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

IOS organises two-day conference on “Indian Muslims and Plural Society”, Feb 15-16, 2023 New Delhi

INDIA:

New Delhi:

Institute of Objective Studies, New Delhi, organised a two-day National Conference on “Indian Muslims and Plural Society” in hybrid mode from February 15 – 16.

Inaugural session

The inaugural session commenced with Prof  Haseena Hashia, Assistant Secretary General, IOS, welcoming the guests and participants.

Prof M.H Qureshi, an eminent Geographer, talked about India witnessing numerous migrations over the last several centuries. “We have Nordics, Mediterranean, and Mongols—people from Central Asia, Persia and even Arabs who arrived in India through its southern-western coastal region. Therefore, India has immense diversity, he said.

He said that the Arabs came to the Kerala coast and brought many traditions that became part and parcel of India.

Professor Mehrajuddin Mir, former Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Kashmir, said that the concept of pluralism was how to live together, tolerate others’ thoughts and ideas, and even understand opponents’ miseries for solutions to live in diversity. All religions have various sects, and thus, their practices differ. The conflicts are, therefore, intra-religious, interreligious and social, he noted.

Professor Mir quoted Indian Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, who recently spoke about how one Imam and one Pundit shaped his career to understand brotherhood and oneness.

Professor Akhtarul Wasey, former President, Maulana Azad University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, in his presidential address, said that Muslims came to India as traders and invaders. But once they came here, they delved into the culture and traditions of India and became one who enriched the nation to encourage pluralism. Muslims have contributed to India’s prosperity.

He said that how Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam became a global personality of Indian origin—a Muslim. The country couldn’t think of its missile programme without his theoretical contributions, he said.

Technical Session I

The 1st Technical Session began with the theme, “Genesis of Pluralism in India.” Professor Arshi Khan, Department of Political Science, AMU, Aligarh, as Moderator & Chairperson.

Dr. Ram Puniyani, Human Rights Activist and Writer, said, “There is a misconception in the country, especially against Muslims.” The alliance of civilizations defines plurality. Religions don’t have any nationality. They are universal. The Kings in India, whether Muslim or Hindu, ruled the nation for centuries with people of different faiths as their core governance teams. There was nothing like Muslim Kings or Hindu kings then, he explained.

He observed that calling Indian cultures as Hindu is a bigoted idea. Leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad brought secular spirits into the country. We have Sufi and Bhakti traditions that describe the morality of religions and humanity in India.

Professor Mohammad Sohrab, MMA Jauhar Academy of International Studies, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, described pluralism as a definition both from a conceptual and theoretical perspective. Primarily a religious and moral philosophy, pluralism was the acceptance of diversity. It is more than tolerance of differences. The conception of ‘We’ was essential to assess pluralism through organic social bonding. Pluralism in the Islamic context of acceptance and the country’s scenario today should be understood in the context of how the nation’s spirit developed in Madinah during the time of the Prophet, he elaborated.

He said that pluralism demands that your neighbour be considered an asset, not a liability. Diversity with pluralism creates resilience, but diversity without pluralism brings disaster, he concluded.

Gurtej Singh, IAS, Chandigarh, spoke about how India’s constitutional and political federalism paved the way for the constitution. The atrocities against Sikhs and their resistance were part of history, he said. The examples of pluralism can be understood from the Guru Granth of Sikh religion.

His book Sikh and Indian Civilization sheds light on how Sikhs were projected during partition.

Sanjay K. Rai, a social activist from Lucknow, mentioned that “diversity doesn’t accept dictators.” He highlighted the importance of multicultural societies. Linguistic Pluralism was the need of the hour in today’s context. Societies with pluralism also impact by technological growth. Communities can’t be defined through one particular race or culture. He felt that there can’t be nation-building and growth without taking Muslims along who constitute 15-20% population in India. The One Nation, One Culture concept can only work in some countries. One can’t find books on Hitler in Germany today. Mussolini’s home has been destroyed in his country as people don’t want him to be remembered. It symbolizes how those going against pluralism perish from the leaflets of history, he concluded.

