Tag Archives: Positive News of Muslims of Pune

Architect Imran Abbas Shaikh: The visionary behind India’s finest Mosques

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Pune, MAHARASHTRA :

Architect Imran Abbas Shaikh and some of the mosques he designed.

Architect Imran Abbas Shaikh, a visionary based in Pune, Maharashtra, exemplifies the transformative power of architecture. With a passion for blending modern design with cultural heritage, Imran has developed a diverse portfolio ranging from innovative urban projects to iconic cultural landmarks. Renowned for his distinctive approach, he has redefined architectural design, particularly in the creation of mosques. His designs for these sacred spaces often include facilities like hospitals, museums, libraries, and community kitchens, showcasing his dedication to empowering the community. Through his work, Imran Abbas Shaikh has set a new standard for integrating functionality with tradition, earning widespread acclaim for his contributions to architecture.

Muhammad Bin Abdullah Mosque’ in Dhannipur, Ayodhya district, Uttar Pradesh.

The Early Years

Mr. Mohammad Imran Abbas Shaikh, hailing from Pune, Maharashtra, has traversed an extraordinary journey from his roots to emerge as one of the most prominent architects of our time.

His architectural firm, Cubix Architects, situated in his hometown, reflects his deep-rooted connection to the place that nurtured his talents. Growing up, Imran was distinguished by his unique approach and a penchant for creative thinking, qualities that would later define his illustrious career as a visionary architect. However, it was the unwavering support and belief of his father that truly ignited Imran’s passion. His father instilled in him the notion that architecture was not merely about envisioning structures, but about crafting an unwavering future that could bring about positive change. This paternal guidance became the driving force behind Mr. Mohammad Imran Abbas Shaikh’s relentless pursuit of architectural excellence.

Islamic School and Institutional Campus, Phaltan, Maharashtra.

Educational Background 

Imran Shaikh’s educational journey was marked by a pursuit of excellence from the outset. Beginning with his early schooling split between SSPM and Children’s Academy in Shivaji Nagar, Pune, he demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and innovation. His high school years at Poona College laid the groundwork for his academic prowess, setting the stage for his subsequent achievements.

Imran’s passion for architecture led him to Bharati Vidyapeeth, where he honed his skills and emerged as a consistent topper throughout his degree. Even after completing his formal education, Imran’s dedication to his field remained unwavering. He continues to share his expertise and insights by delivering lectures and guiding Ph.D. aspirants, leaving an indelible mark as an inspirational figure for aspiring architects and youngsters alike. His contributions as a guest lecturer have not only enriched the minds of his students but have also sparked a newfound enthusiasm for architecture among many.

Islamic Spiritual Centre of Maulana Sajjad Nomani – Neral, Maharashtra

Inspiration Behind Choosing Architecture as Career 

Imran Shaikh always had a keen interest in travelling, exploring, and various forms of art. After high school, he decided to pursue architecture as a career, a field that had always intrigued him. Imran often spoke about how his father was his biggest motivator, playing a significant role in his journey to becoming a successful architect. During Imran’s college years, his father would proudly share his accomplishments with everyone. Imran’s fondness for art and his unique, abstract perspective on things have been evident throughout his career. Each of his projects bears a distinctive touch, showcasing his artistic vision and innovative approach.

“Modern technologies have made the youth increasingly dependent, resulting in a lack of motivation and original ideas. To foster change, it is essential to reduce dependency on readymade materials and encourage wholehearted engagement in learning, exploration, and hands-on activities. As long as a person is away from mental pollution, they can do wonders”

How Does Imran Shaikh See Architecture 

Imran Shaikh states that architecture is a profession that has existed since the dawn of mankind, tracing its origins back to Adam (AS). Since the beginning, people have sought shelter, making architecture an integral part of human existence. This concept is not limited to humans; some of the best architectural forms can be seen in birds and animals. According to him, architecture starts with a dot, which evolves into a line, then a triangle, and gradually forms complex shapes and designs. The journey beginning with a simple dot encapsulates the essence of architecture.

His favourite works

The ‘Muhammad Bin Abdullah Mosque’ in Dhannipur, Ayodhya district, Uttar Pradesh, is under construction and spans 4,500 square metres.

Dar e Arqam

This mosque will include various facilities such as a hospital, community kitchen, library, and research centre.

Remarkably, it will be the first mosque in India to feature five minarets, symbolising the five pillars of Islam: profession of faith (shahada), prayer (namaz), almsgiving (zakat), fasting (roza), and pilgrimage (hajj). The mosque will be pentagon-shaped, further reflecting the significance of the five pillars. Additionally, it will boast a water and light show and house the world’s largest Quran, measuring 21 feet in height and 36 feet in width.

