Nawab Shafan Khan, the heir of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan, who kept the Rohilkhand region free from British rule for eleven months during the 1857 freedom movement, has passed away.
Nawab Shafan Khan breathed his last at the age of 80. The sacrifices of his ancestors are recorded in golden words in the pages of history.
Death of Nawab Shaffan Khan, heir of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan
Nawab Shafan Khan, a resident of Shahabad area of Bareilly city, has passed away. He was laid to rest in Bhor graveyard near his home after Zuhr prayers. He was the heir to a great family whose ancestors ruled not only Bareilly but also in about 9 surrounding districts. His great-grandfather Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan had set a great example of bravery and sacrifice in the style of his namesake.
He was a hero of the 1857 revolution. He was born in 1791 into a Nawab family. He was the grandson of Rohilla Sardar Hafiz Rehmat Khan.
The slogan of revolution was raised in Meerut on 10 May 1857 and when the news of it reached Bareilly on 14 May, preparations were intensified here too. On 31 May, Khan Bahadur Khan and his generals and soldiers, led by Subedar Bakht Khan, declared a rebellion against the British government.
Tomb of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan
The then magistrate, civil sergeant, jail superintendent and principal of Bareilly College, “C.Buk”, were killed by the revolutionaries. By five in the evening, the revolutionaries had taken control of the Bareilly division.
On June 1, these revolutionaries took out a triumphant procession. When the procession reached Kotwali, a large number of Bareilly citizens crowned Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan and elected him the Nawab of the Bareilly division.
Heir of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan
An example of the bravery of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan is that despite the numerous atrocities and abuses of the British government and being a powerful ruler, he kept the Bareilly division free from the rule of the British government for eleven months.
However, later, the British government arrested Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan while fighting a war at one place. He was brought to the same Kotwali where he was awarded the title of Nawab. He was imprisoned and kept in an unknown place.
Then on February 24, 1860, the hero of the urban people was brought on foot to the Kotwali and hanged on the same day at 7:10 am. A strange silence fell in the city and darkness prevailed.
Heir of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan
To prevent any unrest in the city after the hanging of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan, his body was taken to the district jail in an armored police vehicle and buried in the premises of the district jail.
Heir of Nawab Khan Bahadur Khan
The special thing is that he was buried with irons. Even today, the irons are clearly visible on the head of his grave. The British government had also buried Khan Bahadur Khan in the prison premises so that people could not gather at his grave and there would be no further excitement in the revolution.
Now let us mention Nawab Shafan Khan, the heir of Khan Bahadur Khan. He struggled for life and livelihood till his last breath. Despite belonging to the Nawab family, his family had to face difficulties for years or even their entire lives. Despite this, the struggle did not end in his life till his last breath.
According to his younger brother Nawab Liaquat Khan, Nawab Shaffan Khan’s health had deteriorated for the past five days. He was unable to go to the mosque to offer prayers during those days. Due to the weak financial condition of the family, he was undergoing treatment at home. But in the morning, his health deteriorated further and he died after a few moments.
source: http://www.etvbharat.com / ETV Bharat – Urdu / Home> Urdu> State / by Urdu translation into English / July 02nd, 2021
From technology to hospitality, Muslim businessmen are raising India’s stature on the global stage
New Delhi :
In the ever-evolving world of business, several prominent figures are not just shaping the Indian economy but also placing the country on the global map. Among them, six Muslim businessmen stand out, with their remarkable ventures spanning across various sectors, such as technology, healthcare, retail, and hospitality. These influential entrepreneurs are enhancing India’s image worldwide, further solidifying its position in the global business arena.
Azim Premji – The Tech Magnate Azim Premji, often regarded as the richest Muslim businessman in India, has played a pivotal role in the growth of India’s technology sector. As the chairman of Wipro, one of the country’s largest IT companies, Premji’s leadership has helped the company expand its reach across various international markets. His contributions extend beyond the business world as well. “India’s rise in the global tech landscape is closely tied to Wipro’s innovation and excellence,” said Premji. Through Wipro, Premji has established himself as a philanthropist, with substantial donations to charitable causes.
Meraj Manal – The Herbal Business Visionary Meraj Manal, the driving force behind the success of ‘Himalaya,’ India’s prominent herbal company, is known for his dedication to promoting natural wellness. His business expertise has helped Himalaya expand into a globally recognised brand, selling products in over 90 countries. Manal attributes his success to innovation and a commitment to quality. “We’re not just selling products; we’re selling a way of life,” he shared. His continued success has played an essential role in reinforcing the global appeal of Indian herbal and natural products.
