TN chief minister M.K. Stalin with Mohammed Zubair at the awarding ceremony. Photo: Video screengrab.
The government noted that his “work helps prevent the occurrence of violence in society likely to be caused by fake news.”
New Delhi:
Fact-checker and journalist Mohammed Zubair is the recipient of the 2024 Kottai Ameer Communal Harmony Award given by the Tamil Nadu government.
The citation notes that Zubair has been “rendering various services to promote communal harmony.”
It observes that in creating the website Alt News – which he co-founded with Pratik Sinha – Zubair has set up an instrument to analyse the “veracity of the news coming out on social media,” giving primacy to real news.
The government noted that his “work helps prevent the occurrence of violence in society likely to be caused by fake news.”
The citation especially says that in March 2023, when there was a rapid spread on social media of the disinformation that migrant workers were being attacked in Tamil Nadu, Alt News‘s verification of the authenticity of the video was instrumental in proving that the footage was not from Tamil Nadu at all.
It “stopped the spread of rumours against Tamil Nadu and acted to prevent violence caused by caste, religion, race and language in Tamil Nadu,” the government said.
In 2022, Zubair was arrested by the Delhi police for a 2018 tweet in which he shared a screenshot from a 1983 Hindi movie. Six cases were slapped on him during the period of his incarceration until the Supreme Court gave him bail.
Zubair is often attacked online by Hindutva commentators for fact-checking viral claims and disinformation.
source: http://www.thewire.in / The Wire / Home> Media> Government / by The Wire Staff / January 26th, 2024
Hokkodgoli (Arambodi Village, Belthangady Taluk) Mangaluru, KARNATAKA:
Mangaluru:
In a remarkable tale of perseverance and determination, Mubeena Banu, a Muslim woman from Hokkodigoli in Arambodi village, Belthangady taluk, has secured a government post after a 13-year-long legal battle.
Mubeena Banu, the tenth child of Muhammad H, a beedi contractor, and D. Zainaba, pursued her education in her village from 1st standard to 2nd PUC. She later completed her graduation from a private college in Moodbidri and earned her post-graduation (MA) from Mangalore University, Konaje. In 2008, with the aim of fulfilling her parents’ dream, she applied for the post of Supervisor in the Women and Child Welfare Department.
Despite her qualifications, she faced a setback when she was not selected for the post in 2010. Undeterred, Mubeena Banu investigated the reason for her exclusion and discovered a discrepancy in her marks. Her BA degree marks were recorded incorrectly as 71.79% instead of the actual 75.36%. Despite facing resistance from senior officers, Mubeena persisted in her efforts, seeking support from former MLAs Vasant Bangera and Ramanatha Rai.
Having relocated from Mittabailu to Melkar and working as a lecturer in a private educational institution, Mubeena approached Speaker UT Khader for assistance in her final attempt. She filed a complaint with the Lokayukta and approached the Karnataka Administrative Tribunal (KAT). Through persistent efforts, KAT ruled in favor of Mubeena Banu.
On January 10, 2024, the Women and Child Welfare Department issued an appointment order to Mubeena Banu for the position of Supervisor at the Office of Child Development Project Officer, Bantwal Taluk. Mubeena, who initially applied from Arambodi village, is now in Sajipa Muda village of Bantwal taluk with her husband, marking the culmination of her arduous journey.
Reflecting on her journey, Mubeena expressed gratitude to her late father, a social worker who emphasized education, and her mother for their unwavering support. She acknowledged the financial assistance from her parents and husband Ismail Khader during her numerous trips to Bangalore Vidhana Soudha and departmental offices. Mubeena also highlighted the crucial support from Lokayukta officer Amanullah, Speaker UT Khader, and his close assistant Libzat.
In her own words, Mubeena Banu said, “UT Khader always supported my persistence and struggled to get that government post, which I missed due to the mistake on the part of the officials. Maybe it can be said that after he intervened, the path of my struggle became easier.”
