Tag Archives: Indian Muslims

Website of Sayeed Bin Mohammed Naqsh’s paintings launched

Mahbubnagar District / Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Sayeed Bin Mohammed Naqsh was a prominent figure in the Progressive Art Movement, born on September 7, 1921, in Mahbubnagar District, Telangana.

  A self portrait of Sayeed Bin Mohammed Naqsh

Hyderabad: 

A website dedicated to the late Sayeed Bin Mohammed Naqsh, a renowned artist from the 1960s and 1970s, was inaugurated by Prof. T. Gangadhar, the Principal of the College of Fine Arts in Masab Tank.

The launch event for the website, ‘www.sayeedbinmohammed.com’, was organized by his son Hamid Bin Sayeed Babader and daughter Jameela Nishat, and featured a display of some of the artist’s paintings.

Sayeed Bin Mohammed Naqsh was a prominent figure in the Progressive Art Movement, born on September 7, 1921, in Mahbubnagar District, Telangana.

He was known for his innovative approach to portrait painting, initially mastering oil techniques that diverged from Western traditions.

His unique style later evolved to include watercolour, where he infused life into his subjects, often using blue backgrounds to evoke calmness and spirituality.

A recent event celebrated his legacy with the launch of a dedicated website, attended by art enthusiasts, former professors, and colleagues.

During this event, Hamid Bin Sayeed highlighted the distinctiveness of Naqsh’s self-portraits, noting how his method of expression captivated viewers.

In recognition of his talent, Naqsh received the Chattari Gold Medal in 1945 for his remarkable contributions to art, particularly for his ability to intertwine themes of creation and life in his works.

Jameela Nishat, daughter of Sayeed Bin Mohammed Naqsh, noted that her father, like any other artist, was deeply observant of his surroundings and absorbed the essence of life into his art.

She highlighted how he was particularly influenced by the allure of the Deccani marbled miniature paintings housed in the Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> Hyderabad / by News Desk / August 22nd, 2024

Tanzeem-Backed candidates Afsha Qazia, Advocate Imran Lanka & Mohiddin Altaf Kharuri secure key positions unopposed in Bhatkal local bodies elections

Bhatkal (Uttara Kannada District), KARNATAKA :

Bhatkal : 

In the much-anticipated elections held today, Wednesday, at the Jali Pattan Panchayat, Afsha Qaziya was elected as President, while Advocate Imran Lanka was elected as Vice President. Both candidates, backed by the prominent social organization Majlis-e-Islah wa Tanzeem, were elected unopposed.

In a related development, Tanzeem-backed councilor Mohiddin Altaf Kharuri was also elected as Vice President of the Town Municipal Council (TMC) Bhatkal on Tuesday.

The election processes for both the TMC and Jali Pattan Panchayat were supervised by Bhatkal Tehsildar Nagaraj.

The President’s position at Jali Pattan Panchayat was reserved for a General Woman, and the Vice President’s position was reserved for Backward Class A (BCA). In the TMC election, the President’s seat was reserved for an SC woman, and the Vice President’s seat was reserved for BCA. However, since there was no SC woman councilor in the TMC, no nominations were filed for the President’s position. As a result, all three key positions across both bodies were filled unopposed.

The new President of Jali Pattan Panchayat, Afsha Qaziya, is a highly qualified woman with degrees in B.Com, B.Ed, and M.Ed. She has been actively involved in social and community work and has served as a councilor in the Jali Pattan Panchayat for the past 28 months. Advocate Imran Lanka, elected as Vice President, is also highly educated and an active member of the Tanzeem’s political panel. He has been serving as a councilor in the Jali Pattan Panchayat since 2015-16.

The newly elected Vice President of TMC, Mohiuddin Altaf Kharuri, has been serving as a municipal councilor for the past 24 years and has previously held the position of Standing Committee Chairman twice. He also has significant experience serving as the General Secretary of Majlis-e-Islah wa Tanzeem, a century-old social organization in Bhatkal.