Mr. Gurdeep Singh, a Sikh leader from Bhatinda, Punjab, stressed that it was high time to focus on the future, in view of the experiences of the past and present to grow in a plural society. Mistakes could be there in the past, but remembering those only won’t solve the purpose. It will hinder progress. He warned that today’s rulers in India were breaking the very ascent of Indian culture and unity.

He said that when Kashmiri Muslims are tortured, others in the country feel their pain.

Dr. Lubna Naaz from the Department of Islamic Studies, Women’s College, AMU, spoke on “An Islamic Perspective on Peaceful Coexistence.”

Technical Session-II

Focused on the theme, Role of Islam to Strengthen Pluralism in India, the Technical Session II started under the Chairperson, Professor M. Ishaque from the Department of Islamic Studies, Jamia Millia Islamia.

Maulana Abdul Hameed Nomani, Former General Secretary, All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat, Delhi, highlighted that two things are required to be properly understood: the Creator, and the Creator’s motive. He said that Sufis always made one feel the independence to think and lead life. Islam always propagates the rights of neighbours, relatives and much more. Sufi Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti wore similar dresses like Indian Sadhus to ascertain people of his time, irrespective of their religious faiths, connected with him.

He said that Swami Dayanand and Raja Ram Mohan Roy kept Hindu philosophy out of their movements but promoted social reforms in the societies applicable to all faiths for social betterment. “Faith is vital, like Allah’s mercy, unlike social practices that change with time,” he said. India’s beauty was in its diversity of religious thoughts. In pre-Islam Arab tribes kept fighting for generations on a single issue of their forefathers, but the scenario has changed. Islam accepts variety in pluralism, from religious to traditional to social practices. Islam as a religion must not change its basic principles. It is a Sanatan religion with firm principles, he concluded.

Prof Faheem Akhtar Nadvi, Head of the Department of Islamic Studies, MANUU, Hyderabad, emphasized that the role of Islam in strengthening pluralism in India is vital. Pluralism is a society where people of all religions reside and respect each other. India is one of the best examples where pluralism has stayed for centuries. He emphasized that India will grow only when pluralism is projected in practice.

To be Continued..

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> Featured News / by News Desk (headline edited) / February 25th, 2023

‘Dust of the Caravan’ is a Muslim woman’s unique personal and political memoir

INDIA:

An excerpt from Anis Kidwai’s memoir, translated from the Urdu by Ayesha Kidwai.

Author Anis Kidwai (second from right, middle row) with members of the family and family retainers.

Amongst the dream-like memories there is also one of an evening in which my Bua has my younger brother in her arms and I am walking alongside them. At a short distance from the house, I see a dirty bundle of clothes lying on the road and I give it a kick. The bundle groans loudly, and my Bua exclaims, “Hai! What are you doing?! You don’t kick a human child, do you?” She sits down besides it and starts speaking to it. In response, the bundle of rags unjumbles. At first, two pairs of arms and legs, burning hot, appear, and soon we are on our way home, a dirty young girl tottering along with us.

The girl was quite a bit older than me, but I went about the house preening – she was my “discovery”, the one I had found and brought home.

Her fever came down with medicines the very next day and my mother herself stood by and supervised as one of the women servants gave her a bath with water, soap, and besan. The grime and dirt were rubbed off of her with potshards. With a kurta from one person, a paijama from another, a pink orhni draped on her, that pitch-black girl was soon transformed into a comely one with large eyes and golden skin the colour of wheat.

Just a few days of a regular diet brought out her beauty even more, and within a month, this twelve- or thirteen-year-old girl was always to be found teasing and flirting with the other servants. We named her Nargis. I was very happy and pleased with her and kept her by my side always.

One day, Nargis accompanied me to the part of the house where the cousins who were living with us for their studies, resided. I don’t know what exactly happened, but soon little pebbles started flying around, and peals of laughter bubbled in the air. I felt compelled to go report to my mother that Nargis was throwing stones. The next I knew, Nargis was given a few slaps and ordered never to even think of making her way to that side of the house ever again. And shortly after, she was sent off to my nānī’s home for education and training.

It was one year later that she returned. In her colourful gharara, shining with gold trim and embroidery, and the red dupatta she wore around her shoulders, she was now a married woman. A dim-witted young man was by her side, and he was at once engaged by our family, and sent off to Aligarh to serve Rafi sahab.

