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Meet 9 Famous Mumbai based Muslim women Entrepreneurs who share their Entrepreneurial Journey on International Women’s Day

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Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Accept Happy Women’s Day from Hello Mumbai News.com Team :

Each year, Hello Mumbai News takes the privilege to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8th to propagate and recognize women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements through featuring stories on their successful journey in their field and to call for gender equality

This is with a goal to raise awareness about the need to end gender-based violence, promote women’s leadership, celebrate their contributions, promote entrepreneurs, startups and advocate for women’s economic empowerment around the World.

We, Hello Mumbai News Team have compiled a list of noteworthy and inspiring Entrepreneurs drawn from across the Country.

We hope their stories will inspire one and all.
So guys read on:

There is a tremendous growth in Muslims foraying into Entrepreneurship in the country.
Amid the World celebrating the International Women’s Day, Hello Mumbai News is taking the privilege to interview the Muslim Entrepreneurs from  Mumbai and so forth in their Series International Women’s Day.

As of now Women Muslim Entrepreneurs have defied this stereotype even as cashing in on the rapidly growing market for Muslim-focused Business.

Muslim Women Entrepreneurs are and have proved they are nothing less. Today they are into varied businesses and are growing with it on their own merits.

They have adopted the business and labour practices of global capitalism.

Muslim Women Entrepreneurs have made a mark in Mumbai and they have emerged as successful at entrepreneurship.

Sana Khatri:

Famous As: Business Entrepreneur

Hello Mumbai News: Could you please Introduce yourself to our readers?

Sana Khatri: Hi. I am Sana Khatri, I was born and brought up in Mumbai and hail from a Muslim Menom Community. Though I was an housewife earlier, presently,
I am the Founder of Grace Network Event and Exhibition Company.

Hello Mumbai News: What Inspired you to venture into your own Business?

Sana Khatri: Well, being a Muslim Woman I observed that there is a lot of potential and talent in our Muslim Women but there is no specific platform for them to explore their talent. Hence decided to do it. Moreover, I belong to a business family background, so business is in my blood. And in a bid to empower and promote Women Entrepreneurs, I decided to start this business.

Hello Mumbai News: What Challenges you faced as a Woman Entrepreneur and how did you overcome them?

Sana Khatri: Look, In every business challenges occur and it is very common. So for me to create a network of women professional and Entrepreneurs was a Big challenge. I became very active on social media and did hard work on ground level. From person to person i created this platform.

Hello Mumbai News: Tell us something about your Start-up and how people can benefit from it?

Sana Khatri: My startup company name is Grace Network which provides a platform to MSME and women Entrepreneurs to showcase their products. We organise Exhibition twice a month in different parts of Mumbai. Women Entrepreneurs participate in this Exhibition display their products and get benefits. In last five years and as of now, we have organized more than 24 Exhibition across Mumbai.

Hello Mumbai News: Where did your Inspiration come from?

Sana Khatri: I was inspired by my Family members and my Husband

Hello Mumbai News: Do you feel that in India there are enough structures and facilities put in place to assist women to expand their Startup Journey?

Sana Khatri: Yes. India is a Very huge Market and our present Government is doing good to support MSMES and small Startup.

Hello Mumbai News: How you balance your professional and personal life .

Sana Khatri: Well, though quite difficult, yet, I managed. In this, I always had the support from my Husband.

Hello Mumbai News: What advice would you give to someone who is aspiring to be a Women Entrepreneur?

Sana Khatri: My sincere advice is to be positive and increase confidence. Y will definitely get success.

Hello Mumbai News: Which Woman Inspired you?

Sana Khatri: Quite obviously my Mother.

Hello Mumbai News: What is your message on International Women’s Day?

Sana Khatri: Yes.To Empower Women Empower Nation. Happy Women’s Day.

Hello Mumbai News: Being a Muslim Woman Entrepreneur what type of challenges and difficulties you faced.

Sana Khatri: Frankly speaking my biggest challenge is to bring Muslim Women Entrepreneurs under one roof. Our Community Women follow Pardhaa still now. And being a Muslim Woman Entrepreneur, Networking among Women is the biggest challenge

Hello Mumbai News: What’s your vision and future plan about your startup?.

Sana Khatri: Well, I want to make Grace Network a big platform across India and to promote Women Entrepreneurship culture among Muslim women. Very soon I will be organising an Exhibition in every district of Maharashtra and Big Metro cities of India.

Hello Mumbai News: Do you agree Mumbai being a financial capital a good Market for Startup and Entrepreneurs?

Sana Khatri: Yes of course. No doubt about it. In Mumbai Entrepreneurship culture is growing day by day among women Entrepreneurs.

Sanaubar Aijaz Malik:

Famous As: Business Entrepreneur

I am Sanaubar Aijaz Malik the owner of Glamour and Style a well-known clothing brand in Mumbai. I was born and brought up in a Muslim family in South Mumbai.G


I graduated in psychology from St Xaviers College and postgraduated in counselling psychology.
My life’s journey was so very professional as a psychologist to begin with. I then got the opportunity to join a special school run by an NGO as principal and administrator and dedicated nearly 15 years for the upliftment of underprivileged women and children with special needs. This was a different level of contentment altogether for me. I have such precious and unforgettable memories of these days of my life.

Alhamdulillah born in a well educated Muslim family, all my family members were professionals, I did not have to face any societal pressure. The school where I worked was run by an NGO run by broad minded women themselves. Being a psychologist, I knew the importance of mother’s role in the development of children so I left my ideal and secure job to give time to my two kids, Anam and Jawaad, thanks to my supportive husband Aijaz and in laws. My hobbies were reading, handicraft making, stitching, embroidery, painting, dress designing and so much more…
During this time my husband had to shift to Pune for work and our kids started growing up. As a result I now had few hours free for myself. I then started giving voluntary vocational training to underprivileged women and children with special needs, helping them to lead independent self reliant lives.
Suddenly, my life turned upside down with my mom’s death due to cancer, my own and my husband’s ill health. It was during this phase that I started selling self created handicraft items and dress material to keep myself busy and distract myself from such circumstances.
Alhamdulillah, we overcame this depressive phase and grew stronger.
Then came the lockdown that changed the lives of so many people. It affected my life too but in a positive way.
My online sales improved Alhamdulillah. I also got involved in a lot of charitable work. I noticed that a few karigars and tailors were out of their jobs. Some even left the city. I then thought of getting suits stitched and selling so that they could feed their families. I participated in a lot of exhibitions where I met a lot of other women entrepreneurs especially those who organized exhibitions and encouraged small business owners. No act of goodness and hardwork goes wasted. Blessings of all those who were helped led to the brand called GLAMOUR AND STYLE today. Glamour and Style grew into a successful brand in a significantly short span of time. Today, we have a team of karigars each expert in their own forte, team salesgirls, team of photographer and models, a team handling my social media, a graphic designer and so on. From an individual person handling business, glamour and style is benefitting so many people, both men and women who work from home.
Another major aim is satisfaction of customers. We are continuously striving to make the best exclusive designs at affordable rates especially for middle class families.
Thanks to my supportive husband Aijaz Malik, my family and friends, who always encourage and motivate me, i have been able to reach here.
During lockdown many businesses failed and women came to the forefront supporting the family. The only advice that i can give someone who is an aspiring women entrepreneur is to never give up. Allah taala is watching. If your intentions are good, you will get success. Faith, willpower, hardwork and perseverance pays.

