Category Archives: Women/Girls(since May26-2021)

‘I would like to see a broader representation of Muslims on American TV and Hollywood’: Indian American actor Mouzam Makkar

Kerala, INDIA / U.S.A:

Mouzam Makkar

Mouzam Makkar is currently seen on high voltage legal drama “The Fix” on ABC.

Actor Mouzam Makkar, who plays Loni Kampoor on ABC’s ongoing series The Fix, has come a long way since she arrived in the US as an excited 12-year-old. Today, she along with many other South Asians in American entertainment industry, are not only defying brown stereotypes but are also introducing a newer idea of success in otherwise academically inclined South Asian American families.

While The Fix began airing last month, Makkar has been slowly establishing her identity as a talented Indian American actor. Last year, she was seen in Champions on NBC that was created by Mindy Kaling and Charlie Grandy. Before this, Makkar was also seen in The Following, Exorcist, Law & Order: SVU and many other shows.


“It’s a very exciting time to be a South Asian actor,” she says about being among the few brown actresses who may be changing the long-held stereotypes on American TV. “There are more of us doing TV and film than ever before and the types of roles we play continue to expand. There are also more South Asian content creators and that makes a big difference in expanding the types of narratives we get to tell. It’s been wonderful to be a part of a variety of stories where my characters were not solely defined by my ethnicity.”

Makkar, who hails from Kerala, India, spent a few years in the UAE before making America her home. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance and worked in both investment banking and private equity before shifting to entertainment. Asked if it is doubly difficult for a person of color to find a foothold in the highly competitive Hollywood, Makkar says, “Hollywood is a very tough industry and being a person of color when the majority of the stories are still being told through a white lens makes it that much more difficult. However, things are changing and an important aspect of that change come from people behind the camera. Directors, producers and casting agents who are willing to think outside the box when they’re trying to fill a role make a difference in changing what’s on screen.”

Makkar also spoke about a growing number of South Asians in entertainment. “Those creating their own content can make some of the biggest difference in this industry and that’s exactly what the likes of Mindy Kaling, Aziz Ansari, Hasan Minhaj and Kumail Nanjiani have done with their projects,” She says. “When you write the story, you no longer have to play the supporting character – you can be the hero, the story can revolve around you and your experience. That what these folks have done with their TV shows and films – they’ve shown that the South Asian character and story no longer has to be an afterthought – they can be the main attraction.”

She spoke about the kinds of roles that she would want to see more on TV and in Hollywood. “As a Muslim artist, I would love to see a broader representation of Muslims in TV and film,” she says. “Muslims are an especially misunderstood group in this country and I truly believe that more nuanced and diverse portrayals of the Muslim diaspora can go a long way in helping the general public dismantle many of the negative stereotypes they may hold against Muslims. Given the recent attack in New Zealand, understanding and compassion is more important now than ever. The stories you see in TV and film can go a long way in humanizing people and experiences that you yourself might not directly encounter.”

On the artists that may have inspired her, Makkar says, “My dear friend, Fawzia Mirza, is an amazing filmmaker, actor and activist and she is absolutely an inspiration for creating and sharing stories boldly. As a queer storyteller, she brings yet another layer to the narrative and filmmakers like her are instrumental in showing the world that there isn’t just one type of Muslim or South Asian in this world. We are a varied and diverse group, dealing with unique and universal struggles and we can’t be neatly boxed into a single category.”

source: http://www.americanbazaaronline.com / The American Bazaar / Home> News> Entertainment / by Zofeen Maqsood / April 04th, 2019

Sahebaan UAE, business and professionals meet held in Dubai

Mangaluru, Dakshina Kannada / UAE & GCC:

Dubai:

Sahebaan Business and Professionals Group (SBPG) and Sahebaan UAE conducted a Business and Professionals Meet at Al Jumairah Ballroom of Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, on 5th February 2023 from 2.00 PM onwards.

The event, sponsored by the Sahebaan Business Community UAE, was a success, with Sahebaan Community delegates from UAE, GCC, and India in attendance.

The event commenced with a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran. The convenor of SBPG, Althaf M.S., welcomed the gathering and explained the purpose of this maiden initiative.

