Tag Archives: Muslims of Jammu & Kashmir

Pulwama in the news again, for Simrah who scored 99.39 percentile in JEE

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Education- Excellence, Coaching, Training, Tutorials (wef. Feb 09th, 2024), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Pulwama (Kashmir), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Simrah Mir, a Kashmiri student, beat the odds to score 99.39 percentile in JEE Mains, inspiring countless students.

Simrah Mir, a JEE topper from Kashmir. | Photo by Special Arrangement

She comes from a region where resilience is a way of life. When Simrah spoke over the phone, her voice exuded conviction which only comes with a sense of achievement.

“At one point, I felt like giving up,” she began. Yet even her recall of desperation was in an unwavering tone.

Hailing from Kashmir’s Pulwama, a town often making the headlines for more negative than positive news, Simrah Mir has given a reason for the region to shine bright. Defying all odds stacked up against her, this young woman has brought immense joy and pride to the valley by scoring 99.39 percentile in the recently concluded JEE Mains this year.

Simrah’s is not just a personal victory but may well be an inspiration for countless students across Kashmir. Simrah, a student of a local government school, attended RISE coaching classes in Srinagar for JEE.

RISE is a coaching institute in Srinagar started by three former IITians: Salman Shahid and Imbesat Ahmad, both alumni of IIT Kharagpur, and Mubeen Masudi of IIT Bombay. Mubeen is a Kashmiri, says Mr. Shahid. “We started our institute in 2015 since we wanted to do something for Kashmir. When we started out, only a handful enrolled in our classes. Today, every year, some three to four students from our institute go to IIT and 70 to 80 students go to NIT. Twenty percent of these students are girls,” says Mr Shahid.

In an interview with The Hindu, Simrah spoke about her challenges, triumphs, and her fresh optimism for the road ahead.

She says: “At times, there were internet shutdowns, and many times it was a fearful environment at my hometown. My parents sheltered me from everything, even from what happening around our near vicinity. Then I moved to Srinagar. It was difficult to travel up and down daily from Pulwama every day for the coaching classes. It’s a long distance.”

Unlike many students who set their sights on JEE early on, Simrah’s decision to pursue engineering evolved over time. “It was a big step. Initially, I didn’t know much about JEE. I joined the RISE Institute, and there I got to know about the exam and started looking at engineering as a career. Later, I faced difficulties in my preparation. I felt like giving up, but my parents constantly supported and motivated me,” she continued.

What kept you motivated? What were the reactions of your parents, friends, and teachers to your preparations?

 Initially, when I was searching for an interest, my parents and relatives were pushing me towards medicine. I didn’t like Biology and I’m not interested in Medicine. From an early age, I was interested in Physics and Mathematics; I wanted to know about the subjects. I studied by myself. I used to read books other than my textbooks. Physics and Maths interested me.

Later on, I decided that it is a stream for me. I decided I had to take Mathematics and Physics as a career.

Any obstacles or resistance you came across while preparing for JEE? Did you ever think about what would happen if you didn’t get selected?

 There were definitely moments of doubt. And I used to have them often. As I said, I felt like giving up. JEE is a tough exam. I did think about what would happen if I didn’t get selected. But every time I felt low, my parents supported me. That helped me stay focused and push through the tough times.

I recently spoke to some people in Assam and learned that language, infrastructure, and cultural barriers can be obstacles in education. Did you face any challenges like that?

 Shifting to Srinagar was a big deal for me. I’m from Pulwama, and it was getting difficult. There were no coaching classes specifically for JEE preparations

I did think of going to Delhi or another State initially because there are good institutes there. But then I realised it might not be beneficial for me. I have never lived alone, and I felt like I should be close to my parents.

In Kashmir, students usually prefer medicine and becoming doctors, especially girls. It’s rare for a girl to take engineering as a career.

Did your school play any role in your success? Did they provide career counselling or extra classes for JEE aspirants?

 There was enough career counselling but no extra classes specifically for JEE aspirants. Most students in my school focused on board exams.

Nobody actually introduced the subject to me. I was inquisitive. There were some other students too who were genuinely interested to study and were inquisitive like me.

Which branch of engineering attracts you the most? And why? And have you thought about any specific college you would like to join?