I take inspiration from wife of our beloved Prophet(pbuh) Hazrat Khadija (r a) who was a successful Muslim woman entrepreneur.
Fashion is a signature of your unique style and it has a lot of scope. Today,
Sanaubar Aijaz Malik’s Glamour and Style is a well known ladies clothing brand boutique located at Dongri, Mumbai. The place vibrates with hues and sophisticated designs….a candy to the eyes. It deals in ready to wear Indian attires, keeping in mind the customers budget and latest trends.
The price range is super affordable without stooping on the quality. You can pick a lovely casual wear cotton outfit @ just Rs 1200/-
Each suit made is exclusive. One of its kind. They have sizes from Small( S or 36) to 5XL (or 50).
Available at our outlet are
Stitched and semi stitched Kurtis/tunics.
Casual cotton and lawn suits embellished with laces.
Festive collection with embroidery and patch work.
Premium and designer party wear collections.
and much more.
You can
WhatsApp on 9833873378
Website www.glamourandstyle.in
Instagram glamourand.style
Address: 233, Bundar bldg, SVP Rd, Next to Buland Darwaza, opp. Khoja Kabrastan, Dongri Mumbai 400009.
There are over 1000 suits available to select from.
Shop is open 11am to 9 pm Monday to Saturday.
Courier facility is also available all over India.
Best quality at affordable prices. We match style and class with luxury and comfort.
With the changing mindset, Inshaallah Muslim women will continue to make great strides in the business world in the days to come.
In future, I see myself continuing my endeavour of helping the needy and impacting the lives of people so that the world could become a better place to live in. Inshaallah I plan to expand my business to cater to the needs of more and more people.
On women’s day the only message that I want to give to all women entrepreneurs is to maintain quality of life. You need to balance your family, career, health as well as friends. This will automatically lead you to success. If I could do it, you can do it too. Happy women’s day.

Sanaa Gaazi:

Famous As: Mehndi Artist

Hello Mumbai News:  Could you please Introduce yourself to our readers?

Sanaa Gaazi: Hi. Privileged to connect with Hello Mumbai News. I am Sana Gazi, born and brought up in Mumbai and hail from a Muslim Community. Though I was an housewife earlier, presently,
I am the Founder of Sana Gazi Mhendi Artist Beauty Startups.

Hello Mumbai News: What Inspired you to venture into your own Business?

Sanaa Gaazi: Well, Since my child i was interested in Beauty Industry specially in Mhendi Design. From the day one my mother supported me a lot and i joined Mhendi classes done course. After this i decidedly to make it a professional. and decided to start this business.

Hello Mumbai News:  What Challenges you faced as a Woman Entrepreneur and how did you overcome them?

Sanaa Gaazi: Look, In every business challenges occur and it is very common. So for me to create a network of women client was a Big challenge. I became very active on social media and did hard work on ground level. From person to person i created this platform.

Hello Mumbai News: Tell us something about your Start-up and how people can benefit from it?

Sanaa Gaazi: My startup company name is Sana Gazi Mhendi Artist which provides a Mhendi designing specially Dubai flavour.our speciality is Designing which women like it very much.

Hello Mumbai News: Where did your Inspiration come from?

Sanaa Gaazi: I was inspired by my Mother Family members and my Husband

Hello Mumbai News: How do you balance your professional and personal life .

Sanaa Gaazi: Well, though quite difficult, yet, I managed. In this, I always had the support from my Husband.

Hello Mumbai News: What advice would you give to someone who is aspiring to be a Women Entrepreneur?

Sanaa Gaazi: My sincere advice is to be positive and increase confidence. Y will definitely get success. Work hard belives in your self

Hello Mumbai News: Which Woman Inspired you?

Sanaa Gaazi: Quite obviously my Mother.

Hello Mumbai News: What is your message on International Women’s Day?

Sanaa Gaazi: This International Women’s Day, is very special for me, because it was on this auspicious day that I got married. This women’s day marks my 4th Marriage anniversary.
I want to give special message to all women to support and help each other grow together and Make Nation strong.

Hello Mumbai News: Being a Muslim Woman Entrepreneur what type of challenges and difficulties you faced.

Sanaa Gaazi: Frankly speaking my biggest challenge is to create good quality client because Mhendi is an Art and its difficult to convince the client about Designing.

Hello Mumbai News: What’s your vision and future plan about your startup?.

Sanaa Gaazi: I want to make Sana Gazi Mhendi Artist a Big beauty Startup through this platform i want launch Mhendi classes want to teach poor and needy girls.Through my Mhendi art i want to support my society.

Hello Mumbai News: Do you agree Mumbai being a financial capital a good Market for Beauty Startup and Entrepreneurs?

Sanaa Gaazi: Yes of course. No doubt about it. In Mumbai Entrepreneurship culture is growing day by day among women Entrepreneurs.

Farzana Imran:

Famous As: Makeup Artist

Predominantly Business is a male-dominated world, and in the Muslim community, where female modesty is held at a premium, one might assume that was doubly the case.

But as of now Muslim Women Entrepreneurs are making a Huge impact they have defied this stereotype even as cashing in on the rapidly growing market for Muslim-focused Business.

Like other Non-Muslim women entrepreneurs who have conquered the Male Counterparts in every field of profession, so too Muslim Women Entrepreneurs are and have proved they are nothing less. Today they are into varied businesses and are growing with it on their their own merits.

One such ambitious charismatic and vibrant is Farzana Imran recognised as Zaana Make-up Artist.

Hello Mumbai News took the opportunity to catch up with the enterprising Make-up artist for an exclusive interview on International Women’s Day. Excerpts of the interview.

Hello Mumbai News: Hi. Farzana, welcome to Hello Mumbai News. Could you please introduce yourself to our readers.

Farzana: Hello. This is Farzana Imran, a Make-up artist.

Hello Mumbai News: Farzana, how did u foray into the beauty business?

Farzana: Well, I forayed into the beauty business way back 4 years ago as makeup artist and a subsequently an hairstylist.

Hello Mumbai News: How would you Describe your Signature Look.

Farzana: I have always attempted to enhance one’s inner beauty, Pakistani bridal look and elegant party makeups are my signature looks. It has been my passion towards makeup and engaged in beauty industry is all that I had always wanted and it was my cherished dream.

Hello Mumbai News: What made you come up with your Own Make up line.

Farzana: Beauty is endless and one doesn’t need to look fair as far as beauty is defined, but just that you need to be a good hearted person to look beautiful…..(but a lil mascara never hurts)

Hello Mumbai News: Please throw light on your speciality and services you provide.

Farzana: It has always been my priority to provide with the best of service to my clients. I also visit venues where there is a need for makeup. And also visit accept destination wedding makeups

Hello Mumbai News: Which elements of job that attracts and you most enjoy?

Farzana: Well, I just love doing eye makeup and enhance eyes. As a saying goes “Keep going and never stop your bank account has more numbers than your mobile number”.

Hello Mumbai News: What type challenges you have you encountered amid your professional Journey.

Farzana: Yes. I did have had to face lot of hassles but by the grace of God I could hustle, bustle fight and bounce back.
Let me tell you that Women are blessed with power if whatever they decide they will ultimately succeed in life

Hello Mumbai News: Whom have you looked up for inspiration?

Farzana: Yes, amid peels of laughter, Parul Gurg a seasoned Makeup artist is my inspiration and touchwood I am fortunate to have a very supporting husband so everything gets managed.
Am accessible on @zaana_makeup_artist and on Mob No. 9022696457

Fatima Qureshi:

Famous As: Beauty Entrepreneur

Hello Mumbai News: Could you Introduce yourself for our readers.

Fatima Qureshi: I am Fatima Qureshi, Beauty Expert by profession.

Hello Mumbai News: What Inspired you to venture into your Business?

Fatima Qureshi: It was the need of the hour and an Urge to be self-dependent.

Hello Mumbai News: What Challenges have you faced as a Woman Entrepreneur and how did you overcome them.

Fatima Qureshi: Well, amid taunt from the society as this profession was not appreciated in those days. Then traveling to places for work. Maintaining balance between home and work

Hello Mumbai News: Tell us something about your Start-up and how people can benefit from it.

Fatima Qureshi: For venturing into any business one has to invest a lot of money. Hence, I started giving tuitions and then utilized that money as a freelancer beautician.

Hello Mumbai News: Where Did your Inspiration come from?

Fatima Qureshi: It was a safe job as I had to deal with females.