Majlis-e-Islah wa Tanzeem continues to have a strong influence in local bodies, with their backed candidates consistently securing key positions in the TMC and panchayats.

source: http://www.sahilonline.org / Sahil Online / Home> Coastal News> Featured News / by IG Bhatkali – (Headline edited) / August 22nd, 2024

Muzaffar Hussain Baig: one of the top 9 India legal geniuses in politics has a tough beginning in life

Wahdina Village / Sringar, KASHMIR / JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Muzaffar Hussain Baig at his home

Muzaffar Hussain Baig is among nine top Indian legal luminaries who also took to politics. He figures in the book Courting Politics by Shweta Bansal, along with other well-known legal bigwigs like Ram Jethmalani, Shanti Bhushan, P Chidambaram, Kapil Sibal, Arun Jaitley, Salman Khurshid, Ravi Shankar Prasad, and Abhishek Manu Singhvi.

Baig, a recipient of Padma Bhushan (2020), who held several top positions in the government – Advocate General of J&K, Deputy Chief Minister, Law Minister, a member of Lok sabha – has risen in life wading through extremely difficult circumstances and yet never allowed anything do diminish his thirst for knowledge and limit his genius.

Having studied Law at the Harvard in the USA after graduating from the Delhi University’s School of Law, he also practiced in the US and Supreme Court of India before shifting to Kashmir. He was keen to make a difference to society and contested Lok Sabha elections as an independent candidate. However, with the onset of the Pakistan-backed insurgency in Kashmir in the summer of 1989, Baig jettisoned his dream of pursuing a political career.

Muzaffar Hussain Baig

Baig is credited with drafting the anti-defection law of the J&K and his legal genius is reflected through the important cases he won in the Supreme Court of India and the J&K High Court.

Baig, 78, was born as the second of eight siblings in Wahdina village near Baramulla in North Kashmir. Though the family had a rich and royal legacy, he lived a life of penury. Baig speaks of he footing two km distance to school barefoot.

At the school, he was seen as a determined and hard-working student. One of his teachers Mohammad Maqbool Shah encouraged him to participate in activities like drama and speech making. Baig also taught to younger students in the school.

He learned the English alphabet in his 6th standard as was the norm those days. Soon, he started speaking in the English language with a “thick Kashmiri accent”. He topped the Board examination of the State in the 8th standard (Middle).

He shifted to Baramulla town,15 km away from home, to study further.

There was no stopping for this genius from then onwards till he joined Delhi University for his LLB and topped the examination. He then joined Harvard, USA, for higher studies and again topped the examination.

“You will find all over the world that there is an inbuilt desire in the minds of people to join politics, not to become Government functionaries but to secure some change for the society”, Muzaffar Hussain Baig told Awaz-The Voice at his residence, overlooking Dal Lake in Srinagar.

The Cover of the Book Courting Politics

He said, “I wanted to see the welfare of people…. had this desire to represent society. I did not even charge anything from my clients for whom it was unaffordable”, he said. “Politics, for me, was not just a profession but a mission to represent my society”.

Baig’s maiden attempt in politics, and as a distinguished lawyer having practiced in the US and Supreme Court of India, brought him to the notice of several political leaders including the then Congress leader and a former Minister, Abdul Ghani Lone, and the National Conference leader and former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah and also former union Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.

Lone had later constituted the Peoples Conference in the 1970’s, after quitting Congress. “Abdul Ghani Lone, with the idea of some change in Jammu and Kashmir, had become important as a political leader”, with mass support in Kupwara. North Kashmir. Lone extended his support to Baig in a couple of subsequent Lok Sabha elections. Baramulla constituency, then comprising Baramulla district of the entire North Kashmir, now comprises three districts, Kupwara carved out in 1979 and Bandipore carved out in 2007.

Describing Abdul Ghani Lone a rebel, who was among several others after having been educated at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Baig said that he (Lone) enquired “about my interest in politics. I was already contesting as an independent candidate, he assured me of his support in Kupwara”, he said.

Muzaffar Hussain Baig as a student in Harvard

Baig added that both of them almost belonged to a similar “deprived background”, and had to suffer together for many years. Abdul Ghani Lone represented his home constituency of Handwara in 1967, 1971 (Cong), 1977 (JP), and Karnah, 1983 (Peoples Conference) both constituencies in the Kupwara district. Things changed with the eruption of militancy late in 1989, leading to a political vacuum. 

