700 films, 50 blockbusters, 40 double roles! India’s first superstar who’s stardom was bigger than AB, SRK

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy

KERALA :

Prem Nazir brought the golden era to the Malayalam film industry. He made a place in the hearts of people with his acting and generosity. In his 39 years of career, he made such records related to cinema which are almost impossible for the actors of today’s era to make or break.

Image Source : X / India’s first superstar was Prem Nazir

Whenever we talk about the most successful actors of India, then the names of Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Dilip Kumar or Kamal Haasan come to our minds. But do you know there was a bigger superstar than these actors who made such records that are impossible to touch even today? Today we are going to tell you about that Indian superstar, who has given not one or two but 700 hit films.

Who was India’s first superstar?

We are talking about Prem Nazir, the superstar of Malayalam films of the 50s. Yes, the veteran star of Malayalam cinema is also called the actor who brought the golden era of Malayalam cinema. Prem’s acting was so powerful that every director of that era wanted to cast him in his film. Talking about Prem Nazir’s record, he made many big records like doing the most films, most double roles, most triple roles and about 130 films with the same heroine. Due to this, not two or three but 39 of his films were released in the year 1979.

How is Nazir different from other superstars?

To understand how great Prem Nazir’s record is, we tell you through a comparison. The biggest name in Indian cinema, Amitabh Bachchan, has less than 60 hit films as a lead actor, out of which 10 are blockbusters. Now comes the talk of South superstar Rajinikanth, who has a record of more than 80 hits and more than a dozen blockbusters. Let us now talk about the three Khans as well. Salman Khan has given 39 hit films out of which 15 are blockbusters, followed by Shah Rukh Khan who has given 34 hit films including 10 blockbusters. Aamir Khan is far behind with 20 hit films including 6 blockbusters.

You will be surprised to know that even after adding the hit films of all these actors, they do not even come close to the number of hits of Prem Nazir along with 50 of these being blockbusters. He played the lead role in more than 700 films due to which his name is recorded in the Limca World Record. 

Other records in the name of Prem Nazir

Prem Nazir has many other records to his name. He worked with 85 heroines. Till the year 1975, Prem worked with actress Sheela in a total of 130 films. This is because he considered Sheela as his lucky charm. He played double roles in more than 40 films. Apart from this, he also appeared in triple roles in three films.

Nazir is also remembered for his compassion

Prem Nazir’s presence is a big reason why the Malayalam film industry was called the Golden Age. Prem was such an actor that if any of his films flopped, he would immediately ask the producer to start another film. The actor would take out dates from his busy schedule and do the producer’s films so that his losses could be compensated.

source: http://www.indiatvnews.com / India TV / Home> News> Entertainment> Celebrities / by Satish Verma, New Delhi / November 12th, 2024

The Great Mughals review – dazzling decorous delights waft you to paradise

Events, Exhibitions, Conferences (wef. Nov 18th, 2021), Leaders, Museums, Libraries (wef. April 16th, 2022), Royal Families, PreIndependence -Descendants (wef. Jan 02nd,2022)

INDIA :

Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor, who built the Taj Mahal to commemorate his favourite wife. Photograph: The Trustees of the Chester Beatty Library, Dublin

V&A, London
Romance, bloodshed and religious curiosity is distilled in these lovely artefacts from the mighty military reign with a love of beauty and culture

This exhibition wafts you to the paradise that Shah Jahan, fifth of the Muslim emperors of much of modern India and Pakistan, wanted to create on Earth. A floor-covering decorated with red poppies sets the scene for this idyll of calmness. A rippled stone panel with myriad water spouts had me dreaming of fruit trees and pavilions while I was cooled by a stone jali screen that once filtered air through one of his buildings. These lovely objects help to fill in for his masterpiece, which for obvious reasons can’t be here: the Taj Mahal.

