Tag Archives: Muslims of India – Positive News

Bookshop owner who is more interested in collecting books than selling them: Unique Urdu bookshop in Lucknow

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Rohtas, BIHAR / Lucknow, UTTAR PRADESH :

Lucknow :

Every city in India has many iconic bookshops and Lucknow too has a few. However, in recent years, a bookshop has drawn attention of book lovers because of the variety and collection of books, particularly, in Urdu.

This bookshop has drawn readers from other states and cities too and people buy from him online as well. But the most unique aspect about this bookshop is that the passion of the owner who has been running it purely for the love of books.

Imagine, you go and find a good book and want to buy it. The bookshop owner appears sad that you chose the particular book. “I have just one copy of this book and I want to keep it”, says the man, who owns this shop. Or going to the extent of telling the visitor that they can take a look and buy from any shop elsewhere or telling the location or suggesting how to get a particular book.

But first about the uniqueness of the bookshop. Unlike other Urdu bookshops, the owner Shahood Ul Hasan Khan keeps a very wide range of books. It’s not limited to a few publishers but he keeps books of all publications and also ensures that books ranging from all the topics are available in Urdu, ensuring a collection.

From literature to language, and law politics to philosophy, history to Islam, Hindusim and other religions, fiction, non fiction, other than books in English and Hindi too, everything is available under one roof. He tries to put on display maximum books of all variety in his shop. 

“I wanted to be among books, own them and have them around me”, he says. That’s the reason he started the bookshop even though people are always suggesting that he should switch to some other business. “It’s true that I put lot of money, because it’s my hobby and passion. However, it is not a very lucrative business.

He gets lot of unwanted advices and people have finally reconciled that he would not switch to anything else, except, keeping himself amid books. People and relatives keep advising that I should give this big space to someone and the rent would be more than my current earnings, but this is my passion”, says Khan, 42, who started Parekh Book Depot, and has totally dedicated himself in this work.

“I do it for the sake of books, not for profit. I always wanted to do this and hence I am happy doing what I do”, he further adds. In a city that has iconic Danish Mahal in Aminabad and many other bookshops, the emergence of Parekh Book Depot and it’s growing popularity, has drawn attention of people.

Urdu readers who come to Lucknow, try to take time out of their schedule and visit the place, as they know they might get a surprise, a rare book that was not available for long, translation of a famous English or French book or latest ones that have just been out of printing press.

As I select the books and am about to pay, he tells me that I can get these books online or from another particular place too. When I asked him why was he not keen on selling it and giving me the suggestion, he said that, ‘this set of books is not an ordinary one and we don’t know when it again gets printed and comes to market, hence, I am having a hitch and can feel that I am losing something.

At least, the set of books was with me till now”, Shahood Ul Hasan says. It was subsequently that I spoke to him and he told me about his life and his passion that has earlier been described in the report. Hailing from Rohtas in Bihar, he had come to Lucknow as an infant. He studied in the famous Nadwatul Ulema and his bookshop is also close to the gate of the seminary in Lucknow.

Many bookshops are selling just religious texts or literature. Also, there are different models. But he has shown a way, how a bookshop can thrive in an era when people keep ruing about lack of readership. “I am happy that I make enough to run my household. What else do I wish for?”.

One thing is sure, he has put in efforts and money but his passion has resulted in this bookshop emerging as an institution. It is remarkable that he opened the bookshop in 2016, and within a couple of years, it was too well known and in direct contact with readers who get details on their Whatsapp accounts about news books’ arrival and then order them through post as well.

source: http://www.newsbits.in / NewsBits.in / Home> Special / by Shams Ur Rehman Alavi / July 11th, 2023

Bhopal-based poet Manzar Bhopali felicitated in US

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Bhopal, MADHYA PRADESH :

Manzar Bhopali felicitated by Greg Fischer, the mayor of Louisville, US

In a rare honour, eminent poet Manzar Bhopali was felicitated in Louisville in US and was handed over keys of the city. Louisville is also known as the birthplace of boxing legend Muhammad Ali.

The mayor of Louisville, Greg Fischer, handed over the keys to the Bhopal-based Urdu poet. This is probably the first time an Indian poet has been handed over the keys to an American city.

He was also proclaimed honorary citizen of the city. The poet has been honoured for his contribution towards promoting peace through his poetry.

The honour has been given as the town appreciates the power of a poet to touch people’s hearts and minds, reads the citation. Manzar Bhopali had gone to US recently to participate in ‘mushairas’. “It’s a big honour and I feel humbled,” said Manzar Bhopali.

In an email conversation with Hindustan Times, Louisville mayor Greg Fischer said art connects all people and it is an honour to recognise this global citizen for peace and justice.