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / January 22nd, 2024
“Asma Banu, collector of seeds of various paddy breeds, helping in social and farming activities will be felicitated with B Appanna Hegde agriculture award during an award program on the birthday of religious leader and former MLA B Appanna Hegde on December 24,” said trust president B Rama Kishan Hegde.
He further said, “Asma who works saying that work is worship is collecting various paddy breeds that are on the verge of extinction from various states. She has collected and grown more than 840 varieties of paddy this year. She is conducting a study about those seeds and creating awareness about their benefits to health. She has been selected for the award considering her rare achievements.
“The award programme will be held by Basrur Appanna Hegde Prathistana in the premises of Sharada college, Basrur. Monetary help will be distributed to students, the sick and weak during the program.
“The award will be presented by Ishapriya Theertha Swamiji of Adamar math. Karnataka backward class commission president K Jayaprakash Hegde will preside over the programme,” he said.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Karnataka / by Silveste D’Souza / Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur (EP) / December 20th, 2023
The winner of ‘MasterChef Season 8’ is Mohammed Aashiq, who fought against Suraj Thapa, Rukhsaar Sayeed, and Nambie Jessica Marak in the finale.
MasterChef India Season 8 unveiled the winner on Friday. ( Image Source : X/@ranveerbrar )
New Delhi:
The long-running Indian cooking competition MasterChef has finally come to an end. After eight weeks of delicious challenges, Mohammed Aashiq emerged as the winner of the show. The talented home chefs are mentored by Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and Pooja Dhingra in thrilling competitions.
Mohammed Ashiq, a 24-year-old contestant, wins MasterChef India’s eighth season. He takes home a coat, the trophy, and a cash reward of Rs 25 lakh. Rukhsaar Sayeed and Nambie Jessica, two home chefs, and Suraj Thapa competed in an exciting finale. Nambie and Rukhsaar won second and first runner-up, respectively.
On social media, judge Ranveer Brar sent his congratulations to Mohammed Ashiq. He wrote, “From an inspirational start to a challenging journey, you never stopped daring for more. Congratulations on becoming the MasterChef Mohd. Ashiq!”
Aashiq sent a press statement and discussed his feelings. “I am immensely grateful for the whirlwind journey I’ve had on MasterChef India. From facing elimination to holding the trophy, every moment was a profound lesson. This experience has completely reshaped my life, and winning this esteemed title feels surreal.”
He added, “Coming back with stronger determination after narrowly missing out last season was tough, but I devoted myself entirely to the culinary craft. This victory isn’t just mine; it’s for every dreamer who defies the odds to chase their aspirations. I owe immense gratitude to the judges- Chef Vikas, Ranveer, and Pooja, fellow contestants, the audience, and all the renowned chefs who pushed me to perform better with each passing day in the kitchen. I’ve grown significantly and noticed a remarkable shift in my cooking skills, all thanks to an incredible boot camp experience.”
Instagram ashiqrex
Who is Mohammed Aashiq?
Mohammed is originally from Mangalore, Karnataka. At the time when Aashiq entered the MasterChef India competition, he was the owner of a juice shop in his village called Kulukki Hub. By combining his passion for cooking with his talent for creating one-of-a-kind meals, Mohammed has been able to support his family financially.
source: http://www.news.abplive.com / ABP Live / Home> Entertainment> TV / by ABP News Service / December 08th, 2023
In an event held at the Highland Islamic Forum (HIF) Auditorium in the city, the Highland Islamic Forum (HIF) unveiled a new book titled ‘Big B,’ a tribute to the late SM Basheer.
Subtitled ‘A Bond Beyond Brotherhood,’ the book is centered around the inspirational thoughts and life of Late SM Basheer.
Addressing the gathering at the book launch, NA Muneer, Ex-Chairman of the Kuwait Kerala Muslim Association (KKMA), shared memories of his association with SM Basheer. Muneer spoke about the charismatic personality and powerful aura that SM Basheer possessed, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who met him.
