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

For the love of teaching

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA / Billings (Montana), USA :

A Full circle

Tasneem Fathima Khaleel

Tasneem Fathima Khaleel has had a successful career in academia. However, quite remarkably, she came back to where she started – teaching. M A Siraj reports.

Few people end their careers where they first began; Professor Tasneem Fathima Khaleel is among those few. “I am excited about the opportunity to finish my career in the classroom. And, with a little help, I will be teaching in a new state-of-the-art…facility,” says Tasneem, the first-ever woman to have obtained a doctorate in the State of Mysore in 1970. Prior to returning as a professor of Botany, she served as the dean of faculty at College of Arts & Sciences for a decade at the Montana State University at Billings (MUSB).

Paving a new path

Tasneem has been teaching Botany in the United States for over 40 years and has received many awards for her teaching and research. She has headed, or has been a member on as many as 23 different academic bodies or advisory councils in the US. For her contribution to research, with nearly 50 research publications on subjects ranging from cyto-embriology to plant reproduction, she was awarded the ‘Outstanding Research Award’ in 1995 by the Montana Research Academy and has also won the Faculty Excellence Award five times.

The year 2014 was a special year for Tasneem – she had the rare honour of an award being named after her, for mentoring at the MUSB. Reno Charette, director for American-Indian Education, was adjudged the winner of the first ‘Prof Tasneem Fathima Khaleel Award for Mentoring’.

Tasneem studied in Bengaluru, before heading to the US in 1975 after marriage. An alumna of Central College, Bengaluru, she has coveted every opportunity to visit her ‘City of Gardens’ – which she ruefully admits is more a part of nostalgia rather than reality.

A passionate researcher, she recalls that very few women could be seen in higher studies in those days. Only a couple of them were pursuing PhD while she was registered in Bangalore University as well as teaching biology as an assistant professor at the University of Agricultural Sciences at Hebbal between 1968 and 1975. Her study of ‘Flora at the GKVK Campus’ and ‘Weeds in Karnataka’ are still quoted as seminal works.

Writing her own destiny

Tasneem had finished her BSc and MSc by the time she was barely 19 years old. Wanting to be a teacher, she had put in her application, but was rejected, as the dean told her, “You look like a school girl, how would the students take you seriously?”

Instead, he directed her to register for a PhD programme, which had just been started in the Bangalore University. The Doctorate took longer than usual to complete because there was lack of guidance and direction, and the programme had several fits and starts.

Finally, at 26 when she got her her doctorate, she was being looked as ‘a confirmed spinster’ in her own cultural surroundings. Marriage was nowhere on her mental radar. It took her brother several sittings to convince her of getting married.

Tasneem travelled a long and twisted path – one shaped by her culture and her drive to excel, to become the distinguished professor that she is today. For most Americans who had only preliminary idea of Islam, a woman with covered head and such drive for excellence and perseverance was a combination of incongruities. “Women have rights in Islam. Muslim women didn’t even have to fight for those rights. The religion has given them those rights,” she says.

Dr Stn Waitr, her successor, says, “Dean Khaleel has raised the level of rigour, excellence and success in the College of Arts & Sciences to a standard that should serve as a model for the entire institution.” Interestingly, Tasneem even built a herbarium at the MUSB, which has around 17,000 specimens and is currently engaged in digitising it. She recalls with pride that she was the most productive member on the faculty of science at the MSU, which has nearly 22,000 students today in two campuses. Tasneem’s most significant discovery was the finding of mammalian steroids in plants, which she says, are responsible for sex expression in plants.

Author of four books, 10 external and 17 internal grants at the MSUB, Tasneem is excited about beginning her teaching career once again. “It had never ended. I had maintained a room in my department building, even while I headed the faculty,” she says.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> Content / by M.A. Siraj / June 26th, 2015

MSUB readies to part with long-time Professor Dr. Khaleel

January 15, 2025Amazing Feats, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, Women/Girls(since May26-2021)American Indian, Bangalore Muslims, Dr Tasneem Khaleel, Dr Tasneem Khaleel - Awarded - Inaugral Faculty Award for Exceptional Support of Students with Disabilities, Dr Tasneem Khaleel - Dean - College of Arts and Sciences - University of Montana - USA, Indian American, Indian Muslim Women in USA, Indian Muslims, Indian Muslims in USA, Indians in Montana, Indians in USA, Indians of Bengaluru in USA, Karnataka Muslims, Muslim Women of Bengaluru, Muslim Women of Bengaluru in Education, Muslim Women of India, Muslims of Bengaluru, Muslims of Bengaluru in Education, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Muslims of Karnataka, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslim Women of Bengaluru, Positive News of Muslim Women of Bengaluru in Education, Positive News of Muslims of Bengaluru, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive News of Muslims of Karnataka, Positive Stories of Indian Muslims, Positive Stories of Muslims of India, Prof Dr Tasneem Khaleel - Montana State University Billings - USA, Prof Tasneem Khaleel - Awarded - Walter and Charlotte Pippenger Excellence in Innovation Award 2017, Professor Tasneem Khaleel - Professor & Chair - Biological & Physical Sciences Department - Montana State University - USA, Professor Tasneem Khaleel Ph.D, Tasneem Khaleel, Tasneem Khaleel PhD - University of Bangalorempositiveone@gmail.com

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA / Billings (Montana), USA :

After teaching for over 40 years, Dr. Tasneem Khaleel is retiring

MSUB readies to part with long-time Professor Dr. Khaleel

Retirement party in honor of Dr. Khaleel set for 2 p.m., April 26 in the Beartooth Room in the Student Union Building. Food and refreshments will be served.