“We honour all leaders in arts. They bridge our common humanity and remind us that we are all connected in making our communities and the world a better place,” he further said.

“Compassion is a top value of my administration. Compassion means we respect all of our citizens and work together so that human potential flourishes. We bring compassion to life in many ways including service to others, curriculum in our schools, and being a signatory to, and living the values of, the charter for compassion.”

Manzar Bhopali is a renowned Urdu poet who has more than half-a-dozen collections of poetry to his name. He is a regular at mushairas in Gulf, America, Australia, UK and other foreign countries.

source: http://www.hindustantimes.com / Hindustan Times / Home / by Shams Ur Rehman Alavi, Bhopal / October 10th, 2014

Forgotten martyrs: Nawab Kadar Ali, his companions were hanged by British at Sitabuldi fort in Nagpur

Amazing Feats, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Community Involvement / Social Issues, Events, Exhibitions, Conferences (wef. Nov 18th, 2021), First War of Independence 1857 / Naval Mutiny 1946 / Others PreIndependece (wef. July 27th, 2022), Freedom Fighters (under research project), Leaders, Martyrs of the Nation, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Nagpur, MAHARASHTRA :

More than seven decades after India achieved independence, the role of innumerable martyrs and freedom fighters who gave their blood and offered lives for the motherland, needs to be remembered. 

Many of them got harsh punishments, didn’t get proper last rites, remain forgotten and even those whose sacrifices are known, don’t have monuments or memorials built in their memory.

The martyrdom of Nawab Kadar Ali, and his companions, who planned attack on residency and to take on the East India Company forces in Nagpur, also needs to be recalled. They were hanged here for their role in 1857–the first war of independence.

Though there is no monument named after them and no big memorial, they remain heroes in public memory. The fort that had been a base of 118 Infantry Battalion for years, is opened on three days including August 15 and January 26. Thousands of people arrive on these days, and also pay visit to the grave and offer their respects.

The flame for independence was already lit. History books mention that soon after Meerut, the anger was palpable among soldiers and citizens in this region too. On June 13 1857, a large gathering took place near Mission High School. The soldiers too were anxious and ready. 

Scared, some of the East India Compnay officials ran towards Kamptee Cantonment, while others went inside the Sitabuldi Fort. It was due to treachery that the attack plans had been leaked and the news reached British officers. More EIC forces were called from other places to control and overpower the rebels.

Rani Baka Bai, wife of late Raghoji II, was supporting the British and issued a warning that anyone abetting or aiding the revolutionaries would be arrested and handed to the East India Company. It’s a long story and how the soldiers and citizens suffered, refused to name the leaders of the movement. 

Historical texts say that the signal of a fire balloon was decided. But after the traitors gave information to East India Company officers, Plowden, the commissioner, ordered a regiment to move into the city. The irregular calvary at Tali was dismayed. Major Arrow tried to get information from ring leaders but no one gave names.

Baka Bai summoned all her relations, and dissuaded them with threats. This chilled the spirit of public. However, later when Company officials’ strengthened their hold, the rebels were identified. Arms were collected and after inquiry, Dildar Khan, Inayatullah Khan, Vilayat  Khan and Nawab Kadar Ali were tried and executed.

KILLED, HANGED, BURIED IN A COMMON PIT

The Gazetteer briefly mentions that ‘tucked away between the easter walls of the inner fort and the barracks is a large grave known as Nav Gazah Baba…the grave of Nawab Kadar Ali…and his eight associates..who were killed and hanged by the ramparts of the fort due to their role in the war of independence”. 

“They were all buried in a common pit, nine yards long. The fort recalls to our mind the memory of the brave soldiers who fought in an attempt to preserve the independence of the mother land”. It was treachery that was responsible for the arrests and the punishment.  Those who helped the British, got ‘jagirs’ as rewards.

Ghulam Rasool ‘Ghamgeen’, the poet, wrote these lines in Farsi :

Choo.n Qadar Ali Khan Ameer Kabeer
Shud-az-tohmat, ahl-e-balwa aseer

Bajurm shiraakat girafaar shud
Chau mansoor, Hallaj, bar-daar shud

Duaa’e shahaadat ba-raahe Khuda
shab w roz mi kard aa.n mahtada
…
…
Khirad guft ee.n misra-e-silk-e-noor
Za-daar-e-jafaa shud ba-daar-e-suroor

The last couplet of this long Persian verse, brings out the ‘tarikh’, the year of execution. The complete verse is mentioned in Dr Mohammad Sharfuddin Sahil’s book ‘Tarikh-e-Nagpur’. It shows the impact of the hangings on the people in the region. Nagpur is geographillcally considered to be a part of Central India and is the biggest city in Vidarbha region of Maharashtra.