Having been at the forefront of political activities in Jammu and Kashmir since the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was launched by the former Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed in 1999, Baig had “good relations” with top political figures including former PMs, Atal Behari Vajpayee and Dr Manmohan Singh. He opines that Vajpayee was “extraordinarily intelligent” and Dr. Manmohan Singh was the most “humble and efficient person”.

Baig equally holds the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in high esteem for his sincerity and clarity of approach. “A Statesman thinks about the next generation and a politician thinks for next elections.’ he said.

On his experiences in the Lok Sabha as a PDP MP from Baramulla between 2014 and 2019, Baig lays importance on the “substance and sincerity in speech” adding that one has to say “things openly for the (welfare of) people”. He hailed the high political qualities of former union Ministers, Ms Sushma Swaraj and Arun Jaitley.

Muzaffar Hussain Baig in his younger days

Given his distinguished legal background, Baig’s association was sought by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed to frame the Constitution of a new political party, which later took the shape of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 1999. There was a need to float a new party while the Congress and National Conference were the only two national and regional level active political parties in the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir. Mehbooba Mufti, elected from the home constituency of Beijbehara in Anantnag district in 1996, was the CLP leader in the State Assembly.

Apart from practicing in the US after his post-graduation in the Law, Baig, being a senior counsel practiced extensively in J&K High Court, Delhi High Court, and Supreme Court of India Some of the important cases he had dealt with include the case of Reliance Petrochemicals in the SC, while he was associated with Shardul and Pallavi Shroff & Co in Bombay.

The case about Compulsory Convertible Debentures was being opposed by the senior Advocate, Ram Jethmalani. Quoting a ruling from the House of Lords, London, Baig, appearing for Ambanis asserted on the plea that no person should appear in public in any case while it is sub-juidice.  The verdict was in favor of his plea, while the senior lawyer, Ram Jethmalani withdrew from the case. The legal luminaries present included N A Palkivala, Fali S Nariman, and Soli Sorabji.

He soon returned to Kashmir and decided to contest the elections as an independent to “work for the welfare” of the people. In J&K he is known for the Anti-Defection Law, following the new government formation by G M Shah in July 1984. A close associate of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and his son-in-law, G M Shah formed the Government after some of the NC MLAs defected to him from the Chief Minister, Farooq Abdullah. Shah was the J&K Chief Minister from 1984 to November 1986, before Farooq Abdullah again took over after the Rajiv-Farooq Accord.

On the personal front, Baig got married to Safina in 2007, who is the first elected woman Chairperson of the J&K Haj Committee and also the DDC Chairperson of Baramulla.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Ehsan Fazili, Srinagar / August 23rd, 2024

Three siblings studying in Mangaluru win big at State-Level Karate Championship

Bhatkal / Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Moodbidri: 

Three siblings from Bhatkal, who study in Mangaluru, achieved remarkable success at the state-level Karate Championship organized by the Shorin-Ryu Karate Association in collaboration with Swami’s Strength Training and MK Ananthraj College of Physical Education, held in Moodbidri on August 17, 2024.

Ismail Nameer, a 14-year-old student of Huda Islamia School, Mangaluru, secured first place in the Kumite category and also earned a place in Kata. His outstanding performance led to him being crowned the Grand Champion in the under-17 category.

Hamdan, Nameer’s younger brother and a student at Presidency School, Mangaluru, followed in his brother’s footsteps by winning first place in Kumite and securing a place in Kata.

Their sister, Umme Kulsum, also a student at Presidency School, claimed first place in the Fighting category, adding to the family’s impressive list of achievements.

Nameer, Hamdan, and Umme Kulsum are children of Nisar Ahmed Ruknuddin and Nada who reside in Mangaluru.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / August 20th, 2024

Dr Nasr Ahmad Khan Appointed National Vice President of AIUTC Technical Wing

Sambhal, UTTAR PRADESH / NEW DELHI :

New Delhi :

In a prestigious appointment, Dr Nasr Ahmad Khan has been named the National Vice President of the Technical Wing of All India Unani Tibbi Congress (AIUTC). This decision was announced by Professor Mushtaq Ahmad, National President of the Congress, who recognised Dr Khan’s extensive contributions to the field of Unani medicine and his deep-rooted association with one of the most respected families in the Unani tradition, Hakim Raees Ahmad family.