The Program thereafter commenced with a panel discussion moderated by Althaf M.S., an EPC Oil and Gas Professional. The panel consisted of Dr. Abdul Rahiman Beig, a Professor at Khalifa University Abu Dhabi; Mrs. Ambreen Sheik, a Businesswomen and also an Honorary President of the Indian Ladies Association, Abu Dhabi; Mr. Mumtaz Hussain, an established Businessman from Qatar; Dr. Waleed Ahmed, Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (UK) and a well- known consultant and Mr. Syed Siraj Ahmed, Ex banker & Risk Management Consultant.

While speaking during the event, Mr. Imran Hidayath, CEO of Hidayath Group, Dubai, dwelt on his entrepreneurial journey to success.

Mr. Suhail Kudroli, Chartered Accountant, urged all to participate in such gatherings.

While speaking at the sidelines of the meeting, UAE Sahebaan Convenor Mr. Afroz Assadi and Mr. Siraj Ahmed appreciated the initiative and urged all to lend their support.

Business presentations were made subsequently by Mohd Salman on his startup business “The Stepup Ventures,” followed by Sahebaan ladies, Sahara Asif on “Life Skills Education” and Waseem Shaikh & Thanziya Khan on “Tru Choco & Nuts.”

The event’s highlight was Speed Networking, which evidenced active participation by delegates and interaction on a one-to-one basis with every delegate.

The Program was managed by Althaf M.S, Mohd. Samiulla, Mohd Sufiyan, and Faizaan Khateeb and anchored by Mohd. Sufiyan.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 13th, 2023

Urdubegis: The Forgotten Female Fighters of the Mughal Empire

INDIA:

When we think of the empowerment of women, we usually think about Western culture. Nevertheless, the East has had its fair share of female role models. While Islam has historically given men the role of providing security, women were not restricted from doing the same. During the Mughal Empire, a special class of female soldiers known as the Urdubegis appeared on the scene with the sole purpose of protecting the Mughal emperor and his harem.

In point of fact, over time many Muslim women were famed for their fighting skills, including Nusaybah Bint Ka’ab, the first female warrior of Islam. The Mughal Empire sprang up in India in 1526, when Babur, the first Mughal emperor defeated Ibrahim Lodi. Accompanying Babur was his harem, and to ensure their protection he created the Urdubegis made up of women who belonged to Kashmiri, Turk, Habshi and Tartar tribes.

A strong threat to the king’s enemies, the Urdubegis were feared by both men and princes alike. Trained female warriors, the Urdubegis have been remembered for their incredible loyalty to the king. Time has been harsh to their legacy and nowadays they are no more than footnotes in the annals of Mughal history. In this article, we will try to do their story some justice.

Emperor celebrating with ladies in the harem ( Public domain ).

The Varied Role of Women in the Mughal Harem

Thoughts of a pleasure garden tend to come to mind when thinking of a harem, but that is far from the truth. Most of the women that lived there were female employees and relatives of the emperor. Only five percent of the women served for the sexual pleasure of the emperor; they were his queens and concubines. The residents of the harem practiced the parda, in front of all men, except the emperor. The literal meaning of the word parda is a veil, in the Mughal period women would cover themselves from head to toe to cover their face and skin, as well as concealing their form from men.

In an article published in South Asian Studies, Gull-i-Hina describes how the Mughal women were expected to behave. “The public lives of women of nobility were governed by the laws of seclusion. The practice of parda, or the sequestering of women behind the veil or wall, had already been known in ancient and medieval India and had been used throughout history by many of the upper classes. By the time of the Mughals, seclusion was an accepted way of life for aristocratic families.”

A vast majority of women inhabited the harem, also known as the zanana or zenana. They each had a specific role to play, and the Urdubegis were responsible for security. “The palaces in which the zanana women lived were self-sufficient cities with a full range of castes, occupations, and administrators, and were as cosmopolitan a mix of religions, nationalities, and artistic talents as to be found in any metropolis of the time,” explains Ellison Banks when discussing the harem in her book Nur Jahan: Empress of Mughal India .

