Category Archives: NRI’s / PIO’s

Nadeem Ahmed recognised with NSW Government Community Service Award

Sydney (New South Wales), AUSTRALIA :

Nadeem Ahmed, the dynamic founder of ‘Indians in Sydney’, has been awarded the prestigious NSW Government Community Service Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the Indian diaspora and broader community in New South Wales.

The award acknowledges individuals whose work has significantly enhanced the quality of life for members of their community, and Nadeem’s tireless efforts have made a lasting impact on the lives of many.

A leader with compassionate  and vision

Since founding ‘Indians in Sydney’ in 2007, Nadeem has devoted himself to creating a supportive and inclusive community for Indian migrants and residents. What began as a modest initiative has grown into the largest Indian community platform in NSW, now boasting over 135,000 members.

Under his compassionate leadership, ‘Indians in Sydney’ has become a beacon of unity, where cultural heritage is celebrated, newcomers are supported, and vital connections are made across generations.

Upon receiving the award, Nadeem expressed his gratitude, saying, “This recognition is not just for me but for everyone who has been part of Indians in Sydney. We are a collective force of people who care about each other and who are passionate about giving back to the community. I am truly humbled by this award, and it motivates me to continue serving and building stronger connections within our society.”

With a passion for connecting people and promoting Indian culture, Nadeem started organising events and activities that celebrate heritage and address the unique needs of the diaspora community.

Nadeem says his vision was to create a space where people could support one another, share their stories, and find a sense of belonging in a new land. “Little did I know it would grow into something so much bigger than myself,” he reflected.

Nadeem also extended his heartfelt thanks to Nathan Hagarty MP for his endorsement, noting“I am deeply grateful to Nathan Hagarty MP for his continuous support. His faith in our mission has been an incredible source of encouragement. Together, we aim to create a more inclusive and compassionate community where everyone feels welcome.”

Transformative community initiatives

Nadeem’s vision for ‘Indians in Sydney’ is one that extends beyond social connection—it is about making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families.

Several of the group’s key initiatives reflect this mission, including Winter Drive, Meal for Everyone Drive, Samvaad, Journey, Indians in Sydney Gala Event.

Nadeem’s leadership was  instrumental in organising the recent Indians in Sydney Gala Event , which celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day that was a remarkable success, bringing together leaders, dignitaries, and community members to celebrate the achievements of the Indian community and reinforce the group’s ongoing mission to promote inclusivity and cultural exchange.

Looking ahead

With the NSW Government Community Service Award serving as a testament to his exceptional leadership, Nadeem is more determined than ever to continue his journey of service. The recognition highlights not only his personal achievements but also the tireless efforts of the ‘Indians in Sydney’ community to create positive change.

For those inspired by his work, Nadeem’s message is clear: “There is always more we can do, and together, we can make a lasting impact. Our journey is just beginning.”

Indians in Sydney is the largest community group for Indians in New South Wales, dedicated to fostering social connections, cultural pride, and charitable initiatives.

Through a wide range of programs, including meal drives, cultural events, and support services for migrants, the group serves as a vital resource for the not only to Indian diaspora in Australia but to Wider Australian Communities

source: http://www.amust.com.au / AMUST / Home> Community> Featured / by Imtiaz Khan / October 29th, 2024

Crescent AusIndia: A pillar for Queensland’s Indian Muslims

Brisbane (Queensland), AUSTRALIA :

Crescent AusIndia Inc held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday 10 November 2024 in Brisbane, together with a family BBQ sausage sizzle bringing together an impressive turnout with members gathering to celebrate the association’s achievements and reaffirming their shared commitment to its mission. 

AGM 2024

The association dedicated to Muslims of Indian origin in Queensland was founded in 2023 by a group of passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds – university professors, doctors, engineers, and professionals from various fields united by a shared dedication to fostering the Indo-Australian spirit.

The association has rapidly expanded its influence and membership base becoming a prominent and respected entity within the Queensland community groups. The current Management Committee was re-elected for 2025 ensuring continuity and renewed vision for the association’s goals in the new year.