Recalling his memories, Muneer emphasized that even a year after SM Basheer’s passing, he continues to remember and honor the late leader. He praised SM Basheer’s instrumental role in organizing significant events at KKMA and acknowledged his invaluable contributions to the organization while serving as its chief.
Fatah Tayyil, Ex-President of KKMA, also paid tribute to SM Basheer, acknowledging his substantial contributions to the KKMA.
SM Rasheed, Chairman of Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BCCI), spoke about SM Basheer’s profound influence on people’s lives and commended his contributions to the BCCI.
Other speakers, including Mohammed Ali Uchchil and Rizwan Pandeshwar, shared their views on the life and impact of SM Basheer during the event.
The book ‘Big B’ was released by AK Niyaz, MD of AK Group of Companies, along with HIF India President Adil Parvez, and other guests present at the event.
Hussain Shafi, the author of the book, was felicitated by HIF for his contributions.
HIF also presented a documentary-style short video introducing SM Basheer and showcasing his life.
Prominent figures such as SM Basha, MD of SM Group of Companies, SM Farooq, KK Abdullah, officials, and executive members of KKMA and BCCI graced the occasion.
The event, hosted by AK Shaaz, concluded with supplications led by Moulana Tayyub, Khateeb Ehsan Masjid.
source: http://www.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / December 01st, 2023
Mohammad Naushad, a retired man from Bengaluru had plans to travel the world after completing his tenure in the steel industry. He landed as a tourist in Samarkand a year ago and his quest for his morning masala tea and paratha prompted him to settle here and open the only Indian restaurant in the second-largest city of Uzbekistan.
Called “The Indian Kitchen”, the restaurant came as a respite to Indian students who are studying medicine here and used to miss Indian food. The locals here also fancy the wide-ranging menu from lip dosas to chicken biryani.
“I had no plans to work post-retirement and had no experience of working at a restaurant let alone running one. When I came here as a tourist, I headed out to have my usual breakfast of masala tea and paratha.
“I have travelled to so many countries and have always found some or the other place where Indian food is available. I was surprised to find out that there is not a single eatery or restaurant which serves Indian meals,” 61-year-old Naushad told PTI.
“A week more and the vibrant culture and simplicity of people here, prompted me to give it a shot and now Samarkand is my permanent home,” he added.
According to Naushad, the restaurant receives around 350-400 visitors per day and there are catering orders for weddings and events where having Indian cuisine as an option is a hit here.
His day starts with going to the “bazaar” with his staff to buy groceries as he prefers everything to be cooked afresh at the restaurant.
“There are over 3,000 Indian students in Samarkand and they tell me often that they used to miss Indian meals. The shahi paneer and naan and the rotis used to be a rare sight here. I expected the Indians to love the restaurant but the response I have received from Uzbeks is phenomenal,” he said.
Behind the lip-smacking dishes available at the restaurant is Ashok Kalidasa, a chef who hails from Madras. He earlier used to live in Uzbekistan’s Tashkent and is now settled in Samarkand.
“We enquire from each customer about the kind of spices they like us to use, whether they want it less spicy or tangy because Uzbek food is very different. The effort to customise the popular Indian dishes to their taste is what attracts the local crowd here. Indian students come here because they get their home food and the meals are not expensive,” he said.
Kalidasa says the most popular dishes at the restaurant are “masala dosa” and “chicken biryani” which is much different from the Uzbek “Pilaf”.
Asked about her favourite pick at the restaurant, Zarina, an Uzbek woman, said “I love masala chai”.
While right now the Indian Kitchen offers meals at the restaurant, Naushad has expansion plans.
“We are also thinking of starting a tiffin service for Indian students. Also, we get a lot of tourists. So I am contemplating opening similar setups in Bukhara and Khiva which are popular tourist destinations in Uzbekistan but do not have any Indian restaurants,” he said.
According to the Uzbekistan Embassy in New Delhi, the Indian diaspora in Uzbekistan has more than 5,000 people. In pre-Covid year 2019, over 28,000 Indian tourists visited Uzbekistan. However, the number has crossed over 30,000 this year so far.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> World / November 19th, 2023
CM, DyCM and other prominent leaders grace the inaugral ceremony of the ‘Bearys Souharda Bhavan’.
