beings have to establish on earth the kind of harmonious functioning existing in the universe, they have no option but to follow God’s injunctions in full. The particles of the universe, the stars, the planets and all other celestial bodies follow the Laws of Nature created by God with unimaginable precision. If God gave us human beings certain flexibility, we should endeavour to work only within the boundaries prescribed by Qur’ān. Moreover. the system that God has directed through His Final Book and Final Prophet (SAW) needs to be established not only in the lives of the people, but in the world as a whole, including the legal, social, political and administrative levels.
By just viewing the list of contents of the book, one can have an idea of the holistic nature of the work. It has five major parts: Iman (Realization with Commitment), Philosophy, Constitution, Systems and History of Confrontation between the Right and Wrong. The chapter on Iman covers Qur’ānic view of God/Allah with His Creation and Governing of the universe , the role of Prophets, especially the Last Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the Books of God, Hereafter, Executive Angels and Predestination. Part 2 on Philosophy covers Philosophical issues related to Qur’ānic position of Monotheism, life, different religions, human nature, etc. Chapter 3 on Constitution covers Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties and Fundamental Prohibitions, Civil and Criminal Laws. Part 4 on Systems of Governance include Social, Political, Economic, Moral, Spiritual and Health Protective Systems and the Part 5 on History of Confrontation between the Right and Wrong compiles the stories of Prophets from Adam (AS) to Muhammad (SAW).
The book presents Islam as a Holistic System for Health, Security and Peace for mankind in this world as well as Hereafter, and effectively counters modern ideologies based on the supremacy of Economics. His arguments are highly convincing, as they are accompanied with facts and figures. He argues that while the modern constitutional systems are two-dimensional based on Fundamental Rights and Duties, while ignoring prohibitions altogether, Qur’ānic system of governance is Three-Dimensional with equal emphasis on Rights, Duties and Prohibitions. He lambastes the concept of Freedom of Choice, which is being used by the market forces to exploit the human susceptibilities at the huge cost of life and peace, resulting in tens of millions of deaths due to Alcohol, Sexual corruptions (including Homosexuality, Promiscuity and Prostitution), Gambling, Suicides, Pork, etc.
In each chapter, first a well thought and crafted article is presented followed by the compilation of the Qur’ānic verses related to that subject. The verses are followed by notes wherever necessary, providing huge information. In the first chapter on “The Supreme Being”, the components of the universe and their functioning in accordance with God’s designs are presented, and a full-blown picture of the physical State (Mulk) of universe created and governed by Head of State, Almighty God/Allah, through a unique system of the Laws of Nature (Umoor) has been developed. The arguments in Theoretical Physics about the universe being created without God have also been countered in a unique manner. The author has translated “Samaawaat” as “Cosmic Tiers” and has shown their positioning in terms of the structure of the universe. For example, Sky of the earth (atmosphere, clouds, protective roof) is the First Cosmic Tier, Solar System (Samaa-al dunyaa) the Second, Galaxy (Milky Way being ours) the Third, Cluster and Supercluster being the next in order and so on. Terms like Najam, Kawaakib, Shihab-at-Thaqib, Najm-ath-thaqib, Tariq, Samaa- dhaatil burooj, dhaatil-raj’a etc have been explained. The author notes that further researches will more specifically point out the exact positioning of these Samaawaat. When the terms Sajda, Tasbeeh, Hamd etc, are used in relation to the physical components of the universe, their existence being only physical, these terms also indicate their different physical movements like rotation on their own axis or around other objects in compliance of the Laws of Nature created and implemented by God, the Lord of the Universe. Human Sajdahs, Tasbehs and Hamd of course have physical, biological, mental, spiritual and social dimensions as well.
But the author clarifies that instead of studying Qur’ān in the light of Sciences, modern sciences and ideologies have to be studied in the light of Qur’ānic positions. Sciences can be in an evolving phase but Qur’ān is the Word of God, with absolute facts. It is another matter, due to our immense paucity of knowledge about the facts of the vast universe; more often than not we cannot fully understand their meaning.
In the chapter on different systems, he has presented alternative Islamic paradigms/models of Economic, Political, Social, Moral, Spiritual and Health protective systems of Islam, with critical review of the modern systems prevalent at the international level. He argues that the primary aim of Islamic Prohibitions and Permissions is to ensure highest standards of physical, mental, social, spiritual health and family peace and crimeless society, free of all forms of exploitation. Following these injunctions with total commitment to God, Last Prophet and Last Testament Quran will also ensure a Blissful life in Paradise after death.
The chapter on History becomes doubly interesting, as it also uses the excerpts from Torah, Evangel (Injil) and Psalms (Zabur) to explain in detail the lives and achievements of the Prophets/Ambassadors of God.