Due to the number of inhabitants, there was a need for female employees that would help maintain the smooth functioning of the harem. Thus, apart from eunuchs, there were lady officials like the Angas (foster-mother), the Daroghas (matrons), Mahaldars (superintendents), and Urdubegis (armed women guards). These women were married and served in the harem during their hours of duty, otherwise, they lived in their own homes away from the harem.

Three things helped sustain the Mughal emperor’s power: his army, his treasury, and his women. The first two were not directly linked to the king, but the Harem, on the other hand, was closest in proximity to him. The king spent a lot of time there, thus there was a need for trustworthy and capable guards. Since only eunuchs and women were allowed in the harem, a few among them were selected and trained as proper warriors, capable of guarding the women without the need for male guards.

Women in the harem practiced parda, or the veil, in front of all men except the emperor. ( Public domain )

The Urdubegis –Female Warriors of the Mughal Harem

The Urdubegis were trained female warriors, who served as guards in the proximity of the harem. For them to become guards, they had to belong to tribes that did not practice parda. A guard would have had to be visible to men on certain occasions, including times when they were traveling. Therefore, to ensure the protection of their charges, the Urdubegis had to be willing to sacrifice the veil so that they could guard the hidden queens and princesses. These women usually came from Habshi, Tartar, Turk, and Kashmiri tribes.

The Urdubegis have been mentioned during the times of Emperor Babur and Humayun. Therefore, it can be said that they came into being with the coming of the Mughals as there is no mention of Urdubegis before that. There may have been female guards with different names, but no mention of the Urdubegis specifically has been discovered to date.

The guards were trained in the use of bows and arrows, and spears. Along with long-range weapons, they were taught to use short daggers and swords. Taught the art of fighting, these women had to be trustworthy because they would not only be guarding the queen and the rest of the harem but the king as well. The Mughal emperor spent the most time in the harem, which is why why the guards had to be trusted not to betray the emperor in the one place where he would be the most vulnerable.

“The Urdubegis of the Mughal court was so skillful in warfare, that during the war of succession, Aurangzeb rejected to visit Shah Jahan because he feared the female armed guard would murder him,” wrote Kishori Saran Lal in his book The Mughal Harem when discussion the ferocity and strength of the Urdubegis.

New entrant to a princes’ harem. ( Public domain )

Evolution of the Urdubegis Role

The women would accompany the emperor everywhere he went. In 1527, Babur conquered India and set about laying the foundations of the Mughal Empire, however, both Babur and Humayun ruled from their encampments. The first two Mughal kings were unable to lay down a solid foundation, which meant they kept wandering. As they traveled, their wives and other female companions accompanied them, and to keep them protected but hidden, female guards were assigned to the mobile harem.

These female guards were vital especially when the haram accompanied the emperor on his travels or battle excursions. Their presence outside the women’s tents ensured exclusivity and regulation. The guards, both male and female, were swapped every twenty-four hours to guarantee that they were alert and to prevent internal conspiracies from forming.

Akbar came to power in 1556, the third emperor of the Mughal Empire. At the time of his ascension, the empire did not have a solid foundation. However, in his 49-year reign, the Mughal Empire had gained permanence. Grand palaces were constructed, and, usually, the harem would be located close to the emperor’s lodgings. However, the male guards that protected the emperor could not venture into the harem, so the female guards, the Urdubegis, gained a more significant role.

Not all Urdubegis were originally warriors. Some moved up in the ranks over time. For example, the only known Urdubegis once served as the nurse for Emperor Humayun, the father of Akbar and the second Mughal emperor. When Humayun died in 1556, his nurse was promoted to the chief of the Urdubegis during his son’s reign.

Only one of the Urdubegis has been remembered by name. Representational image. (Cleveland Museum of Art / CC0)

Bibi Fatima – The Only Known Urdubegis

Unfortunately, there is very little information regarding the numerous women who protected the harem. Only one name appears in written records, that of Bibi Fatima, chief of the Urdubegis. Serving during the life of Emperor Humayun, her name is mentioned in the Humayun-Nama, written by Gulbadan Begum, his half-sister. Perhaps Bibi Fatima was mentioned because a woman wrote the biography and found the contributions of the female guard worthy of remembrance.