Architect Imran Abbas Shaikh

Some of architect Imran’s finest works include:

1-KAUSAR BAUGH MASJID – PUNE, MAHARASHTRA

2-ISLAMIC SPIRITUAL CENTRE OF MAULANA SAJJAD NOMANI – NERAL, MAHARASHTRA

3-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – PHALTAN, MAHARASHTRA

4-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – NEPAL

5-MASJID MUHAMMAD BIN ABDULLAH INDO ISLAMIC CULTURAL – BABRI MASJID, UP AYODHYA

5-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – BANGLADESH

Building a Better Society

Apart from his architectural achievements, Imran Shaikh is actively involved in education through his nonprofit ‘Human Embrace Foundation’, based in Pune. This foundation is dedicated to educating children from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they have access to quality education and opportunities. Imran’s commitment to this cause has made a significant impact, inspiring many young people. His dedication and success serve as a powerful role model for youth, encouraging them to strive for excellence and make a positive difference in their communities. Through both his architectural work and his educational initiatives, Imran Shaikh exemplifies the values of innovation, compassion, and community empowerment.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Positive Story / by Fiza Memon / May 25th, 2024

Pune couple run Roti Bank and send children of poor to school

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Pune Kondhwa, MAHARASHTRA :

Aliya and Nasir Shaikh serving food

Following the Islamic principle that ‘if your neighbors sleep hungry while you are there, then you are not a true Muslim,’ neighbours in Pune Kondhwa in Maharashtra have replicated the initiatives of “Roti Bank” (bread bank) across many Indian cities and soup kitchens run by religious organization in the West, to address the hunger in the IT hub.

“Ark Charitable Trust’ was launched in August 2019 when many people in the city had lost jobs or livelihoods due to the COVID and hunger was rampant.

The trust was set up by a Kondhwah couple Aliya Shaikh and Nasir Shaikh from their house. The trust has been running a “Roti Bank” to and feeding widows and destitute women who are forced to wander around in search of food of alms to buy it.

Gradually, the Shaikhs realized that feeding people was a temporary solution to the problem of poverty and they started focusing on its root – lack of education. The trust got involved in educating children wandering on streets picking trash and leftover food and enrolled them in various schools

The trust has also provided job works to many widows whom they came in contact with while distributing food.

The Trust distributes food among people of all castes and religions.

Aliya Shaikh says she completed her 12th from Abeda Inamdar College in Lashkar area of ​​Pune.

“I wanted to study, but I got married early, so I could not and then I realized what if I did not study? I can teach the girls living around me. My children today are doing well; studying in schools but what about those who do not have money? That is why I am trying to ensure that no one’s education stops due to financial constrains.”

Nasir also completed his schooling from Moledina High School in Lashkar area. Though he joined class eleventh he had to drop out due to financial problems at home. He started working as a commercial painter.

Nasir says, “Food satisfies the hunger of the stomach, while education satisfies the hunger of the mind. That is why both are considered basic needs.” 

After seeing the work of Nasir and Aliya, a neighbor Ayesha Shaikh also joined them.

Ayesha, 65 has retired from a good position in a multinational company. Aliya, 30, works as a beautician and Nasir, 40, is a building contractor. All three work for ‘Ark’ while handling their business and family responsibilities.

In many weddings a lot of food is left over. To ensure this food doesn’t end in trash bins of the city, the Trust has displayed boards in key points in the city with this statement printed on these: ‘If you have leftover food, contact us… We will deliver this food to the hungry stomachs.’

‘Ark’ also gets financial support from various people and institutions on their auspicious occasions.

The three started this work from their homes without any funds. For the first eight days, Aliya used to cook food while Nasir distributed it. For the next eight days, Nasir took to cooking and Aliya to distribution. They would alternate their responsibilities ensuring that no single person has to take workload.

Aliya says, “We kept reaching out to the needy. As the work progressed, other people came forward to help us. Some started helping us financially, other by donating rations like oil, grains, etc.”

Soon many others more people had joined Ark.

Nasir empathises more with poor and says they are very sensitive. Instead of doling out food, the trio started a ‘Roti Bank’ to give dignity to those needing food.

Nasir says, “The work of ‘Roti Bank’ is not a one-day job. We cannot do one program in one month and then do the next program the next month. It has to be continuous work.