Under the advice and guidance of Dr Javaid Khan and Dr Abdul Sattar, the elected office bearers include Mr Yousuf AliKhan (President), Aunty Janeth Deen OAM (Vice President), Mr Aamer Mustafa (Secretary), Mr Mohammed Ameen Soofi (Treasurer), Mr Athiq Mohamed (Joint Treasurer), Mr Arif Mohamed (Joint Secretary), along with committee members Mrs Naghma Khan, Mr Siraj Basha, Mr Irfan Hashim and Mr Faraz Junaidi.

Mr Vaseem Khan holds the key role of Public Relations Officer (PRO) maintaining the association’s public presence.

The journey over the past year has been marked by key events and accomplishments that reflect their commitment to community engagement and support throughout the year participating in significant events such as joining ANZAC Day commemorations, hosted Eid Dinner welcomed over 150 attendees, and engaging with Queensland Police’s Muslim Reference Group, involvement in the India Day Fair.

The association has also been vocal against discrimination, supporting community forums like “Action Against Islamophobia”. These activities allowed the association to build meaningful relationships with local authorities, diplomatic representatives, and other cultural organisations.

Crescent AusIndia celebrated Gandhi Jayanti with GOPIO honouring Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy of peace and unity, representation at the FICQs Diwali event and most recently were represented at the inaugural events for Queensland’s new Indian Consulate, furthering its presence as a key organisation within Queensland’s multicultural landscape.

Crescent AusIndia is a proud member of larger bodies like the Federation of Indian Communities Queensland (FICQ) and Queensland Muslims Inc (QMI), contributing to broader community initiatives.

Moving forward, Crescent AusIndia aims to deepen their engagement, broaden their reach, and continue building a strong foundation for the Indian Muslim community in Queensland.

If you share our vision and want to join the like-minded people! Visit Crescent AusIndia website for more info and the membership form – crescentausindia.org.au

source: http://www.amust.com.au / AMUST / Home> Community> Featured / by Aamer Mustafa / November 18th, 2024

Doha-based Indian expat releases Arabic book at Sharjah Book Fair

KERALA / Doha, QATAR :

‘Taeweedatu Nnajah’ (Success Mantras), a motivational book in Arabic by Doha-based Indian author Dr Amanulla Vadakkangara, has made debut at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair, drawing a diverse audience of multinational readers.

Dr Mariyam Shinasi, a prominent author and cultural figure from the UAE, officially released the book at the Writers Forum on Wednesday.

She praised Dr Amanulla’s efforts in crafting an inspirational work in Arabic, commending the unique accomplishment of a non-Arab author publishing a motivational text in the language and showcasing it at one of the world’s leading book fairs.

“Indians in general, and Keralites in particular, have shown a keen interest in Arabic language and literature. Publishing a motivational book by a non-Arab is indeed commendable,” Dr Shinasi remarked.

At the event, the first copy of the book was received by NVBS CEO Benazir Manoj, and Founder and Chief Coach Manoj Sahib Jan.

Several notable personalities attended the launch, including Saleem Ayyanath, Lipi Akbar, and the author himself.

The book has been published by Lipi Books from Calicut, India.

source: http://www.qatar-tribune.com / Qatar Tribune / Home> Nation / by Tribune News Network / November 17th, 2024

Malayali scholar Mahmood Kooria wins Rs 84 lakh Infosys Science Prize for research excellence

Perinthalmanna(Malappuram) KERALA / Edinburgh, SCOTLAND :

Malayali scholar Mahmood Kooria has been awarded the prestigious Rs 84 lakh Infosys Science Prize for his groundbreaking research on Islam and the Indian Ocean region. The award recognises his exceptional contribution to the study of history, culture, and Islamic law.

Dr mahmood kooria (file image)

Professor Mahmood Kooria, a distinguished academic from Kerala, has been awarded the prestigious Infosys Science Prize 2024 for his groundbreaking contributions to the study of Muslims in the Indian Ocean region, including Kerala. The award, which recognises excellence in scientific and social research, honours Kooria’s work in humanities and social sciences.