Rafiq Malik – Footwear Industry Leader Rafiq Malik, founder and owner of ‘Metro,’ one of India’s leading footwear brands, has seen significant international growth. His entrepreneurial vision has positioned Metro as a key player in the retail space, both in India and abroad. Under his leadership, Metro has expanded its footprint, contributing to the growing demand for Indian brands in global markets. “Metro is about more than just shoes; it’s about delivering quality and style to every customer,” said Malik.
Yusuf Ali – Hospitality and Retail Mogul Yusuf Ali, owner of ‘Lulu,’ one of the largest retail chains and shopping malls in many world countries and in India, has firmly placed his mark in the retail and hospitality sectors. With Lulu Mall’s presence in multiple countries, his business is recognised globally. From large-scale shopping centres to luxury hotels, Yusuf Ali’s diverse portfolio is a testament to his entrepreneurial prowess. “Our mission is to provide an unparalleled shopping experience for our customers, no matter where they are,” Yusuf Ali explained.
Other Notable Names While Premji, Manal, Malik, and Yusuf Ali are among the most prominent, several other Muslim businessmen are also contributing significantly to India’s economic growth. Their ventures span multiple industries, from healthcare to infrastructure, highlighting the diversity and dynamism of Muslim entrepreneurs in India.
These businessmen not only continue to lead successful ventures but also serve as role models for the younger generation, proving that entrepreneurship knows no bounds. Through their business acumen, these individuals are ensuring that India continues to grow as an economic powerhouse on the global stage.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editors Pick> India / by Team Clarion / December 07th, 2025
A Mosque Study Center was inaugurated in Taj Enclave, Northeast Delhi, with the support of the Shaheen Group. The center aims to provide both religious education and academic coaching for medical, engineering, and competitive exams.
During the event, Faisal Falahi, Director of Shaheen Academy Delhi, introduced the Shaheen Group, highlighting that approximately 35,000 students are currently enrolled in its institutions, where they receive not only general education but also specialized coaching for NEET and engineering entrance exams. He emphasized that the new study center aligns with this vision.
Advocate Feroz Ahmed, President of All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat, underscored the importance of education, citing former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam as an inspiration for students from underprivileged backgrounds. He stressed the need for initiatives like those led by Dr. Abdul Qadeer in the current educational landscape.
Mufti Adil Jamal Nadvi emphasized the necessity of combining religious and worldly education, while former Secretary of the Maulana Azad Foundation, Rizwan-ur-Rahman, highlighted the importance of counseling to help school dropouts return to education.
Dr. Khwaja Shahid, President of the All India Educational Movement (AIEM), shared his long-standing association with Shaheen Group and its founder, Dr. Qadeer. He referred to such study centers as “academic ICUs” for students struggling with education. The center was jointly inaugurated by Dr. Shahid and Advocate Feroz Ahmed.
Before the inauguration, AIEM General Secretary and former President of the Taj Society, Abdul Rashid, expressed gratitude to Shaheen Group and Dr. Qadeer for their support in establishing the center. The event was presided over by Faisal Faridi, President of Taj Society, and conducted by Nasir Aziz. The vote of thanks was delivered by the society’s secretary, Javed Hasan Khan.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of several distinguished guests, including Supreme Court Advocate-on-Record Aslam Ahmed, former DSP Mohammad Akhtar, Ilyas Saifi, Dr. Idris Qureshi (President, Mushawarat Delhi), and a large number of attendees.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / February 03rd, 2025
The air is thick with political tension in the bustling lanes of Delhi’s Okhla constituency as the assembly elections in the city draw near. A determined and vocal leader, Nooreen Fatima rallies the crowd with the chant, “Bolega Okhla, Jeetega Insaf (Okhla will speak, justice will win).”Fatima is campaigning for her husband, Shifa Ur Rehman, an outspoken anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) activist, who has been behind bars since April 2020. Accused of being involved in a conspiracy to incite riots in Northeast Delhi, he faces serious charges, but his supporters believe the allegations are baseless.
Steadfast in her mission, Fatima tells the voters, “We could not get justice in the courts, but we trust you to deliver it at the ballot box.” Her voice reverberates through the streets and seemingly resonates with the people of Okhla who still seek justice for what they perceive as wrongful incarcerations.Talking to TwoCircles.net, Fatima explained why her husband decided to contest the elections despite his lack of political experience and imprisonment for five years. “We are a part of this society. Politics is part of our life,” she said. “Although Shifa-ur-Rahman has no political background, he has always had an interest in politics. We are not gullible people. It is not that Shifa does not understand the political landscape. In the past, he was very much involved.”
Nooren Fatima campaigning
She continued, “Owaisi Sahab took a risk by giving us a ticket, something no big party would do. They want big faces, not freshers. But Owaisi took that risk, and now people are learning about Shifa. This is a platform for us, and for that, we are grateful.”