Dr Nasr Ahmad Khan, who hails from Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, has long been an advocate of Unani medicine, managing his family’s established clinic and contributing to the pharmaceutical industry through his venture ‘Advia.’ His work in the field has been marked by a commitment to preserving and advancing the traditional practices of Unani medicine while ensuring that they meet modern healthcare standards.

Dr Khan’s journey in Unani medicine began with his education at Rajasthan Unani Medical College, Jaipur, where he completed his Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS) in 1991. Since then, he has not only upheld his family’s legacy but also expanded its reach by integrating modern pharmaceutical practices with age-old Unani wisdom. His leadership in the family business has seen the ‘Advia’ brand grow into a trusted name in Unani pharmaceuticals.

The appointment of Dr Khan to such a significant national role is seen as a testament to his skills, knowledge, and dedication to the field. Professor Mushtaq Ahmad, while announcing the appointment, expressed his confidence that Dr Khan’s expertise would bring substantial benefits not only to the Unani Tibbi Congress but also to the broader public, particularly in promoting the use of Unani medicine as a viable and effective healthcare alternative.

The announcement has been met with widespread acclaim within the Unani community. Dr Sabahatullah, the National Secretary of the All India Unani Tibbi Congress, also shared his delight at Dr Khan’s appointment. He emphasised that Dr Khan’s leadership and vision would play a crucial role in furthering the objectives of the Technical Wing and enhancing the role of Unani medicine in the national healthcare landscape.

Dr Nasr Ahmad Khan’s elevation to this esteemed position is expected to invigorate efforts to integrate Unani medicine more deeply into the mainstream healthcare system, ensuring that it continues to provide holistic and natural treatment options for people across the country. His appointment is not just a personal achievement but a recognition of the enduring value of Unani medicine in India.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / August 22nd, 2024

Makeup artist from Budgam makes it to international book of records

Chadoora (Budgam District), KASHMIR / JAMMU & KASHMIR:

Creates world record of doing Indian Bridal makeup in less than 9 minutes’*

Budgam :

A youth from Budgam district of Kashmir has made it to the International Book of records for doing the fastest Indian bridal makeup.

Younis Ahmad Sheikh (22) known by the name Afnan, a resident of Bugam district area in Chadoora hamlet of Budgam district has created a record for making Indian bridal makeup in less than 9 minutes.

Younis said that he was interested in calligraphy since childhood which later turned to designing and make up art as well.

“Despite facing taunts from the society as makeup artists being a female dominant area during the initial stage as there was no make up artist in Kashmir, I continued my passion and joined training programmes online,” he said.

Younis first used to do make-up of his customers at his residence as he wasn’t in a position to start his saloon due to financial issues.

“As my mother left this world in my childhood and father was old and not in a position to earn anything. After struggling hard, somehow I managed to start a saloon at my own village and slowly society has started becoming supportive as well,” he said.

After starting a salon titled YAS professional beauty salon, the number of customers started increasing and currently three girls are working as helpers at his salon.

“Three girls have got a job at my salon as currently makeup is available for ladies only and I am planning to start making up for male folk as well,” Younis said.

He said that earning livelihood for himself and providing jobs to others is a big achievement at a time when youth are getting involved in anti-social activities.

Younis claims that he had first made it to the Indian book of records followed by the Asia book of records and now the International book of records. He made to international book of records by breaking the previous record of Indian bridal make up of Assam girl in 13 minutes 46 seconds to just 8 minutes and 58 seconds

“I made it to the International book of records for making the fastest Indian bridal makeup and creating a world record,” he said. He said that people shouldn’t be judgemental as every art is a gift of Allah and everyone must respect it.

“Many people don’t show their arts just out of the fear that how society will react to it and if there are equal rights, then men can go in the field of women and vice versa,” he said—(KNO)

source: http://www.thedispatch.in / The Dispatch / Home> The Lead> The News Feed / by The Dispatch Staff / May 08th, 2023

Muslim Mirror’s founding editor among the Prominent Changemakers of 2024

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA / Chennai, TAMIL NADU / INDIA :

Syed Zubair Ahmad, the founding editor of Muslim Mirror, has added another feather to his cap by being declared one of the prominent Changemakers of 2024 by the Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP). The prestigious recognition was announced during a grand event held at the B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science & Technology, a deemed university in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The event was graced by honorable guests and attended by a large gathering of participants from across India.