Retirement party flyer here

Contacts:

University Relations, 657-2266

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES — Hanging on the wall in Dr. Tasneem Khaleel’s office are the many awards and accolades marking the dedication and service she has given to Montana State University Billings over the past several decades.

Khaleel is retiring at the end of this semester and her presence and legacy will be with the science department and University for years to come.

Dr. Christine Shearer, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, said that without the dedication and perseverance of Khaleel, the College and its students would not be where it is today.

“Dr. Khaleel has devoted her professional career to Montana State University Billings in a variety of capacities. She has been a tireless researcher and developer of the internationally-renowned Herbarium, a deeply committed advocate for the sciences and science education, a leader of a complex and diverse unit, and has been a staunch supporter and mentor of female scientists and academic professionals in all disciplines,” Shearer said. “Her tenacity and resilience advanced the College of Arts and Sciences and its programs, including the establishment of the Women’s and Gender Studies Center, which serves the university and the community. Her involvement in Girls-n-Science impacted hundreds of young women planning STEM careers.”

Khaleel has been paving the way for women in STEM since the beginning of her career. She has the honor of being the first woman recipient of a Ph.D from Bangalore University, India, where she graduated with a degree in Botany in 1970.

In 1976, Khaleel would begin her tenure with MSUB, as would her signature project: the establishment, maintenance, and management of the internationally known MSUB Herbarium.

“The Herbarium is one of my professional accomplishments that I am most proud of,” Khaleel said.

Dr. Tasneem Khaleel, center, assists Heidi Carter, left, and an unknown student during a lab experiment. (Photo circa 1980)

Post-retirement, she will continue being involved in the herbarium, which includes some 16,000 vascular plant specimens, some of which date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s. The Herbarium serves as a tool for basic research in plant systematics, ecology, phytogeography, and evolution.

While Khaleel’s career is highlighted by the 11 years she served as dean for the College of Arts and Sciences, from 2004 to 2014, she has no regrets to returning to the classroom before retirement.

Throughout her time on campus, she moved up from an assistant professor to department chair and says coming full circle made her last two years with students, “the best.”

“I wanted to retire as a faculty member,” Khaleel said. “Having that time as Dean allowed me to hear so many perspectives that my focus shifted when I returned to the classroom. My focus shifted from teaching to learning, to becoming a mentor and being more supportive.

These last two years have been very rewarding.”

This year, Khaleel received the Walter and Charlotte Pippenger Excellence in Innovation Award.

For the last eight years the Tasneem and Shafiq Khaleel Endowment for Scholarships to Science has provided $1,000 awards to two students.

source: http://www.msubillings.edu/ucam/releases.2017/2017apr19Khaleel.htm / University Communications and Marketing / April 19th, 2017 / Montana State Univeristy Billings

Dr. Tasneem Khaleel – Professor, botany and biology, Billings, MT

January 15, 2025Amazing Feats, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, Women/Girls(since May26-2021)American Indians, American Muslims of Indian Origin, Dr Tasneem Khaleel, Dr Tasneem Khaleel - Awarded - Inaugral Faculty Award for Exceptional Support of Students with Disabilities, Dr Tasneem Khaleel - Dean - College of Arts and Sciences - University of Montana - USA, Female Indian Muslims in Education, Indian American, Indian Americans, Indian Muslims, Indian Muslims in Education, Indian Muslims in USA, Indian Origin American Muslims, Muslim Women of Bengaluru, Muslim Women of India, Muslims of Bengaluru, Muslims of Bengaluru in Education, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Muslims of Karnataka, Muslims Women of Bengaluru in Education, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslim Women of Karnataka, Positive News of Muslims of Bengaluru, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive News of Muslims of Karnataka, Positive News of Muslims of Karnataka in Education, Positive Stories of Indian Muslims, Positive Stories of Muslims of India, Prof Dr Tasneem Khaleel - Montana State University Billings - USA, Professor Tasneem Khaleel - Professor & Chair - Biological & Physical Sciences Department - Montana State University - USA, Professor Tasneem Khaleel Ph.D, Tasneem Khaleel, Tasneem Khaleel PhD - University of Bangalorempositiveone@gmail.com

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA / Billings (Montana), USA :

Tell me about your education?

My Ph.D is from India, at Bangalore University and I was the first woman to get a Ph.D from that university. I started education at a very young age because I started school when I was about 3. In those days there was not an age limit to start school, when your parents felt you were ready they took you to school. From then on it was up to you. When I started off, there was no kindergarten or pre-school, it was first grade. I sat on the teacher’s lap most of the time because I was so little.

Why did you study botany?