Often seen leading the charge, Fatima passionately addresses the core issues that have plagued the community. “The education system in Okhla has failed us. The healthcare system is a mess. The government promises a lot but delivers little. People need better schools, better hospitals and better opportunities. We will fight for these rights.”
She argues that the local government’s “neglect” has only exacerbated the community’s problems, with basic infrastructure such as roads and drainage systems still in disrepair.
She has a conviction in fighting for her husband. “We cannot just sit back and watch as our future is decided by others,” she said. “It is time for people to rise and take charge. Our fight is not just for Shifa; it is for all of us who have been wronged.”
Rehman’s candidacy, endorsed by All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi, has apparently stirred the community.
Once a stronghold for the Congress, the Okhla constituency has shifted to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in recent years, thanks to the party’s emphasis on local issues like education and healthcare. Many now believe AAP is the best hope for keeping the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) from gaining ground in the area.
Reflecting on the bigger picture of the elections, Fatima emphasises the need for unity and focus. “This is not just about our family, it is about the future of the community. We need leaders who will fight for justice, for education, for healthcare, for our rights,” she says. “I appeal to the people of Okhla to consider who is genuinely fighting for them and who is merely playing political games. We have had enough of broken promises. Now is the time for real change.”
Always direct, Fatima also critiques the state of politics in the region. “I want to appeal to the people to vote wisely. Take into consideration how the candidate addresses your issues. Making emotional speeches and issuing hollow statements will not resolve the various issues. They will be resolved if your issues are genuinely taken into account. Think about Shifa’s sacrifices, his nature, and the difficulties he has faced.”
Meanwhile, in Mustafabad, another Muslim-majority constituency in North East Delhi, the mood is similarly charged. The area still feels the scars of the 2020 riots, where 53 lives were lost, 38 of them Muslims, and the subsequent arrests of students and activists.
Tahir Hussain, a former AAP councillor, remains behind bars. He is accused of murder and riot-incitement. His wife, Shama Anjum, has stepped up to carry his political torch, campaigning fiercely for his innocence. “The allegations against him are baseless,” she asserts, drawing from her personal pain and conviction. “He is not a rioter. He is a victim.”
Out on a six-day custody parole granted by the Supreme Court, Hussain is campaigning in his constituency, where he is contesting as an AIMIM candidate. “I had announced six months ago that I will contest from Mustafabad. All the parties knew this… they all announced their candidates just a few days ago. None of them reached out to me. The AAP and the Congress could have, but they were scared that the BJP will make this a poll issue,” he tells TwoCircles.net.
Tahir Hussain with Owaisi and others from AIMIM
Hussain expresses gratitude towards the AIMIM, saying, “I am grateful to Owaisi that he gave me a chance. He is a seasoned politician… Parties that I spent time with, I shared meals with and campaigned for, abandoned me. But an unknown person showed faith in me. He hugged me and fielded me on party symbol.”
While Hussain faces political isolation from his former allies, his personal connections with Mustafabad are deep-rooted. “I have grown up here, got married and had children in Mustafabad. I love my people and rule their hearts,” he says. Despite the challenges, he remains confident in his campaign and asserts that he is “banking on 30 years of hard work”.
Further criticising the AAP, he says, “For the last 10 years, Kejriwal has not even shown his face to us. The people will not fall for their trap this time. There is so much work to be done here.”
As posters demanding justice for Hussain adorn the walls of Mustafabad, the political landscape becomes more complex. The AAP has fielded Adil Ahmad Khan, promising a more developed and educated constituency, but criticism lingers over the party’s alleged failure to adequately address post-riot rehabilitation. Attempting a comeback with Ali Mehdi, another local leader, the Congress is challenging the AAP’s grip on the area, while the BJP’s candidate, Mohan Singh Bisht, aims to consolidate Hindu votes by focusing on “justice” for riot survivors within the Hindu community.
The AIMIM’s decision to field Rehman and Hussain, both tied to the 2020 riots, has ignited intense emotional support among Muslim voters, but it also raises concerns about vote fragmentation.
The stakes have never been higher for Okhla, Mustafabad, and the broader political landscape in Delhi. The February 5 elections will not only be a contest of power but a struggle for justice, dignity and the future direction of the city’s diverse communities.
source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> India News> Indian Muslims / by TwoCircles.net Staff Reporter / February 01st, 2025
Laal suffered cardiac arrest on Saturday night and was rushed to Mira Primary Health Center in Plassey, where doctors declared him dead.
Trinamool MLA from Kaliganj in Nadia, Nasiruddin Ahmed aka Laal, passed away at 71.
He suffered a cardiac arrest on Saturday night and was rushed to Mira Primary Health Center in Plassey, where doctors declared him dead.
Nasiruddin, fondly known as ‘Laal’ in political circles, was the chairman of the Trinamool Congress’ Krishnanagar organisational district.