Originally Bibi Fatima had served Emperor Humayun as his wet nurse or Anka. She took care of Humayun when he fell gravely ill, nursing him back to health, and continued to care for him until his death in 1556. She continued to serve under Emperor Akbar, who rewarded her for her loyalty and dedication to his father, promoting her to the chief of the Urdubegis. Although she was probably not as trained as a warrior, like the women under her, Bibi Fatima earned her place, proving to the emperor that she would be loyal to the king, no matter the circumstances.

The Humayun-Nama claims that she had a daughter called Zuhra. In appreciation for her work, Zuhra was later married off to Hamida’s (Humayun’s wife) brother, who would go on to murder her, despite her mother’s best efforts to rescue her daughter. The sad incident is mentioned in the Humayun Nama:

“In 1564, Bibi Fatima lamented to Akbar that Khwaja Mu’azzam had threatened to kill his wife Zuhra, who was her daughter. The emperor consequently sent the Khwaja word that he was coming to his house and followed the message closely. As he entered, the Khwaja stabbed Zuhra and then flung his knife, like a challenge, amongst the loyal followers.”

It seems that Bibi Fatima continued to serve her king, because there is no mention that she left her post after the incident. However, one can imagine the heartache a mother who lost her child must have gone through. She deserves respect for all her service, regardless of the circumstances. Luckily, we know the name of at least one Urdubegis.

Nur Jahan entertaining the Mughal emperor. ( Public domain )

Why Have the Urdubegis Been Forgotten?

With the coming of the British in the 18th century, the Mughal Empire fell into decline. However, it wasn’t until 1858 that the last king was removed from his throne and replaced by British rule. When Bahadar Shah Zafar lost his crown, the Mughal harem ceased to be, thus there was no longer a need for the Urdubegis. Their main task of protecting the king and the harem had ended.

Political decay lowered the status of women and female guards became extinct. In this new context, women were seen as weak and therefore rules were applied that subjected women to incarceration within their own homes. However, the strength and dedication of the Urdubegis ensured that they have been remembered to some extent.

We know more about the Urdubegis as a whole, rather than individually, which is a shame because the stories of these female warriors must have been fascinating. They were privy to the emperor’s most inner moments, and had they had recorded their stories, we would know a lot more about the life of the Mughal kings. Despite the scarce information, they have left an imprint upon history, albeit minute.

Top image: The Urdubegis were female warriors tasked with protecting the Mughal emperor and his harem. Representational image. Source: Public domain

By Khadija Tauseef

Khadija Tauseef, has always had a passion for ancient history. She completed a BA(Hons) and MPhil in History along with historical programs online. Egyptian and Greek are of particular interest but she likes to study all she can. She is currently mid-way through two courses that are about the ancient Greeks and their myths and wants to share her learning with others.

source: http://www.ancient-origins.net / Ancient Origins / Home> News / by Khadija Tauseef / June 20th, 2022

Save the date! Dr Foodie to host ‘Hyderabadi Shaadi Ki Dawat’

Hyderabad, TELANGANA:

‘Hyderabadi Shaadi Ki Dawat’ is going to be a unique event to experience the food, culture, and hospitality that Hyderabad is known for, all in one place.

 Dr Ahmed Ashfaq aka Dr Foodie gears up to host the first ever edition of ‘Hyderabadi Shaadi Ki Dawat’ (Instagram)

If you’ve ever attended a Hyderabadi wedding, you’ll know that it’s a celebration unlike any other. From the colourful outfits, the lip-smacking food to of course the ‘marfa’, it’s a feast for the senses. Agree?

Are you eagerly waiting to attend a Hyderabadi Shaadi and indulge in the rich, flavorful cuisine that our sheher is famous for? If yes, mark your calendars for March 5th, 2023 because a unique event is going to happen in the city that promises to satisfy your craving for Hyderabadi Shaadi ka Khana. But there’s a twist – it’s not an actual wedding!