 I have not thought about it. Of course, I want to go to the best college. I want to go to IIT.

Personally, I want to take Computer Science Engineering, but I don’t know exactly what will happen in the future. I haven’t researched much yet. It also depends on my rank and how I perform in the JEE Advanced exam.

What do you wish to become eventually?

 As of now, my goal is to pursue Computer Science Engineering. I would see where my passion takes me eventually.

What advice and tips you would want to give to JEE aspirants from your region?

 In Kashmir, many students, especially girls, hesitate to choose engineering because it’s not the common path. But if you genuinely enjoy Mathematics and Physics, you should give it a chance. It’s important to be practical.

JEE is tough, and there will be challenges. But if you take it step by step and stay disciplined, you can do it.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Education / by Mantasha Ahmed / February 15th, 2025

International kho kho girl Nazia Bibi brings cheers to her tribe, J&K

Amazing Feats, Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kalakappar Village (Nagrota Tehsil), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Heavily garlanded Nazia Bibi with her family including her grandmother, and visitors at her home

Weeks after the nomadic Gujjar-Bakerwal community of Jammu and Kashmir plunged into a state of shock as 17 tribesmen, women and children died of a mysterious disease in village Budhaal in Rajouri, a young woman has brought cheers to and restored the pride of the community.

Nazia Bibi, a 21-year-old college student has become the first athlete from J&K to win gold in the International Kho Kho championship. Nazia, who hails from village Kalakappar of tehsil Nagrota on the outskirts of Jammu city, is a member of the Indian women’s Kho Kho team which recently lifted the maiden World Cup in Delhi by trouncing Nepal in a convincing victory.

Nazia Bibi also became one of the few tribal women from J&K to reach the international level in sports.

Her achievement is more important given the fact that the Gujjar-Bakerwal community is backward and also conservative in its outlook for women.

However, Nazia today doesn’t hold any grudges against her family for asking her to stop playing because of society’s disapproval.

International Kho Kho player Nazia Bibi

“I can understand when my family asked him to stop playing since people made uncharitable comments and fun of me because I didn’t wear a conventional dress while practicing. I had my Chachu (Uncle) Master Iqbal who is a teacher to fall back upon. I would explain to him my problems in pursuing Kho Kho and he, in turn, convinced my father,” she said.

Her father Sabar Ali is an unlettered person and earns his livelihood by rearing cattle – sheep and goat. Nazia has a sister and two brothers and the family lives in a two-room house in the village.

A BA fifth-semester student of the Padma Shri Padma Sachdev Govt College for Women Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, Nazia says lifting the gold cup for India was her proudest moment and brought her struggle to a logical and happy end.

“Today, at 21, I am overwhelmed as so many people are coming to congratulate me. It’s too much for me to handle,” she says in a video interview to a local channel.

Nazia is amused to see her relatives and neighbours announcing that they would encourage their children to play sports as well.

“One person’s struggle can open opportunities for so many,” she said.

Nazia was invited by the LG Manoj Sinha to the Raj Bhawan for a meeting. The DIG of Jammu felicitated her for her achievement.

Advocate Zulkarnain Choudhary, a community activist said Nazia should be given a decent job of the rank of a gazette officer by the J&K government, as is done in other cases.

Nazia however says her struggle and achievement must bring focus on better infrastructure for sports. “We don’t have good stadiums or coaching family in Jammu. Practicing in an open field and on mats indoors are so different,” Nazia said.

Nazia Bibi with LG Manoj Sinha and officials of the Kho Kho association

As a promising athlete, she says she was encouraged by her teachers in the local school and also by the J&K Kho Kho association officials.

“I continued playing kho kho because it doesn’t require expensive tools and sports kits. However, my skill was honed in the national camps for which I was selected. Also, a team game requires you to bring sharp skills to the table.”

Nazia said she practices three hours at home and for 7-8 hours in the camps. “Joining the preparatory camp for the International Kho Kho competition was very helpful. It brings discipline in an athlete and also makes one realize of competition.”

An international gold medal in hand though Nazia wants to forget her struggle against society’s attitude. She said, “Even I felt uncomfortable with the tracksuit and uncovered hair because we, as tribal women, are conditioned to conservative dressing.”