By profession, he was a lawyer. He is survived by a son and two daughters.
Expressing her deep condolences, chief minister Mamata Banerjee in a post on X stated: “Saddened by the sudden demise of my colleague Nasiruddin Ahmed (Laal), MLA from Kaliganj, Nadia. A veteran public worker and political representative, he was our trustworthy asset. He was a lawyer and a very good social worker, and I truly valued him. My condolences to his family, friends and followers”.
Leader of Opposition in Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, in a similar post on X, expressed his condolences.
Adhikari wrote: “It’s disheartening to learn about the sad and untimely demise of Kaliganj MLA; Janab Nasiruddin Ahmed (Lal). I express my condolences to his family members, friends & political associates. May his soul rest in peace”.
Nasiruddin’s political journey began in 2011 when he was elected as a Trinamool Congress MLA from Kaliganj. In 2016, he lost the seat to Congress-CPM alliance candidate Sheikh Hasanuzzaman.
However, Hasanuzzaman later joined Trinamool. Nasiruddin also reclaimed the Kaliganj seat in the 2021 Assembly polls.
Nasiruddin’s unexpected death has left the Trinamool leadership in Kaliganj without a key figure.
Nakashipara Trinamool MLA Kallol Khan expressed his sorrow, saying: “It is very shocking for me. I spoke to Laal on Saturday afternoon and he seemed to be fine. I will no longer have him by my side in our political journey.”
With Nasiruddin’s demise, the Kaliganj Assembly seat has fallen vacant.
A by-election will be announced. However, given that the state Assembly elections are scheduled for next year, a new MLA will likely be elected for a brief tenure of around six months.
source: http://www.telegraphindia.com / Telegraph India / Home> West Bengal / by Subhasish Chaudhuri / February 02nd, 2025
Anjum Tabassum, Tahsildar of Humnabad in Bidar district of Karnataka was presented with an award for her excellent performance as Assistant Electoral Registration Officer during Parliamentary elections 2024.
State governor Thawarchand Gehlot gave away the award to her on National Voters’ Day in Bengaluru on January 25.
This prestigious recognition is a testament to her outstanding efforts and dedication during the Lok Sabha Elections 2024. Her hard work has paid off, and this award is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her commitment to ensuring free and fair election.
Anjum Tabassum Lashkari from Gulbarga cracked the Karnataka Administrative Services (KAS) in 2014. She did her masters from Gulbarga University and had schooling earlier in Shahbad town.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Latest News / by Mohammed Atherulla Shariff / January 27th, 2025
Zillur Rahman, a professor, poet and hakim, has established a museum-cum-library in Aligarh to preserve books and artefacts that tell the story of Delhi of yore.
PIONEER: A bust of Ibn Sina, a physician and philosopher, who lived over a thousand years ago, at the Ibn Sina Academy in Aligarh
Nestled in the heart of the city of Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, is Ibn Sina Academy of Medieval Medicine and Sciences, named after famous scholar of philosophy and medicine Abu Ali Ibn Sina (980 -1037), who lived over a thousand years ago.
Located at Tijara House, the non-profit, non-government and non-political academy was established in the year 2000 by Professor Syed Hakim Zillur Rahman, an academic and a litterateur from Aligarh.
A one of its kind museum and library, it was aimed at encouraging and promoting researches and studies in medieval sciences, especially Ibn-Sina’s, as well as arts, culture, poetry among other subjects.
Notably, Ministry of Ayush, Government of India gave accreditation to the academy in 2004 and promoted it as a Centre of Excellence in 2008. The professor had a mammoth personal library that he had established in 1960s. After Ibn Sina Academy was born, the library became a part of it.
The specialty of this museum lies in its varied collection that includes sofas, crockery, jewels, armours, stamps, mirrors, outfits of princesses, queens and kings as well as turbans worn during battles by historical legends.
The Zillur Rahman Library houses 32,000 rare books and magazines, 1,100 manuscripts apart from paintings, sketches, citations, artefacts and much more.
RARE: A collection of books on Delhi
The Delhi connection
There are 7,500 books on Delhi of yore in the library, including on poet Iqbal, dictionaries as old as 150 years, authentic diwaan on Ameer Khusrau, books dating back to 1893, on and by the last Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar, British Raj–Victorian Era with pictures in lithographs and more.
But considering Delhi is dry without the ‘zikr’ (mention) of the poetic legacy of Asadullah Khan ‘Ghalib’, the library has dedicated a special space for the poet: “Ghalib Study Centre”.
A galaxy in itself, this part has 1,350 rare books in Urdu, Persian, English and Hindi on Ghalib apart from several special issues in different magazines (called risala in Urdu) which are now available only in this museum.