Idea behind hosting ‘Hyderabadi Shaadi Ki Dawat’

Organized by Hyderabad’s popular food blogger Dr Foodie aka Dr Ahmed Ashfaq, ‘Hyderabadi Shaadi Ki Daawat’ is going to be a unique event to experience the food, culture, and hospitality that Hyderabad is known for, all in one place. And the best part? Nobody gets married here, so you can just enjoy all the festivities without any of the pressure or stress that comes with attending an actual wedding. You will be able to enjoy the shadi without fear of judgement from your ‘phuppu or ‘chachi. The event is powered by Zetch Digital Solutions (Ayesha Sultana & Hasnain Ul Haq).

Speaking to Siasat.com, Dr Foodie spilled beans on the main idea behind the ‘one-of-a-kind’ concept and said, “Whenever I was posting reels about Hyderabadi wedding food, I noticed a lot of interest from people in Hyderabad and across India who were curious about where they could find this cuisine. This got me thinking about how I could provide this delicious food to others.”

He further added, “With the demand for this cuisine being high, I came up with the idea of hosting a shaadi ka event, where people could experience the authentic Hyderabadi wedding food without actually attending a wedding ceremony. It’s a great opportunity for people to savor the flavors and experience the culture of this cuisine.”

Timings: 7pm to 12am
Venue: King’s Palace, Gudi Malkapur, Hyderabad.

What’s in the menu?

From the aromatic Biryani (The Star Of The Daawat) to the succulent kebabs, the mouth-watering haleem and many desserts, you’ll have the opportunity to savor a lengthy spread of delicious dishes that will leave your taste buds tingling. Lip-smacking vegetarian food items will also be there.

Bhulo Nakko, Dabake Khao!

Check out the menu below:

Beyond the Food!

Hyderabadi Shaadi Ki Daawat is not just about the food.

The event promises to be a cultural extravaganza, featuring music, interactions with your favourite influencers and the ‘vibe’ that is sure to transport you to the heart of Hyderabad.

Entrepreneur, vlogger, and ace tennis player Sania Mirza‘s sister Anam Mirza, popular YouTubers Amer Bin Ishaq and Shahbaaz Khan are among special guests who will be gracing the event.

“We will be creating a mock setup of a stage where attendees can take pictures or even pose as a bride and groom for a fun and memorable experience. In addition, we will have live mehendi stations, so guests can get their henna designs applied by skilled artists,” Dr Foodie said.

He also added, “We also have other surprise stalls planned, but we’ll keep the details under wraps for now to add an element of excitement and anticipation for our guests”.

So, prepare your best attire to glam up, look your best as you join Dr Foodie and his team for a celebration of all things Hyderabadi, and experience the best of the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Tickets For Hyderabadi Shaadi Ki Dawat

If you want to be a part of this unforgettable evening of food, fun, and cultural immersion, click here to book tickets and block your seats!

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> Lifestyle / by Rasti Amena / February 21st, 2023

BJP’s Kausar Jahan Is Delhi’s New Haj Committee Chief, Wrests Post From AAP

NEW DELHI:

She received three of the five votes cast by the committee members in the election held at the Delhi Secretariat.

BJP's Kausar Jahan Is Delhi's New Haj Committee Chief, Wrests Post From AAP
Kausar Jahan is the second woman to be elected to the post.

New Delhi: 

In a setback to the AAP, BJP leader Kausar Jahan was elected as the Delhi Haj Committee chairperson today.

Kausar Jahan is the second woman to be elected to the post.

She received three of the five votes cast by the committee members in the election held at the Delhi Secretariat.

The committee comprises six members — two each from the AAP and the BJP, Muslim theology expert Mohammad Saad and Congress councillor Nazia Danish. BJP MP Gautam Gambhir is among the committee members.

Delhi BJP working president Virendra Sachdeva said Ms Jahan’s victory shows the growing trust and faith of Muslims in the party.

“Congratulations to Kausar Jahan on being elected as the Delhi Haj Committee chairperson. The victory of the BJP-affiliated candidate in the Delhi Haj Committee makes it clear that now the Muslim community is also eager to join the country’s development stream Shri @narendramodi,” Mr Sachdeva said in a tweet in Hindi.

The three votes received by the BJP-affiliated candidate included those of Gambhir, Saad and Kausar herself. Nazia Danish abstained from voting.

