Meet Dr. Aakif Anjum Shaikh Usman, the First Engineering Doctorate from Maharashtra’s Malegaon

Amazing Feats, Education, Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), Science & Technology, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Malegaon, MAHARASHTRA :

Dr. Aakif Anjum with his supervisor Dr. A.A. Shaikh

Malegaon: 

In a city where the dreams of many are shaped by the resilience of its people, there is one story that stands out as a beacon of perseverance, intellect and boundless ambition. This is the story of Dr. Aakif Anjum Shaikh Usman, who, in 2024, made history by becoming the first person from Malegaon to earn a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering. His journey, from a small hamlet to the prestigious National Institute of Technology (NIT), Surat, is not just one of academic success, but of overcoming adversity, defying odds and inspiring future generations.

Growing up in Malegaon, Aakif was shaped by the values of education instilled by his late father, Shaikh Usman, a primary school teacher. His father’s influence was pivotal in cultivating Aakif’s deep passion for learning and academic excellence. “My father always believed that education was the key to a better future,” he recalls. “He taught me to never give up, no matter how difficult the journey.”

Aakif’s academic journey began at The Malegaon High School and Junior College, where he laid the groundwork for the challenges ahead. It was here that he first realised the importance of hard work and perseverance. After completing his schooling, Aakif pursued his Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) degree in Mechanical Engineering at the PREC Engineering College in Loni, Maharashtra, where he graduated in 2016.

His thirst for knowledge and ambition propelled him to further his education, leading him to pursue a Master of Technology (M.Tech.) in Mechanical Engineering from the Government College of Engineering, Karad, Maharashtra, in 2018.

But Aakif’s aspirations did not stop there. He set his sights on a Ph.D. at the prestigious National Institute of Technology Surat (NIT Surat), a dream that seemed distant for a young man from Malegaon. In 2024, after years of dedication and hard work, Aakif achieved what many thought impossible — he earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering. He became a trailblazer for future generations in his city.

From right Dr. Aakif Anjum and his research team

Under the mentorship of Dr. A.A. Shaikh, head of the Mechanical Engineering department at NIT Surat, Aakif conducted groundbreaking research that spanned various facets of optics and laser technologies. His research resulted in 19 published papers in prominent international journals, including Elsevier, Optics and Laser Technology, Infrared Physics and Technology and the Journal of Engineering Research.

His work has earned him recognition on global platforms, with his discoveries being presented at two international conferences. Aakif is also the proud holder of a patent in laser technology, with another patent currently under review.

Aakif’s research was not just academic; it was also practical and impactful. His work was backed by two rounds of funding from Gujarat’s Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP), an initiative designed to support young innovators. This recognition from the Gujarat government underscored the real-world applicability and inventiveness of his contributions to the field of mechanical engineering.

Further amplifying his global influence, Aakif has collaborated with esteemed institutions such as King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Saudi Arabia, Khalifa University in Dubai and Deakin University in Australia. These collaborations have solidified his place in the global scientific community, further highlighting Malegaon’s potential to contribute to cutting-edge research and technological advancements.

Dr. Aakif Anjum Shaikh Usman’s achievements are a testament to the power of education, perseverance and the importance of supporting one’s community. By becoming the first Ph.D. recipient in mechanical engineering from Malegaon, he has opened the doors to a future where the youth of Malegaon and beyond can dream big and aim high.

Aakif’s journey is a shining example of how dreams can be realised through dedication, hard work and the unshakeable belief in the transformative power of education.

As Malegaon celebrates the achievements of one of its own, Aakif’s story serves as a beacon of hope for countless aspiring engineers, scientists and innovators in his city and beyond. His journey, from a small hamlet to the hallowed halls of NIT Surat, is a reminder that with determination, no goal is too distant and no dream too big.