Ahmad, a distinguished journalist, is known for his powerful advocacy for the rights and representation of marginalized communities, particularly Muslims, in India. Over the course of his career, spanning more than two decades, he has built a reputation for his unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and journalistic integrity.

The Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP) is Mumbai based pan India  non-profit organization dedicated to the socio-economic empowerment of the Muslim community in India. Through initiatives in education, employment, and community development, AMP works to foster leadership, skill-building, and social welfare, connecting professionals and organizations nationwide for collective progress.

“In a memorable ceremony, 100 inspiring individuals were honored with Changemaker Awards, and 100 state-level NGOs were recognized in the Best and Jury categories. Additionally, 10 organizations were celebrated in prestigious national categories,” said a press statement issued by AMP.

Notable national NGO awardees include;

  • ALTNEWS
  • APCR (Association for Protection of Civil Rights)
  • IMRC (Indian Muslim Relief & Charities??)
  • Institute of Objective Studies (IOS),
  • Allana CSR
  • Pataka CSR and
  • Seethakathi Trust

Some of the prominent Changemaker awardees included;

  • Syed Zubair Ahmad (Muslim Mirror)
  • Mohammed Wajihuddin (Times of India)
  • Aslayah Kallakath (Maktoob Media)
  • Abdur Rahman IPS (Retd.)
  • Akramul Jabbar IRS (Retd.)
  • Hammad Rahman
  • Adil Meraj and
  • Syeda Ruksheda.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was posthumously bestowed upon the Late Moosa Raza, IAS (Retd.), which was received by his family.

The Omar Khatani Memorial Award was presented to the Tarraqi I Foundation, while BSA Crescent Institute of Science & Technology received the Partner of the Year Award.

Mrs. Mariam Habib, Trustee of B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science & Technology, served as the Chief Guest and commended AMP’s efforts in education, employment, and empowerment. She emphasized the role of NGOs in bringing about significant societal change in collaboration with policymakers, and she noted that the legacy of the late B.S. Abdur Rahman is being continued with great dedication by the current leadership.

Dr. N. Raja Hussain, Registrar of B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science & Technology and Guest of Honour, praised AMP’s work in recognizing and motivating various organizations and individuals. He highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the university and AMP in developing students and faculty through guest programs. The event was presided over by University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. T. Murugesan.

Motahar Hosain, Chief Executive and Guest of Honour, congratulated AMP for instituting these much-needed awards to acknowledge the contributions of individuals in the development sector. He remarked that despite the sacrifices made by these individuals in service to others, they seldom receive the appreciation they deserve, making these awards a significant recognition of their efforts.

 Mr. Farooq Siddiqui, Head of the AMP National Coordination Team and the driving force behind these awards, stated, “AMP believes in collaboration and has been working alongside multiple organizations since its inception. Through the AMP NGO Connect project, we are connected with over 7,000 social organizations across nearly all districts of India, helping them with capacity building and implementing AMP’s social welfare projects in their regions. These awards are our way of appreciating their efforts and motivating them to continue their impactful work.” He also thanked the AMP Chapter and state teams for mobilizing massive nominations and captivated the audience at the packed Crescent Convention Center Hall with his superb and engaging awards announcement.

 Ms. Shereen Sultana, State Head – AMP Tamil Nadu, in her address, shared details about AMP’s initiatives and invited everyone to join hands for the betterment of society and nation-building. She expressed her gratitude to the management and staff of B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science & Technology for their cooperation in hosting the event and mentioned how she took up the challenge of organizing the awards ceremony in Chennai.

AMP Tamil Nadu State Executive Team member Mr. Yahya Rasheed welcomed the guests and successfully hosted the event with the support of Prof. Ansar.