Her father Sabar Ali says, “I am an illiterate person. I would get upset with people making jokes about my daughter’s dress and her sports. Today, the same people are coming to congratulate us and I am so happy.”

Sabar Ali and his five brothers live close by in the village and have unity. Advocate Choudhary who visited the 2-room house of Nazia told Awaz-the Voice, “They are a simple and pure united family. I don’t think they fully understand the scope of their daughter’s achievements.”

Fighting society in pursuing one’s passion is not so easy for women.

Nazia says at one stage she had decided to give up. As luck would have it Nazia was playing for India and the team won gold unmindful of the celebrations of her brother’s wedding back home.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Aasha Khosa, New Delhi / February 04th, 2025

Small Acts, Big Rewards: Kifayatullah Malik’s Quest to Empower Underprivileged

Community Involvement / Social Issues, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Lawaypora Village (Bandipora), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Bandipora, Kashmir:

Growing up in Lawaypora, a small village in bandipora, Kifayatullah was the first child in his family to attend school. His father is a farmer. Kifayatullah soon realized that many children in his community were deprived of this basic right.

Kifayatullah Malik told TCN, “My desire to serve the community was sparked by the difficulties and hardships I encountered during my school days. I was driven to social work by a dream that no other child should experience the hardships I endured”.

Kifayatullah Malik, 25, is a mountaineer, young leader, and social worker. He graduated from the University of Kashmir with a master’s degree in social work. As a committed social worker, he advocates for Underprivileged people, especially women, children, and youth.

Children in hilly regions are encouraged to play sports and go to school by Kifayatullah. Additionally, he gathers used textbooks and gives them to students in need.

In remote areas such as Ketson, Dakhi, Dangarnar, Chinchar, he has set up awareness camps on topics including drug misuse, environmental sustainability, and women’s empowerment. His efforts in social forestry and tree planting are also worth mentioning.

He mentioned the lack of finance as the main obstacle, adding that I primarily rely on crowd-funding to carry out my purpose.

Kifayatullah Malik is currently the district coordinator for REACHA (Research and Extension Association for Conservation of Horticulture and Agro-forestry), which works to increase economic opportunities, enhance education, and close the digital divide in underprivileged areas of J&K. In addition, he has served under “Bal Raksha Bharat,” an organization that is vital to improving rural communities’ access to healthcare, education, and livelihood.

President Draupadi Murmu presented him with the esteemed President’s Award for Social Work and Community Welfare in 2021-22. Other honors that Kifayatullah has received include the Best Forest Friend Award for planting trees from the Jammu and Kashmir Social Forestry Department, the Ambassador of Humanity Award 2024, the Global Human Rights Award, the ADG’s Appreciation Award 2019, and the award for social work in 2024.

Kifayatullah Malik says, having millions is not necessary to make a difference. A small act of kindness can have a significant impact. Simple actions like providing guidance to a child, giving someone a book or a pen, feeding a poor family can bring great rewards. Try it and see the positive change you can create!

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> India News> TCN Positive / by TCN News / February 07th, 2025

PADMA SHRI : Farooq Ahmad Mir’s 60 years of artistry earn Padma Shri

Amazing Feats, Arts & Crafts / CraftsPersons (wef. January 14th, 2025), Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri Award (since January 01st, 2024), Business & Economy, Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Srinagar, JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Mir was among 139 Padma awardees announced on Saturday, making him one of only two Padma Shri awardees from Jammu and Kashmir this year

Farooq Ahmad Mir’s 60 years of artistry earn Padma Shri

Srinagar :

In a heartfelt tribute to the art of craftsmanship, Farooq Ahmad Mir, a master shawl weaver from Srinagar, was conferred the prestigious Padma Shri award on January 25. At 73 years old, Mir embodies the spirit of dedication, having devoted over six decades to a craft that intertwines patience with artistry.

Mir was among 139 Padma awardees announced on Saturday, making him one of only two Padma Shri awardees from Jammu and Kashmir this year.

Starting his journey at the tender age of 10, Mir’s story resonates through generations. “Pashmina artisans require patience, much like education. It teaches us about the intricate nuances of our craft,” he reflects, drawing parallels between learning and weaving. Hailing from a lineage of artisans, Mir has not only preserved but revitalised the Kani shawl tradition, once favored by Mughal, Afghan, Sikh, and Dogra rulers.