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> Indian Muslim / by SN Ansari, TwoCircles.net / November 19th, 2024

Arabic Language & Culture Competition: Abdulqadir Mohammed Meera Shaikh from Honnavar wins 1st prize

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Karnataka (under research project), NRI's / PIO's, , , ,

Manki Village (Honnavar Taluk,Uttara Kannada District), KARNATAKA / Medina, SAUDI ARABIA :

Riyadh:

Abdulqadir Mohammed Meera Shaikh, a student from the Islamic University of Medina and hailing from Manki village in Honnavar Taluk, Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, has won the first prize in the prestigious Arabic Language and Culture Competition.

Held in Riyadh and organised by the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, the competition saw over 1,000 students from various nationalities showcasing their skills in Arabic language proficiency and cultural understanding.

Abdulqadir’s exceptional performance earned him a gold medal and a significant cash prize.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / November 17th, 2024

Sania Zehra is the honey Queen of Kashmir

Agriculture (since June 07th, 2021), Business & Economy, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , ,

Balhama, JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Sania Zehra (All pics by Basit Zargar)

It is no longer true that women in Kashmir cannot work or run businesses. As circumstances change, people’s mindsets are evolving as well. Nowadays, there is hardly any difference in how entrepreneurship is perceived by both men and women; they are working side by side and competing equally.

Breaking barriers and forging their paths in business, Kashmiri women are shining in vibrant colors. Another inspiring example is Sania Zehra, a 20-year-old resident of Balhama, who is a champion in beekeeping.

She is not only the backbone of her family’s longstanding business but also a shining example for her entire community. Sania said that beekeeping has been her grandfather’s business, which her father took over, and now she is in this line of work as the third generation.

Sania Zehra taking care of the bees

A Kashmiri beekeeper, Sania Zehra, displays a beehive full of honeybees at a farm in Pampore, south of Srinagar. Zehra, a young girl from Balhama on the outskirts of Srinagar, is working to revive her familyÕs beekeeping tradition, along with her father. Beekeeping in Kashmir requires more care during the winter as temperatures drop below zero degrees, making the bee farming a challenge.

“In the beginning, I used to help my father, but I often felt bored and just tried to pass the time. I never thought I would develop an interest in it, but today I am so passionate that I handle everything from beekeeping to its marketing myself.”

She mentioned that the profits from the business have enabled her to grow further, and she is also involved in import-export activities. Sania reflected on why she chose beekeeping when there are many other businesses: “Beekeeping is mentioned in the Quran; it carries great blessings from Allah. It doesn’t matter that I am a girl; what matters is the capability to work. I believe that beekeeping is a respectable profession and also has healing properties.”

She acknowledged that no journey is easy, especially in Kashmir and for women. “I faced a lot of trolling at the start, even from close relatives, but Alhamdulillah, I never lost heart. I always tried my best to focus on my work, and today I am genuinely satisfied.”



Honey bees sit on the hand of a Kashmiri beekeeper at a farm in Pampore, south of Srinagar. Zehra, a young girl from Balhama on the outskirts of Srinagar, is working to revive her familyÕs beekeeping tradition, along with her father. Beekeeping in Kashmir requires more care during the winter as temperatures drop below zero degrees, making the bee farming a challenge.

Sania stated that not only does she earn a decent income, but her beekeeping business has also allowed her to expand into other ventures. “I produce beauty products, wax, and even green pollen from beekeeping.” She emphasized that the government is providing support for this business, and anyone interested can approach the concerned department to gather complete information about these schemes.

In her message, she said, “No job is too small. One should work with dedication and honesty, and Allah will bless even the smallest of efforts.”

The trend of women in business is on the incline in Kashmir. For centuries, women have battled a stereotype that involves staying home to cook, clean, and care for the family. However, a new generation of young female entrepreneurs is overcoming all the challenges. As per the figures, under the Prime Minister’s Employment Guarantee Programme (PMEGP), 14,943 projects have been established by women in the last three years. This initiative has played a vital role in promoting women’s participation in the workforce.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home>Story / by Basit Zargar, Srinagar / November 19th, 2024

AMU Professor Jawaid Iqbal takes charge as VC of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University

Education, Leaders, , , , , , , , ,

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH / Rajouri(JAMMU), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Aligarh:

Professor Jawaid Iqbal, an eminent academic from the Department of West Asian Studies and North African Studies, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has been appointed as Vice-Chancellor of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) in Rajouri, Jammu. He has taken over the charge of his office. His appointment was made by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on October 15, 2024, for tenure of three years.