The awards process for the NASE was multi-layered, with state, central, and a 9-member distinguished jury led by A.R. Khan, IAS (Retd.), President of A.R. Welfare Foundation, Dr. Syed Zafar Mahmood, Founder & President of Zakat Foundation of India, Dr. Farah Usmani, Founder & Chairperson of Rising Beyond The Ceiling, Prof. Zubair Meenai, Professor & Former Head of the Dept. of Social Work, JMI, Prof. Naseem Ahmed Khan, Chairman of the Dept. of Social Work, AMU, Dr. Shazia Manzoor, Head of DSW, University of Kashmir, Sherin Ali, Global Lead – Corporate Social Responsibility, WNS, Sajid Ali, COO of Tech Mahindra Foundation, and Gulzar Hussain, Head of Government Partnerships, UN World Food Program (India).

The success of the 4th edition of the awards was attributed to the collaborative efforts of key AMP team members, including Sajjad Parvez, AMP Zonal Head – South India; Dr. B. Raja Hussain, State Secretary; Syed Faheem, Chennai Chapter Head; and Syed Deen, Chennai Chapter Secretary. Their contributions, along with the support from the back-office teams at the Central Offices in Mumbai and Vaniyambadi, were instrumental in making the event a success.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Media> Positive Story / by Muslim Mirror Desk / August 22nd, 2024

We Wish To Make India the “Land Of Peace” through 1000 Sadbhavana Manchs: Professor Salim Engineer

 Sawai Madhopur District, RAJASTHAN / NEW DELHI :

JIH vice-president Prof Salim Engineer (left).

Jamaat-e-Islami Hind vice-president PROF SALIM ENGINEER is an interfaith leader promoting communal harmony and mutual understanding among members of different faith groups. He is also General Secretary of the Forum for Democracy and Communal Amity (FDCA) and national convenor of the Kendriya Dharmik Jan Morcha, a joint national forum of religious leaders.

In an interview with MOHD NAUSHAD KHAN, he talks about Sadbhavana Manchs floated at the local level across India to promote communal harmony and to create an India where there is peace and communal harmony. Here are the excerpts from the interview.

Question: To inform our readers, please let us know what is Sadbhavna Manch and what are its objectives. And why was it necessary to launch Sabhavna Manches all over the country?

Answer: India is a land of diversity and plurality. People follow different religions and speak different languages. In the last 10 years, communal harmony, unity, brotherhood, and fraternity have become the worst victims in India. Hate and divisive politics have dominated the political discourse. Political parties with vested interests promote their ideology, aiming to shape India into a nation dominated by a single culture and belief system. Discrimination has become their identity; they suppress one community and patronize others who support their ideology. They blatantly try to impose their culture and ideology on all others. All these efforts have badly hit communal harmony, togetherness, and fraternity.

In such a scenario, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) felt the need to make people aware of the challenges before the nation. It, therefore, decided to set up Sadbhavna Manches, or what could be called Goodwill Forums in the English language. The objective of the establishment of the Manch was to promote community amity and brotherhood, with representation from different faiths to make India a land of peace in the real sense. The response has been very encouraging and we are moving fast toward achieving our aims. We wish to make India into a “land of peace” through Sadbhavna Manchs across the country.

Question: What should the Sadbhavna Mach do under the current political atmosphere to achieve its basic objectives?

Answer: The Constitution is the foundation of our country. Constitutional values of freedom, liberty, equality, and fraternity should be our guiding principle. The State should not treat any community as superior or inferior, nor should there be any discrimination towards anyone. There must be justice for all. In the present atmosphere, promoting fraternity and brotherhood is highly significant. important. As hate and politics of polarisation have become the core agenda of some political outfits, the role of Sadbhavana Manch has become even more important. We need to politically weaken the divisive forces. At the same time, we also need to work for social transformation through Sadbhjavna Manchs to instill a sense of fraternity, togetherness, mutual trust, and respect to achieve the goal of communal harmony. Without peace and communal harmony,, India’s growth story will remain incomplete; therefore, such forums become very important.

Question: What do you think are the challenges before people or organizations working towards promoting peace and communal harmony?