It is shown on a big screen above the portable delights, twinkling white in the hazy Agra sky. Shah Jahan famously built it as a mausoleum for his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth in 1631; his tomb is there beside hers. It may be familiar but this piece of architectural heaven captivatingly distils the extraordinary civilisation that a warlike dynasty from Central Asia bequeathed to the world.

The original founder of Mughal power led his armies from Kabul into northern India. When this first empire collapsed it was resurrected by Akbar, first of the exhibition’s “great” Mughal rulers, who combined military might with a love of culture and beauty that his successors would share.

The giant Zumurrud Shah flees with his army, from the Hamzanama, circa 1562-1577. Photograph: MAK/Georg Mayer

Akbar was illiterate but that didn’t stop him employing Hindu and Muslim artists to create a library of illuminated manuscripts. He had readers to tell him what the words said; anyway you can follow the epics he favoured from the ravishing illustrations. In a scene from one of his favourite story cycles, the Hamzanama, a giant with a long beard and bright red coat is chased away through the clouds by Hamza’s army.

The court painting style started by Akbar combines closely observed reality with transporting fantasy. A princess of Kabul lowers her hair for a lover to climb up against a brilliantly realistic garden where ducks swim in a rectangular pool, while above rises a dreamlike mountain landscape and a palace floating in the sky.

In the reign of Akbar’s successor, Jahangir, who came to the throne a couple of years after James I was crowned in England, a natural historical and scientific curiosity sharpens the paintings. In about 1612, a North American turkey cock reached the court and the renowned artist Mansur painted it. The bird – with its orange head, long drooping beak and fan tail – seems to pose as patiently for its portrait as Jahangir himself does in a painting of him studying a globe.

The Great Mughals were interested not just in globes but the globe. They embraced religious complexity and did not expect the Hindu population to convert to Islam. In fact, these curious rulers were attracted to Hindu mythology and mystics. In a painting entitled A Muslim Pilgrim Learns a Lesson in Piety from a Brahman, the pilgrim walks through a rolling north Indian landscape where he encounters a Hindu mystic lying in the road in true spiritual humility. The Mughals were also attracted to the mystic Islamic Sufi movement. That is represented here by a Sufi dervish’s drinking horn and Sufi-inscribed tiles from a now-vanished mosque in Lahore.

Their art absorbed influences from Persia to Renaissance Europe. Portuguese merchants are depicted visiting the Mughal court and, more mysteriously, speaking with angels as the court artists try to make sense of their strange Christian religion.

The exchange went both ways. A Mughal round shield, covered in lustrous mother of pearl patterns and pictures, has been lent by the Bargello Museum in Florence. This dazzling luxury object entered the collection of the Medici family in the 1590s.

This shield never saw battle, plainly, but the Mughals didn’t create their gorgeous world without bloodshed. Many weapons here are opulent and lethal: curved daggers with jewel-encrusted hilts and scabbards, “punch daggers” with floral decoration.

Art itself could be a fantasy of killing. There’s a portrait of Jahangir standing on a globe, shooting an arrow at close range at the severed head of his enemy Malik Ambar. This never happened, but the painting may have eased the emperor’s desire for revenge against this formerly enslaved Ethiopian who rose to be regent of a sultanate and a thorn in Jahangir’s flesh.

When the battles are won and the day’s hunting is over, you drink wine from a jade cup poured from a slender-necked ewer and walk in the gardens to be soothed by the pitter patter of fountains. Where is paradise? A Mughal court poet offered an answer you might agree with by the end of this show: “It is here, it is here, it is here.”

 The Great Mughals: Art, Architecture and Opulence is at V&A South Kensington, London, from 9 November to 5 May

source: http://www.theguardian.com / The Guardian / Home> Art> Review / by Jonathan Jones / November 06th, 2024

Saleem Ahmad: Pioneering Sustainable Development

Business & Economy, Leaders, Science & Technology, , , , , , , , ,

NEW DELHI :

Sustainable development is at the crux of modern real estate and infrastructure projects, shaping how we build and live. In this landscape, leaders who can seamlessly integrate sustainability into their operations are invaluable. Saleem Ahmad, with his strategic vision for sustainable development, exemplifies this leadership. As the newly appointed Director (Projects) at NBCC (India) Limited, Saleem’s expertise is instrumental in advancing sustainable practices within the industry.