Once I said to Nargis, “Your husband is calling you.” My words were greeted with a loud snort and a gob of spit. She detested him.

And though she stayed with us and grew more beautiful by the day, she never gave that husband of hers a second look. The truth was that she had eyes only for one manservant of ours, handsome in his beplumed turban. Eventually, one night, Nargis disappeared altogether.

It was only three years later that she returned. We all surrounded her, delighted to see her. She now swore by Our Father and Jesus Christ and wore a skirt. The Christian missionaries had inducted her into Jesus’s flock of sheep and had taught her to say, “Oh Heavenly Father, let your will be fulfilled on earth as it is in heaven, and give us our daily bread.”

We brothers and sisters pleaded with her, “Nargis come back to us!” And to our delight, she agreed. However, now her manner was quite brazen. After a year or so of revelry, she decamped with the magnificently turbaned manservant. The next year this esteemed employee was sighted in the mela at Dewa, dressed in saffron robes, now a self-declared pir, but Nargis never returned. And we never got any further news of her.

For everyone else, Nargis soon became long-forgotten, but her memory has always remained in my heart. Today when I am concerned with the education, reform, and improvement in the lives of the girls in the Women’s Service Home, I think of Nargis again. If only we had afforded her some ease and facilities, her ruined life could have been repaired.

One day, my mother told me that I was to go to visit an aunt, whose husband was a senior lawyer in the city.

She had visited us a short while ago and had said that she wanted her daughters to meet me. Since her elder daughter was ill, they couldn’t visit us, so I must go to them, she said.

To be invited as a guest was a matter of great pride and fulfilment for me. I got ready quickly and sat in the palanquin. I was escorted by one uncle and Ramzan Baba carrying his big staff. Arriving in such pomp made me stand up tall as I alighted at my destination.

My aunt received me outside in the veranda. She hugged me affectionately repeatedly, expressed her delight that I had come, and then took me inside saying, “Let me take you to Habiba’s room. She is bedridden with a boil on her leg and cannot walk.”

Habiba was with her two younger sisters, two or three daughters of maidservants and perhaps also a couple of girls who were her relatives. I was invited with great informality to sit on her bed and conversation began. Confidences about themselves, information about their neighbours, stories about their villages, romantic sagas of passion, tales of spectres and demons, black magic, gossip about debauched men… oh lord, how much information these girls had! That was the day that I came to understand what a simpleton I was in comparison.

Ghost stories were forbidden in my home, and I had never even seen philtres and potions. The information that a ḍāyan bewitches men into states of utter foolishness, that certain female ghosts speak through their noses and have their feet on backwards, made my hair stand on end. Habiba was just one year older than me, yet she had seen all these things with her own eyes!

But when the girls started talking about how the Munshi has kept his second wife in his house, I couldn’t restrain myself any longer.

What was odd or scandalous in this – where else was he supposed to keep her? Outside? My foolish questions elicited peals of laughter. But I couldn’t bring myself to believe in the truth of what they said – no man could really have two wives.

Habiba’s insistence was that every man had a randi (prostitute). Her father also had one. She doesn’t come to the house, but we go to hers. But what was a ranḍi like? My question once again induced hysterical laughter.

“What’s she like? You don’t know? You are such an innocent fool!’’

A fool I certainly was, because when I returned home with this treasure trove of new knowledge, I reported it all to my mother, and even repeated a few of the observations the girls had made. My mother was exceedingly displeased. It was perhaps because of this that I wasn’t ever allowed to visit them again, although I was always eager to meet those girls of a thousand tales.

Excerpted with permission from Dust of the Caravan, Anis Kidwai, translated from the Urdu by Ayesha Kidwai.

source: http://www.scroll.in / Scroll.in / Home> Book Excerpt / by Anis Kidwai / February 18th, 2021

Hyderabad: Muslim Girls Association to hold audio lectures every Thursday

Hyderabad, TELANGANA:

Those unable to access the zoom link may listen to the talk live on YouTube via link.

(Representative image)

Hyderabad: 

The Muslim Girls Association has invited teachers to listen to audio lectures on topics that will help them get acquainted with best practices at school and in classrooms.