For instance, an important old publication called Sooraj (meaning sun) had special Ghalib edition.
One of the books has illustrations of most of the ghazals he had penned, while in his own Deewan (collection of his authentic shayri) there, Ghalib’s original ghazals had no pictures or illustrations.
MASTERPIECE: The translation of the book written by Hakim Zillur Rahman
One of the most important collections here is a book by renowned author Shakeel ur Rahman called Mirza Ghalib aur Mughaliyaat, which has illustrations from Muraqqa-i-Chughtai, an illustrated selection of Ghalib’s work by AR Chughtai, a renowned artist of early last century. The illustrations are based on an important topic or issue that the poet raised in his couplet (sher).
Rare books with names like Jihad-e-Ghalib, Ghalib Satrung, Soz-e-Ghalib, his letters in Persian and many more ornate the archive.
Additionally, a book called Naqsh-e-Rung from Pakistan which was brought to India by scholar Urdu litterateur and poet professor (late) Shamsur Rehman Farooqui enriches the book shelves.
Tehqeeq-nama Ghalib, Ghalib’s ghazal in Persian called Ghazaliayat-e-Farsi, Ghalib, few rare and special issues of magazines like Shama, Nuqoosh, Hunoon, Taar-e-Nau, film magazines, Al-Ilm, Shayar, Kaarvaan with special edition on Ghalib are the other charms.
A rare pocket-sized edition on Ghalib is a popular one.
Travels to Delhi
Another section on Delhi consists of travels and trips done in Delhi by the authors, travellers and poets of old times. Rare books like Safarnama Dehli and Sair-ul-Manazir provide an inside view of Delhi in the 18th century.
LEGEND: Bust of a renowned Indian physician Charaka at the academy in a section dedicated to physicians and medicinal plants
Also, over 200 rare books on Delhi’s poets (shayars) in Urdu and important personalities form another gallery here. For instance, there is Aslam Parvez’s award-winning book on Bahadur Shah Zafar, and his another one called Meri Dilli. There is also a book on Hamare Zamane Ki Dehli, Charagh-e-Dilli, Dilli Wale by famous author Salauddin, Aalam mein intekhab-e-Delhi among others.
Rare and significant books on personalities include those on Hakim Ajmal Khan, Sir Ross Masood, former India President Zakir Hussain, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Raja Mahendra Pratap and many more.
An entire unit is also devoted to all the journals that came out of Delhi during the War for Independence “and those from late 17th century to beginning of 19th century. The Delhi College was established in 1824, with it, all these journals rose to a great height. These form an enticing collection in the museum,” apprises Aftab Najmi, the coordinator and convener at Ibn Sina Academy.
On enquiring why such a large collection in Urdu finds space here, Professor Rahman adds, “Our own language and culture is much better described only in Urdu and Persian. So, it was very important to have a different section on Urdu to give a peep into what Delhi was in olden times.”
However, countless notable oldest books in English and Hindi on Delhi also enrich the collection on the Capital.
A legacy himself
Professor Zillur Rahman has 56 books to his credit. The subjects are related to Tib (Unani medicine) and Urdu literature. His books on medical sciences with oldest references (100 to 200 years old) are immensely popular. He is also a poet and an ardent admirer of Urdu poets of yore. He has also edited Diwan-e-Ghalib and many books on Urdu shayri. So far, 11 books have been written on him by students from different parts of India and globe in Arabic, Urdu and English. There are two academies, in Meerut and Bhopal, named in his honour. A part of the library has books on Zillur Rahman’s own family and their contribution to academics, medicine, poetry and culture.
For the next generation
On why he decided to make such a rare museum and library under one roof, Rahman says, “I was just a teacher at AMU. I had no money like businessmen to construct roads and hospitals so I decided to build this museum and library to help those who want to study but have neither books nor a place for the same. I want the current generation to know that books on all our glorious histories and personalities were penned in Urdu before 1947.
ICONIC: A portrait of Mirza Ghalib at the library, which boasts of rare works on the Delhi-based poet
“So, our generation has to know Urdu to understand their buzurgs (elders) and what charismatic works they had done. Our current generation, which doesn’t know Urdu, is like a blackboard. Anyone can write anything on it and it doesn’t impact them because they are so ignorant of legacies of their own language.”
Professor Rahman has travelled abroad 44 times. He visited Greece, including its capital Athens, Samarkand and Bukhara in Uzbekistan, Spain, Turkey, Germany and other countries.
“I went to Iran 11 times to gather books and study how it has preserved its arts and culture, literature, medicine and environment,” he says adding that children of every country know their mother tongue and can read and write in it.
“India’s children, especially the new Muslim community, is ignorant of its own legacy in Urdu.”
The Ibn Sina Academy has a tremendous collection of Islamic sciences and Islamic medicines. The professor has procured them from across the globe.