The Journey – Then and Now

Saleem’s journey in civil engineering began with his graduation from Jamia Millia Islamia University in 1990. His extensive career spans over 33 years, during which he has held significant roles at the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and the Mumbai Port Trust.

At DMRC, where he served as Executive Director (Civil), Saleem played a pivotal role in implementing last-mile connectivity solutions, greatly enhancing urban mobility in Delhi. This experience laid a solid foundation for his current role at NBCC, where he continues to drive innovative and sustainable projects.

Today, in his role as Director (Projects) at NBCC, Saleem oversees some of the most ambitious and complex projects across the nation. His leadership is marked by a commitment to quality and sustainability, ensuring that projects are not only completed on time but also adhere to the highest standards. He has successfully led diverse projects, from hospitals and educational institutions to critical infrastructure like Indo-Pak border fencing and the Gosikhurd irrigation project. Saleem’s strategic vision and meticulous attention to detail have made him an invaluable asset to NBCC.

Handling project challenges is an integral part of Saleem Ahmad’s role at NBCC. He approaches these challenges with a blend of strategic planning, effective communication, and adaptive problem-solving. His methodology includes risk assessment and mitigation, stakeholder communication, adaptive problem-solving, resource allocation, and quality assurance. Saleem’s ability to navigate unforeseen challenges and deliver successful outcomes underscores his expertise and resilience in the construction industry.

Saleem Ahmad’s approach to project management extends beyond technical execution to include community engagement and sustainable practices. During projects like the redevelopment of 7 GPRA colonies, he ensured active participation from residents and local authorities, maintaining transparent communication and minimising disruptions. His focus on enhancing social infrastructure, such as parks, schools, and healthcare centres, reflects his commitment to improving the quality of life for communities. His advocacy for sustainable practices is also evident in his promotion of energy-efficient designs. Saleem emphasises the use of eco-friendly materials, passive design techniques, energy modelling, and the integration of renewable energy sources. His efforts contribute to the creation of sustainable and energy-efficient buildings, aligning with global standards of responsible urban development.

His approach to project management emphasises sustainable growth and people-centric execution. By fostering collaboration and innovation, Saleem has significantly contributed to NBCC’s reputation for delivering high-quality and environmentally responsible projects.

Awards and Recognition

Saleem’s contributions to the construction and real estate sectors have earned him widespread recognition. He was honoured with the “Realty Person of the Year Award” at the EPC World Awards in New Delhi, a testament to his exceptional work and dedication.

Additionally, his transformative leadership at Hindustan Steelworks Construction Ltd. (HSCL) turned a loss-making PSU into a profitable Mini-Ratna entity, earning him the “CEO with HR Orientation Award” by the World HRD Congress and Times Ascent.

These accolades highlight Saleem’s ability to inspire and lead teams towards success. His recognition in the industry underscores his commitment to excellence and his strategic vision for sustainable development.

Advocacy and Work Ethics

Saleem is a staunch advocate for sustainable growth and people-centric project execution. His work ethic emphasises client satisfaction, excellence, and environmental responsibility. He has presented numerous papers on sustainable infrastructure and urban mobility at national and international forums, sharing his insights and advocating for environmentally responsible construction practices.

His commitment to sustainable development ensures that the projects he leads contribute positively to the environment and society. Saleem’s advocacy for sustainable infrastructure is evident in his efforts to promote energy-efficient designs and the use of eco-friendly materials.