The audio sessions named ‘Teachers Talk’ will be held virtually on Zoom appliction every thursday from morning.6:30 am to 7 am.

The association located at Shanti Nagar, Hyderabad, has requested citizens intersted to click on the link for joining the session.

Meeting ID: 867 1636 8436 and Passcode talk can be used to log in to the session.

Those unable to access the zoom link may listen to the talk live on YouTube via link.

The association has further invited teachers or other people to be a speaker in the sessions by asking them to forward their details on mobile numbers- 9948909657 and 955012397.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> Hyderabad / by News Desk, posted by Masarath Fatima / February 16th, 2023

Acupuncture is a divine gift to heal mankind: Dr Mobina Khan

RAJASTHAN / Pune, MAHARASHTRA:

Dr Mobina Khan is nationally acclaimed Acupuncture and Hijama specialist who into practising acupuncture and Hijama therapy in Pune for more than a decade. 

Widely respected for her qualities of head , heart  and a humane approach in patient care, Dr Khan was born in a village in Rajasthan and later  moved to Libya at a very tender age of 2 or 3 years. She  grew up and studied in Libya , has travelled widely and Iinteracted with the tribals traditional treatment in the host country and their way of treatment which obviously was quite different from the accepted medical practices. Such treatments were limited to only a few countries in Africa and Libya was one of them. Her family used to get treated with those traditional methods.The Mediterranean climate did not suit her mother particularly and she needed constant medical care. During the time of treatment, she was impressed as to how these traditional methods worked. She secretly wished to learn them one day.

After her return to India, Mobina went to Dharamshala in search of alternative therapy and interacted with the monks there and learnt Acupuncture also. She has a Diploma in Acupuncture, Masters in Acupuncture and is  pursuing a Ph.D in Acupuncture. She also has Diploma in Bio-medicine and is a  Member of Global Alternative Medical Association and All India Alternative Medical Association. Dr Khan is a student of Hijama Nation, a Society based in London which teaches Hijama.  She has submitted some of her  successful cases to them and those case studies have been published on their website. It is said that only one condition cannot be cured by Hijama – death!

Q) How did you become interested in acupuncture?

Ans-While in Libya, I had seen some tribals doing treatment with cups, fire and needles which got me interested. Being young at that stage, I had forgotten about it and then while studying for Acupuncture I became aware of wet cupping and then I started researching about Hijama. A combination of Acupuncture and Hijama/ wet cupping gave far better results to my patients than Acupuncture or Hijama alone.

Q) Who all have been your source of inspiration for your career ?

Ans-The tribals in Libya themselves were an inspiration and the effect that their treatment had on my body. I never liked to consume the medicines. To be truthful, I did not have the normal immunisation that all the children had in their childhood. As I began Acupuncture and Hijama, my patients became my inspiration as I saw them leading a normal life.

Q) What have been the key achievements in your career so far ?

Ans- I must have successfully treated several cases, including cancer patients. One gentleman was told that he would not live for more than 8 days and he came to me on the 5th day. After a continuous treatment of 5 months, his Medical Reports did not show any signs of cancer. Another person aged 84 came to me with stage 5 Prostrate cancer. With dedicated treatment his PSA count drop to 0.4 from 1000. A 13 year old girl came to me with Lupus disease which is an auto-immune disease in which the cells start attacking themselves. Her treatment is still on after 10 months. Her condition has improved remarkably. One person was sent back from the Hospital stating that he had Liver failure and had few days to live. It’s been three years now and the person is hale and hearty. One boy came to me with a tumour on his Liver. After the treatment, the Reports showed no sign of tumour. Mr. Subash Sanas had vertigo which was cured within 15 days of treatment. Mr. Yusuf Kapasi was on sleeping pills for years due to his working schedule. With 2 months of treatment, he started leaving a normal life. Mr. Rajiv Kapoor also gets treated for his well being and general de-toxification.

Q) Which role do you enjoy the most in the field of patient care ?Ans-Actually, the whole process – from diagnosis to an ailment free person – is a challenge. For me, a person is a diseased body and my aim is to make that person live happily. I am a friend at times, mother at some other and a teacher too. No one single role is fulfilling.