AAP MLAs Abdul Rehman and Haji Yunus are also members of the committee.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

source: http://www.ndtv.com / NDTV / Home> India News / by Press Trust of India / February 16th, 2023

India-born Saleha Jabeen becomes US military’s first female Muslim chaplain

INDIA / Greater Chicago, U.S.A:

First Lt. Saleha Jabeen

Jabeen wants to show US military has a place for anyone who wants to serve.

India born Saleha Jabeen, who has become the US military’s first female Muslim chaplain, says she has to set an example and show that there is a place in the military for anyone who wants to serve.

“I did not have to compromise on any of my religious beliefs or convictions,” said First Lt. Jabeen, who graduated from Air Force Basic Chaplain Course Feb. 5 at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama.

“The graduation ceremony for BCC Class 21A was a historic event as the Air Force aims to foster a more diverse and inclusive service,” according to a USAF release.

“I am surrounded with people who respect me and are willing to receive what I bring to the table as a woman, a faith leader, and an immigrant,” said Jabeen.

“I am provided with numerous opportunities to learn and develop skills that best equip me to be a successful officer and a chaplain in a pluralistic environment.”

“I get to provide spiritual care to all service members, Guardians and families and advise the commanders on religious and moral matters regardless of my faith, ethnicity or gender.”

“Like our boss says, it has never been a better time to serve as a chaplain in the US Air Force Chaplain Corps,” said Jabeen.

Jabeen says she is passionate about her role as a chaplain and takes her duty as a spiritual mentor very seriously.

“We all have a purpose that is specifically meant for us to fulfill,” Jabeen said.

“We must listen to our heart and follow our conviction. It is important to have people in our lives who model that for us. Choose that kind of mentorship and choose good companionship.”

“I just want people to remember that God, or higher power or the values that people uphold, remind us that we all are created with a plan: to become the best versions of ourselves,” Jabeen said.

“There is a ‘why’ for our existence and ultimately it is meant for us to be the best versions of ourselves. Commit to it, accomplish it and uplift others to do the same.”

“Do all that needs to be done with kindness, generosity, resilience and the grit to never quit,” she said.

All BCC students have advanced degrees and many arrive at the Chaplain Corps College with years of experience as members of the clergy as civilians, the USAF release said.

Throughout the course, Jabeen and her classmates are instructed how to apply their prior experience within the Air Force, it said.

“My goal is to create chaplains who are ready to provide front-line ministry upon graduation,” said Capt. John Richardson, Air Force Chaplain Corps College staff chaplain.

Capt. Mara Title, Air Force Chaplain Corps College staff chaplain, said Jabeen’s addition to the chaplain corps will be of great benefit to everyone.

“The Air Force Chaplain Corps endeavors to promote diversity in all respects,” Title said. “Chaplain Saleha Jabeen’s presence enables an even broader scope of spiritual care for our Airmen, and for this we are very grateful.”

“She is as determined to take on the role of chaplain as she is kind, caring and compassionate. We are thrilled to have had the opportunity for her to graduate with the class of BCC 21A.”

Jabeen, who came to the US 14 years ago as an international student, was commissioned in December as a Second Lieutenant at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.

According to her LinkedIn profile, Jabeen completed her BA in Business and Economics at North Park University, followed by an MA in Theology–Inter-religious Dialogue from Catholic Theological Union and course in counseling psychology from Trinity Christian College.

source: http://www.americanbazaaronline.com / The American Bazaar / Home> Religion / by Arun Kumar / February 18th, 2021

Sahebaan UAE grand family get-together held in Dubai

DK & UDUPI (Karnataka) / U.A.E & GCC :

Dubai:

Sahebaan UAE, a premier organization for the Urdu-speaking Muslim Community hailing from the twin districts of DK & Udupi, hosted a grand social family get-together followed by gala dinner at Al Jumairah Ballroom, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, on 4th February 2023 from 5.30 PM onwards.

The event, sponsored by the Sahebaan Business Community UAE, was a grand success attended by more than 800 community members from all over UAE, neighboring GCC countries and India. Eminent personalities from the Sahebaan Community graced the occasion.