The fort for a long period remained the base of 118 Infantry Battalion of Territorial Army. Every year, on August 15 and January 26, fort is opened for public so that it can pay respect to the freedom fighters. It’s also opened on May 1 i.e. Maharashtra Day. [Illustration is representive]

source: http://www.newsbits.in / NEWS Bits / Home> Top News / by Shams Ur Rehman Alavi / August 15th, 2021

Haidargarh Basoda: The princely state that survived for two centuries in Central India

Royal Families, PreIndependence -Descendants (wef. Jan 02nd,2022), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Haidargarh-Basoda (Vidisha District) , MADHYA PRADESH :

Bhopal :

Once it was a princely state, today it’s a dot on the map of Madhya Pradesh. Haidargarh-Basoda, a principality, remained in existence for nearly two centuries in the centre of India.

It was also known as Nawab Basoda and is known for its unique history. However, after independence when the state merged and lost its identity, not even made a district and relegated to the status of a town, the place lost focus and its heritage and traditions could not be properly documented.

However, it’s well known in history that Nawab Diler Khan was the founder of the State that later got divided into Haidargarh Basoda, Kurwai and Muhammadgarh. The original princely state* had come into being in the year 1713 AD, [and was later carved into three separate states]. Mughal power was weakening after nearly 190 years.

It was during the reign of Emperor Farrukhsiyar, the great grandson of Aurangzeb, that Nawab Diler Khan managed to establish his principality in this region. The death of Nawab Diler Khan is recorded in the year 1732. After him, it was his son Nawab Izzat Khan who succeeded.

However, Nawab Izzat Khan and his younger brother Ahsan Ullah Khan had the territory divided. The latter, Nawab Ahsan Ulla Khan also divided his state into two parts, one of which was known as Haidagarh Basoda or Nawab Basoda. The Basoda state came into being in early 1750s. 

After Nawab Ahsan Ulla Khan’s death in 1790, his son Nawab Wakaullah Khan remained the chieftain but he died five years later. His wife was regent and the minor son Nawab Asud Ali Khan became the ruler when he attained the rightful age. It was during this period that the first war of independence or mutiny [as British termed it] took place. 

Nawab Asud Ali Khan passed away in 1864. He was succeeded by his son Nawab Omar Ali Khan who was an author and a traveller. He went across the world and wrote about his visits. He passed away in 1895. He was succeeded by his son Nawab Mohammad Haidar Ali Khan.

It was during this period that the state became known as Haidargarh. Then, Nawab Masood Ali Khan became Nawab and after a three year stint, state got merged when India became independent. The title remained. After 1971, privy purses were abolished. He passed away in 1976.

“After our grandfather Nawab Masood Ali Khan, his son Nawab Kiswhar Ali Khan succeeded him”, says Siddiq Ali Khan, a descendant of the family. ‘My father Anwar Ali Khan is the younger brother of Kishwar Ali Khan”, he further says. How the family coped with the state was merged?

“Most of the members of our clan took care of the lands. Apart from this, some of us are in different professions”, says Khan, who lives in Bhopal. “We had agrarian land and hence the family got engaged in it, though some took jobs and became doctors, engineers. One of our uncles, Bakhtiyar Ali Khan, studied in Cambridge school in Bhopal. My father has also been in politics”, Siddiq Ali Khan, further adds.

The Haidargarh Basoda state [now Haidergarh] was spread over an area of over 103 sq km i.e. 40 sq miles. Now, it is located near Gyaraspur town in Vidisha district adjoining Bhopal. Haidargarh, now spelt Haidergarh Basoda, is a civic body. The fort and the family’s ancestral palace still stand as testimony to the fact that this small panchayat was once was a principality with a rich history. 

[*Originally Nawab Diler Khan established a state in 1713 AD that was later carved into three separate states and Basoda came into being in 1753]

source: http://www.newsbits.in / NEWS Bits / Home> Heritage / by Shams Ur Rehman Alavi / February 15th, 2023

Assam: CRPF chief visits family of martyr Nasiruddin ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr

Amazing Feats, Martyrs of the Nation, , , , , , , , , ,

Banbaria Village (Barpeta District), ASSAM :

CRPF DIG Sunanda Kumar with the family of late Nasiruddin Sarkar

As Muslims around the world prepare for the joyous culmination of Ramzan into Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, for many families, especially those of national martyrs, it’s a painful experience to celebrate the day without their loved ones.