Bengaluru:
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Saturday that the state government has earmarked Rs 3,150 crores for the development of minority communities, with Rs 10,000 crores to be gradually reserved for this purpose in upcoming budgets. He made this announcement during his address at the inaugural ceremony of ‘Beary Souharda Bhavan’ here at HBR Layout.
The Chief Minister, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and other prominent leaders, inaugurated the Souharda Bhavan and the B.A. Mohideen Memorial Auditorium.
In his speech, Siddaramaiah emphasized the equal distribution of the state’s wealth among all its citizens, stating that “equal justice will be served, and no one can be treated unfairly.” He expressed pride in laying the foundation stone for Beary Souharda Bhavan and inaugurating it, highlighting its inclusivity by being open to people of all backgrounds.
Highlighting the important role played by harmony to achieve peace and progress in a country, he asserted that attaining peace and progress in a country or society is not possible without having harmony and equality among diverse cultures.
Stressing on creating harmony in the society, he stated, “Those who sow mistrust and hatred towards each other will be the primary reason for the downfall of this country. BA Mohideen was an exemplary personality with true secular values, who believed in friendship.”
He further assured strict action against those who disturb the peace in the society, emphasizing that individuals from all castes and religions are entitled to exercise their constitutional rights.
Beary community’s contribution to peace and development immense: D.K Shivakumar
Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Chief Minister D.K Shivakumar commended the Beary Community as having contributed a lot to the development of peace, harmony and educational institutions in the state. He also thanked the Beary community for its support to the Congress party in the recent Vidhana Sabha Polls.
Acknowledging the community’s positive impact on Kannada language, he added that, “the Beary speaking community has made memorable contributions to Kannada literature, culture and language is immense. While girls wear jewelry to look beautiful, the beary speaking community has made Kannada beautiful” he said.
Meanwhile, he also recalled the contribution made by the community towards the temples of the Dakshina Kannada district, and also acknowledged that it was Bappa Beary who constructed the Shri Durgaparameshwari Temple in Mulki.
Shivakumar also stressed on generating employment in hometown and asserted that instead of heading to foreign countries or the gulf one should stress on creating jobs in the hometown, the exit of talent will prove harmful for the development of the state.
Encouraging people of Mangaluru, he cited the coastal city as the investors’ paradise and that the people should generate employment locally and remove the stigma of the city being called as the laboratory of communal riots.
Speaking about the requests made by the beary community for the grants, Shivakumar assured of all possible assistance within the framework of the law.
“Increase Muslim representation in the state cabinet”
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Syed Muhammad Beary, President of the Bearys Group and Beary Souharda Bhavan Building committee, urged an increase in Muslim representation in the state cabinet. Simultaneously, he also suggested giving ministerial positions to three people of the community including speaker U.T Khader.
In response to Syed Beary’s remarks, D.K Shivakumar noted during his address that, “You requested that UT Khader, who holds the position of a speaker, be considered for a ministerial role. He currently occupies a higher position above ours. SM Krishna and Jagdish Shettar were also speakers.”
Syed Beary also mentioned that the state government initially allocated a 30,000 sq ft plot of land. However, for some reasons, only 12,000 sq ft of land was allotted, and they have fully utilized it for the construction of this building.
Beary expressed hope that the government would allocate the remaining 18,000 sq ft of land for the construction of another building on the same model and hostel facilities for men.
B.A. Mohideen’s dream inspired the construction of this building, which has been named ‘Beary Souharda Bhavan’ in accordance with his suggestion. Syed Beary expressed, “This Bhavan will serve the community well, in line with the aspirations of B.A. Mohideen, who sparked an educational revolution amongst the Beary Muslims.”