When I was a student in India, botany was a man’s field. They did not really take women in graduate courses for botany because they look at botany as a field science. Since the graduate seats were so limited they didn’t take a whole lot of graduate students. They thought if they took in a girl student, the only option for her would be to teach botany, not go out to the field. They still looked at women in those days as better at home and in the classroom than in the field. That was a challenge for me. I just wanted to prove to them one could be in the field as well.

When did you know you wanted to become an educator?

Oh I loved teaching right from the beginning. One of the reasons you do your masters in any discipline in India was so that you can teach in college. When I graduated with my masters degree in botany, I was 19 years old at the time and so I went off to find a job. There was one person who was in charge of recruiting and allocating all of the lecturer positions. So I talked to him and said, I need a job but he took one look at me and said, you look like you just came out of high school. He didn’t think I would be impressive enough in front of a classroom and to be able to control a classroom, the kids wouldn’t take me seriously. So I sat there and cried, I wanted the job and he refused to give me something that I had a passion to teach. I didn’t want to keep all the knowledge to myself. So then he said how about if you went and did a Ph.D. and then came back a few years later and by then you will have grown up a bit. I took him up on that option but there was no Ph.D. program at the university so he said he would help start one, which he did. And then we got the university grant fellowship to support me and I did my Ph.D. By then I wasn’t interested in going to him anymore to teach because people were after me to come and teach being I was the first woman with a Ph.D. there.

Tell us about your passion, building the herbarium at MSUB?

The value of the herbarium is based on what plant collections you have in it. When I first came here there were just two wooden cabinets here, with maybe 500 specimens. And they said, this is your herbarium. It was shocking because where I came from there is a whole building dedicated to the herbarium. So I challenged myself to build a herbarium here. The very first grant I wrote was to buy herbarium cabinets. The next step I did was to call out to local agents here who had small collections to see if they were willing to consolidate to a central location. The US Forest Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Land Management and Rocky Mountain College were all very willing to give collections and we incorporated those in our herbarium. Over the years, the herbarium is a part of the national database with about 16,000 specimens.

Of the classes you teach, what is your favorite?

All of my classes are my favorite classes. I love teaching. I teach freshman biology, in fact that’s one of my most favorite classes to be honest. That’s when students are first starting out and I’m introducing them to biology for the first time and to get them excited about that. I really enjoy doing that and it gives me opportunities to mentor students because they’re just starting out. My second most favorite is plant systematics, they are both equally enjoyable classes for me. I just love teaching botany.

source: http://www.msubillings.edu/snapshots/2015-16/Khaleel.htm / msubillings.edu / by Cassie Winter, University Communications and Marketing / October 09th, 2015 / Montana State Univeristy Billings

MCIE Award for Support of Students with Disabilities

January 15, 2025Amazing Feats, Women/Girls(since May26-2021)Dr Tasneem Khaleel, Dr Tasneem Khaleel - Awarded - Inaugral Faculty Award for Exceptional Support of Students with Disabilities, Dr Tasneem Khaleel - Dean - College of Arts and Sciences - University of Montana - USA, Indian Muslim Women in Education, Indian Muslims, Indian Muslims in USA, Muslim Women of Bengaluru, Muslim Women of India, Muslim Women of Karnataka, Muslims of Bengaluru, Muslims of Bengaluru in Education, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Muslims of India in USA, Muslims of Karnataka, Positive New of Indian Muslim Women, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslim Women of Bengaluru, Positive News of Muslim Women of Karnataka, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive News of Muslims of Karnataka, Positive Stories of Indian Muslims, Positive Stories of Muslims of India, Prof Dr Tasneem Khaleel - Montana State University Billings - USA, Professor Tasneem Khaleel - Professor & Chair - Biological & Physical Sciences Department - Montana State University - USA, Professor Tasneem Khaleel Ph.D, Tasneem Khaleelmpositiveone@gmail.com

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA / Billings (Montana), USA :

Professor Tasneem Khaleel, Ph.D.

Professor Tasneem Khaleel is an extraordinary educator, who has set the standard for excellence among her peers and captured the hearts and impacted the lives of her students through exceptional teaching and caring.

For four decades, Professor Khaleel’s leadership in the Department of Biological and Physical Sciences has been innovative and visionary, influencing generations of science students.

Her absolute passion for supporting her students as well as MSUB’s mission have been recognized with numerous honors and awards. But, this year Dr. Khaleel is the recipient of an award she says she is proudest of—the inaugural Faculty Award for Exceptional Support of Students with Disabilities.

Tasneem’s positive nature and friendly manner are a welcoming presence, explained by her student nominator.

“Dr. Khaleel’s guidance has helped me adapt to college life. She patiently taught me how to use lab equipment and spent extra hours in the lab helping me with my assignments. I have talked to other students with disabilities, and they agree that she goes the extra mile to assure they have a fair chance,” her student nominator said.

“This reward is very meaningful to me,” she said. “These students are special to me. Anybody can teach an ‘A’ student—they just need pointed in the right direction. But to bring a student who has no confidence in their abilities due to his/her disability, who has to compete with the ‘A’ students in class, and to have the courage to come to class everyday. I think this is the biggest reward of teaching.”

She adds that she thinks it takes more courage on the part of the student than that of the instructor.