A landmark achievement for Kerala

Kooria, a native of Perinthalmanna in Malappuram, is currently a professor at the University of Edinburgh. At just 36 years old, he is the youngest recipient of the Infosys Science Prize.

The award acknowledges his extensive research on the history of sailing across the Indian Ocean and his unique approach to studying the history of Kerala from a global perspective.

In a statement to Mathrubhumi, Kooria expressed joy and surprise, saying, “this is totally unexpected, and I am very happy. This award is a recognition for ocean studies and Kerala studies.”

Prize details and award ceremony

The Infosys Science Prize includes a gold medal, a citation, and a cash award of USD 1 lakh (approximately Rs 84 lakh). The award will be presented to Kooria at a special ceremony in Bengaluru on January 11, 2025.

Focus on Indian Ocean history and Kerala’s role

Kooria’s work offers fresh insights into the history of the Indian Ocean region, particularly focusing on Kerala’s crucial role in global trade, cultural exchanges, and the development of Islamic law. His research delves into how the legal traditions of various religious communities shaped the political, cultural, and economic transformations across the Indian Ocean coast.

Professor Kooria’s research also explores the historical role of animals such as elephants, horses, and donkeys in shaping key events, including the Malabar Rebellion. His innovative approach to integrating animals into historical narratives is a notable contribution to contemporary academic thought.

Kooria’s work on this subject was published in Mathrubhumi Weekly and later compiled into a book by Mathrubhumi Books.

A leading scholar of Islamic Studies in the Indian Ocean

Kooria is widely regarded as one of the leading scholars of Islamic discourse in the Indian Ocean region. His research highlights the critical role of Islamic law in influencing the region’s political, cultural and economic exchanges. His work also covers the broader impact of Islamic legal traditions on the development of diverse communities along the Indian Ocean littoral, including the cultural and commercial interactions between different religious groups.

Earlier, Kooria was awarded the National Research Fellowship by the Dutch government, worth Rs 2 crore.

Recognition from Infosys Science Foundation

The Infosys Science Foundation, which recognises exceptional contributions in science and research, announced the winners in a statement led by President Kris Gopalakrishnan and Trustees N. R. Narayana Murthy, K. Dinesh, Dr. Pratima Murthy, Mohandas Pai, S. D. Shibulal, and others.

source: http://www.english.mathrubhumi.com / Mathrubhumi.com / Home> News> Kerala / November 15th, 2024

AMU Alumna Saba Haider Triumphs in US Poll; Parents Celebrate in UP

Ghaziabad, UTTAR PRADESH / Chicago, U.S.A :

Saba did her MSc in Wildlife Sciences at AMU, earning a gold medal. She moved to the United States with her husband, who is a computer engineer

Ghaziabad :

Saba Haider, a former student of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and a native of Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh, has achieved a significant victory in the recent DuPage County Board election in the United States. Standing as a Democratic Party candidate, she won by a margin of over 8,000 votes against Republican candidate Patricia Petty Goston, sparking celebrations in her hometown. Friends, family, and well-wishers are visiting her parents’ home here to congratulate them on this remarkable achievement.

In an exclusive conversation, Saba’s father, Ali Haider, shared insights into her background. Originally from Aurangabad in Bulandshahr, he moved to Ghaziabad for work, where he raised his family. Saba, known for her academic prowess from a young age, completed her intermediate from Holy Child School in Ghaziabad and earned a BSc from Ram Chameli Chadha College. Later, she pursued an MSc in Wildlife Sciences at AMU, earning a gold medal for her outstanding performance. After her marriage, Saba moved to the United States with her husband, who is a computer engineer.

Ali Haider emphasised that Saba’s interest in social service and politics began early in life. In the US, she initially taught yoga and soon became actively involved in community services. Her engagement in local governance led her to run for a school board position, although she narrowly missed victory in that earlier attempt. Despite setbacks, she remained determined, embodying the family’s philosophy of resilience and perseverance.