Q) How has acupuncture contributed to the society ?

Ans-Acupuncture is an alternative medicine which has existed for more than 5000 years now and still exists and helping the mankind with its benefits. The modern life is too fast paced, too stressful and too demanding and intoxicating. Today we see that the humans are looking for ways of the past to deal with the demands of modern life. And Acupuncture also fits the bill.

Q) How does acupuncture stand different from other branches of medicine ?

Ans-Human body becomes diseased when the flow of energy is restricted. Acupuncture opens up these channels and restores the balance of the energy in the body – Yin (female energy) and Yang (male energy). Acupuncture is not invasive and does not introduce anything foreign in the body except of course the needle. It has no known side effects – Acupuncture either works or it does not work.

Q) Is it possible to root out any illness of human body with the help of acupuncture ?

Ans- Yes, it is. Again Acupuncture alone may not be that effective and has to be complimented with other sciences. For example, I use Hijama as a complimentary aid which is another alternative therapy. I specialise in mainly immunity related diseases.

Q) What kind of treatments do you specialize and how has been the patient response to these treatments ?

 Ans-I specialise mainly in the immunity related diseases.

Q) Which are your favourite tools for treating patients ?

 Ans- All of them. I do not have much choice as there a few that are used.

Q) What are your future professional goals ?

Ans-I want to reach out to as many people as I can by opening Hospitals, have branches. The kind of results that I have experienced are immensely encouraging. I want to see Acupuncture and Hijama to get the same kind of recognition that other branches of medicines are getting. I want the Government agencies to encourage these alternative methods of treatments. I want to open an Academy where I can teach people what I do.

Q) Please explain the concept of Hijama and how is it beneficial to the society at large ?

Hijama is practised in Muslim world and is like wet cupping in Chinese medicine. It involves creating a vacuum by taking a fireball inside cup which causes a suction of superficial level of skin and that area is then pricked by a needle and the vacuumed cup is again placed on the pricked area and blood oozes out into the cup. Hijama facilitates removal of toxic blood, rejuvenates creation of new blood cells and releases endorphins. It is said that Hijama is a cure for all illnesses except death!

Q)Can you list out some of the common myths of acupuncture profession ?

Ans-I have found people being scared of needles. No one wants to experience pain therefore probably popping a pill is so much easier. But no pain, no gain!

Q) How can acupuncture be used for the betterment of humanity ?

Ans-The very fact that Acupuncture is still around even after 5000 years later speaks of its potency. Acupuncture is not being taught as compared to any other form of medicine. One would rarely find a course in India. There should be more practitioners and it should be a part of the Medical Association curriculum.

source: http://www.punekarnews.in / PuneKar News / Home / Pune

Madiha Pathan secures 10th rank in Gujarat Civil services exam

Juhapura (Ahmedabad), GUJARAT:

Madiha Khan Pathan with her parents

Madiha Habibullah Khan Pathan of Juhapura, Ahmedabad, has secured 10th rank in the Gujarat Public Service Commission in her first attempt.

Madiha Pathan, 24, was home-taught by her father Habibullah Khan Pathan, who is a class one officer in the Gujarat High Court. Her mother is an advocate.

On her success, Madiha Pathan said, “I had been prepared for the examination from 2019. Due to the lockdown in between, I couldn’t write my examination.”

Madiha Pathan has done her schooling in Ahmedabad and graduated in law.

She said “I started preparing for GPSC in 2019 and passed the preliminary exam the same year. However, due to Covid, the final examination was postponed for two years and I could appear only in 2022.” 

Habibullah Khan Pathan said since Madiha’s childhood, he had been pushing her to reach the highest position through education. “Today we are very happy that our girl has made her mark by securing 10th rank in the Gujarat Public Service Commission examination.”

“Parents should provide an environment for studies to their children,” Pathan said and added, “through education, one can achieve a lot in the world, the respect and status that you get from it comes in the fate of very few people.”

Habibullah Khan Pathan said he used to teach Madiha every day for two hours in the morning and in the evening after returning from work. 

“I am proud that I have successfully played the roles of a teacher and a father.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Mohammad Akram, New Delhi / February 24th, 2023

‘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