Answer: During the process of formation of Sadbhavana Manch in different parts of India, we have also formed platforms for religious leaders under the banner of Dharmik Jan Morcha. There is a perception, and baseless propaganda is made, that religion is the root cause of many problems like division in society, hate, and violence. To me, it is a false belief and has no basis. These problems are not because of religion but because of the misuse of religion. The idea behind the formation of Dahrmik Jan Morcha is to dispel the myth against religion and religious leaders. Every religion talks of unity and therefore religion unites and never divides. To keep these challenges in mind, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind has established Dharmik Jan Morcha at the state and central levels comprising notable and respected religious figures from different religions to serve the purpose. Dharmik Jan Morcha is active in a dozen states while Sadbhavana Manch is at the local level and in the coming years around 1000 Sadbhavana Manch will be established across India. We have also decided to have Sadbhavana Manch for women and youth.

With these platforms, we wish to create an atmosphere of peace and communal harmony in the entire society across the nation as a nationwide campaign. At a time when there is an aggressive campaign for hate going on we wish to counter it through love and peace.

Question: In India, more than 85 percent of people want to live in peace. They believe in togetherness, mutual respect, and mutual co-existence. They are tolerant. Yet, the biggest threat India faces is communal harmony. What do you think is the reason?

Answer: Yes, it is true. Those who are trying to spread negativity in society, disturb the peace, and propagate hate and intolerance are few but they are organized and receive political patronage. They believe that they can do anything and get away; they think themselves above the law. They are being praised and even garlanded for their act of crime and violence. Those who want peace are no doubt in large numbers but they are not organized. Most of them are mute spectators, they are not vocal and they don’t raise their voice as and when required. We are trying to make our society proactive through these Sadbhavana Manch and Dharmik Jan Morcha. Unless and until the majority of the people rise and raise their voices against violence, injustice, atrocities, and discrimination, it will be difficult to achieve communal harmony as desired. We are trying to create awareness among those 85 percent to ensure peace and communal harmony. The silence of the vast majority will be tantamount to crime and detrimental to society and the nation at large. We can see that our efforts have a positive impact on society gradually.

Question: After the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, it was believed that the new government will not be as aggressive as before but there is no respite in hate and divisive agenda. How would you like to respond?

Answer: Yes, it is true to some extent but the message of the verdict from the people was loud and clear. It was a verdict against communalism, hate, and divisive politics. The people by and large rejected hate and divisive politics. People voted against where there was hate speech, efforts were made to polarize the people and divide them along communal lines. The message was clear that people won’t tolerate the divisive agenda and hate polity. People want peace and desire to live in mutual co-existence. But there has indeed been no change in the governance despite the clear message of the people against hate and divisive politics. The poison of hate has penetrated deep into the society and it will take years to fade out. It is the duty and responsibility of the government to ensure that the perpetrators of hate and violence are not encouraged but punished. Things will change if we continuously work to promote communal harmony.

Question: Recently, efforts were made in Karnataka to strengthen Sadbhavana Manch and to make it more effective and meaningful. Could you elaborate on it?

Answer: Promoting communal harmony is a core policy of the Jamaat, and efforts were made in the previous term as well. In this term, we are focusing on further strengthening these initiatives. I have travelled across several states to establish new Sadbhavana Manch units and to strengthen the existing ones.

The presidents and secretaries of JIH in various states are actively working toward similar goals. Recently, during my two-week visit to Karnataka, I travelled extensively across more than 20 districts and over 10 cities. We engaged with the local communities, held programmes where Sadbhavana Manch was already established, and created new units. The atmosphere in Karnataka was very positive, and people were eager to embrace and spread the message of Sadbhavana Manch to promote communal harmony.

The Lingayat community, which holds significant influence in Karnataka, was a key focus during our visit. We visited several of their mutts, including the mutt of Basava, the founder of the Lingayat community. In many places, religious leaders themselves organized programs within their mutts, demonstrating a strong commitment to bringing different communities together to foster peace.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> News> Society / by Mohd Naushad Khan / August 17th, 2024

Dr Mateen ul Jabbar Skill Centre: A blessing for flood-hit Osman Nagar residents

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

The center was established in February 2021 by Faiz Aam Trust and Siasat Millat Fund with the aim to provide assistance to the residents of Osman Nagar.

Dr Mateen ul Jabbar Skill Centre

Hyderabad:

The convocation ceremony of Dr. Mateen ul Jabbar Computer and Skill Development Center located in Osman Nagar held at the office of Faiz-e-Aam Trust.