Hello Mumbai News: Do you feel that in India there are enough structures and facilities put in place to assist women to expand their Startup Journey?

Fatima Qureshi: No

Hello Mumbai News: How do you balance your professional and personal life.

Fatima Qureshi: I organize my work as per priority. It’s difficult but I systematically manage it.

Hello Mumbai News: What advice would you give to aspiring Women Entrepreneur?

Fatima Qureshi: Just go for it. Achieve your dreams. Make the Impossible possible.

Hello Mumbai News: What Women Inspire you.?

Fatima Qureshi: To be Enthusiastic Positive Confident

Hello Mumbai News: What is your message on International Women’s Day.

Fatima Qureshi: Nothing is impossible for a WOMAN. Stand up for yourself.

Hello Mumbai News: Where can our readers find you and keep in touch with you.

Fatima Qureshi: On Instagram and Facebook @Femsglamour

Hello Mumbai News: Being a Muslim women Entrepreneur what type of challenges and difficulties you faced?

Fatima Qureshi: Too much restrictions on work timings and travel

Hello Mumbai News: What’s your vision and future plan about your startup?

Fatima Qureshi: I am a self-starter who intend to make the most of every opportunity that life offers me I want to become an inspiration for all the women who want to become an inspiration for others I want to help all those to achieve their goals.

Hello Mumbai News: Tell us in brief about your services.

Fatima Qureshi: We deal with all types of skin and beauty services.

Hello Mumbai News: Do you agree Mumbai being a financial capital a good Market for Startup and Entrepreneurs?

Fatima Qureshi: Yes, by all means.

Aisha Tabrez Chinoy:

Famous As: Food Entrepreneur

Hello Mumbai News: Could you Introduce yourself for our readers.

Aisha: I am a mother of 2 lovely kids, housewife and an entrepreneur who loves to hustle and wants to make an identity for myself in the society and be an inspiration for a lot of females to do something on their own.

Hello Mumbai News: What Inspired to start your Business.

Aisha: the challenge that I was going through in the kitchen specially while making birista where we had to peel onions, cut, chop and fry them to make birista inspired me to make kitchen life easy for a lot of kitchen queens and also my passion for cooking.

Hello Mumbai News: What Challenges have you faced as a Woman Entrepreneur and how did you overcome them.

Aisha: There have been end number of challenges that I have faced… Taking care of joint family, kids, household chores, staff, sales, manufacturing and many more challenging… But I am fortunate enough to have my husband who is the strongest pillar of my life and also for S.A Foods. He has a lot of experience in the corporate world dealing into sales and customer service. He’s always ensures to share and implement his experience in S.A Foods…

Hello Mumbai News: Tell Something about your Start-up and how people can benefit from it.

Aisha: Firstly all our products are all made using the finest ingredients and we offer premium quality marinades, birista, ginger garlic paste, chutneys, mayos to make kitchen life easy and zaikedaar for kitchen queens. We have more than 5000 customers and they all share their feedback that our products have made their kitchen life very easy and zaikedaar.

Hello Mumbai News: Do you feel that in India there are enough structures and facilities put in place to assist women to expand their Startup Journey.

Aisha: It is only the will, passion and persistence that helps you achieve your goals whether it is India or any location in the world. Make use of the resources available and looking for solutions to your problem is the key to success.

Hello Mumbai News: How you balance your professional and personal life .

Aisha: It is difficult and challenging… But when your husband and your family support understands you passion and you dream you can do wonders. I am fortunate alhamdulillah to have a strong family with very strong values and also my staff who are more like my family… Then it becomes easy to distribute your work load. Special thanks to my entire staff of S.A Foods.

Hello Mumbai News: What advice would you give to someone who are aspiring Women Entrepreneur

Aisha: Only 1 advice… Understand what makes you happy and work on your product/service daily… Love what you do and also be consistent… It’s you persistence and determination that will give you name and then everything falls in place.

Hello Mumbai News: What’is your message on International Women’s Day.

Aisha: Love yourself, be confident about the work you do. Make your own identity not to compete with anyone, but just to discover your strength and discover yourself.

Hello Mumbai News: Being a Muslim women Entrepreneur what type of challenges and difficulties you faced.

Aisha: A challenge is a challenge when you don’t have anyone to support you… But alhamdulillah I am blessed with best husband, parents, in-laws and my entire S.A Foods family who have been my strength and never made me feel if there’s any challenge. I see a challenge and alhamdulillah my husband comes up with a solution and my entire staff supports to complete those challenges.

Hello Mumbai News: What’s your vision and future plan about your startup.

Aisha: Ek hi vision hai… Make life easy and zaikedaar for all the kitchen queen… #hargharsafoods

Hello Mumbai News: Tell us brief about your services.

Aisha: We offer home delivery services and any customer can book their products through our website, Instagram and WhatsApp. We also keep on uploading new recipes on Instagram for our customers so that they know how they can prepare some yummy recipes for their own family easily. We also share more than 150 recipes through WhatsApp to make their kitchen life easy and zaikedaar.

Hello Mumbai News: Do you agree Mumbai being a financial capital a good Market for Startup and Entrepreneurs.

Aisha: I was born and bought up in Mumbai… There is always a lot of scope to start your own business and make a name for yourself. Just believe in yourself and make small progress daily. Naam ke liye kaam karo… Kaam khud ho jayega… 

My mom and my mother in law who coincidentally has same name Sabera n of course my name Aisha and that’s the initial in S.A Foods… Their never to give up attitude inspires me and I am blessed to have them in my life.

Nikhat Khan:

Famous As: Makeup Artist

Hello Mumbai News: Could you introduce yourself for our readers.

Nikhat Khan: Nikhat khan as makeupbykhan
I am professional makeup and hair artist

Hello Mumbai News: when and how did you get into beauty industry

Nikhat Khan: Makeup is my passion and in makeup industry I am since 3 yrs

Hello Mumbai News: How would you Describe your Signature look.

Nikhat Khan: The best way to create a signature look is to think about what is you want to accentuate about your natural beauty and then play around and see what makes you feel best

Hello Mumbai News: what made you come up with your own makeup line

Nikhat Khan: It’s my passion which made me come up with my makeup line

Hello Mumbai News: What is beauty for you

Nikhat Khan: It’s our strength and self confidence to know that with or without makeup the real beauty is “you”

Hello Mumbai News: Tell something about your specialty and service you provide

Nikhat Khan: We provide makeup that should look soft elegant and natural

Hello Mumbai News: which elements of job do you most enjoy

Nikhat Khan: As a makeup artist you have the power to make beautiful when ur clients see them in the mirror after your final touch the smile that you see on their face is “princeless”

Hello Mumbai News: Do you have any tips or advice for Aspiring makeup artist

Nikhat Khan: You should have a strong passion for the makeup industry and you should be creative

Hello Mumbai News: What type challenges have you faced during your professional Journey

Nikhat Khan: We all have to accept a challenge in every job how to balance it it’s up to us

Hello Mumbai News: What’s your message on International Women’s Day

Nikhat Khan: Happy Women’s day to all the incredible women ! “Not just today but everyday “

Hello Mumbai News: who is your favourite makeup artist

Nikhat Khan: Mine favourite makeup artist is Nasreen ma’am coz she’s the one where I am today she’s my makeup guru

Hello Mumbai News: how you balance your professional and personal life

Nikhat Khan: We should be very calm in both personal and professional life

Hello Mumbai News: when our readers can find you and keep in touch with you

Nikhat Khan: I m on Instagram as makeupbykhan3
WhatsApp on
9082958822

Yasmin:

Famous As: Makeup Artist

Hello Mumbai News: Could you Introduce yourself for our readers.

Yasmin: My name is yasmeen i am a professional makeup artist

Hello Mumbai News: when and how did you get into Beauty Industry.

Yasmin:  I just love to do makeup right from my childhood but I tried it as a profession after my marriage by getting inspiration from all the ladies out there in the industry who just want to pursue something on their own.

Hello Mumbai News: How would you Describe your Signature Look.