“The least the instructor can do is be supportive and give these students the self assurance they need to perform. Nothing is beyond their abilities.”

She is an example of someone who does not treat her role simply as a checklist of duties, but a mentor who uses her position to educate, inspire and encourage those around her.

As one colleague notes, “Tasneem is an exemplary educator and leader: She is innovative, she thinks about teaching and learning far beyond her own discipline, and she inspires others to do the same.”

source: http://www.msubillings.edu/faculty/2016/khaleel.htm / Montana State University Billings

The Tasneem and Shafiq Khaleel Endowed Scholarship

January 15, 2025Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, Science & Technology, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), Useful / SCHOLARSHIPS, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World OpinionDr Shafiq Khaleel, Dr Shafiq Khaleel - Veternarian, Dr Tasneem Khaleel, Dr Tasneem Khaleel - Dean - College of Arts and Sciences - University of Montana - USA, Indian Muslims, Indian Muslims in Montana USA, Indian Muslims in the USA, Muslim Women of India, Muslims of Bangalore, Muslims of Bengaluru, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Muslims of Karnataka, Positive New of Indian Muslim Women, Positive New of Muslims of Bengaluru, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslim Women of Bengaluru, Positive News of Muslim Women of Karnataka, Positive News of Muslim Women of Karnataka in Education, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive News of Muslims of Karnataka, Positive News of Muslims of Karnataka in Education, Positive Stories of Indian Muslims, Positive Stories of Muslims of India, Professor Tasneem Khaleel - Professor & Chair - Biological & Physical Sciences Department - Montana State University - USA, The Tasneem and Shafiq Endowed Scholarship, The Tasneem and Shafiq Khaleel Endowed Scholarshipmpositiveone@gmail.com

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA / Billings (Montana), USA :

Giving back to the community that has supported them for over 30 years was so important to Tasneem and Shafiq Khaleel that they set up an endowed scholarship at MSU Billings in 2006. The Khaleels place a high value on education and where it can take you in life. From the moment Billings, Montana, became their home, they have reached out to the community to share their Indian culture and to offer help to those in need or educate those who would discriminate against them.

Since those early years at MSU Billings, Dr. Tasneem Khaleel has achieved full professor, was chair of the Biological and Physical Sciences department for many years, served as chair of Graduate Studies, and was Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Shafiq Khaleel has built a successful veterinary practice and a rose garden that is the envy of Billings. According to Tasneem, “We both came to this country with an education that has allowed us to be who we are today. If the scholarship allows even one student to achieve his/her goals, it will be one more educated citizen who will have the potential to make a difference.”

The Tasneem and Shafiq Khaleel Endowed Scholarship was designed to help motivated students achieve their goals and ease some of their financial burden in completing their education. The first scholarship was awarded in academic year 2008-2009.

Impact

I am humbled to have been given the opportunity to receive the special scholarship from you both. Dr. Tasneem Khaleel, you have been a role model for me since I had you as my first science class professor at MSUB. I was honored to meet Dr. Shafiq and shake your hand that one afternoon when you picked Dr. Khaleel up from work. The scholarship you both have provided will give me the opportunity to help pay for my college another year at MSUB; it will forever be remembered. Impacting my life to support one more year of school is a stepping stone that will forever support my future endeavors. Again, thank you.” — Sarah G., Biology and Pre-Professional Medicine major

Scholarships

Tasneem and Shafiq Khaleel Endowed Scholarship

source: http://www.msubillings.academicworks.com / Montana State University University Billings Scholarships

Meet Humairah Shami: Kolkata’s Budding Karate Champion – A Tale of Talent, Perseverance and Dreams

January 13, 2025Amazing Feats, Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World OpinionFemale Athletes of India, Female Athletes of West Bengal, Female Muslims of Kolkata, Humairah Shami, Humairah Shami - Anjuman Girls High School - Kolkata, Humairah Shami - Awarded - International Sports Award - King Sany Wijaya Nata Kusuma - Padjadran Kingdom of Indonesia, Humairah Shami - Indian Athlete, Indian Athlete, Indian Muslim Athletes in Sports, Indian Muslim Female Athletes in Karate, Indian Muslim Girl Karate Champion - Kolkata, Indian Muslim Girl Karate Champion - West Bengal, Indian Muslim Girls in Sports, Indian Muslims, M A Ali, M A Ali - Founder - Indian Karate Associaion - Kolkata, MA Ali - Karate Coach - Kolkata - West Bengal, Muslim Women of India, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Muslims of Kolkata, Muslims of West Bengal, Nikhat Fatima, Positive news of Female Athletes of India, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive News of Muslims of Kolkata, Positive News of Muslims of West Bengal, Positive News on Muslims of Kolkata, Positive Stories of Indian Muslims, Shami Ahmedmpositiveone@gmail.com

Kolkata, WEST BENGAL :

Humairah After winning Championship in Thailand

Humairah Shami, a young Karate champion from Kolkata, has recently earned the honour of representing India at the 7th World Meet, scheduled to take place on May 8, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand, at the Royal Rattanakosin Hotel. This prestigious event is organised by the World Martial Arts Council. Although she is thrilled about this incredible opportunity, Humairah faces a challenge – the limited financial resources that may prevent her from attending.