“Some are bought, some gifted and some requested and begged for. Hamaare 3,200 hazaar kitaabon mein, Ghalib ka collection jo hamaare paas hai vo duniya mein kisi ke paas nahi hai (No one in the world has the rare collection on Ghalib that we have among our 32,000 books). Even Delhi’s own Ghalib Institute and Ghalib Academy visit us and take photocopies of the rare material they require. We have made our academy work on Delhi’s poets, littérateurs, historical buildings and monuments,” he adds.
Most books, he adds, are from Iran, Samarkand and Bukhara.
“The richest in education, philosophy, medicine and culture is Uzbekistan but it could not present it to the world, the way Iran did.”
Why Delhi in Aligarh?
Why Delhi forms a special section at his library, has its reasons.
“Delhi was always the capital of India, be it during the Mughal, British eras or post-Independence period. So, it has always been not only a melting pot of cultures but also an abode for the best of poets, authors and travellers. The number of academics, authors, sufis, litterateurs, shayars (poets), lovers of arts and music and academic institutions that Delhi had, no other capital in the world has it till date,” he reasons with pride.
To know Delhi better, he suggests books penned by the renowned Dehlvi family.
For instance, there is Dilli jo aik shahar thaa by Shahid Ahmad Dehlvi, who was born in Delhi in 1902.
He wrote extensively on vanishing culture of Delhi which was a symbol of Indo-Muslim culture ruined by violence and blood of the War of Independence. Post Independence, he went to Pakistan and died in 1967.
Waqyaat-e-Darool Hukoomat in three volumes by Bashiruddin Ahmad Dehlvi published from Urdu Academy, Delhi in 1990, and books on 1857 revolution are also there in the academy.
Delhi just got richer by another book by Zillur Rahman — Dilli aur Tibbi Unani which has just come out in Urdu. It is translated in English by Toronto-based Zakaria Virk, titled ‘History of Unani Medicine in Delhi – 17th Century to 20th Century – Biographies of 261 physicians’.
source: http://www.thepatriot.in / The Patriot / Home> Delhi NCR / by Rana Siddiqui Zaman, Delhi NCR / November 15th, 2023
Badruddin Tyabji, the grandson of freedom fighter and third Congress President by the same name, was entrusted with arrangements for the inaugural Republic Day celebrations in 1950.
HISTORIC: National Stadium during the first Republic Day Parade. Old Fort is also visible
Every year on January 26, the Tyabji family sit together in their posh West End Colony house (near Vasant Vihar) to watch the Republic Day Parade which holds special significance for them.
Their late patriarch Badruddin Tyabji, a 1936 batch Punjab cadre Indian Civil Service officer, was responsible for looking after the arrangements of January 26, 1950 functions: first at the President House and later at Irwin Stadium (now Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium).
Tyabji’s painter wife Surayya Tyabji made the prototype of the Tri-colour on paper based on which the flag of cloth for Republic Day was made in Connaught Place.
“Just a couple of weeks before the first Republic Day, Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru entrusted me to look after the arrangements of the January 26 functions,” Tyabji told this writer in his south Delhi house in 1994.
He was also member secretary of the Constituent Assembly.
“I was called by Pt. Nehru and he gave me the huge responsibility for the historic day. I used to live at Sujan Singh Park during those days.”
From that day onwards, the tall and gracious Tyabji moved from the President House (now Rashtrapati Bhavan) to Irwin Stadium several times a day to finalise the arrangements as time was running out for the big day.
HAPPY FAMILY: The Tyabji clan including Laila Tyabji (centre, front row), who is a social worker, designer, writer and crafts activist
The big day for which Tyabji had worked so hard was also hectic for Rajendra Prasad, the soon-to-be first President of independent India. He marked the momentous occasion with a visit to Raj Ghat to pay homage to Gandhiji. He remained there for around 15 minutes.
But before the would-be President of India could get to the President House, C Rajagopalachari, the Governor General of India, had already reached there. The latter used to live in the double-storeyed bungalow at the then 10, Hastings Road, which was later renamed after him as Rajaji Marg. Edwin Lutyens, the chief architect of New Delhi, also lived in the bungalow, and so did Pranab Kumar Mukherjee, who also lived in that house after demitting his office of President of India.
“Dr Rajendra Prasad was sworn in as the country’s first President at around 9 am by the Governor General of India, C. Rajagopalachari. Rajvanshi Devi, his wife, and other family members were also there. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by over 500 guests, who had assembled inside the Durbar Hall. President Sukarno of Indonesia and several members of the Diplomatic Corps, members of the Constituent Assembly and prominent citizens had graced the occasion. The President was dressed in black achkan, white churidar and a white Gandhi cap. Pandit Nehru and his other Cabinet colleagues were sworn in soon after Rajendra Prasad,” recalled Tyabji, who was named after his grandfather, the third President of Indian National Congress.