Yasmin:  As I said I just love doing makeup but my clients and friends love how I do box liner and nude makeup a lot as it enhances the natural beauty of the person irrelevant of their ethnicity.

Hello Mumbai News: what made you come up with your Own Make up line.

Yasmin: Nothing just a passion for makeup and a love of sharing the knowledge which I have.

Hello Mumbai News: What is Beauty for you.

Yasmin: To me, beauty is all about being comfortable in your skin, its about knowing and accepting who you are.

Hello Mumbai News: Tell Something about your speciality and services you provide.

Yasmin: My specialty is makeup and knowledge in it and that is the service that I provide, by the grace of Allah I am very good at it

Hello Mumbai News: which elements of job do you most enjoy.

Yasmin: you know, when we are done with our work and we receive a beautiful smile and positive feedback from the client, that’s it that’s the best part of the job which I enjoy

Hello Mumbai News: Do you have any Tips or advice for Aspiring Make up Artist.

Yasmin: Do what you love and love what you do, and follow your passion blindly don’t run after fame make your work shout out your name and fame will come running after you.

Hello Mumbai News: What type challenges have you faced during your professional Journey.

Yasmin: Nothing can be achieved without any challenges as being a married woman and a mother the difficulty level for starting a career at this time of life is way up high and the list is way long enough from the tension of who’s gonna look after the children to how well everything will be managed. But as they say, where there is a will there is a way, everything will be managed gradually.

Hello Mumbai News: What’s your message on International Women’s Day

Yasmin: A woman can do anything she is willing to do, the only thing she needs is just a small backing from the family and people around her. She may not be strong physically but strongest emotionally and mentally.

Hello Mumbai News: who is your favourite Make up Artist.

Yasmin: The makeup artists who inspire me and whom I admire a lot are Khushi Virani, Sheena Kaur, and Meenakshi Dutt. No comments the best in the industry.

Hello Mumbai News: How you balance your professional and personal life.

Yasmin: My personal and professional life are way more different and wide apart but we have to balance between them like they both are connected with a rope of family support, sacrifices, passion, and enthusiasm for the work and you have to balance yourself on it, the stronger the pull is the stiffer the rope gets and so it gets easier to balance between them. Just ignore the “char log” who are always behind your back and come to disbalance your life.

Hello Mumbai News: when our readers can find you and keep in touch with you.

Yasmin: my instagram id
Yasmeen–makeup–artist
Makeup by yasmeen86
My youtub id
Yasmeen shaikh
Yasmeenshaikh4230

Mehvash Arfat shaikh:

Famous As: Business Entrepreneur

Hello Mumbai News: Could you Introduce yourself for our readers.

Mehvash Arfat shaikh: Mehvash Arfat shaikh
Owner of Selfcare_station21
I deal in Oriflame Company products.
Oriflame guarantees the quality of any Product which carries the Oriflame name and certify that they are manufactured by, or for us to meet the highest standards of quality. We are confident that our Customers will find our Products satisfactory in every way.

Hello Mumbai News: when and how did you get into Beauty Industry.

Mehvash Arfat shaikh: One year back Wanted to help & empower women to work with zero investment at their own time like work from home. We help all women and teenagers to be entrepreneurs…with zero loss…and zero investment..

Hello Mumbai News: How would you Describe your Signature Look.

Mehvash Arfat shaikh: You’re never going to get your best work done if you’re not satisfied with all aspects of your life.

Hello Mumbai News: What is Beauty for you.

Mehvash Arfat shaikh: A beautiful person is someone who stays true to themselves and their spirit; someone who is self-confident and can make you smile.

Hello Mumbai News: Tell Something about your speciality and services you provide.

Mehvash Arfat shaikh: When you register as Oriflame Brand Partner you will be one of our partners. You can take advantage of the opportunities we offer to make money by selling our products to others and to potentially build its own network of advisers.

Hello Mumbai News: which elements of job do you most enjoy.

Mehvash Arfat shaikh: Make people belive in themself ….
And start earning from their own business.
Being successful doesn’t just mean making a lot of money. It means achieving success in all aspects of life

Hello Mumbai News: What’s your message on International Women’s Day

Mehvash Arfat shaikh: Women are an inspiration to everyone. Cheers to all women on Women’s Day 2023! There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.

Hello Mumbai News: How you balance your professional and personal life.

Mehvash Arfat shaikh: Organising your day and making a schedule for yourself will help in having a stress-free day. working from home can actually be the most efficient way to get things done.

source: http://www.hellomumbainews.com / Hello Mumbai News / Home> Mumbai Local / by Aleem Shaikh / March 08th, 2023

City Muslim girl Sarah Rizvi takes Urdu route to IAS

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Mumbai:

Sarah Rizvi has done her bit to issue a blow to the stereotype of the Muslim woman, moderately educated and socially subjugated, ensconced in hijab. She has cleared the IAS exam, ranking 86th among 734 successful candidates. More remarkably perhaps, she has achieved the feat with Urdu literature as one of her optional subjects.
 

“Urdu is my mothertongue. I learnt Urdu and Persian from my late grandfather, Khalid Hussain Khan, who was a lawyer in Uttar Pradesh. I have read Urdu poems and novels since childhood. My Urdu writing speed was bad but I wrote a page a day and that improved my pace of writing,’’ Sarah said. Mohammed Iqbal was, for her, the most difficult poet to understand. “But his shayeri is fabulous,’’ she said of the Kashmiri poet who wrote Sare Jahan se achchha, Hindustan hamara.
 

After finishing BCom from MMK College in 2003, Sarah attended a lecture on competitive exams by K M Arif, educationist and chairman of Alliance Foundation. That inspired her to go for the IAS. “I tried twice but could not clear even the preliminary stage. This was my third attempt and, masha Allah, I passed,’’ the 25-year-old said, adding that her success was the outcome of 10-12 hours of study a day.
 

While doing her BCom, Sarah also completed her foundation course in chartered accountancy. “I wanted to become a CA but Dr Arif suggested I study for the IAS exam instead. I was clueless about the exam procedure and the requisite study material but my family supported me,’’ she said. Sarah was also awarded a scholarship by MESCO, an NGO.
 

Sarah is now posted as section officer in the Haryana Accountant-General’s office.
 

Sarah’s father, Afzal Ahmed, a science graduate, and mother Nigar, an arts graduate from Aligarh Muslim University, run a small garments business.

Her elder brother, Wasif, a civil engineer, is working for a company in Dubai and Sarah’s twin sister, Sameera, a graduate in computer applications, from National College, is married and lives in Bahrain. “I feel more Mulims, especially women, should go for the competitive exams. Many women don’t even know what these exams are about but awareness is spreading,’’ Sarah said.
 

“This subject gives us an inside knowledge of government administration. And the topics are similar to the business administration course matter I read in college,” Sarah said, explaining why she chose public administration over accountancy as one of the optionals.
 

Sarah did her schooling from Canossa Convent School and St. Louis Convent High School in Andheri. She later joined CWC College for Commerce and Economics and eventually graduated from MMK College with 75.7 per cent marks.

(Courtesy Times of India)

source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home / by Mateen Hafeez, TNN (headline edited)

Umar Sobhani supplied yarn from his mill for Gandhi’s swadeshi movement

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Freedom Fighters (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

BOMBAY (Mumbai) / PRE-INDEPENDENT INDIA :

“He (Mahatma Gandhi) said that while he did not think that Umar Sobhani was a revolutionary, he was frank and open by nature and he (Gandhi) thought that if Umar felt convinced that a revolution was the best way to secure the well-being of India, he would not hesitate to adopt such methods. He thought that in such a case Umar Sobhani would plainly tell him (Gandhi) of his intentions…” This is what Mahatma Gandhi was reported to have told to C.I.D on 8 May 1919 during a police interrogation.

Unsung Heroes of Freedom Struggle

Sobhani was a rich businessman from Mumbai who traded in cotton and joined the freedom struggle early in his life.