“It’s a challenge to feed their children and send them to school. But it’s also satisfying to see that someone’s life is changing because of you.”

“We have seen people cooking using paper as the only fuel. We have seen them struggling to satisfy their hunger,” says Ayesha. Food is provided to 50 families every day through ‘Ark’. Children’s education fees are paid.”

Aliya, Ayesha and Nasir deliver food to the people of Kondhwa, Bhagyodayanagar area. But the needy people of Hadapsar and Katraj area are not able to reach them every day, nor is it possible for Aliya, Ayesha and Nasir to take food boxes there every day.

So all three of them go to that area and distribute enough ration for at least two months on the basis of the given identity card. They also offer ‘Sehri’ and ‘Iftari’ facilities during Ramzan. A satisfied Ayesha says,

“It is a pleasure to be able to reach out and help the needy. Because of the work of Aliya and Nasir, I am associated with a good organization.”

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Chhaya Kavire, Pune / April 04th, 2024

Javed Shaikh lights up the homes of the poor in Pune

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Yerawada, Pune, MAHARASHTRA:

Javed Shaikh filling potholes of the roads in Pune

‘Make a sacrifice for others’ happiness; God will surely reward you..’. Such remarks are read in the stories of Saints and Sufis. However, some people around us are silently walking this talk. Javed Shaikh, a young man from Pune, Maharashtra, is one of them.

Javed’s work has changed the lives of many people and inspired others to be changemakers.

Pune is a bustling city that shines in the night under the impact of electricity. However, some bastis in this city continue to remain enveloped in the darkness and inconspicuous. Those living in the brightness of electricity often tend to overlook the dark houses and huts.

While most tend to ignore these dark spots, Javed Shaikh was drawn to them.

Javed lives in the Yerwada area of Pune. In his locality when he spotted human dwellings without electricity, he knocked at the doors and inquired why the inmates lived in darkness. Their reply invariably was: “We have no money to get an electricity connection; the connection has been removed due to non-payment of bill.”

Javed Shaikh gifting a solar panel to a beneficiary

It made him sad; the helplessness of poor people was overwhelming. He decided to use his knowledge to help them. He thought of using solar energy to get these people rid of the cycle of paying electricity bills.

Growing up in Pune, the 34-year-old Javed had grown up with frequent power disruptions due to shedding by electricity suppliers. He graduated from the Sinhagad College of Engineering, Pune.

Philanthropy was always part of his family’s culture and therefore he too was keen to contribute to making a difference in society.

As against the tendency to seek a job after completing studies and setting down, Javed started his business like his uncle Sadiq Sheikh whom he always admired.

Javed lives with his mother, wife, and elder sister. Like Javed, his sister Wazia also wanted to do social service. Therefore, both the siblings set up the ‘Yusuf Foundation’ in memory of their father. The Foundation was set up in 2020 during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

With the idea that the Foundation must start with fulfilling the basic needs of the people, he paid attention to the missing electricity in the lives of the poor.

He started researching low-cost options for providing electricity and zeroed in on solar energy. He thought that if solar panels were installed at the roof of each house, the poor could get electricity and also rid of the recurring bills.

​Javed started from his neighborhood. To begin with, he chose families where either the male head was missing or non-working due to unemployment or disability.

Initially, the foundation installed solar panels on the houses of 10 families.

The solar panels were selected to provide continuous power for eight hours on a single charge. The inmates of the houses could use electric bulbs, run fans, and also charge their mobiles with it.

Javed Shaikh and his sister serving people

When the first solar panel lit a bulb in front of a big crowd, people instantly called Javed “Allah ka banda: (Allah’s man). However, his help is not for people of a specific religion. Poverty is the sole criterion for the foundation to provide solar panels to the people.

Yusuf Foundation took another initiative to fill the potholes on the main roads, which are dangerous and have resulted in many accidents.The problem of potholes becomes even more deadly during the rainy season. The Yusuf Foundation filled potholes on many busy roads of Pune with the help of modern technology ‘cold mix’. This saved many lives. His initiative was greatly appreciated.

On the plans of the Yusuf Foundation, Javed told Awaz-the Voice that he would like to work on the environment.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Yusuf Foundation distributed essential items like facial masks, food, and water in large quantities to the needy. It also organised a competition for orphans in the Azam Campus College in collaboration with the Center of Arts, Pune.

Javed is responsible for raising funds for such programs.

Javed keeps a part of his income from business aside from social work. The families believe in giving back to society and thanking the Almighty by helping others.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Panmamd, Pune / February 10th, 2024