Mir’s influence extends beyond his family; he has painstakingly taught the art of Kani shawl weaving to over many individuals in Srinagar’s old city.

“In a world where modern careers are alluring, many aspiring artisans are deterred by societal perceptions and a lack of patience for traditional craft,” he notes. Yet, Mir’s commitment to his heritage has inspired not only his children, skilled weavers in their own right, but countless young men and women in his community.

“Your work should speak for itself,” Mir shares humbly when asked about his relative anonymity in a world that often celebrates flashy accolades over dedication. His contributions, however, haven’t gone unnoticed. He has received multiple national and state awards, including recognition from Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself.

The exquisite Kani shawls, woven using cane needles rather than shuttles, can take between four to eighteen months to create. However, the beauty of this art form is in jeopardy. As younger generations lean towards more modern occupations, the skills required to produce these heirlooms risk fading away. Mir’s tireless efforts aim to ensure this heritage is not lost.

Born into a weaver’s family in Srinagar, Mir’s start was modest. Despite barriers to formal education, he channeled his passion into honing his skills, becoming one of the finest artisans in Kashmir. Alongside his successful weaving career, he managed to educate his siblings and inspire a new wave of artisans dedicated to preserving Kani shawl weaving.

In an age driven by industrialisation, the importance of handmade products is gaining renewed appreciation globally. Mir stands as a pioneer in safeguarding this cultural legacy, instilling pride in his craft and ensuring its continuation across generations. His handcrafted Kani shawls have not only found a place in the hearts of locals but also captured the attention of international clientele, including the Ambani family and major corporations like Tata and Aditya Birla Group.

Farooq Ahmad Mir’s journey exemplifies resilience and dedication. As an unsung hero of the Kani shawl tradition, he reminds us that true artistry thrives in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to emerge into the light.

Director Handicrafts and Handloom, Mussarat Islam in a tweet on social media extended heartfelt congratulations to Farooq Ahmad Mir on being awarded #PadmaShri 2025 for his significant contributions to Kani Shawl weaving and the preservation of Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage.

source: http://www.greaterkashmir.com / Greater Kashmir / Home> Business / by Mukeet Akmali (headline edited) / January 26th, 2025

Jailed Kashmiri journalist Irfan Mehraj honoured with human rights journalism award

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JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Irfan Mehraj

Srinagar :

Jailed Kashmiri journalist Irfan Mehraj, who is currently incarcerated under draconian charges, has been honored with the Human Rights and Religious Freedom Journalism Award for 2024.

Mehraj, who won in the Best Video Story category for his impactful work on the heroin epidemic in Kashmir, shared the award with Akanksha Saxena and Khalid Khan of Deutsche Welle, reported Freepress Kashmir.

The awards, organised by the Indian American Muslim Council, a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy group, were presented at a ceremony in Chicago, Illinois. This year, the competition received over 210 entries across four categories.

The prestigious award for ‘Best Video Story on Human Rights and Religious Freedom’ was jointly won, with the top honour going to the three journalists from Deutsche Welle for their impactful documentary, “On Drugs – Kashmir’s Heroin Epidemic.”

The piece stresses upon the growing heroin crisis in Kashmir and lives of people ravaged by addiction in the region.

According to a Human Rights Watch statement issued earlier, said, “While on a professional assignment on 20 March 2023, Mehraj was summoned for questioning and detained by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) of India in Srinagar under provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.”

Irfan has been booked under the draconian UAPA. According to the NIA, Irfan was previously summoned to Delhi in a case related to “NGO terror funding”. The NIA in its press note claimed he was a “close associate” of the Kashmiri human rights defender Khurram Parvez.

In June 2023, United Nations experts expressed serious concerns regarding the charges against and arrest of Mehraj and Parvez, stating that their continued detention is ‘designed to delegitimize their human rights work and obstruct monitoring of the human rights situation in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir.’