Those who take an interest in Mahatma Gandhi consider Young India, an English journal edited by Gandhi, and Navajivan, a Gujarati journal, as his voice. Interestingly, these journals were started by Sobhani who later cajoled Gandhi to take charge as the editor.

Rajmohan Gandhi, one of the grandsons of Mahatma Gandhi, notes, “Three of the Sabarmati ‘covenanters’, Umar Sobhani, Shankerlal Banker and Indulal Yagnik, were between them bringing out two journals, Young India, a weekly in English from Bombay, and Navajivan, a monthly in Gujarati from Ahmedabad, and were also associated with the nationalist daily, the Bombay Chronicle. At the end of April, in one of the Raj’s drastic measures, Horniman, the British editor of the Chronicle, was deported, and the paper’s publication had to be suspended.

“In response, Sobhani, Banker, and Yagnik requested Gandhi to take over the editorship of Young India and Navajivan and with their help bring out Young India twice a week and Navajivan every week. Gandhi agreed, and on 7 May 1919 the first number of Young India, New Series, came out. When, soon, the Chronicle resumed publication, Young India reverted to being a weekly but now published, for Gandhi’s convenience, in Ahmedabad, along with Navajivan, which first appeared as a weekly on 7 September.

“Gandhi now possessed what he had hoped for from the moment of his return to India: vehicles to communicate his message.”

Charkha (spinning wheel) is a synonym for Mahatma Gandhi and his movement and Sobhani played an instrumental role in making it a success. Rajmohan writes, “Indian spinning mills wanted to turn all their yarn into mill-made cloth, not sell it to hand-weavers. Gandhi therefore asked associates to search for spinning wheels that could make yarn. At the Godhra conference in November. 1917, a woman called Gangaben Majmudar, who had ‘already got rid of the curse of untouchability and fearlessly moved among and served the suppressed classes’ (A 442), promised him that she would locate a wheel.

“She found not one but hundreds in Vijapur in the princely state of Baroda, all lying in attics as ‘useless lumber’ (A 443). Women who in the past plied the charkhas told Gangaben that they would spin again if someone supplied slivers of cotton and bought their yarn.

Gandhi said he would meet the conditions, his friend Umar Sobhani supplied slivers from his Bombay mill, and the ashram received more hand-spun yarn than it could cope with.”

Sobhani was one of the original 20 signatories of the pledge to oppose the Rowlatt Act. The pledge was prepared by Gandhi at his Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. Along with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Sobhani was one of the associates of Gandhi who backed him against the old guards in Congress on the question of the non-cooperation movement in 1918.

K. R. Malkani, a former R.S.S stalwart and BJP leader, writes, “Gandhiji’s right-hand man in Bombay in the 1921 movement was Umar Sobhani. The first bonfire of one and a half lakh pieces of choicest silk was ignited by Gandhi in Umar’s mill compound in Parel.

“When Gandhiji decided to collect Rs. 1 crore for Tilak Swaraj Fund, Umar offered to contribute the entire amount, but Gandhiji wanted it collected from a large number of people. But even so, Umar contributed Rs. 3 lacs.

“Umar was a big cotton merchant. When the British came to know of his role in the Freedom Movement, they ran special trainloads of cotton to Bombay by Viceregal order. As a result, cotton prices collapsed in Bombay and Umar suffered a loss of Rs. 3.64 crores. Daan-Vir Sobhani ended his life.

“Earlier the British tried to divide the family. At their instance, Umar’s father, Haji Yusuf Sobhani contested the office of Sheriff of Bombay. Umar worked. against his father and had him defeated. Later the British tried to tempt Yusuf Sobhani with a knighthood, but Umar told his father that he could accept the title only “over my dead body.” Today probably not even people living on Sobhani Road, Cuffe Parade, Bombay, know who the great Sobhani was!”

Sobhani used to lead the marches in Mumbai, arrange the meetings of Gandhi, and raise funds for the political agitations against the English. Gandhi, according to the police reports, used to call him one of the props of the satyagraha in Mumbai. 

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Saquib Salim / July 31st, 2024

A Hijabi’s Rise: Alfiya Ansari’s Success Story in the Face of ‘Bias’ at Mumbai College

Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Mumbai : 

Hijab-clad Alfiya Ansari allegedly faced discrimination at NG Acharya College, the first educational institution in the city that banned wearing headscarves and veils on the campus. Despite the decision reportedly forcing several Muslim women to drop out or discontinue attending classes, she remained dedicated to her education.

Her perseverance and determination led her to achieve the top rank in her class, serving as a powerful testament to her resilience and a strong rebuke to those who “discriminated” against her.

Alfiya’s achievements highlight her unwavering commitment to her goals, demonstrating that “bias” and “prejudice” cannot diminish true talent and hard work.

A Dream of Becoming a Doctor

Living with her parents and two siblings in Mumbai’s Govandi slum, Alfiya’s story is one of remarkable resilience and determination. Her father, a tailor earning Rs 20,000 per month, worked hard to support his family.

As the eldest sibling, Alfiya took her role seriously. She completed senior secondary school from a local English medium school, scoring an impressive 85% and chose to enroll in an aided college for further studies.

From a young age, she aspired to become a doctor. This ambition led her to choose the science stream in junior college, where she began preparing for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) or NEET examination.

However, as she advanced to her second year, she decided to focus primarily on her board exams, dedicating much of her time to studying in the library to achieve her academic goals.

Despite facing health issues from eating outside food while spending long hours in the library, Alfiya’s family, particularly her mother, provided unwavering support. Her mother ensured she had home-cooked meals and timely medication, allowing her to maintain her focus.

Alfiya credits her success to her mother’s support, highlighting the crucial role her family played in her academic achievements.

‘Harassment’ at College

Initially cooperative, the staff at Acharya College allegedly changed their attitude drastically once the hijab issue arose. Teachers purportedly began harassing Muslim girls, making them stand outside during lectures and using various other methods.

Alfiya was mentally disturbed for many days. Fifteen-twenty girls, she alleged, stopped attending college.

However, she could not easily give up on her dream of becoming a doctor. With her parents unable to afford another college, she continued at Acharya, removing her hijab outside but still wearing a dupatta.

“This is how I struggled,” she told TwoCircles.net.

Maintaining Focus Amidst Adversity

Alfiya remained focused on her goals despite the challenges. “Life brings many issues, sometimes in the form of the hijab and sometimes due to narrow-minded views about girls,” she said, adding, “When we are focused, problems do not seem as overwhelming.”

She stayed focused on her aim and plans to continue facing challenges head-on without stepping back from her goals.

A Message to Girls

Alfiya has a powerful message for girls: “If we want to change our current situation, education is the most important part. Achieve it, but always remember the importance of both academic and religious knowledge. Only then can you become a better role model in this society. Your identity should be defined by your character, which for a girl is always defined by her modesty. Be whatever you want to be, but stay within the bounds of modesty.”

Advice for Youth

To the youth, Alfiya advises, “You are your own saviours, and your own adversaries. Keep yourself engaged in productive activities, or else negative influences will keep you busy with useless and immoral activities. Use your mobile phones positively but within a specific time limit. Learn skills to keep pace with the present situation.”

Family’s Joy and Support

After the results, Alfiya’s family was overjoyed. “Before 12th grade, I did not receive much financial support from anyone; but after 12th grade, I received immense support from an elder sister, whom I consider an angel. She has been a great source of motivation for me,” she said, though she could not mention her name due to her sister’s request for anonymity.

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> Careers / by K K Ahmed, TwoCircles.net / June 10th, 2024

Meet India’s richest Muslim woman, who owns property worth crores, runs company worth of 28,773 crore, her business is..