Saleem’s extensive experience, leadership qualities, and people-centric approach make him a distinguished figure in the real estate and construction sectors. His journey from a passionate civil engineering graduate to the Director (Projects) at NBCC is marked by significant achievements, a commitment to sustainability, and a vision for the future of urban development. Saleem continues to inspire and lead with empathy, strategic foresight, and an unwavering dedication to excellence, significantly contributing to the success and growth of NBCC.

source: http://www.tradeflock.com / Trade Flock / Home> Industry Pioneers / 2024

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

Amazing Feats, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Community Involvement / Social Issues, NRI's / PIO's, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , ,

KERALA / Doha, QATAR :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

IPS officer Abdul Ahad appointed BMTC Security and Vigilance Director

Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , ,

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

IPS officer Abdul Ahad

Bengaluru:

Senior IPS officer Abdul Ahad, who was serving as the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) of the Bengaluru City Crime Branch (CCB), has been transferred as the Director of Security and Vigilance for BMTC.

Earlier, the senior officer from Mangaluru’s Moodbidri served as the Superintendent of Police (SP) of the Coastal Security Police. In September last year, he was appointed as the DCP of the CCB.

Abdul Ahad has also held several key positions, including DCP of Bengaluru’s Whitefield division, SP of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Bengaluru, SP of the Economic Offences Wing at CID, and Commandant at KSRP.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / November 15th, 2024

Talent speaks louder than words at school science festival in Kerala

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Education, , ,

Malappuram / Kozhikode , KERALA :

What is more exciting is that Ajay was trained by a visually impaired instructor from Malappuram.

Noushad & Ajay Balu

Alappuzha :

As the allotted time for the work experience events was almost to end, Ajay Balu, a Class V student from Rahmania School, Kozhikode, was busy crafting items from waste materials.

A regular participant at the State School Science Fair for the past three years, the visually impaired 10-year-old boy was thrilled to learn arts, attend the event and acquire more skills. “I have learnt to make craft items from waste materials and made swings, tables, chairs etc here. I have been trained by my teachers for the past two months and am excited to participate in these events,” says Ajay.

What is more exciting is that Ajay was trained by a visually impaired instructor from Malappuram. Noushad T has been working in the field of teaching art and craft to students with special needs for more than two decades now. “Being a visually impaired person, I was trained by several teachers in my school days. Now I am passing it on to these children,” he says, adding that children with special needs are skilled in arts. “There may be challenges. These children, however, show a talent for comprehending and completing tasks quickly. It is an advantage,” he adds.

As many as 957 students from 43 special schools across the state participated in the work experience category for visually and hearing impaired students in LP, UP, high school and higher secondary sections, held on Saturday. The competition was held in 22 categories.

At another end of the hall was G Vishnu, a Class X student, making life-like sculptures out of clay which won him the first prize in the category. Vishnu, a hearing-impaired artist, had bagged the first prize in clay modelling competitions for the past five years in the State School Science Fair in the work experience category and was also the first prize winner in cartoon and painting competitions in the State School Arts Fest.

Vishnu, a student of Fr Agotino Vicini’s Special School in Kochi, has been trained by Kochi-based sculptor Stanley from a very young age. “Training kids with difficulties is a task in the initial stages. But when they find interest in the craft, they grasp it quickly. Vishnu is an exceptionally talented student and you can see that in the art he made with years of training,” said Stanley.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Good News / by Anna Jose & Manisha VCS / November 17th, 2024

Mangaluru girl Salwa achieves Ph.D. in research on new treatment strategy for Alzheimer’s disease

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), Karnataka (under research project), Science & Technology, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru: 

Aiming to contribute a breakthrough in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) treatment, Mangaluru girl Salwa has successfully completed her Ph.D. in a unique area of pharmaceutical research focused on developing lipid nano-carriers for oral delivery of an anti-Alzheimer’s drug. Her research offers promising advancements in the treatment of AD, a condition affecting millions globally and growing in prevalence.