Saba’s mother, Meh Jabin Haider, expressed her pride in Saba’s determination. “We always taught her that one should never give up,” she said. “When faced with setbacks, it’s important to continue pushing forward.” Reflecting on her previous loss in a close race, Meh Jabin emphasised that Saba’s unwavering dedication and perseverance finally led to success in this election.

In a competitive race with a total of 70,109 votes cast in DuPage County, Saba Haider garnered 39,365 votes, while her opponent received 30,844 votes. Saba’s victory margin of 8,541 votes stands as a testament to her popularity and commitment to the community she now serves.

Saba’s win brings a sense of pride not only to her family and Ghaziabad but also to Aligarh Muslim University, where she built the academic foundation that has supported her remarkable journey. Her parents are hopeful that her success will inspire more young women to pursue their aspirations and make a positive impact both at home and abroad.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Indian Muslim> Women> World / by Clarion India / November 08th, 2024

Syed Khalid Husain Bags Singapore’s Community Long Service Award

INDIA / SINGAPORE :

The Singapore Community Long Service Award has been conferred on Syed Khalid Husain by the People’s Association, a statutory board in Singapore established in 1960.

Syed Khalid Husain is an eminent journalist based in Singapore. Originally from India, he has 47 years of experience in English and Urdu journalism in India, the UAE and Singapore.

Starting his journalistic career with Radiance Viewsweekly way back in 1977, he progressed to work for reputed news agencies, newspapers, and electronic media in all these countries.

The mission of People’s Association (PA) is to nurture community participation for a caring and united Singapore.

Its network includes 2,000 grassroots organisations (GROs), over 100 community clubs, five community development councils, five passion wave outlets, Impact, and the National Community Leadership Institute.

The PA and its GROs promote national unity by bringing people together, bridging communities, fostering new friendships and creating stronger bonds. Through its network, it strives to build a ‘resilient and cohesive community’ that stands together, regardless of diversity and differences within the community, to achieve “one people, one Singapore”.

Different communities keep their distinct identities and cultural values while moving and interacting with one another in the common space. The vision of PA is one of all communities bonding closely together, increasing the common space and strengthening the nation.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / November 09th, 2024

Farewell event held for longtime resident Dr Abdul Rahiman Elikkottil

KERALA / Doha, QATAR :

Dr Abdul Rahiman Elikkottil, associate consultant at Hamad Medical Corporation and an active member of the Center for Indian Community (CIC) was given a farewell by the CIC Medical Affairs Wing as he concluded 26 years of expatriate life and returned to his homeland.

At the event chaired by CIC vice-president Habeeb Rahman Keezhisseri, president T K Qasim, Haris, Abdul Jaleel M M, Dr Hussain, Dr Noushad, Dr Naseem, Mansoor and Mohammed Ali spoke.

Noufal Paleri delivered the welcome address and Dr Abdul Rahiman gave a reply speech.

Habeeb Rahman presented a memento on behalf of CIC.

source: http://www.gulf-times.com / Gulf Times / Home> Community> Culture / September 22nd, 2024

Podar Pearl School named No 1 Indian School in Qatar in global rankings

Thrissur, KERALA / Doha, QATAR :

Podar Pearl School has achieved a significant milestone by being named the No. 1 Indian School in Qatar under the Education Unites World Initiative, as recognised by Education World’s (EW) Global School Rankings 2024-2025, the school said in a press statement.

These awards honour top schools in the EW India School Rankings, the world’s largest and most comprehensive school ranking survey, evaluating over 4,000 Indian schools.

The accomplishment underscores the school’s dedication to excellence in education and its commitment to fostering a nurturing and innovative learning environment.

In addition to its academic achievements, Podar Pearl School boasts world-class infrastructure and cutting-edge teaching technologies, including advanced 3D printing labs. The school is also expanding its focus on sports and physical education by building a large sports complex, which will complement its already impressive range of sports facilities.

The Indian Global School Ranking Awards celebrate exceptional educational institutions across the country.

Podar Pearl School’s top ranking reflects its strong emphasis on academic success, holistic development, and student well-being.