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

She is the daughter of billionaire Rafique Malik, the company’s chairman. Her grandfather, Malik Tejani, founded it in 1955 in Mumbai. Farah has guided Metro Shoes into a new era of modern retail. The company’s brands include Mochi, Metro, and Walkway.

article-main
(Image source: LinkedIn)

Eid Ul Fitr was celebrated throughout the country. Amid celebrations, you may be left wondering if you are asked about the wealthiest Muslim woman in the country. The name of the country’s richest Muslim woman is Farah Malik Bhanji. She is the managing director of the Metro brand, which sells premium shoes. Her net worth is more than Rs. 26000 crore. Farah Malik plays an important role in giving the Metro brand a new identity.

She is the daughter of billionaire Rafique Malik, the company’s chairman. Her grandfather, Malik Tejani, founded it in 1955 in Mumbai. Farah has guided Metro Shoes into a new era of modern retail. The company’s brands include Mochi, Metro, and Walkway.

As of December 8, the company’s market capitalisation was Rs 35,117 crore. Farah is the second of five daughters. His father, Rafique, has a real-time net worth of Rs 21697 crore as of 12 April.

Farah has more than 20 years of experience in the footwear industry. She has played a key role in reimagining the company for the new era. She began her career in marketing before moving on to revamp Metro Brands Limited’s technology roadmap and supply chain. The company was listed in December 2021. The late billionaire investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala’s wife, Rekha, owns a minority stake in Metro Brands.

She pays close attention to detail, is well-versed in business, and has a sense of style. The footwear company has experienced growth for both the company and its employees under her leadership. She has played a crucial role in forging connections with international companies like Skechers, Crocs, and Clarks in addition to forging close bonds with more than 250 reliable vendors. She contributed to the network’s growth from 100 stores in 2010 to 598 locations across 136 Indian cities.

At the close of trading on Wednesday, Metro Brands Ltd. saw a rise to Rs. 1058. Rs. 1,440.45 is the stock’s 52-week high level, and Rs. 784.45 is its 52-week low. Metro Brands’ shares opened at Rs 1044 at the start of the trading session on Wednesday. Subsequently, it increased by over 20 rupees, closing at 1058. The company cap is of Rs 28,773 crore. 

source: http://www.dnaindia.com / DNA / Home> Business / by Varnika Srivastava / April 12th, 2024

Dr. Sara Shaikh bags gold in Masters in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA:

Mumbai :

In a proud moment for the Muslim community of Maharashtra, Dr. Sara Shaikh secured the top position in Masters in Obstetrics and Gynecology in all the Medical Colleges of Maharashtra.

This remarkable feat was recognized with the prestigious Gold Medal during the convocation ceremony of Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS) held in Nashik. The convocation ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Vice Chancellor retired Lt Gen Madhuri Kanitikar and State Cabinet Minister for Medical Education Hasan Mushrif. State Governor Ramesh Bais addressed the event online.

Dr. Sara Shaikh, a beacon of excellence and perseverance, hails from a family deeply rooted in the medical profession. Graduating from MIMER Medical College, Pune, she embarked on a journey marked by determination and dedication. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to excel in All India Quota of NEET PG examination, through which she chose to specialize in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the esteemed Grant Government Medical College and Sir JJ Group of Hospitals, Mumbai.

Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Sara’s brilliance shone brightly, earning her accolades for presentations and even international publications. Notably, she obtained qualifications in DNB, Obstetrics, and Gynecology, further solidifying her expertise. Last year, she achieved another milestone by passing MRCOG Part 1 from the Royal College of England.

Dr Sara Shaikh with her parents

In an exclusive conversation with Radiance News, Dr. Sara Shaikh attributed her success to her unwavering determination and the solid support of her family. She expressed gratitude to her mother, Dr. Nasreen Shaikh, father, Dr. Gayasuddin Shaikh, and husband, Dr. Muhammad Kashif Ali, for their steadfast encouragement throughout her educational journey.

Addressing the significance of her choice to wear hijab, Dr. Sara emphasized that it never hindered her path to success. Firmly committed to her principles, she remarked that adhering to the conditions of Purdah had never been a barrier in her academic or practical life.

Dr. Sara Shaikh urged Muslim students to forge ahead with diligence and determination, assuring them that success awaits those who persevere. She emphasized the importance of overcoming adversity and the pride that comes with accomplishing one’s goals. Dr. Sara’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring medical professionals, transcending boundaries and proving that dedication and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements, regardless of challenges faced along the way.

She stands as a torchbearer for others, igniting hope and determination in the hearts of countless students aspiring to follow in her footsteps.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / March 14th, 2024

Meet Hamid Farooqui, the software engineer who created 3rd largest survey company in the world

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, Science & Technology, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA / Virginia, U.S.A :

Mumbai based Hamid Farooqui , is a serial entrepreneur who is the CEO of a fast growing SaaS (Software as a Service) company called SoGoSurvey that he co-founded in 2012. SoGoSurvey offers powerful, user-friendly, and affordable online survey software. SoGoSurvey is changing how feedback is collected in a secure, collaborative setting, and moving forward the process of understanding the feedback gathered from customers, employees, and other stakeholders.

Hamid started his tech career as a geeky programmer during the dot com boom and has expertise in all its related technologies, from Software as a Service (SaaS), cloud computing and mobile applications. He was an early member of the technology team that designed, built, and launched Oracle’s e-Travel’s corporate travel tool using C++ and the then brand-new WAP.

In recognition of his strong performance and technology management skills, Hamid rose through successive promotions to serve as the division’s Director of Engineering. After e-Travel was acquired by Amadeus, Hamid led the integration of two complex technology platforms in both the U.S. and Europe.

Hamid is co-founder, CTO of K12Insight, which offers cloud-based solutions to enhance communication between educators and community members. K12Insight’s tools are helping school leaders build stronger relationships among parents, teachers, students, and staff. He also co-founded India’s most successful consumer review site mouthshut.com, considered a pioneer of the Internet revolution in India.

Hamid is a frequent speaker at technology conferences and startup events. Among his favorite topics are the startup scene in emerging markets and the future of autonomous cars.

Besides technology, Hamid is very actively involved in philanthropic work. He and his family runs and funds a school for poor children in a remote part of India, where more than 500 children study for free.

Hamid earned an engineering degree from Bombay University in India and a Master’s degree in Computer Science from State University of New York, Binghamton.  

Mr. Farooqui believes that Indian organizations just like their global counterparts need a strong survey tool in order to understand the pulse of their audience. Companies have to ensure that they know their customers so they can rectify or retain the quality of services or products. Also, for retention of employees, companies must conduct Employee Satisfaction Survey that helps in creating a suitable work environment that meets and exceeds their expectations.

About SogoSurvey:

When it came to online survey software, users have had two difficult options:

  • the affordable, low-end, low-power solution, and
  • the more powerful solution that breaks the bank

This world has just been disrupted: you can now have really powerful, highly user-friendly online survey software at a super-low cost. And it comes with training and support that existing customers are raving about. We’re changing not just how you collect feedback in a secure, collaborative setting, but also how you fundamentally view feedback from customers, employees and other stakeholders. Our solution is easy for the beginner and powerful for the expert.

SoGoSurvey is a software company which provides one of the best enterprise feedback system/ survey tool as SaaS model. SoGoSurvey was founded by Hamid Farooqui and Suhail Farooqui in beta/stealth mode in 2012. The company came out in its full existence in the year 2013. It is a USA based company with the offices in India and UAE.  Target market for SoGoSurvey is all small, medium and large businesses who need to conduct different types of surveys such as Employee satisfaction Survey, Customer Satisfaction Survey, Employee Engagement Survey and others.

Marketing Strategy of SogoSurvey is to have an awesome product and website which is appealing to the user. They also offer a free version of our tool so that users who want to use the tool for basic purpose can also access the same. The freemium model gives the access to a great amount of people who turn into loyal users eventually.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Positive Story> Sci-Tech> Youth / by Muslim Mirror Special Correspondent / January 04th, 2019

Asian Games: Mumbai’s hijab-clad woman named ‘Officiating Referee’ for Karate

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

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA:

The hijab-clad Karate maestro Shaheen Akhtar, 52, barely looks what she is — a 4-time National Champion in Karate, chopping her way surgically in all top events worldwide, is now appointed the first and only woman ‘Officiating Referee’ at the ongoing 19th Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games in China.