Uneasy calm prevails in a household in Assam’s Barpeta district in the last days of Ramzan. The house, located in the remote Banbaria village under the Bhella police station area, is throbbing with grief and painful silence.

The house belongs to the Late Nasiruddin Sarkar, a brave CRPF jawan who laid down his life in the line of duty on April 27, 2024.

Sarkar was deployed along with his other colleagues in Manipur during the elections when suspected Kuki militants attacked a CRPF convoy in the Bishnupur district of Manipur on April 27. Sarkar was among the two CRPF personnel who laid down their lives fighting extremists.

CRPF DIG Sunanda Kumar arriving at the house of Martyr Nasiruddin Sarkar

However, a team of CRPF officials recently visited Sarkar’s house in Banbariya village and wished his family Eid-ul-Fitr.

The CRPF team included CRPF’s Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Lower Assam range Sunanda Kumar, Area Commander of the CRPF’s 10th Battalion Deepak Kumar Singh, and others, who met the family members of Sarkar including his wife, son and daughter.

“Our colleague Nasiruddin Sarkar had attained martyrdom last year while working in Manipur. In CRPF we have a rule that we never leave the family of our soldiers alone. Every year, our senior officers visit such families in March and note down their problems and try to help them,” CRPF DIG Sunanda Kumar told this journalist.

“Similarly, in the case of Late Sarkar also we came here to take care of the family. Sarkar was the breadwinner of the family. So definitely there are issues faced by the family. We came here to talk to them and ensure that they never feel lonely particularly when the grand festival like Eid-Ul-Fitr is coming. We hope that the family of Nasiruddin will enjoy this Eid,” said Kumar.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Karabi Sharma, Barpeta / March 28th, 2025

From the Land of ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’, Ekhlaq Gets Top Rank in GATE

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Pathardih (Mohan Bazar, Dhanbad District) , JHARKHAND :

Ekhlaq Sarwer with his parents

Patna: 

On March 19, Ekhlaq Sarwer, a B.Tech. (Mining) student, received his Eid gift a little earlier this year. He secured an impressive All India Rank of 4 in Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2025.

GATE is widely regarded as the key to securing admission to postgraduate courses in India’s top engineering colleges and opens doors to jobs in Navratna Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).

Ekhlaq’s score in GATE was 904 out of 1000, with a remarkable mark of 69 out of 100.

Hailing from Pathardih, the semi-urban town of Mohan Bazar (around 16 kilometers from Dhanbad), in Dhanbad district, Ekhlaq is presently pursuing his B.Tech. from BIT, Sindri (Jharkhand) in the Mining Engineering branch in 2021-25 batch. His hometown, which has gained notoriety for its association with violence, served as the backdrop for the Bollywood movie ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’ that highlighted the region’s troubled history.

Ekhlaq’s father, Eqbal Sarwer, works as an informal medical practitioner (RMP), and his mother, Khurshida Parween, is a homemaker.

Speaking to TwoCircles.net, Eqbal expressed immense joy and gratitude. Noting the timing of his son’s achievement during the holy month of Ramadan, he said, “I feel elated as a father when I recall my childhood, which lacked proper resources. My father passed away early, and we had to struggle. But I ensured that my sons received a proper education. Although it was beyond my means to afford an English-medium CBSE school, I made sure Ekhlaq was enrolled there, cutting down on other expenses to make it happen.”

He continued, “Ekhlaq has always been good at studies, and we encouraged him every step of the way. He has consistently ranked at the top since grade 7. He secured 97% marks in 10th grade and 95% in 12th grade board exams under the CBSE system.”

The Sarwer family celebrated their son’s success by distributing sweets, with plans for a grand celebration after the fasting month of Ramadan ends, marking a “double Eid”.

Ekhlaq’s father proudly said, “We are thrilled that a place once infamous for ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’ is now in the news for such achievements. The area is improving, and it fills me with pride.”

Ekhlaq Sarwer

BIT Sindri, where Ekhlaq is currently studying, is an engineering college under the Jharkhand government. Admission to the prestigious institution is based on the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), which also opens doors to top institutions like the IITs.

Ekhlaq had scored around 90 percentiles in his first attempt at JEE Main, securing his place at BIT Sindri. Initially uncertain about his choice of Mining Engineering, he now expresses a deep fascination for the field.

Despite being busy with his academic projects, Ekhlaq shared his preparation strategy for GATE. He began preparing for the examination in September 2024, all while also preparing for his final B.Tech. exams.

“My parents were my inspiration for GATE. My professors at college were immensely helpful, and my friends always encouraged me. I used PYQs (Previous Years’ Questions) and relied on textbooks. I also took test series to keep myself on track,” he shared, expressing his hope to join a PSU of his choice when the opportunity arises.