Guided by Dr. Lalit Kumar, former Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutics, and co-guided by Dr. C Mallikarjuna Rao, Professor of Pharmacology, both from the Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Salwa’s work addresses the urgent need for more effective drug delivery mechanisms to treat Alzheimer’s beyond temporary relief.

Alzheimer’s, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, has been challenging to treat due to limited therapeutic options, especially those capable of effectively reaching the brain. Her research seeks to improve brain-targeted drug delivery using lipid nano-carriers, potentially offering a scalable, industry-ready solution that could change the approach toward treating Alzheimer’s disease and provide real improvements in quality of life for patients.

The young researcher has a strong academic background, having qualified for the Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT) with an All India Rank (AIR) of 724, which earned her a fellowship for postgraduate studies. She was awarded a prestigious National Doctoral Fellowship (NDF) from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and received intramural research funding from Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) for her Ph.D. research.

Alzheimer’s, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, has been challenging to treat due to limited therapeutic options, especially those capable of effectively reaching the brain. Her research seeks to improve brain-targeted drug delivery using lipid nano-carriers, potentially offering a scalable, industry-ready solution that could change the approach toward treating Alzheimer’s disease and provide real improvements in quality of life for patients.

The young researcher has a strong academic background, having qualified for the Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT) with an All India Rank (AIR) of 724, which earned her a fellowship for postgraduate studies.

She was awarded a prestigious National Doctoral Fellowship (NDF) from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and received intramural research funding from Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) for her Ph.D. research.

Throughout her doctoral journey, Salwa received multiple honors, including travel grants from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the University of Toronto, and the International Brain Research Organization (IBRO). She was also a recipient of the PRAISE award for two consecutive years (2022 and 2023), alongside numerous research publications and patents.

Her parents, the late Abdul Samad and Sahira Banu, and her siblings have been an enduring inspiration throughout her academic and research journey. The young researcher’s future plans include furthering her work to explore how her developed nano-carrier system could support neuronal regeneration, potentially advancing Alzheimer’s treatment options for millions worldwide.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / November 12th, 2024

Yakoob Mansuri saves infants in Jhansi hospital fire, loses his own twin daughters

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues

Jhansi, UTTAR PRADESH :

Image Credit: PTI

Jhansi:

Yakoob Mansuri, a young man in his 20s, became a hero for several children on Friday night. However, he couldn’t save his own newborn twin daughters from a fire at the hospital.

Originally from Hamirpur, Yakoob, a food vendor, had been sleeping outside the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College. His two newborn daughters were admitted there for treatment. With his wife Nazma, Yakoob stayed at the hospital, taking turns to watch over their babies.

When the fire broke out on Friday night, Yakoob broke the glass window and rushed into the NICU to rescue as many infants as he could. Unfortunately, his twin daughters were not among those he managed to save. Their bodies were found on Saturday. Yakoob and Nazma waited outside the hospital all day, their faces reflecting deep sorrow.

Similarly, Sanjana Kumari, who had recently given birth to her first child, found her joy turn into grief. “My baby was burned to death before my eyes, and I could only watch helplessly. The hospital’s negligence destroyed my dreams. I couldn’t even hold my child,” she said, wiping away her tears.

Santoshi Devi from Jalaun, who had brought her baby to the hospital due to delivery complications, also lost her child in the chaos of the fire. She identified her baby’s body on Saturday. “I heard loud screams, but my baby was gone,” she said, overwhelmed with grief.

Just 11 days ago, she had given birth to a baby who is no longer with her. “I heard loud noises and rushed to the scene, but how could I save my child? Nobody told us what was happening,” she lamented.

Sonu and Sanjana, who had admitted their baby due to respiratory issues, also lost their child in the fire. “We were told not to feed him, so we stepped away for a while. By the time we returned, the NICU had been ravaged by the fire,” said Sanjana. “We did everything we could, but in the end, he was taken from us,” said Sonu, while his brother Parsuram recounted their struggles: “We sold everything and took loans, all in the hope that he would survive.”