Her father, Shami Ahmed, repairs footwear for a living. But due to poor health, he cannot work regularly. Her mother, too, has been battling a serious illness for the past three years. Despite these challenges, Humairah, along with her siblings, who are in grades 7 and 10, continues to pursue her education with the support of relatives.

However, these obstacles have not dampened her spirit. Humairah’s determination to follow her dreams led her to enrol in a self-defence course at the Indian Karate Association. Encouraged by the academy’s founder, M.A. Ali, who seems to have recognised her potential and took her under his wing, she was trained free of charges. Humairah’s agility and passion for the sport enabled her to quickly master the karate techniques. It led her to qualify in the 45 kg weight category. She triumphed in every competition she entered.

In 2023-24, Humairah earned a gold medal in Thailand. Her journey to Thailand was made possible thanks to the support of her schoolteachers and well-wishers who contributed to her travel expenses. She was also honoured with the International Sports Award by King Sany Wijaya Nata Kusuma of the Padjadran Kingdom of Indonesia.

His Majesty the King Sany Wijaya Natakusuma of Padjadaran Kingdom Indonesia honouring Humairah with International sports award 2024 in Bangkok Thailand

Humairah has once again proven herself by qualifying to participate in the 2025 World Meet. Though she is still a blue belt and has a long way to go before earning the coveted black belt, her commitment remains unwavering. “I took up Karate for self-defence, and I will continue to persevere until I achieve my black belt,” she says.

Humairah’s talents extend beyond Karate. During her holidays, she completed a crash course in Mehendi (henna) designing, and now, in her spare time after school and studies, she applies Mehdi to fulfil orders and earn some money.

A grade 11 student at Anjuman Girls High School, Humairah lives in the vibrant, bustling lanes of Mufidul Islam Lane in Kolkata. Her siblings look up to her, and her teachers hold high expectations for her future.

Deeply religious, Humairah dreams of becoming a doctor. She believes that her faith in God will help her overcome any challenge that comes her way. “Being able to go to Thailand last year was an impossible dream that came true. So, I am confident that the hurdles ahead will also be overcome, as I have utmost faith in Allah,” she says with a hopeful smile.

At present, Humairah is striving to raise the funds necessary to attend the 7th World Meet. In a remarkable show of resilience, she is using her mehdi art to raise money for her dream. Each intricate design is a testament to her determination to break through financial barriers and make her country proud.

“Despite coming from a financially disadvantaged family, Humairah has excelled in every field she has touched. Her dedication and perseverance have earned her a place in the prestigious 7th World Meet, where she will represent India on the global stage. This is a golden opportunity for her,” says her coach and mentor, M.A. Ali.

He further appeals to all philanthropists, sponsors, and kind-hearted individuals to help Humairah overcome her financial challenges: “Humairah’s story is a call to action for those who wish to invest in a bright young talent. Sponsoring Humairah isn’t just an act of charity—it’s an investment in a future filled with hope, ambition, and success. Let us unite as a community to ensure that financial constraints do not dim the light of this rising star.”

Those who wish to help Humairah in her journey can contribute to the following bank account:

Account Holder Name: Humairah Shami
Bank Name: Punjab National Bank (PNB)
Branch Name: Entally
Account Number: 0088010367851
IFSC Code: PUNB0008820
Mobile Number: 7439884641

With the help of the community, Humairah can realise her dreams and take another step towards making India proud on the world stage.

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> India News / by Nikhat Fatima, TwoCirlces.net / December 31st, 2024

Prof Farah Ghaus Bags Indian Golden Personalities Award

January 13, 2025Amazing Feats, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021)Dr Farah Ghaus, Farah Ghaus, Female Muslims of Uttar Prades, Indian Muslims, Muslim Women of India, Muslims of Aligarh, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Muslims of Uttar Padesh, Muslims of Uttar Pradesh, Positiive News of Indian Muslim Women, Positive New of Indian Muslim Women, Positive News of Aligarh Muslims, Positive News of Award Winning Muslims of India, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslims of Aligarh, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive News of Muslims of Uttar Pradesh, Positive Stories of Indian Muslims, Positive Stories of Muslims of India, Prof Farah Ghaus, Prof Farah Ghaus - Awarded - Best Indian Golden Personalities Award 2025, Prof Farah Ghaus - Department of Anatomy - J N Medical College - Aligarh Muslim University, Prof Farah Ghous - Awarded - Indian Golden Personalitites Award 2025mpositiveone@gmail.com

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Prof Farah Ghaus, Department of Anatomy, J.N. Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University with the Best Indian Golden Personalities Award, 2025

Aligarh:

Prof Farah Ghaus, Department of Anatomy, J.N. Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University has been honoured with the Best Indian Golden Personalities Award, 2025 by the Friendship Forum of India, New Delhi.

Prof Ghaus has been chosen for the award for her commitment to advancing educational excellence in India and empowerment through education, and for her relentless pursuit of innovation, creativity and quality of work on the educational landscape.