The book has used many terms, which are different from the traditional ones, but they add to the advanced understanding of the Holy Qur’an in exploring the functioning of the universe, life on earth and human existence. The basic argument according to the author which comes out from the study of Qur’an is that if the unimaginably vast universe is functioning with impeccable harmony for billions of years, it is because each and every particle and area of the universe is following with utmost precision the Laws of Nature, Biological and other laws created by God, and if the mankind has to have a peaceful and harmonious existence, they have no option but to follow the Laws sent through His Ambassadors by God, Qur’an being the Final Constitution for all times to come till the Doomsday.
The cover is attractive and the printing of the book is of good quality. Over-all, it is a must-read book for all Muslims, especially the students, scholars and analysts, and has the potential to revolutionise the future studies of Qur’an and Islam, with their application in every field of the human existence – individual and collective, internal and external. It will be worthwhile to conclude this review by quoting a few paragraphs from the book:
“The world today, despite its apparently advanced and sophisticated ways of living, is overpowered with chaos at every level. The current international system, which many proudly call New World Order, appears to be highly advanced in method but is a colossal failure in the results. At the individual level, notwithstanding huge advancement of healthcare system, physical, mental and spiritual illnesses are ever on the rise. At the family level, the disintegration of family is fast becoming the norm rather than an exception. At the social level, the ever rising crime rate, social and economic exploitation, commercialisation of all forms of dangerous substances and practices including sexual deviations, addictions and crimes, and various kinds of extremist movements working in the interests of certain forces have almost completely destroyed the peace of life. It is in the background of this asphyxiating disruption of harmony that Qur’ān needs to be understood and applied in all spheres of life.”
“True Version of Anthropic Principle says that (1) It is God Who created the universe ultimately leading to the creation of man; (2) God controlled the whole process of creation; (3) the creation of man was not an unintended coincidence but an intended act of God; (4) the purpose of man is not simply describing the beauty of the universe, but to attain the Realization that this harmonious universe has been created, and is being governed by God; and (5) man has to submit to the System of existence perfected through His Ambassadors and Testaments, and govern the Earth in accordance with the Divine commands.”
“In short, the message of Qur’ān, the Final Document of Peace, is unequivocal. Anything good, healthy and desirable in terms of health, peace and tranquillity, has to be promoted, and anything unhealthy and undesirable has to be discouraged. Both, short term and long terms benefits are allowed; but if short term benefits seriously endanger the long term benefits, long term benefits have to be preferred. All possible means within the ambit of Islam are to be availed for achieving the goal. The goal, however, cannot be achieved with perfection, unless there is unity of mankind; and mankind cannot unite unless it submits to One God, imitates One Prophet, follows One Book and faces One Direction. This is the real meaning of Wahdat (Unity), which is central to all the Islamic systems of affairs. Wahdat of God means, in effect, the Wahdat of mankind.” “Islam’s agenda, as shown by the Quran and Prophet (SAW), is to establish Natural and Just Word Order. The agenda of the present world is to establish and sustain New World Order. It has led to the development of a strange kind of world, which appears to be paradise from outside, but as one enters it, one finds nothing but hell. We are living in a world where, thanks to the designs of merchants, immorality reigns. The globe of New World Order is therefore rapidly developing into nothing but a fireball of chaos.It is in the backdrop of this universal disharmony that Islam, in its final form established by the Last Prophet (SAW), has to play its role. We have to challenge New World Order and establish Natural Just World Order, in accordance with the principles laid down by the Book of God and the life of the Prophet (SAW).”
Price: INR 850/- Outside India: US$ 38, for copies WhatsApp on: +918130340339, Email: doctorforu123#yahoo.com
source: http://www.milligazette.com / The Milli Gazette / Home> News> Books / by J Ali / March 24th, 2021
American Specialty Foods Co has been honored with the prestigious Westford Award for Business Excellence in the Food & Beverage category. The award was presented at a grand ceremony held at Madinat Jumeirah, Mina Al Salam, Dubai, on January 24, 2025.
The award was received by the company’s Founder and CEO, Hany M. Haneef, along with Co-founder and Director, Shahanaz Haneef. Expressing his gratitude, Haneef stated, “I am truly honored to receive this award. It belongs to our incredible team, partners, and supporters. Success is built on dedication, teamwork, and excellence. This is just the beginning; there is so much more ahead.”
Established in 2013, American Specialty Foods Co has grown into a leading provider of premium global food solutions. Headquartered in Maryland, USA, the company also has offices in New York, Mexico, the UK, and the UAE. With a distribution network spanning over 50 countries, the company offers more than 20 specialty food categories and actively participates in major international food trade events worldwide.
The Westford Awards recognize outstanding business achievements across various industries, providing winners with greater visibility and networking opportunities. “This recognition further cements American Specialty Foods Co’s position as a leader in the specialty food and beverage sector,” a statement from the company added.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / January 31st, 2025