Niranjan Maharaj from Lalitpur identified his grandchild’s charred body by its name tag. “The hospital staff didn’t act in time,” he alleged.

Families of the victims have accused the hospital of negligence, claiming that timely intervention could have saved lives. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire and lapses in safety protocols.

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

Asif Ahmed’s food ATM in Kolkata is set for expansion

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, FREE : Food, , , , , , , , , ,

Kolkata, WEST BENGAL :

Asif Ahmed and his group of Volunteers of the Kolkata We Care group

A 320-litre refrigerator laden with food – the leftovers from the restaurant and at homes of citizens – placed at a busy crossing of Kolkata is ensuring that the poor and needy do not go hungry in the City of Joy.

Thanks to the initiative launched by Asif Ahmed, co-owner of Sanjha Chulha restaurant, whose concern for food wastage and food insecurity many around him had led to his initiative on the first Food ATM of the city.

The initiative has recently expanded with more civil society groups including the Kolkata We Care group NGO led by Imran Zaki.

“It broke my heart to see good, edible food being discarded at the end of the day, knowing it could nourish someone in need. As a restaurateur, I was often faced with the dilemma of what to do with the surplus food. The idea of redistributing it to the hungry was not just a solution – it was a responsibility,” Asif Ahmed said.

Asif Ahmed’s idea emerged from his concern for thousands around him facing food insecurity. He placed a big refrigerator with a transparent door at the roadside with neatly packed food donated by those visiting the restaurant, the restaurant itself, and the citizens inside. People can pick up the food. The volunteers even distribute food by visiting various vulnerable communities in the city.

The feeding the needy programme has since been relaunched through collaboration among Asif Ahmed’s outlet, the Kolkata We Care group, the Rotary, Round Table, and JITO (The Jain International Trade Organisation).

The initiative feeds almost 50 people daily and Asif plans to involve the Kolkata Police in it.

“The initiative has since become a beacon of hope and plans are underway to involve Kolkata Police to further strengthen its reach and impact in the community,” he said.

 The Food ATM is crafted with care to meet safety standards while overcoming the logistical challenges of food distribution. Like cash in an ATM, food is now available to anyone who needs it, stored in a transparent refrigerator placed in a public space.

Asif Ahmed said, “We wanted to ensure that those who come to the Food ATM feel a sense of dignity. No one should feel ashamed for needing help; everyone deserves respect and compassion.”

The We Care group comprises people from various backgrounds who took charge and came together for the movement. Pilot projects also started in schools like Birla Bharti School in Taratala and BDM High School in Narendrapur which aims to raise awareness through students.

The movement has bloomed well in local organisations and volunteers joined hands in educating donors to inculcate a culture of giving. It has set up one Food ATM at the busy Park street and is planning more.

Sana Ahmed, who works in an NGO, said, “We teachers can instill the right values in children by making them more cautious of food, its usage and recycling. Students’ involvement will deeply impact their growth during formative years and raise a generation when they quickly absorb and value food and the act of giving.

Asif Ahmed says, “The system could be easily replicated and the viability and success inspired further expansion in multiple locations in Kolkata. Although it started at CIT Road but I felt its impact was restricted to that area only. It was later centralized and expanded to serve a broader range of people within a feasible 5 to 10 km radius. We have plans to come up with one in Park Street and the location of another is not decided yet.”

The first Food ATM operates during restaurant hours, from 12 noon till 11:30 PM, with volunteers distributing food in slum areas close by as it is easier to manage.

Asif Ahmed shared a touching story of a lowly paid security guard who struggled with a wage of Rs. 10000- 12,000. He would get his meal from the ATM and it helped him sustain his family and meet ends.

“The Food ATM was a crucial support for him and others like him, making it easier to access meals without compromising their self-respect”, added Ahmed.

Another goosebump scene that Asif remembers is that of a small girl, who approached the Food ATM apprehensively and picked up the food packet before vanishing in the thin air.