“We are deeply honoured to receive this recognition,” said Dr Maneesh Mangal, principal of Podar Pearl School. “This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of our staff, teachers, parents, and everyone who contributes to the growth of our school. I am grateful for their relentless commitment to excellence and for helping us create an environment where students thrive.”

C Muhamed Nizar, president of Podar Pearl School, added: “This award is a testament to the visionary leadership of our management, the dedication of our expert educators, the support of our parents, and, most importantly, the brilliance of our students. We remain committed to providing a world-class education that empowers our students to excel.”

source: http://www.gulf-times.com / Gulf Times / Home> Qatar / October 22nd, 2024

IIS alumna bags gold medal

Kodangallur, KERALA / Doha, QATAR :

Ideal Indian School (IIS) alumna Sahar Abdul Gafoor has achieved first rank and gold medal at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Delhi, India, by securing the highest marks ever in Clinical Psychology (96%) for her post graduation.

Daughter of Abdul Gafoor and Sunitha Hameed from Kodungallur, Kerala, Sahar topped the Gulf region and all of India with 100% marks in Psychology in the CBSE Senior Secondary Examination, and won an award from the Council of CBSE Affiliated Schools in the Gulf.

Later, she graduated with high distinction in Psychology from Maharaja’s Women’s College, Thiruvananthapuram, and also completed training at Oolampaara Government Mental Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram.

The IIS management, principal, teachers, and students have congratulated Sahar.

Her next goal is to pursue a Psy.D. Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

source: http;//www.gulf-times.com / Gulf Times / Home> Community> Education / October 26th, 2024

Book on Hadith and More: The Other Side of Actor Kader Khan

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA / CANADA :

Actor Kader Khan, known for his comedy roles, dialogues, scripts in Bollywood, died a man regretting his association with the film industry, and urging Muslims to acquire and understand the true teachings of Islam, for which purpose he himself wrote a book on Prophet Muhammad’s Hadith.

[Sheikh Mustafa Bashir Madni (L) with Kader Khan’s unpublished book on Hadith. The veteran actor with his sons, Shahnawaz and Sarfaraz in Makkah for Hajj.]

Actor Kader Khan, known for his comedy roles, dialogues, scripts in Bollywood, died a man regretting his association with the film industry, and urging Muslims to acquire and understand the true teachings of Islam, for which purpose he himself wrote a book on Prophet Muhammad’s Hadith.

“Kader Khan so strongly wanted Muslims to acquire the knowledge and true teachings of Islam that he himself wrote a book on Prophet Muhammad’s Aha’dith”, Sheikh Mustafa Bashir Madni said while talking to ummid.com.

Mustafa Bashir Madni had met Kader Khan in Madinah when he travelled to Saudi Arabia for Hajj in 2014. Sheikh Mustafa at that time was a student of Jamia Islamia Madinah Munawwarah, the Islamic University of Madinah popularly known as Madinah University.

The two developed a relation, and when Sheikh Mustafa met him in Mumbai in 2015 while he was on vacation in India, Kader Khan handed him his book.

“Mukhtasar Istilahat E Hadees”

Kader Khan had titled his book “Mukhtasar Istilahat E Hadees” and he wanted Sheikh Mustafa Bashir Madni to take a review before it is sent for printing.

Mukhtasar” – used in Arabic and Urdu languages both, means “short” whereas “Istilahat E Hadees” is a term related to the study of Ahadith.

“Kader Khan’s work on Hadith is a two volume book. It beautifully explains in Arabic and Urdu different types of Ahadith, terminologies used and their classification”, Sheikh Mustafa said.

Aha’dith is the plural of the Arabic word Hadith – the records of traditions, narrations, words, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).

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Ahadith have been categorised in different types based on their authenticity, reliability and the number of companions they have been narrated by. The Ahadith of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) have been preserved since last more than 1,450 years because of Isna’d – the chains, that connect and directly reach to the Prophet from one narrator to the other.