The ceremony was attended by Speaker U.T. Khader, Energy Minister K.J. George, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, Chief Minister’s Political Secretary Naseer Ahmed, Legislative Council Ruling Party Chief Whip Salim Ahmed, Umar Teekay, G.A. Bawa along with many other distinguished guests.
President of Bearys Welfare Association, Bengaluru and Member of Legislative Council B.M. Farooq presided over the event.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / September 30th, 2023
The All India Ideal Teachers Association (AIITA) has announced a highly anticipated State-level program set to take place on October 1st, 2023, at Gulbarga, Karnataka.
In a recent press conference, Muhammad Raza Manvi, the President of AIITA’s Karnataka Chapter, unveiled the event’s details, highlighting the prestigious State Level Education Award, the Afzal Hussain Shikshan Ratna Award, which will be bestowed upon Dr. Abdul Qadeer the founder of Shaheen group of Institutions, a distinguished figure in the field of education.
Dr. Abdul Qadeer has been selected to receive this distinguished accolade in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the field of education, setting an inspiring example for educators across the state. The award ceremony is expected to draw attention not only to Dr. Qadeer’s accomplishments but also to the importance of education and its transformative power.
The highlight of the event will be the presence of Dr. Fouziya Tarannum, the District Commissioner of Gulbarga, who has graciously accepted the invitation to serve as the chief guest.
The event is anticipated to be a gathering of educational luminaries, as teachers and educators from across Karnataka are expected to participate. This assembly will not only celebrate Dr. Abdul Qadeer’s exceptional achievements but also provide a unique opportunity for educators to come together, exchange experiences, share knowledge, and gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of education in India.
The AIITA State-level program on October 1st, 2023, promises to be a momentous occasion, celebrating excellence in education and the dedication of individuals like Dr. Abdul Qadeer, who continue to shape the future of our nation through their unwavering commitment to learning and teaching. The event is expected to inspire and motivate educators, fostering a spirit of innovation and collaboration in the pursuit of educational excellence across Karnataka.
source: http://www.thehindustangazette.com / The Hindustan Gazette / Home> News> Education / by The Hindustan Gazette / September 30th, 2023
Haji Abdul Razak Kote Hejmady, owner of Metalco Group of Companies was conferred with ‘Best Entrepreneur of Bahrain’ award.
Former President of India Ramnath Kovind presented the award to Haji Abdul Razak.
Abdul Razak, who is the president of Dakshina Kannada Muslim Welfare Association in involved in social and religious works since many years.
Abdul Razak has been residing in Bahrain from the past 47 years. He hails from the Kote family of Hejmady in Udupi district.
He has been the voice of Muslim Community of this Island for three decades and with his vision he established Dakshina Kannada Muslim Welfare Association, which continuously works for the betterment of the community.
Abdul Razak has been a tireless advocate for the Tulu and Kannada communities. His contribution towards various programmes to promote Tulu and Kannada languages and culture has been phenomenal.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Top Stories / by Daijiworld Media Network – Bahrain (MS) / September 23rd, 2023
The third edition of the Nawayath Cricket League (NCL) commenced in Mangaluru on Monday, September 18, held at the ‘Perfect Pass’ sports arena in Falnir.
This three-day cricket tournament is exclusively organized for students and young professionals hailing from Bhatkal and its surrounding areas who are currently residing in Mangaluru.
The event is being overseen by students residing in the Bhatkal Jamatul-Muslimeen (BJM) hostel. Seven teams have entered the competition, which will come to a conclusion with a closing ceremony on September 20, following the final game.
The tournament format comprises a group stage where each of the seven teams competes against the others.
The top four teams from this stage will progress to the next round, which mirrors the format of the Indian Premier League (IPL), featuring Qualifier-1, Eliminator, Qualifier 2, and the Grand Finale.
The tournament boasts ‘Spider Group’ as its title sponsor, with prominent Bhatkal businessmen Arshad Mohtisham, of Mohtisham Complexes Pvt. Ltd., Imtiyaz Damda of ILFA Realtors and Aziz Akrami of Spider Group also being notable sponsors.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / September 19th, 2023