Ekhlaq also emphasised the importance of having a structured routine. “I made a schedule for my preparation, designating specific hours for watching preparatory videos and solving test papers,” he explained.

He added that focus and time management are essential for anyone hoping to clear GATE. “One needs to be clear about what he/she wants to study. Time management is crucial, as is practice,” he advises. “Shedding nervousness is also important.”

The BIT Sindri community celebrated Ekhlaq’s success. Dr. Pankaj Pal, the director of the institution, and Dr. PK Singh, head of the Mining Engineering Department, along with other faculty members, congratulated Ekhlaq and the other students for their academic achievements. “Ekhlaq has made the institution proud with such a stellar rank,” they said, underscoring the significance of his success.

Ekhlaq Sarwer’s journey from a troubled region to an outstanding academic achievement is not only reflective of his dedication but also to the unwavering support of his family and the transformative power of education.

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> India News> India Politics> Indian Muslim> Lead Story> TCN Positive / by Sami Ahmad, TwoCircles.net / March 25th, 2025

Munnur gram panchayat member RKC Abdul Azeez passes away

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

Munnur Gram Panchayat (Ullal, Mangaluru) , KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru :

Munnur gram panchayat member RKC Abdul Azeez passed away due to a heart attack on Thursday, March 6.

A resident of Derlakatte Madaninagara, Abdul Azeez was a Congress leader and dedicated social worker.

He served as the Munnur block Congress leader and was well-regarded for his active involvement in community activities and his humble nature.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld.com / Home> Karnataka / by Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru / March 06th, 2025

Citizen Convent students shine in sports

Education, Karnataka (under research project), Sports, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mysuru, KARNATAKA :

Mysuru:

The students of Citizen Convent, Udayagiri, Mysuru, have made remarkable achievements in State-level Sports and Games Competitions 2024-25 and in the Karnataka State Arm Wrestling Championship 2024-25.

The winners who brought laurels to the school are as follows: Mohammed Maweeya Qureshi — Gold Medal in State-level Wrestling held at Kanakapura and qualifying for the National Championship in New Delhi.

Arzan Khan — Bronze Medal in State-level Weightlifting Competition, held at VJEMHS, Bantwal in Dakshina Kannada.

Mohammed Umar — Bronze Medal in 55-60 kg category at the Karnataka State Arm Wrestling Championship 2024-25, held in Mysuru.

Mohammed Huzaifa, Bronze Medal in 75-kg category at State-level Sports & Games contests for School Children 2024-25, conducted by Department of School Education, Karnataka.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / March 06th, 2025

Karnataka Brothers Honored with President’s Award

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Vijayapura / Bengaluru , KARNATAKA :

Bengaluru: 

In a historic moment, Hamza Hussain and Altaf Hussain, two brothers serving in Karnataka’s law enforcement, have been honored with the President’s Award for Meritorious Service on India’s 76th Republic Day.

Hamza Hussain, Superintendent of Police (S.P.) Commandant, 12th Battalion, KSRP, Tumkur, has been recognized for his leadership in critical police operations and public safety. His brother, Altaf Hussain, Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) at Wilson Garden Police Station, Bangalore, has played a vital role in crime prevention and community policing.

The award, one of the highest honors in Indian law enforcement, acknowledges their dedication, integrity, and commitment to justice. Their achievement is a proud moment for Karnataka and the nation, inspiring future generations of police officers.

The brothers expressed their gratitude, stating, “This award is a tribute to all officers who tirelessly serve the nation. We dedicate it to our department, colleagues, and family for their unwavering support.”

Their recognition on Republic Day underscores their exceptional service in upholding law and order, marking a milestone in Karnataka’s police history.

source: http://www.islamicvoice.com / Islamic Voice / Home> Cover Story / Vol. 37-03, No. 448 March 2025

Bidar: Former legislative council member Qazi Arshad Ali passes away

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bidar, KARNATAKA :

Former member of the Legislative Council and editor of the Hindi newspaper Bidar Ki Awaaz and the Urdu newspaper Surkh Zameen, Qazi Arshad Ali

Bidar: 

Former member of the Legislative Council and editor of the Hindi newspaper Bidar Ki Awaaz and the Urdu newspaper Surkh Zameen, Qazi Arshad Ali (75), passed away on Monday, March 3, due to a heart attack.

He is survived by his wife, son, and three daughters.

Qazi Arshad Ali had served two terms as a Legislative Council member and had also held positions as Chairman of the Bidar Urban Development Authority and President of the Congress district unit.

Political leaders, journalists, and residents of Bidar have expressed their deep condolences on his demise.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / March 03rd, 2025