Immediately after returning from Raj Ghat, Rajendra Prasad was sworn in. The Chief Justice of India, Sir Hiralal Kania, read the oath of office in Hindi. President Prasad repeated it sentence by sentence.
“The outgoing Governor General, C. Rajagopalachari; our first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, beaming with pride and joy; the Deputy Prime Minister, Sardar Patel; cabinet ministers, judges of the Supreme Court and the Auditor-General of India, were present in the hall to witness the historic moment of India’s history. Pandit Nehru and his other cabinet colleagues were sworn in soon after.”
The national emblem of Ashoka Pillar with three lions was placed in the Durbar Hall for the first time near the throne where the British Viceroys used to sit.
A smiling statue of Lord Buddha was also placed behind the throne for the first time. Rajendra Prasad, the President, who greeted the large gathering smilingly with folded hands, made a short speech in Hindi and English, stating that it was a memorable day in our annals.
“Let us begin by offering our thanks to the Almighty Power who has enabled us to see this day; to the Father of the Nation who showed us and to the world at large his infallible method of Satyagraha, and led us on along it to freedom and to the numberless men and women, whose suffering and sacrifice have rendered the attainment of independence and establishment of this sovereign democratic Republic possible.”
The birth of the Republic was celebrated by the masses in the Capital through Prabhat Pheries (early morning movement of people singing patriotic songs). Outside the Durbar Hall, there were unforgettable scenes of jubilation. Large crowd of men, women and children had assembled in the forecourt of President House.
People raised slogans of Gandhiji-ki-jai and Vande Mataram.
After a dignified ceremony was held at the President House, the scene shifted to Irwin Stadium. The new President travelled to the stadium in a horse-drawn carriage and Delhi’s roads were lined up with enthusiastic crowd standing along the five-mile route with the Tri-colour in their hands. A huge crowd greeted the President’s entourage when it reached the vicinity of Connaught Place. And when the first President of India reached the stadium, he was welcomed with a booming 31-gun salute.
According to Tyabji, “Rajendra Prasad made a brief speech at the stadium. Later, students from various schools of the Capital presented cultural programmes.”
Old timers still recall that there were very few policemen guarding the VIPs inside the stadium. After the programme, the leaders mingled with the people. Nehru was mobbed by his admirers. He spent a good 20 minutes with them.
Tyabji, who could not sleep for several days ahead of the big occasion, was there managing the affairs carefully with his colleagues. Following very cold weather days in Delhi, brilliant sunshine greeted the Capital on January 26, 1950.
It was India’s defining moment, the day India truly freed itself from the shackles of colonialism to become a Republic. A truly sovereign state.
The talk of the first Republic Day cannot be complete without discussing the role of Tyabji’s wife, Surayya, in the making of the first Tri-colour.
According to Tyabji, “Once the Constituent Assembly finalised our Tri-colour with Ashok Dharma Chakra inside the flag, I was asked to furnish the model of Tri-colour on both paper and cloth.”
Without wasting any time, Badruddin Tyabji went straight to his Sujan Singh Park residence and asked his wife Surayya to make the Tri-colour on paper. She did not disappoint her husband. Once she made it on paper, Tyabji carried the design to the now defunct SC Tailors at Regal building of Connaught Place and asked them to make the Tri-colour in cloth. The rest, as they say, is history.
After retirement from government service, Tyabji also served as the Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University in the 1960s.
He finally settled in Delhi and passed away in 1999. His wife, Suraiya, had died before him.
During one of our meetings, Tyabji had told me that when he came to Delhi from Hyderabad to appear for ICS examination, he was staying in Daryaganj.
He used to take a tonga to reach Metcalfe House in Civil Lines to appear for his examinations.
“Delhi was a very small city then. Except for old Delhi and villages, there was not much here. New Delhi was coming up,” he had said.
When India was divided on the basis of religion in 1947, he was perhaps one of the only two Muslim ICS officers who opted to stay in India instead of accepting Islamic Pakistan.
OFFICER RANK: Badruddin Tyabji was a 1936-batch ICS officer of Punjab cadre. His wife, Surayya was a painter
Tyabji’s first son, Hindal Ahmad, was an IAS officer. He passed away last year.
Tyabji’s daughter, Laila Tyabji is a noted social worker, designer, writer and crafts activist. She is one of the founders of Dastkar, a Delhi-based non-governmental organisation working for the revival of traditional crafts in India.