The award recognises her pivotal role in shaping the future of thousands of students through her deep commitment to educational reforms, mentorship, and for fostering a culture of lifelong learning.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards / by Radiance News Bureau / January 12th, 2025

A peek into ensembles and fashions of the Royals Nizam and Paigah

January 5, 2025Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Royal Families, PreIndependence -Descendants (wef. Jan 02nd,2022), Women/Girls(since May26-2021)6th Nizam H H Nawab Mir Mahboob Ali Khan, Begum Tahira Sirajuddin Khan, Chowmalla Palace, Clothes of Royalty of Hyderabad, Dr Mohammed Faraaz Khan, Faiz Khan, Fashion of Royal Families of Hyderabad, Fifth Amir of Paigah, H E Lady Vicar Ul Umara, H E Nawab Sir Vicar Ul Umara Bahadur - Amir E Paigah - M A Faiz Khan, H E Nawab Sir Vicar Ul Umara Bahadur - Fifth Amir of Paigah, Indian Muslims, MA Faiz Khan, Major General Nawab Khusru Jung Bahadur CIE, Mohammed Abul Faiz Khan, Mohammed Kamil Khan, Muslim Women of India, Muslims of Hyderabad, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Nawab VI, Nawab VII - Mir Osman Ali Khan, Nida Fatima Khan, Nizam Mir Mahboob Ali Khan, Paigah, Paigah Descendants, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive Stories of Indian Muslims, Positive Stories of Muslims of India, Prime Minister of Hyderabad State - M A Faiz Khan, Princes of Hyderabad, Princess Durru Shehvar, Princess Niloufer, Purana Haveli Hyderabad, Royals Nizam, Royals of Hyderabad, Salarjung Museum Hyderabadmpositiveone@gmail.com

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Paigah decendent Faiz Khan with mother Begum Tahira Sirajuddin Khan, wife Nida Fatima Khan, sons Dr. Mohammed Faraaz Khan and Mohammed Kamil Khan

A visit to the scion of the Paigah family and the great-great-grandson of H.E. Nawab Sir Vicar- Ul-Umara Bahadur, Amir-e-Paigah and former Prime Minister of erstwhile Hyderabad state M A Faiz Khan grew up seeing their family as ardent patrons of homegrown textiles, superior garments, and spectacular gems even as history is witness to the global influence of Indian Prince and Princesses.

He says that a visit to Hyderabad’s Salarjung Museum is an exciting part of a scholar’s life, it becomes more meaningful and engaging to realize that the museum itself is an astounding part of history for those researching elite Indian menswear. A visit to his house can easily get one an insight into the Nizam and Paigah family pictures which gives one a peek into the refined taste of the family and made the family stand out in the pages of history.

Faiz Khan says, “India boasts of a rich tapestry of cultural diversity, each thread intricately woven into the fabric of its magnificent royal heritage but the royal families have since long been the custodians of not just history and tradition but also of opulent style and regal elegance.

“Their grandeur, opulence, and penchant for fashion continue to inspire modern-day designers, setting the stage for some stupendous ensembles that blend the allure of the past with contemporary flair.”

Scion of Paigah Mohammed Abul Faiz Khan wearing a sherwani of his great great grandfather H.E. Nawab Sir Vicar-ul-Umara Bahadur, the fifth Amir of Paigah

He says that the Dress and fashion during the era of the Nizams and the Paigahs included ‘angrakhas’, ‘neema’ and ‘jama’. During the last quarter of the 19th century the ‘achkan’, a fitted cape, and ‘angrakha’ developed with a few improvements into the sherwani which extended slightly below the knee and had four pockets, two upper and two on the sides, and seven buttons in front.

He said that the royals paid homage to the grandeur of their dynasty through their attire. Sherwanis were crafted from rich and regal fabrics like brocade, silk, and velvet which boasted of works like Karchobi, a kind of raised metallic thread embroidery, or Kimkhab a kind of brocade woven with silk and gold or silver threads sometimes set in precious stones too. Gold and silver metals were used in surface ornamentation. Even the weft yarns are said to be of gold and silver wire in himru, mashru and brocade fabrics.

These sherwanis reminiscent of historical figures like the 6th Nizam H.H. Nawab Mir Mahboob Ali Khan or the Paigahs were characterized by intricate embroidery and elaborate embellishments creating an aura of regal elegance. The ‘sherwani’ became very popular among all the public in Hyderabad during the rule of Nizam VI and Nizam VII during the first half of the 20th century. It used to be worn with ‘dastar’ (headgear). The Zari work the timeless elegance and regal grandeur of the noble including the Paigahs added a touch of luxury and opulence.

The colour palettes were inspired by the grandeur of the Nizam’s Palace or the Chowmohalla Palace the first official palace of the Nizam where darbars were held and dignitaries received and from where the administrative offices of the Nizam functioned, which included deep vibrant colours like rich maroon, royal blue and emerald green which symbolized grandeur and elegance then.

Faiz Khan says that the safa an important component of the royal’s attire added a touch of grandeur and lush. Intricately draped, it complemented the colour scheme of the ensemble and featured ornate broaches, echoing the meticulous elegance of the royal era then. Traditional pearls or jewelry including head broaches, often adorned with precious and semi-precious stones evoked the splendor celebrated by royalty and nobility.