The center was established in February 2021 by Faiz Aam Trust and Siasat Millat Fund with the aim to provide assistance to the residents of Osman Nagar in Shaheen Nagar locality, which were severely affected by floods. In response to the devastating situation, the Faiz-e-Aam and Siasat Millat Fund initiated relief efforts, and under the guidance of Editor Siasat Mr. Zahid Ali Khan, Secretary, Faiz-e-Aam Mr. Iftikhar Hussain, and Managing Editor Siasat Mr. Zaheeruddin Ali Khan, various courses were taught to boys and girls to help rehabilitate and empower them.

Through this initiative, kits containing essential items such as masonry, bedding, medicines, and food were distributed to flood victims. Later, the Dr. Mateen Al Jabbar Computer and Skill Development Center was established, providing training opportunities for local students and individuals. Seven batches have already completed their training at the center and are now employed in Amazon, schools, colleges, supermarkets, and shopping centers, contributing to their families and society.

source: youtube.com

Mr. Iftikhar Hussain, Secretary of Faiz Aam Trust, praised the efforts of Zahid Ali Khan and Zaheeruddin Ali Khan in their vision to empower the youth and residents of Osman Nagar. The Skill Development Center has been instrumental in providing training and employment opportunities to numerous girls, a majority of the center’s beneficiaries.

During his address, News Editor, The Siasat Daily, Mr. Amer Ali Khan emphasized the importance of discipline, time management, for a bright future. He said “in the pursuit of success and development, discipline, time management, and hard work play crucial roles in shaping the younger generation of any community. Time management is a concept that has been emphasized in various organizations. However, this concept is not new; Islam introduced it 1445 years ago through the five daily prayers, serving as a prime example of time management and discipline.

He stated that Indians and Muslims in particular possess inherent abilities, and what they need is proper guidance. He compared children to diamonds that need shaping and polishing to shine. Khan highlighted the success stories of thousands of Muslim boys and girls who now serve in multinational companies.

He encouraged the youth to develop artistic skills and acquire practical knowledge, inspiring them to collaborate and establish start-ups.

Certificates were awarded to 66 students during the ceremony, and the efforts of Ms. Ayesha Samad, who provides diligent training to the students, were highly commended. Syed Abdul Sattar, Manager of Faiz Aam Trust, expressed gratitude to everyone involved and extended a vote of thanks to conclude the event. The Dr. Mateen ul Jabbar Computer and Skill Development Center stands as a testament to the power of education and empowerment in uplifting communities.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> Hyderabad / by Zahed Farooqui / July 30th, 2023

‘Bharat Ke Anmol Ratan’ awardee bodybuilder Mohtesham Ali felicitated

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Khan is a professional bodybuilder from Hyderabad and has earned many national and international titles including a silver medal in Mr World Body Building Championship, in the heavyweight category.

 Internationally acclaimed Bodybuilder Mir Mohtesham

Hyderabad:

A celebration was held in Hyderabad’s Media Plus Auditorium to celebrate Mohtesham Ali Khan, who received the prestigious national award ‘Bharat Ke Anmol’ for his journey of determination, perseverance, and excellence in the realm of bodybuilding and fitness.

Khan is a professional bodybuilder from Hyderabad and has earned many national and international titles including a silver medal in Mr World Body Building Championship, in the heavyweight category.

The event which was held on Sunday, August 14, witnessed the presence of dignitaries and supporters who gathered to honour Khan’s accomplishments.

The chief guest Abdul Khayyum Khan, minority affairs advisor for the government lauded Khan’s unwavering commitment to his craft.

Other prominent figures including AIMIM leader Ather Farooqui, BRS leader Khaleequr Rahman, Pathergatti Corporator, Syed Sohail Quadri and chairman of Vandhe Bharat, Ramesh Eppalapalli were also present at the event.

The felicitation ceremony was organised by the founder and CEO of Ethos Imagination, Varaprasad who emphasised that the evening was not merely a tribute to Mir Mohtesham Ali Khan’s individual accomplishments but also a testament to the power of dedication and hard work.

At the event, Khan expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to his journey and stood by him both during challenges and triumphs.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> Hyderabad / by Sayma Ahmed / August 13th, 2023