Prior to this appointment, Professor Iqbal held several key administrative roles at AMU. He served as the Dean of the Faculty of International Studies and Chairman of the Department of West Asian and North African Studies. He also held the position of acting Vice Chancellor of AMU.

The AMU fraternity feels immense pride in his elevation to this prestigious role, said Professor Naima Khatoon, Vice Chancellor, AMU, adding that it is a testament to the high standards of scholarship and leadership cultivated at AMU.

Prof Mohammad Gulrez, and Prof. Mohammad Azher, Chairman of the Department of West Asian and North African Studies at AMU, also congratulated Prof Iqbal on his new role.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Uncategorized / by Radiance News Bureau (headline edited) / November 19th, 2024

Former Bureaucrat and Author S.M. Khan Passes Away at 67

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Community Involvement / Social Issues, Leaders, , , , , , , , , ,

Khurja (Bulandshahar District), UTTAR PRADESH :

New Delhi:

The sudden demise of veteran bureaucrat and author Shehzad Mohammad Khan, widely known as S.M. Khan, has left many in shock and grief. Social media is flooded with tributes, with admirers remembering him as a person of “utmost humility and generosity,” reports the ATV.

S.M. Khan passed away on Sunday at the age of 67 after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife and three children. His last rites took place today in his hometown of Khurja in Uttar Pradesh’s Bulandshahr district, according to family sources.

Khan’s passing marks the end of an era in the Indian Information Service (IIS) and public relations field, where he set benchmarks for loyalty and dedication throughout his illustrious career.

Born on June 15, 1957, in Khurja, S.M. Khan completed his education at Aligarh Muslim University and the University of Wales, England. Joining the IIS in 1982, he held several critical roles over the years.

One of his most prominent assignments was serving as the spokesperson for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) between 1989 and 2002. During this time, he skilfully handled media communications for high-profile cases such as the Harshad Mehta financial scandal, Bofors scandal, and Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.

From 2002 to 2007, Khan served as Press Secretary to President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. His tenure included managing the President’s media relations and accompanying him on national and international tours. Inspired by Dr. Kalam, Khan authored Awami Sadar (The People’s President), which shed light on lesser-known aspects of the former president’s life.

Khan also played a pivotal role in shaping Indian media through his work as the Director General (News) of Doordarshan, where he oversaw coverage of significant events such as National Film Awards and Dada Saheb Phalke Award. Additionally, he served as Director of the Directorate of Film Festivals (DFF), representing India at prestigious platforms like the Cannes and Berlin Film Festivals.

Beyond his professional achievements, Khan was deeply involved in fostering interfaith harmony as a trustee of India Islamic Cultural Centre (IICC). Elected Vice President of the IICC in 2019, he dedicated himself to promoting mutual understanding across communities.

S.M. Khan maintained a strong bond with his alma mater, Aligarh Muslim University, serving as a member of its Court and the Executive Council. His efforts in promoting education and cultural understanding continue to inspire many.

His passing is a significant loss to the nation, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, humility, and dedication.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Obiturary / by Radiance News Bureau / November 19th, 2024

Nadeem Ahmed recognised with NSW Government Community Service Award

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, NRI's / PIO's, World Opinion, , , , , , ,

Sydney (New South Wales), AUSTRALIA :

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

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

A leader with compassionate  and vision

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

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

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

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

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

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

Transformative community initiatives

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

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

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

Looking ahead

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

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

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

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

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

Crescent AusIndia: A pillar for Queensland’s Indian Muslims

NRI's / PIO's, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Brisbane (Queensland), AUSTRALIA :

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

AGM 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unsung heroes of freedom movement from Belgaum Munshi Mazahar Ali

Community Involvement / Social Issues, First War of Independence 1857 / Naval Mutiny 1946 / Others PreIndependece (wef. July 27th, 2022), Freedom Fighters (under research project), Karnataka (under research project), , , , , , , , , ,

Belagavi (Belgaum) , KARNATAKA :

Munshi Mazahar Ali was a freedom fighter of Belgaum who lived near HESCOM counter at Kacheri Road, Shaniwar Khoot, Belgaum.