Nida Fatima Khan Granddaughter of Major General Nawab Khusru Jung Bahadur CIE married to Faiz Khan of Paigah is wearing a Chowhashya/ Khafa Dupatta and traditional Jewelry.

Footwear like Mojris or juthis showcased elaborate embroidery and designs These designs continue to embrace these elements by grooms honouring the regal legacy of the then royals and embodying the same style during their weddings even today.

The Jama ‘angrakhas’, ‘neema’ the Fez caps and even the head gears known as Dastaar or the Rumi topi have been taken over by the Western attire for day-to-day dressing. Though Sherwani continues to be still popular and worn with a loose ankle-length pyjama or a churidar (legging-like) during festive occasions and Friday prayers sadly it is no longer the power dressing of the 19th century

The Paigah grooms inspired by the then-historical figures adorned themselves with elaborate Polki jewellery head ornament, bajuband, armlets all featuring precious gemstones, which accentuated their royal allure The vibrant colour palette exuded grandeur with bright ruby reds, deep blues, and rich greens transforming grooms into timeless symbols of regal elegance.

The Kimkhab choga the achkans woven in luxury was a different ball game for these men.

Although in possession of immense wealth, it was their refined taste that made some of this Indian royalty and nobility stand out in the pages of history. While the Nizam was the more familiar figure who immediately comes to mind, the Paigahs and their predecessors like Faiz were equally proficient. Faiz Khan adds that the royals were also instrumental in deliberately straying from conventional style norms and introducing it to the women of Indian society at a time when restrictive customs such as the pardah system existed. Here we talk of the cohesive picture of Princess Durru Shehvar, Princess Niloufer, H.E.Lady Vicar –Ul-Umara their iconic style, and how it garnered the attention of designers, legacy brands, and publications from all over the world.

He says that the contribution of the Nizams to textiles is especially noteworthy as he was passionate about good clothes jewellery and delicacies. Nizam Mir Mahboob Ali Khan to store his large collections of clothes built a 240 feet long wardrobe at Purani Haveli Hyderabad in the hallway on either side it had 133 built-in cupboards to accommodate his large collections of clothes shoes, headgear, hats, and accessories.

Today the legacy of the Nizam and the Paigah royals lives on the fashion choices of modern brides and grooms. Inspired by the timeless style of their ancestors, modern brides opt for gharara, saris Khada Dupatta and sharara that pay homage to the intricate embroidery in zardozi gotta patti work.

The safa reminiscent of the ornate turbans complete their royal look. Traditional leather jootis often in coordinating colours, offer a touch of authenticity making the ensemble a bridge between the past and present.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Raja Chotrani / January 05th, 2025

17-Year-Old Saleha Is Shattering Menstrual Taboos in Mumbai

January 4, 2025Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Women/Girls(since May26-2021)Indian Muslims, Muslim Women of India, Muslim Women of Mumbai, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Muslims of Mumbai, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslim Women of Mumbai, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive News of Muslims of Mumbai, Positive News of Muslims Women of India, Positive Stories of Indian Muslims, Positive Stories of Muslims of India, Saleha Khan, Saleha Khan - Award Winning Activist, Saleha Khan - Awarded - Savitribai Phule Award, Saleha Khan - Govandi Slums - Mumbai, Saleha Khan - Mumbai, Saleha Khan - Nominated - International Peace Prize for Children, Saleha Khan - Selected - Ashoka Youth Venturermpositiveone@gmail.com

Govandi-Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

An award winning activist and trainer, Saleha is an inspiration to many !

Period. Just the word alone has the power to make people uncomfortable, but why?

Troubled by the ubiquity of this discomfort, young Saleha decided to take it upon herself to break the stigma and lead the change in her slum in Mumbai city. An inspiring change-maker at 15, the story of Saleha is the clarion call for society at large to start talking about menstruation. It is indeed high time to not just talk but also celebrate these celebrate small steps towards change.

It is shocking that less than half of India’s 355 million menstruating women use sanitary napkins (SNs). These are not mere statistics, but a reality we can no longer ignore. For millions of women in India, the struggle begins with the lack of basic awareness about menstruation and therefore not following the right menstrual health and hygiene practices.

Saleha lives in the Govandi slums, located close to Mumbai’s biggest dump yard, with one of the lowest human development indices of the city. Her brave efforts despite the odds she faces every day may not end the problem that Govandi and even India faces at large but she is surely a part of the solution!

How did it all begin?

Saleha’s journey was not an easy one. Initially, she had minimal support from her family. After marrying off her elder sister, the family was faced with financial difficulties. Then as they faced the choice of sending either Saleha or her brother to school, they did what many families do. She was in class 8^ththen.

Saleha’s family mindset was only able to change with her extraordinary perseverance coupled with months of consistent effort put forward by Save the Children’s team. Today, Saleha is in class 11^th and an active member of Save the Children children’s group in her area.

She was 12 when she first attended a menstruation session in her school.

She recalls: “We were taken to a separate class for the session and boys were not a part of it. I think even if boys don’t menstruate, they too should be educated about it,” says Saleha.

The fact that menstruation is one hush-hush topic that is usually avoided by our parents, teachers and the community.