“Kader Khan’s book is not the only or unique work as renowned scholars before and after him have volumes of work on the subject. But, it shows his affection for Islam and love for Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him”, Sheikh Mustafa said.

A Changed Man

Recalling the series of conversations he had with Kader Khan in Madinah, Sheikh Mustafa said the famous actor was a changed man, a reformed person, rather.

“He would pray in Masjid E Nabawi for hours. On his Hajj journey, he was accompanied with his two sons, Sahahnawaz and Sarfaraz, and his daughter in law. But, he preferred praying alone”, Sheikh Mustafa said.

“I had seen him multiple times profusely crying, his hands raised and tears rolling down his cheeks”, he said.

“One day he asked me if I would be pardoned by Allah, The Almighty. I tried to comfort him saying Allah is Al Gafoor (The Ever-Forgiving), Ar-Raheem (Most Merciful), and he should be optimistic, I told him”, Sheikh Mustafa Bashir said.

“He however was not convinced and asked me to take him to some senior scholar. I therefore took him to Sheikh (Dr) Abdul Mohsen Al Qasim – one of the Imams of the Prophet’s mosque, Masjid Nabawi. In a lengthy conversation with Kader Khan, Dr Mohsen consoled him, shared with him glad tidings of Allah, the Almighty, and also advised him few things to do”, Sheikh Mustafa said.

“Aur mein gumrah ho gaya”

During his conversations with Sheikh Mustafa, Kader Khan also shared with him the memories of his early days, about how, when and why he left Afghanistan, his days as a Teacher at Saboo Siddik College in Mumbai and the circumstances under which he joined the film industry – with added details though most of which are already in public domain.

“I had written a play for Sabooo Siddik College students which was staged during the annual gathering. A director who was among the audience was so impressed after watching the play that he immediately called me. After a brief conversation, he handed me a “heavy envelope” and asked me to write dialogues for his film”, Kader Khan told Sheikh Mustafa.

“My salary at that time was around INR 300. The amount in the envelope was multiple times more….. Aur mein gumrah ho gaya… (And hence I went astray)”, Kader Khan said.

“After the success of my first film, another director met me. He handed me an envelope which was heavier than the first one. I could not restrain myself and then there was no looking back”, he added.

“Poor financial condition made me astray and dragged me away from my religion. Will Allah forgive me?” Sheikh Mustafa recalled Kader Khan crying and repeatedly asking while sitting in Masjid Nabawi.

Kader Khan’s dream projects

Besides writing his own book “Mukhtasar Istilahat E Hadees”, Kader Khan had also established a centre – first in Pune and then in Aurangabad, Maharashtra where a team of scholars was hired to translate the books of Ahadith in Urdu.

“He used to say that the translation of Quran in various languages, including Urdu, is already available. He however worried that Kutub e Ahadith are still beyond the reach of common Muslims, and was of the view that Urdu translation of Ahadith should be done and spread to the masses”, Sheikh Mustafa recalled.

A post-graduate in Arabic, the veteran actor had also dreamt of establishing a chain of schools in Mumbai, Dubai and Toronto to teach Arabic, Urdu and Hindi.

He had in fact spent quite a long time in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during his last leg of life to establish ” K.K. Institute of Arabic Language and Islamic Culture” at Knowledge City in Dubai.

The project however could not see the light of the day in his life time. How and when his sons would convert Kader Khan’s dream project into a reality is unclear. His centres in Pune and Aurangabad, for which Kader Khan spent a huge amount of money, were closed when he was still alive.

Sheikh Mustafa Bashir however has vowed to review the book Kader Khan had handed him and get it printed.

“I am in talk with Sarfaraz, Kader Khan’s son who is currently in Canada. We have decided to print this book as soon as possible. It will inshallah be Sadaqah Jariyah – Charity Ever Flowing, for Kader Khan along with the other charity work he had done”, Sheikh Mustafa Bashir Madni said.

[The writer, Aleem Faizee, is Founder Editor ummid.com. He can be reached at aleem.faizee@gmail.com.]

source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> Life & Style / by Aleem Faizee, ummid.com / November 04th, 2024