Imran Khan, a resident of Park Circus Area, said, “It was a poignant experience to see a child, hungry finding comfort in the food provided. The gratitude and relief in these moments highlight the significant impact of the initiative in bridging the gap for those in need.”

The initial investment includes purchasing freezer units, building secure structures, and installing security measures. The recurring costs involve electricity, regular maintenance, and staffing. Asif Ahmed says he is open to adopting new means and technologies for the initiative.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home>Story / by Hena Ahmed, Kolkata / August 13th, 2024

Waris Khan is Rajgarh’s first Good Samaritan for saving 7 lives

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, , , , ,

 Biaora(Beawar) (Rajgarh District) MADHYA PRADESH : 

Waris Khan (with garlands) being honoured by citizens

The saga of Waris Khan of the Biaora city in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh has reached Chief Minister Mohan Yadav in Bhopal earning him the first “Good Samaritan” award in the district.

A plumber by profession, Waris Khan, lives in the Tal Mohalla of Beawar and supports his family of five members. He worked as a plumber against a temporary vacancy in the municipality 12 years ago, was fired from his job. He had to face a lot of hardships in life following loss of his job.

He however, continued to support his family through his plumbing job and also other jobs of cleaner, and a daily wage labourer.

However, his life took an unexpected turn on the morning of 13 November 2024 and he became a celebrity overnight.

Waris Khan revceving the Good Samaritan award from DM Dr. Girish Kumar Mishra

On that day Waris Khan was on his way from Biaora to Binaganj on his motorbicycle. He saw a car meet with an accident on Highway due to a technical snag. There were 7 people of a family from Shivpuri in the car. There were two small children and women among them.

After the car overturned, all its doors got locked. Seeing the horrific scene, Waris parked his bike aside without delay and reached the car. He broke the glass of the car with his hands and started taking out the people trapped inside.

He took care to first extricate the children followed by women and finally the men trapped in the car.

Waris carried out his deed without expectations of publicity or fame. In fact he doesn’t have a smartphone nor is he connected to social media.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav speaking to Waris Khan on video call

Despite this, the news of his bravery reached the media and the administration.

According to officials, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav spoke to Waris Khan through video call and inquired about his well-being. He told him, “You are the pride of Madhya Pradesh.”

Giving information about the incident, Waris said that he was going to Binaganj on a bike, when the car coming from the opposite side accidentally fell into the ditch.

Chief Minister Yadavs aid, “Waris, you have done a very good job. Helping each other in times of trouble is true humanity. Your work will inspire everyone.”

The Chief Minister promised him a reward of Rs 1 lakh. However, Waris Khan asked Chief Minister to appoint him on his previous job in the municipality. Reports say the Chief Minister agreed to fulfill his demand.

Waris Khan briefing DM Dr Girish Kumar Mishra on his reScue operation

Waris Khan was awarded the first award “Good Samaritan” award by the district adminitration. Rajgarh Collector Dr. Girish Kumar Mishra presented him a cheque of Rs 5,000 as token of appreciation for his act of bravery.

The Good Samaritan Award Scheme is a program by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) that provides cash awards and certificates of appreciation to people who help road accident victims.

Introduced in 2015, the award is given to a person who has provided immediate assistance to a road accident victim and rushed them to a hospital or trauma care center within the Golden Hour of the accident.

This scheme was introduced to cut down the road accident rates in India.

Kumar said, “What Waris Khan did is an example of true humanity. He saved people’s lives without any selfishness. His work is an inspiration for the entire society. Such people will be encouraged in the future too.”

Yadav also directed all collectors to honour courageous people like Waris on the occasion of 15 August.

After the CM House and the Public Relations Department praised Waris Khan, he is continuously receiving praise. Many private organizations are ready to honor him. With his courage and humanity, Waris Khan proved that even an ordinary person can become a hero in times of trouble.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home>Story / by Abdul Wasim Ansari / November 16th, 2024