On 7 March 2024, UN experts sounded the alarm on the “harassment and prolonged detention of human rights defenders and journalists” in the country. ( With Agencies Inputs )

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim>Media / August 28th, 2024

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

Amazing Feats, Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri Award (since January 01st, 2024), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

Makeup artist from Budgam makes it to international book of records

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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

25 artisans worked 8 years to weave Asia’s largest carpet in Kashmir

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Wayil Village (Kashmir), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Asia’s largest carpet on display in Srinagar (Pics by Basit Zargar)

After Srinagar was designated among the most creative cities in the world, Kashmir Valley’s artisans are making sure to live up to the expectations of this title. In a village called Wayil in North Kashmir’s Kralpora area, a team of Kashmiri artisans have created a masterpiece touted as Asia’s largest handcrafted carpet.

This hand-knotted carpet measuring 72 by 40 feet covers an area of 2,880 square feet. It took over 25 artisans around eight long years to complete this masterpiece. 

The huge carpet on display in Srinagar

The whole carpet industry of Kashmir Valley is priding itself on this masterpiece. The intricate weaving of this exceptional carpet was overseen by two seasoned artisans – Fayaz Ahmed Shah and Abdul Gaffar Sheikh. It is due to their dedication that this monumental piece has found shape.

”This was an order by someone from our country only. This carpet is 72 feet long and 40 feet broad, and we have never made such a big carpet in the Kashmir Valley ever. We had to put our minds to a lot of things as it required a huge loom to be woven on. 

“It was a big challenge and thank god it’s been finally completed. I am sure it will be sold abroad, and I am sure that in future we will make something bigger than this, ” said Fayaz Ahmed Shah, a craft dealer.  

Asia’s largest carpet

The last eight years of weaving this masterpiece have not been smooth. There have been multiple obstacles that the artisans faced particularly the COVID-19 Pandemic. The lockdowns led to a lot of supply chain-related disruptions.

This mammoth carpet has written a new chapter for Kashmir’s rich legacy of art and craft. 

According to the craft dealers, hundreds of artisans are returning to looms to pick up carpet weaving again.

An artisan tying the loose threads of Asia’s biggest carpet 

”We have artisans coming back to us after this carpet was made. Around 226 artisans have come back to us and said that they want to work again. We just hope the way any employees get paid; it has to be the same and equal wages for them as well. Our artisans need to have a life of dignity and they should be able to afford their families… I am telling you they will never leave the work if they are paid well. This is a teamwork. From the designs to artisans, everyone has worked very hard for the making of this masterpiece, ” Shah added.

As this masterpiece becomes a symbol of Kashmir’s craftsmanship and artistic prowess, it has also become a ray of hope for the revitalization and recognition of local artisans and their invaluable contributions to preserving the cultural heritage of the region.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home / by Basit Zargar, Srinagar / May 18th, 2024

Muslim Runners-up in Parliamentary Elections 2024

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INDIA :

Around 20 Muslim candidates were runners-up in the 18th Lok Sabha elections. Of them 7 lost to other Muslim candidates and the rest to other candidates.

Two of these were knocked out by Muslim candidates which made a cakewalk for BJP. In Amroha, UP, Danish Ali of INC secured 447836 votes against BJP’s Kanwar Singh Tanwar who got 476506, just 29670 more votes. Whereas BSP’s Mujahid Husain secured 164099 votes and finished third. Another four Muslims were also in the fray as independent candidates who together poled only 4503 votes.

Hafiz Rashid Ahmed Choudhry of INC from Karimganj, Assam lost to BJP’s Kripanath Mallh by just 18360 votes. Whereas the third in row was a Muslim from United Front, Shahbul Islam Choudhry who secured no less than 29205 votes. There were another 10 Muslims in the fray as independent candidates who secured 20162 votes combined. This invites the apolitical Muslim influential individuals’ and organizations’ role in making one strong Muslim candidate winnability bleak.

Shahnawaz of Rashtriya Janata Dal, in Araria, Bihar lost to BJP candidate by 20094 votes. There were five Muslim independent candidates totally scoring 39992 votes.

Mohammad Badruddin Ajmal, AUDF, in Dhubri Assam lost by 1012476 votes. He secured 459409 against the winning candidate Rakibul Hasan’s 14,71,885 votes. There were other eight Muslim candidates from seven different outfits and one independent. All of them put together pooled 486319 votes. Zabed Islam of Asom Gana Parishad who stood third alone secured 438594 votes.