He was said to be a butler in the British army at the Belgaum regiment and being a staunch Muslim, was a follower of Wahabi moment. This movement was strictly against British rule in India and played an important role in First Independence war of 1857.

The Belgaum gazette (page 133) refers this great son of the land as “One Muslim Munshi in the army at Belgaum, who had been a Wahabi, was discovered instigating the others, transported for life in the connection “

Munshi Mazahar Ali was involved in the “Reshmi Rumal Movement “and was arrested by the British. He was assassinated at the Race Course grounds in presence of thousands of people.

The Corporation of the City of Belgaum has given the name of Kacheri Road as “Munshi Mazahar Ali Road”. But even now Kacheri Road is used by Govt and the public.

source: http://www.allaboutbelgaum.com / All About Belgaum / Home> History / by editor / August 14th, 2009

Important to convey ideas, themes with probity: Nadeem Khan on translating from Marathi to English

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ),

Amravati, MAHARASHTRA :

Khan, whose last worked on the translation of Patil’s Panipat, a voluminous Marathi language classic published in 1988, said translating into English from any of the Indian languages is like moving into a different culture as idioms, emotional framework and cultural resonances change with language.

In 2018, Khan had translated two novels of Dongare, a Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puruskar winner who is regarded as an avant garde writer in regional literature.(Source: Amazon.in | Designed by Gargi Singh)

Being true to the word and spirit of the original work while making it resonate with the English reader is always a challenge, says writer Nadeem Khan, who has been translating the works of celebrated Marathi authors such as Prabhakar Narayan and Vishwas Patil.

Khan, whose last worked on the translation of Patil’s Panipat, a voluminous Marathi language classic published in 1988, said translating into English from any of the Indian languages is like moving into a different culture as idioms, emotional framework and cultural resonances change with language.

“My job is only to convey those ideas and themes in another language with the greatest probity and as attractively as possible,” Khan told PTI in an email interview. According to Khan, authors use different dialects of the language to describe their characters but it is tricky to transform something that has word-play involved, like in the case of another celebrated Marathi writer Avadhoot Dongare.

“Hence, being true to the word and spirit of the original work and yet making it resonate with the English reader is always a challenge. But my good fortune has been that I have grown up reading great works of translation of Tagore, Ismat Chughtai, Manto, Rajinder Singh Bedi, Vijay Tendulkar and that helped me find the right strategy for my work,” Khan said.

In 2018, Khan had translated two novels of Dongare, a Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puruskar winner who is regarded as an avant garde writer in regional literature. They were published in a single book titled, The Story of Being Useless + Three Contexts of a Writer. While translating Patil’s Panipat, the 69-year-old retired English professor had “serious difference of opinion” with the author, who is also his friend.

“I could so clearly see why it was such a big hit with the Marathi readers, but I also knew that a verbatim translation would take it nowhere among the English readers. The novel was a thrilling historical narrative, well-researched, but it appealed to the self-regard of the Marathi readers. So, my challenge was to retain all its epic qualities, its thrill and yet ensure that it targeted the universal admiration for integrity and courage,” Khan said.

Khan said he wanted the book to stand apart as an original historical-thriller in English while also carrying the aroma of the soil in which it was located. Comparing the styles of Marathi writeres such as late Prabhakar Narayan alias Bhau Padhye, Patil and Dongare, Khan, who lives in Amravati, Maharashtra, said each translation comes with a unique set of challenges.