The event commenced with the recitation of verses from Holy Quran by Master Fazil Raheel Ali. Althaf M.S Coordinator, Sahebaan UAE welcomed the gathering and stated that Sahebaan UAE has been providing a platform for the community members to come together, connect and strengthen the brotherly bond.

The patrons of the Sahebaan community Janab Hidayathullah Abbas, K.S. Nissar Ahmed and Afroz Assadi were honoured in recognition of their outstanding business achievements and contribution to the local economy, commendable humanitarian service, charity work and unstinted support to Sahebaan UAE and its activities. Janab Syed Siraj Ahmed, Suhail Kudroli, and Althaf Khalife initiated the honoring proceedings.

On behalf of the patrons, Janab Hidayathullah Abbas thanked the organisers and the gathering for the honor bestowed on them. He urged the Community to strive hard for success, prioritize family, help the Community, and give back to society, thus earning goodwill for Sahebaan.

The Chief guest of the evening Janab Kassim Ahmed H.K., founder of Hidaya Foundation Mangalore, while addressing the gathering called for the upliftmemt of the poor and the deprived.

Janab Mohd. Akram, Mohammed Asif, Althaf Khateeb and Irshad Moodbidri conducted the felicitation of Sponsors. Dr. Abdul Rahiman Beig, Professor at Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi & recognised as a top rated scientist by Stanford University and Mrs.Yasmeen Irfan, winner of Foodshala UAE 2022 were honoured on the occasion.

Janab Afroz Assadi Patron and Convenor of Sahebaan UAE presented awards to the talented Sahebaan Youth, namely, Sham Akbar Sheik, Safa Tamadur, Rafa Riyaz Khalife, Daniyal Danish Iqbal, Rafhan Balanthi Baig, Mohd. Rafan, Sheikh Saahir Akbar, Mehek Sheikh, Nuha Riyaz Khalife for excellence in academics.

Anbar Althaf and Saqib Baji for Sports achievement and Anam Aslam for performing arts.

Faizaan Khateeb, Mohd. Samiullaha, Mohd Sufiyan and Abdul Ahad presented a photo journey of Sahebaan UAE through the years.

Well-known bollywood stand-up comedian and mimicry artist Jayvijay Sachan entertained all with his mimicry & comedy. A Sufiana troupe from mumbai mesmerized the crowd throughout the evening with their melodious rendering.

Sahil Zaheer, a fellow Sahebaan and a hugely popular stage & radio artist from Mangalore, compered the program and entertained the crowd with his wit and humor.

Sahebaan Ladies Wing members Sahara Asif, Reena Althaf, Mehek Sheik and Riza Mustafa managed the children’s Program.

The function was sponsored by Hidayath Group, NASH Engineering FZCO, Northern Insurance brokers LLC, Prestige Engineering LLC, Petrosolutions FZCO, Creative House Scaffolding, Advanced Creative Techncial Services, Al Sitara Gulf Contracting, Multiline Technical Co. LLC, Progressive Technology & Services LLC, Sumtech Multiline Trading, Right Choice Trading, Al Bustan Trading, Vertex Engineering, Izza Gold & Diamonds Dubai, Cell Town, Invension Medical Requisities, Core Elements Interior Decoration LLC and Hasmai Mangalore.

The function concluded with a raffle draw and vote of thanks by Syed Mohd. Ajmal.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 13th, 2023

Journalist Aarefa Johari Wins Chameli Devi Jain Award

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA:

The jury praised Johari’s work saying it shone through with its combination of meticulous reportage, humanism and empathy, all reflecting a high order of journalistic excellence.

New Delhi: 

Mumbai-based journalist Aarefa Johari was picked on Sunday, April 3, as the winner of the Chameli Devi Jain Award for an Outstanding Woman Mediaperson 2021.

Instituted in 1982, the annual Chameli Devi Jain Award is a prestigious recognition for women mediapersons in India who have reported on themes such as social development, politics, equity, gender justice, health, war and conflict, and consumer values.

The Media Foundation announced Johari, who works for Scroll in Mumbai, as the winner of the award, which will be presented on Monday at the India International Centre here.

The winner was decided by a three-member jury, comprising Nirupama Subramanian from the Indian Express, writer Githa Hariharan and Ashutosh from SatyaHindi.