Like in the past, the Tyabji family would watch the annual parade this year too. After all, they are the true and proud first family of India’s Republic Day. Yet, they are so self-effacing.
source: http://www.thepatriot.in / The Patriot / Home> Cover Story / by Vivek Shukla / January 26th, 2024
Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder President of Thumbay Group and Patron of Bearys Cultural Forum (BCF), has been conferred the distinguished “Global Visionary NRI Award” by Bearys Cultural Forum (BCF) – UAE. The award was presented by Naseer Ahmed, Member of the Legislative Council and Political Secretary to the Chief Minister of Karnataka, India, during a grand event held at Thumbay Medicity, Ajman.
The “Global Visionary NRI Award” is a recognition of Dr. Moideen’s unparalleled contributions to global healthcare, education, and innovation. A celebrated entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Moideen has successfully transformed Thumbay Group into a global brand, driving growth through innovation and serving as a beacon of inspiration for Non-Resident Indians worldwide, a press statement from Thumbay Group added.
Speaking at the ceremony, Naseer Ahmed commended Dr. Moideen’s visionary leadership and his efforts in building Thumbay Medicity as a hub of excellence in healthcare, education, and research. The event also featured a visit by Naseesr Ahmed to Thumbay Medicity, where he witnessed the state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge advancements that have placed it on the global map.
Dr. Thumbay Moideen, upon receiving the award, expressed his gratitude to Bearys Cultural Forum (BCF) for this recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to fostering innovation, global citizenship, and community welfare.
“This award is a testament to our collective efforts in making a positive impact globally. I dedicate this honor to my incredible team, whose unwavering dedication has been the cornerstone of our success,” said Dr. Moideen during his acceptance speech.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Press Release / January 20th, 2025
Mir was among 139 Padma awardees announced on Saturday, making him one of only two Padma Shri awardees from Jammu and Kashmir this year
Farooq Ahmad Mir’s 60 years of artistry earn Padma Shri
Srinagar :
In a heartfelt tribute to the art of craftsmanship, Farooq Ahmad Mir, a master shawl weaver from Srinagar, was conferred the prestigious Padma Shri award on January 25. At 73 years old, Mir embodies the spirit of dedication, having devoted over six decades to a craft that intertwines patience with artistry.
Mir was among 139 Padma awardees announced on Saturday, making him one of only two Padma Shri awardees from Jammu and Kashmir this year.
Starting his journey at the tender age of 10, Mir’s story resonates through generations. “Pashmina artisans require patience, much like education. It teaches us about the intricate nuances of our craft,” he reflects, drawing parallels between learning and weaving. Hailing from a lineage of artisans, Mir has not only preserved but revitalised the Kani shawl tradition, once favored by Mughal, Afghan, Sikh, and Dogra rulers.
Mir’s influence extends beyond his family; he has painstakingly taught the art of Kani shawl weaving to over many individuals in Srinagar’s old city.
“In a world where modern careers are alluring, many aspiring artisans are deterred by societal perceptions and a lack of patience for traditional craft,” he notes. Yet, Mir’s commitment to his heritage has inspired not only his children, skilled weavers in their own right, but countless young men and women in his community.
“Your work should speak for itself,” Mir shares humbly when asked about his relative anonymity in a world that often celebrates flashy accolades over dedication. His contributions, however, haven’t gone unnoticed. He has received multiple national and state awards, including recognition from Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself.
The exquisite Kani shawls, woven using cane needles rather than shuttles, can take between four to eighteen months to create. However, the beauty of this art form is in jeopardy. As younger generations lean towards more modern occupations, the skills required to produce these heirlooms risk fading away. Mir’s tireless efforts aim to ensure this heritage is not lost.
Born into a weaver’s family in Srinagar, Mir’s start was modest. Despite barriers to formal education, he channeled his passion into honing his skills, becoming one of the finest artisans in Kashmir. Alongside his successful weaving career, he managed to educate his siblings and inspire a new wave of artisans dedicated to preserving Kani shawl weaving.
In an age driven by industrialisation, the importance of handmade products is gaining renewed appreciation globally. Mir stands as a pioneer in safeguarding this cultural legacy, instilling pride in his craft and ensuring its continuation across generations. His handcrafted Kani shawls have not only found a place in the hearts of locals but also captured the attention of international clientele, including the Ambani family and major corporations like Tata and Aditya Birla Group.
Farooq Ahmad Mir’s journey exemplifies resilience and dedication. As an unsung hero of the Kani shawl tradition, he reminds us that true artistry thrives in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to emerge into the light.
Director Handicrafts and Handloom, Mussarat Islam in a tweet on social media extended heartfelt congratulations to Farooq Ahmad Mir on being awarded #PadmaShri 2025 for his significant contributions to Kani Shawl weaving and the preservation of Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage.
source: http://www.greaterkashmir.com / Greater Kashmir / Home> Business / by Mukeet Akmali (headline edited) / January 26th, 2025