“The texture of their language is very different, their readership is different, their well-springs and motivations are different. With Padhye, obviously, I didn’t have the facility of consulting him, but I found myself very comfortable with his philosophical and literary orientation and derived a different pleasure in offering him to the English readers.” Dongare, he said, has already made a name for himself in the world of regional literature.

“When I read his novels, I was absolutely sure that he had to be made available to a wider discerning readership. He was experimenting with the language and with the narrative style. “Translating him required me to catch and project the culture in which his characters were operating, very often the culture of the Pune streets, and to find the adequate register in English. It was quite challenging, and therefore very rewarding too.”

Khan said he tweaks the original writing to make it more English-reader-friendly but only after consulting with the original author as they have the last word. “I never allow myself to forget that the original work is theirs, the ideas are theirs, the themes are theirs, the messages are theirs, in fact, the reputation at stake is theirs, it’s their neck on the block…Their complete agreement with my effort is of paramount importance.”

source: http://www.indianexpress.com / The Indian Express / Home> News> Books & Literature / by PTI / January 06th, 2021

A peek into the trade history of Bunder at KCCI office

Business & Economy, Karnataka (under research project), , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Maps showing trade history of Bunder area in Mangaluru displayed at the trade history gallery of KCCI in Mangaluru which was opened on November 11, 2024. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

A gallery showcasing the trade history of Bunder in Mangaluru was opened at the office of Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) here on Monday.

‘Spaces of Memory’ displayed at the gallery giving information on the trade history of Bunder said that Mangaluru is witnessing exponential development in the 21st century, led by the Special Economic Zones, IT parks and start-up hubs, attracting thousands of aspirants as well as global investors. While the city explores newer frontiers, Mangaluru’s built heritage in trade plays a silent yet crucial role in amplifying this growth. At this very juncture, the gallery remains a timely retelling of Mangaluru’s past, providing a learning opportunity for its reflection over the present, and a tribute to all those makers of its past, present and future.

Home for all

It said Mangaluru of the Kannadigas, Kudla of the Tuluvas, Kodial of the Konkanis, Mangalapuram of the Malayalis or Mykala of the Bearys — every community’s affinity to the ancient port town is reflected in them calling it their home. The Konkanis, migrating from Goa about 400 years ago, settled in Mangaluru and prospered on the banks of the confluence of Netravathi and Gurupura.

The Kutchi Memons and the Dawoodi Bohras of Gujarat, who settled in Mangaluru dealing in areca nut and salt, today give the locals a run for their money in spoken Tulu and Kannada.

The Jewish trader of the 12th century, Abraham Bin Yiju, called Mangaluru his home for 17 years, trading with various communities in the port-town.

The natives comforted, welcomed and provided ample space for each of the communities. While they settled in carefully characterised localities around their brethren, the communities came together in the Bunder — the band (enclosed) and da (gate, door) derived from Persian for a forted port — While the kings, sultans and emperors clashed over the control of the port and thrived on its trade, the communities, overcoming their socio-cultural differences, stood together and celebrated each other’s achievements.

These strong bonds of coexistence cemented Mangaluru as a prominent maritime junction, where the merchants from across the world stopped for pepper and coffee, brought down the ghats along the “great and very fair” inland river.

Cosmopolitan port

Giving an overview of the gallery during the inauguration, Niren Jain, architect of the gallery project, said there is historical evidence to show that Bunder was a cosmopolitan port for many centuries.

Mr. Jain said that the excavation for the New Mangalore Port half a century ago revealed a hoard of 270 coins of Vijayanagar kingdom, including gold ‘Varaha’ and copper coins.

He said inscriptions also report two mints – one at Arthapura (present day Attavara in Mangaluru) and another at Barkur in Udupi district during the period of Alupas. By the mid-8th Century CE, coins bearing the symbols of Alupa rulers have been found in Mangaluru, denoting an in-house currency for trade.

The renovated meeting hall of the KCCI was also inaugurated on the occasion.

source: http://www..thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Mangaluru / by The HIndu Bureau / November 12th, 2024