Packing up her bags to serve as the International Technical Official or Officiating Referee, Shaheen is a smiling but simple granny whose daughter Sana Hava and son Ayaan Ansari are also National Champions in Karate.

She learned her first Karate kicks, stances, punches, blocks and chops aged 13 while a schoolgirl at the Christ Church School, Byculla, excelled while studying for her B.Com degree from H.R. College, Churchgate and loved it enough to make it a full-fledged professional career as a ‘karateka’.

Over four decades since, she has punched her way from Youth League to Premier League to South Asian Championships to Asian Championships to Commonwealth Championships to World Championship events globally, earning medals and honours for her discipline and laurels for the nation, both as a participant and as a referee.

“In Hangzhou, I shall be the Officiating Referee for all events of Karate at the men’s and women’s events scheduled between October 5-7, with top champions participating from 42 Asian countries… It’s a very crucial responsibility,” said Shaheen softly, in a chat with IANS.

Discussing her upcoming challenges as Officiating Referee, Shaheen said that “handling pressure” will be the most critical part of her assignment — when over two billion pairs of eyes from all over Asia will scrutinise her every move and decision.

“All countries are coming there and vying for the medals… Besides the top-class champions from all countries in the ring, there will be top games experts from different countries, sports officials, VIPs, judges and viewers in the stadium and at their homes… Any wrong decision on my part can lead to havoc right inside the stadium,” Shaheen added.

Inside the ring, when the medal-hungry champions from different competing nations would be lunging at each other, the experience will be another trial even for Shaheen, herself an established and acclaimed figure in the sport.

“My job will be to control these rivals in the ring, command them to obey and adhere to the rules of the games, if they falter then there are levels of warnings, penalties, etc. to rein them in… And all under the watchful eyes of many,” Shaheen smiled.

Only on rare occasions, the moderator ‘Kansa’ (Match Supervisor) intervenes and also equally rarely the ‘third umpire’ or the video review supervisor, mainly while appealing for points is resorted to, she explained patiently, without clenching her deadly fists or flailing her arms.

In her new role, the former 4-time National Champion, 6-time Maharashtra Champion, a 8th Degree Black-Belt holder, Shaheen is also the highest and most qualified World Karate Federation and Asian Karate Federation female Referee in the country and in South Asia.

Now, Shaheen is passing on the baton to the gen-next through SAMA (Shaheen’s Academy of Martial Arts) affiliated to Karate India Organisation, and striving to groom future state-national-international champions and referees.

“I hope my long journey inspires the younger generations to take up Karate as a serious and viable career option… India has tremendous untapped potential and there could be many young champs waiting in the wings to grab their moment of glory given the right opportunity…I am always here to help anybody,” Shaheen declared.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> India> Indian Muslims> Sports / September 25th, 2023

Ayesha, Hussain’s UPSC success stories inspire community

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA:

Ayesha had started preparing for the UPSC in her 12th grade, when a professor spotted her as a potential candidate. He made a case for it to her and her parents and convinced them.

Mumbai: Anjuman-I-Islam President, Dr Zahir I. Kazi felicitates Sayyed M. Hussain (Alumni – A.I’s Allana Jr. College of Science & Commerce, CST) All India ranking 570 and Kazi Ayesha Ibrahim, All India ranking 586, for successfully qualifying UPSC Exam 2023, at Anjuman-I-Islam’s Ahmed Zakaria Hall, CST, in Mumbai on Friday, 26 May 2023. (Photo by Bhushan Koyande)
Mumbai: Anjuman-I-Islam President, Dr Zahir I. Kazi felicitates Sayyed M. Hussain (Alumni – A.I’s Allana Jr. College of Science & Commerce, CST) All India ranking 570 and Kazi Ayesha Ibrahim, All India ranking 586, for successfully qualifying UPSC Exam 2023, at Anjuman-I-Islam’s Ahmed Zakaria Hall, CST, in Mumbai on Friday, 26 May 2023. (Photo by Bhushan Koyande)

Mumbai:

Two success stories coming out of the UPSC exams this year, Kazi Ayesha Ibrahim (rank 586) and Sayyed M Hussain (rank 570) have broken through the stereotypes and have emerged as a hope and inspiration for their community.

Ayesha had started preparing for the UPSC in her 12th grade, when a professor spotted her as a potential candidate. He made a case for it to her and her parents and convinced them.

Then came the years-long struggle, starting in 2017. “It takes a lot of hard work, there’s no doubt about that. But it is possible to study for 15 to 16 hours a day. I’ve done it,” said Ayesha.

Despite being a Muslim woman and stereotyped at every turn, she stuck to her books, using the disadvantages her way to study more and get better.

“My parents have always emphasised gaining knowledge. And there is no better match for gaining knowledge than the UPSC, with the diverse subjects we have to learn,” she said.

“What happens to girls is that many of them have a lack of exposure. All my sources of information were only from books,” said Ayesha.

Ayesha also lost the support of her institute after the prelims due to a change in administration, leaving her to study alone in the confines of her home, without any outside guidance.

She will be attempting the UPSC exam again, hoping to get a rank fit to get her into the Indian Foreign Services (IFS). In the meantime, she will accept the post she is offered.

After the results were released on Tuesday, Ayesha was felicitated for the achievement along with Hussain at an event organised by the Anjuman-I-Islami, of which Hussain is a former student.

Hussain, too, has a long history of struggle that ended in his scoring the 570th rank. He got through the prelims exam four times, only to fail in the main exam. He was fifth time lucky.

“It was very difficult at first. I repeated my mistakes,” he said. “Then I started teaching others for the exam, making some money so I could support myself and my family. That helped me.”

The son of a dock worker, who earns ₹18,000 a month, he said, “I’ve seen my dad struggle in the hot sun for 18 hours a day, so I found my situation easy.”

The journey was a lot more emotionally fraught for him than financial, dissuading him with every failure. But he persevered. “I am satisfied with my results, but now that I’ve gotten so much love from so many people, I wish I’d studied a little more.”

Hussain recounts a story of a call he received from a fellow resident of his area, Dongri, resounding with hope that he too could pass the exams after a few failures. His success has inspired the community.

source: http://www.hindustantimes.com / Hindustan Tims / Home> Cities> Mumbai News / by HT Correspondent / May 27th, 2023

How the pandemic is depriving lovers of Urdu literature of their environment for enjoyment

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

INDIA:

Discussions and debates, critiques and readings, held at haunts of Urdu books and writing around the country have been interrupted rudely.

(From left) Shadab Rashid, Urdu drama writer Aslam Parvez, and Shakeel Rasheed at Kitabdaar | Mahtab Alam

In Malegaon

On the first Saturday of every month, the textile city of Malegaon in northern Maharashtra used to become home for lovers of Urdu literature, who meet to discuss, debate and critique new writings in the language, mostly by local writers. Organised under the aegis of Anjuman Muhibban e Adab (Association of Literature Lovers), the gathering began at around 9 pm, and went on till midnight.

Between 30 and 50 people – both writers and readers – would come together, a number that would at times go up to as many as 100 or even 150. Asif Iqbal Mirza, the secretary of the Anjuman, said the practice began 25 years ago on the suggestion of local journalist and editor Samiullah Ansari, who published new Urdu fiction in his weekly, Hashmi Awaz.

Over the years, the publication had emerged as a popular local magazine for young and budding writers to publish their works. The weekly, now in its 35th year of publication, had a considerable fan following and readership at the time. Ansari then suggested that admirers of the magazine form a group comprising readers as well as writers.

The group was initially named Anjuman Muhibban e Hashmi Awaz (Association of Admirers of Hashmi Awaz), but within a few years, its following grew to encompass more than just the readers of the magazine, and in 1998 it was rechristened Anjuman Muhibban e Adab, Malegaon. “Ansari sahib formed the Anjuman so that writers could get their new works critiqued by readers before getting them published in the weekly,” Mirza ssid.