They praised Johari’s work saying it shone through with its combination of meticulous reportage, humanism and empathy, all reflecting a high order of journalistic excellence.

Harish Khare, chair of the Media Foundation, added that Johari’s ground-level reportage was an outstanding example of a journalist’s every day privilege to help society demand fairness and justness.

Nearly 50 journalists from print, digital and broadcast media from all over India sent entries for the award, named after Chameli Devi Jain, a freedom fighter and a community reformer who went to jail during the freedom movement.

(PTI)

source: http://www.thewire.in / The Wire / Home> Media / by PTI / April 04th, 2022

WPL Auction: Delhi Capitals buy Kashmir-based Cricketer Jasia Akhtar for 20 Lakh

Braripora Village (Shopian District), JAMMU & KASHMIR:

Star Female Cricketer Jasia Akhter from South Kashmir’s Shopian district has got berth in the inaugural Women‘s Premier League(WPL) after she was brought by Delhi capitals for rupees 20 lakh in auctions  on February 13, 2023 at Mumbai.

A total of 409 players from 15 countries were in the auction list.

Talking to Rising Kashmir on phone Jaisa Akhtar said that the selection is big moment in her life.”The initial bid was Rs 1O lakh but atlast the auction sealed at Rs 20 Lakh”, She said.

Delhi Capitals also confirmed the development through a tweet that described the Kashmiri cricketer as Jasia Jaisi Koi nahi on their official Twitter handle. 

She told that her family members were praying for her selection and today prayers of her family members were answered.

The player was auctioned to Delhi capitals for Rs 20 Lakh.

WPL is a T20 cricket league organised by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

BCCI had received 1525 registrations out of which 246 native players and 163 overseas players were included in the auction list.

Jasia Akhter from Braripora village of Shopian and Sarla Devi from Jammu were two players from the UT to figure in the list of 409 cricketers which went under the hammer on Monday.

Jasia was figuring at serial 250 while Sarla was at  serial 305 in WPL auction list of players.

Jasia has a good season this year and is figuring  at top in ODI ranking for domestic cricket and at number two for T20.

She has 500 plus ODI runs and 590 T20 runs.

Jaisa dreams to play for Indian women cricket team.

source: http://www.risingkashmir.com / Rising Kashmir / Home / by Javid Sofi / February 12th, 2023

Tahira Shaikh is Malegaon mayor, Nilesh Aher deputy

Malegaon (Nashik District) , MAHARASHTRA:

Tahira Shaikh is Malegaon mayor, Nilesh Aher deputy
The elections were being keenly watched by political observers because of BJP’s decision to back the Congress–Sena alliance, which has 42 corporators in the Malegaon civic body while

Nashik:

Tahira Shaikh of Congress was elected Malegaon Mayor while Nilesh Aher of Shiv Sena her deputy with comfortable leads over the candidates fielded by the NCP, MIM and Janata Dal combine on Thursday.

The elections were being keenly watched by political observers because of BJP’s decision to back the Congress-Sena alliance, which has 42 corporators in the Malegaon civic body while.

All the nine corporators of the BJP toed the party line during the election, thus enabling the Congress-Sena candidates bag 51 votes each. The NCP, MIM and Janata Dal alliance candidates got 32 votes.

The Congress-Sena candidates’ victories were a foregone conclusion as the NCP, MIM and Janata Dal combine have 32 corporators in the Malegaon Municipal Corporation, which has a total strength of 84 elected members.

A Congress office-bearer said that Shaikh is the only Muslim mayor of any city in the state at present. “This is her second stint as Malegaon mayor, the previous one being around seven years ago. She took over the reins from her husband and Congress corporator Shaikh Rashid, who has completed his two-and-a-half-year term.”

“The voting took place by show of hands in the presence of the returning officer and acting Nashik district collector, Bhuvaneswari S,” the Congress worker said.

“Cleanliness and improving the condition of roads will be my priority,” the new mayor said, adding that she would also strive to beautify the city.

The deputy mayor thanked his party for choosing him for the post and vowed that the civic body would work in cohesion with the state government to develop the powerloom town.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> City News> Nashik News / by TNN / December 13th, 2019