As an active member of the children’s group, Saleha stood at the forefront of a unique child-led campaign called WASH4LIFE. In this campaign she strongly advocated water and sanitation issues in her community. Saleha has conducted more than 250 sessions on menstrual hygiene and other issues related to water and sanitation-issues over the last three years. She has been able to influence more than 2,500 adolescent girls who have adopted healthy menstrual hygiene practices. She does it through innovative (and fun) methods of messaging such as street plays, photo exhibitions and talk shows – reaching out to over 10,000 community members.

When Saleha first joined the group, she was very fascinated by the program, as it provided an opportunity for her and other children to understand the changes in their body at the time of puberty – something that was not discussed elsewhere. The girls also learned how to use sanitary napkins. She aspired to and then became a trainer very quickly thereafter.

“Twice or thrice a month we conduct sessions for groups of 30 girls. We conduct these sessions after school hours, with each session lasting three to four hours. I made many friends here and also gained confidence.,” she beams proudly.

Saleha remembers, “My father did not speak to me for days when I went against his wishes and conducted training sessions. My mother has only now begun to understand what I stand for. It was tough convincing her, but now she acknowledges the change this has brought about in all our lives.”

Today she has the support from her family, peers, and community.

Her exceptional contribution in various community welfare activities got her the most prestigious award – Savitribai Phule Award. She was also selected as an Ashoka Youth Venturer and will be mentored in leadership skills for one year. More recently she was nominated for the International Peace Prize which she hopes will be a stepping stone for her future endeavours!

Global Citizen India campaigns for better access to menstrual health and hygeine awareness for young girls and women in India. Take action here.

Save the Children, India aims to catalyse a movement for and with children for achieving the greatest improvement in the child rights indicators related to survival, education, development and participation aligning with national and global commitments to tackle exclusion and inequalities.

source: http://www.globalcitizen.org / Global Citizen / Home> Partner> Demand Equity / from Save The Children / April 12th, 2018

Bhopal’s titular queen Saleha Sultan passes away in Hyderabad

January 3, 2025Royal Families, PreIndependence -Descendants (wef. Jan 02nd,2022), Women/Girls(since May26-2021)Amer Bin Jung, Bashir Yar Jung, Begum Sajida Sultan, Bhopal Jama Masjid, Faiz Bin Jung, Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad House - New Delhi, Mohammed Saifullah, Mohammed Saifullah - Historian, Nawab Bashir Yar Jung, Nawab Ifteqar Ali Khan Pataudi, Nawab Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi - Tiger, Nawab Sir Viqar Ul Umra, Omer Bin Jung, Paigah Nawab Bashir Yar Jung, Princess Saleha Sultan, Princess Saleha Sultan - Bhopal, Saad Bin Jung, Safia Masjid - Bhopal, Saif Ali Khan, Sajida Sultanmpositiveone@gmail.com

Bhopal, MADHYA PRADESH / Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Her funeral will be taking place today in Bhopal’s Saifia Masjid where her family members and ancestors are buried.

Bhopal’s titular queen Princess Saleha Sultan. (File photo| EPS)

Hyderabad:

Calm, caring and royal in her mannerisms. This is how those who knew Princess Saleha Sultan, the titular queen of Bhopal who passed away in Hyderabad and whose last rites were performed in the Madhya Pradesh city on Monday, described her.

Born in 1940, Sultan passed away on Sunday of a brain haemorrhage. Her mortal remains were taken to Bhopal on Monday where the funeral took place at the Saifia Masjid where her family members and ancestors are also buried.

She is survived by four sons Amer Bin Jung, Saad Bin Jung, Omer Bin Jung and Faiz Bin Jung. Her husband Paigah Nawab Bashir Yar Jung, whose father Nawab Sir Viqar-ul-Umra constructed the Falaknuma Palace, passed away in 2019.

Mohammed Safiullah, a historian said, “I had known her for at least 30 years. She was very calm, caring and carried herself really well. She made others feel comfortable around her and was full of grace.” Safiullah, who was informed of the tragic news by the Princess’ sons, said, “The last time I met her was on November 4, when her husband Bashir Yar Jung passed away. She was extremely heartbroken.”

Sultan and Jung were married in December 1957 at the Hyderabad House, New Delhi. The function was held under the patronage of the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

“As the eldest child of Nawab Ifteqar Ali Khan Pataudi and Begum Sajida Sultan of the princely State of Bhopal, she was the titular Begum of Bhopal. She was older to her brother Nawab Mansoor (Tiger) Ali Khan Pataudi, the cricket legend,” Safiullah said.

Although she was the eldest, she was never recognised as the head of the erstwhile Bhopal State, despite Bhopal being a matriarchal kingdom. After her mother Sajida Sultan’s death, the title of Nawab passed on to Tiger Patadui.

Sultan and her sons have been embroiled in a court case with Tiger’s son, Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan to procure a share of the ancestral property in Bhopal. In contention is over 6,000 acre of property worth thousands of crores of rupees, including the Bhopal Jama Masjid that is estimated to be worth Rs 1,000 crore.

Another historian Vedakumar Manikonda expressing his condolences said, “For some time in early 90s, we were neighbours. We used to meet now and then.”

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Hyderabad / by The New Indian Express Online Archive / January 21st, 2020