Back then, Mirza himself wrote for a local children’s newspaper called Khair Andesh. But his association with the Anjuman helped him grow into a prolific Afsana Nigar, a short story writer. He was 17 when the group was formed; in the past 25 years, he has written and published more than 200 short stories in different publications.

Apart from Anjuman Muhibban e Adab, there are two more literary groups in Malegaon that held regular meetings until the lockdown was declared in March. No such meetings have been held since then. “Unlike earlier, we now have enough time to read and write. But the irony is we don’t have the opportunity to discuss and publish them,” said Mirza, who also runs a printing business. Several local publications had to halt their issues, including Hashmi Awaz, owing to the lockdown.

According to Mirza, although social media outlets such as WhatsApp and Facebook have, to some extent, helped to keep in touch with fellow writers and readers, the literary life of Malegaon has come to a standstill, since a large number of local writers and readers came from the working class and worked in local looms. “The year 2020 is the silver jubilee of my literary career. I had plans to publish a collection of my short stories, but thanks to the pandemic, that will not happen this year,” Mirza said with a great sense of despair.

In Mumbai

Both readers and writers have felt a deep loss during the pandemic. His love of books took Shakeel Rasheed, editor of the Urdu daily Mumbai Urdu News, to various bookshops in and around the Mohammad Ali Road area of Bombay. “Visiting bookshops was a part and parcel of my life. I feel a deep loss when I don’t visit them,” he said. For him, bookstores are not just spaces to buy books, but they also served as addas for readers and writers. As soon as some relaxations were in place, he rushed to the stores. “Par ab pahle wali baat nahi rahi,” said Rasheed. “Things are not as they were before.” The pandemic has made it more difficult to meet new people.

Shadab Rashid’s Kitabdaar publications and bookstore in Temkar Street of Nagpada was one such adda for Urdu writers in Mumbai, as was Maktaba Jamia on Sandhurst Road West. Today, Kitabdaar and a few other bookshops have opened their stores for a few hours every few days, while Maktaba Jamia remains closed. “Due to lack of public transport and fear of the pandemic, people cannot come to Kitabdaar,” Shadab said. He also edits the quarterly literary magazine Naya Waraq, founded by his late father and noted journalist and writer Sajid Rasheed.

Shadab Rashid said the lockdown brought significant hardships and losses to Urdu publishers and distributors. “It is not that people don’t want to read Urdu books anymore – the problem is they cannot buy them,” he said. “I have received lots of online orders, but I cannot fulfill them because I rely on postal services as they are the cheapest means of delivery, but the services are not fully functional yet.” His online Urdu bookshop kitabdaar.com is one of the few digital distribution platforms for Urdu books exclusively in India. Another such platform, urdubazaar.in, was recently launched from Delhi.

Owing to the discontinuation of physical interactions between readers and writers, people have lost touch with each other, since not all Urdu writers are active on social media, Shakeel Rasheed told me. “We have lost many good writers during this period and found out about their demise several days later,” he added. “Moreover, we could not participate in their last journeys.”

In Hyderabad

Another writer recounted similar thoughts after the death of noted Urdu satirist Mujtaba Hussain in Hyderabad on May 27. Hussain was awarded the Padma Shri in 2007 for his contributions to Urdu literature, but in December 2019, he announced he was returning the award to protest the enactment of the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act. “[T]he democracy for which I fought is under attack now and the government is doing that,” he had said, “that’s why I don’t want to associate the government with me.”

In Hyderabad, another centre of Urdu writing, literary activities have come to a similar halt due to the pandemic. Publications like Shagoofa, a monthly magazine of satirical writing, have been temporarily discontinued since the lockdown.

In Delhi

In Delhi, too, the pandemic has left an adverse impact on Urdu writing. Khan Rizwan, a poet and a known “addebaaz” from Delhi, loved participating in and organizing adabi addas (literary gatherings). He misses visiting the Nai Kitab book store, located in one of the many bylanes of Jamia Nagar, which is one of the famous addas for Urdu lovers in the city. Run by veteran writer and publisher Shahid Ali Khan, Nai Kitab is a haven for young and old writers alike, Rizwan said, as Shahid sahib treated them alike. “It is not just a bookshop but an institution where one got to meet noted writers and lovers of Urdu literature,” he said.

Rizwan would visit the shop at least twice a week, and meet a new literature enthusiast or writer, or find out about a new book or risala /parcha (journal/magazine). “I miss the black tea and chips that Shahid sahib served us with love and affection,” he recalled. “He is a storehouse of information, and several veteran writers were his friends, so he would tell us stories all the time.”

I couldn’t agree more with Rizwan. I have been visiting Nai Kitab once every few months for more than a decade now, and on each of my visits, after asking khabar-khairyat, Shahid sahib would say, “Achcha aap bahut dino baad aayen hain, ye nayi kitaabein aayi hai dekh lein (Since you’ve come after a long time, here are some new books).” Last year, when I visited the bookshop around this time, he directed me towards dozens of books written by noted Urdu satirist Fikr Taunsvi and Shaukat Thanvi. I immediately bought all of them, as they were usually out of print and seldom available.

As the person in charge of the Maktaba Jamia, the publication division of Jamia Millia Islamia in Bombay, Shahid Sahib befriended writers and poets like Jan Nisar Akhtar, Meena Kumari, Sahir Ludhianvi and Jagan Nath Azad. Some of them were regular visitors to the Maktaba Jamia. Though he moved to Delhi after serving the Maktaba for several decades, he did not stop hosting literature lovers. He then founded Nai Kitab publishers and a quarterly journal by the same name.

It was in 2007 at his bookshop that I first chanced upon Shamsur Rahman Faruqi’s celebrated novel Kai Chand The Sare Aasman, later translated into English as The Mirror of Beauty by the author himself. The novel went on to become a major critical and commercial success.

Faruqi was also associated with the Nai Kitab journal as chairperson of its advisory council and would visit the shop once in a while. The journal eventually stopped publication owing to Shahid sahib’s failing health, but he continued with the bookstore as it was like “oxygen for him”, he had once told me.

Waiting for freedom

Some writers have managed to turn the lockdown into a creatively productive period. “Personally, the pandemic has proved as a blessing in disguise as I read books I wanted to for years and finish other important work, such as recording videos of Urdu literature lectures,” says Khalid Mubashir, a poet and assistant professor of Urdu literature at Jamia. He quickly added, however, this was not common, as most writers and poets were stuck at home, either because of their age or in fear of the pandemic. “Moreover, not all writers have access to technology and books like I do. I am fortunate enough to have friends who helped me with technology to do something substantial during this period.”

Mubashir’s videos, as many as 60 of them, are each about 30 minutes long, and cover the history, evolution and development of Urdu and its literature in the subcontinent. Though the lectures are prepared keeping in mind the need and syllabus of Urdu literature students, ordinary Urdu lovers can also benefit from them. All lectures are available on the YouTube channel Safeer e Adab.

Similarly, although younger poets like Mohammed Anas Faizi from old Delhi have been trying to keep Urdu literature gatherings going by using social media, online addas do not have the feel and impact of offline and in-person gatherings. “Technology and social media can only help to a certain extent. Online gatherings, mushairas and addas cannot substitute for the real ones, no matter how well they are done,” he said.

With apologies to Faiz Ahmad Faiz, what the Urdu writers, poets and addebaaz seem to be telling the pandemic is:

Gulon Mein Rang Bhare Baad e Nau Bahar Chale
Chale Bhi Jao Ki Gulshan Ka Karobar Chale

Mahtab Alam is a multilingual journalist and until recently was the executive editor of The Wire Urdu. His Twitter handle is @MahtabNama.

This series of articles on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on publishing is curated by Kanishka Gupta.

source: http://www.scroll.in / Scroll.in / Home> Publishing and the Pandemic / by Mahtab Alam / July 14th, 2020