The former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti lost to National Conference candidate Mian Altaf in Anantnag-Rajouri by a margin of 2,81,794. Another 18 candidates were there to fish in the troubled waters.

Omar Abdulla, National Conference, Baramula lost to Engineer Rasheed, an independent who got 268339, lost by 204142. There were another 19 candidates in the fray.

Waheed ur Rehman Para, Peoples Democratic Party, Srinagar finished second 168450, lost by 188416 votes to Aga Syed Ruhulla of National Conference. Another 19 candidates tried their luck.

Mujahid Alam, Janata Dal (United), Kishanganj, Bihar, ranked second position against Tariq Anwar of INC who secured 343158 votes, lost by 59692 votes. There were another five Muslim candidates who together could not score beyond 45000 votes.

Md Ali Ashraf Fatmi, Rashtriya Janata Dal, Madhubani, Bihar, 2nd position. Lost to BJP. Secured 41483 votes and lost by a margin of 151945 (other Muslim candidates – Md. Waquar Siddiqi of AIMM and Sarfaraz Alam of Akhil Bhartiiya Parivar Party).

Hena Shahab was the only Muslim candidate among the 16 in the fray in Siwan, Bihar. An independent candidate, she scored an impressive figure of 296351 votes but lost to JD(U)’s Vijaylakshmi Devi by 92857 votes.

Mansoor Ali Khan, Indian National Congress, Bangaluru Central, Karnataka finished second, lost to BJP, secured 626208 votes still lost by 32707 votes. It was a straight fight and laser finish despite there were around 21 candidates who together could not cross 45000. In his first attempt, Mansoor has made a tremendous dent in the citadel of three-time BJP MP, Mohan.

AM Ariff of CPI(M) from Alappuzah, Kerala gave a tough fight to one of the general secretaries of Congress, KC Venugopal and secured 341047 votes only to lose by a margin of 63513.

Elamaram Kareem, CPI(M), Kozhikode, Kerala finished second against INC, got 374245 but lost by 146176 votes.

  1. Vaseef and KS Hamza of CPI(M), from Malappuram and Ponnani in Kerala respectively lost to IUML candidates.

Mohammed Faizal PP from Nationalist Congress Party – Sharadchandra Pawar in Lakshadweep fought against Hamdulla Sayeed of INC and lost by 2647 votes.

Imtiaz Jaleel Syed, All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, lost to Shiv Sena, by 134650 votes.

Mohammed Mubarak from All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Dindugal, Tamil Nadu stood second against CPI(M) candidate.

Md Salim, CPI(M), Murshidabad West Bengal, lost to Abu Taher Khan of TMC by 164215.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Mohammed Atherulla Shariff (headline edited) / June 10th, 2024

Kashmir’s Wushu sister Anas, Ayeera win golds at Moscow

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JAMMU & KASHMIR:

Ansa Chisti and Ayeera Chisti showing their medals at Moscow

New Delhi :

Kashmir’s Wushu Sisters, Ansa Chishti and Ayeera Chishti brought laurels to India by clinching Gold medals in the Russian Moscow Stars Wushu International Championship.

The ongoing championship started in Moscow on 28 February and will conclude on March 5, 2024.

Both players performed exceptionally in their respective weight categories of 52 and 56. They beat their Russian opponents in the finals and made their fans proud as well as the entire sports fraternity of J&K.

J&K Sports Council Chief Nuzhat Gull asked people to cheer the two bright women sportspersons fromthe Valley on  X:

Both players performed exceptionally in their respective weight categories of 52 and 56. They beat their Russian opponents in the finals and made their fans proud as well as the entire sports fraternity of J&K. 

This is the 3rd International medal for Ayeera as she won Gold in Georgia and Bronze in the World championship in Indonesia earlier. Now it’s 3rd consecutive medal in the international Wushu Championship and last year she was also shortlisted for the State Award.

Ayeera is the 1st Wushu Female Athlete who was shortlisted for this prestigious award. Similarly, Ansa, who won the 2nd Medal in the international Wushu Championship, had won Silver in the Georgia International Wushu Championship.

With today’s medal, she has won her 1st Gold medal in an international championship. Notably, both players are National Champions in their weight category as they won many medals in National championships.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by ATV / March 04th, 2024