Monthly Archives: March 2025

Three Brothers from Ahmednagar Become Doctors, Overcoming Financial Hardships with a Single Set of Books

Mola Village (Suye Taluka) Ahmednagar, MAHARASHTRA :

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Ahmednagar :

In an inspiring tale of determination, faith, and perseverance, three brothers from a modest Muslim family in Suye Taluka, Mola village, Ahmednagar, have defied financial struggles to achieve their dream of becoming doctors.

Dr. Azharuddin Patel (31), Dr. Mohsin Patel (29), and Dr. Rameez Patel (27) are living examples of how education, resilience, and unwavering belief in Allah’s plans can help overcome even the toughest obstacles. Their father, Rafeeq Patel, worked as a daily-wage laborer at a sugar mill, while their mother, Rehana Patel, managed the household. Despite their meager earnings, the parents remained steadfast in their commitment to educating their children.

What makes their journey truly extraordinary is how they pursued their MBBS degrees using just one set of medical textbooks. When Dr. Azharuddin secured admission to medical school, a local community organization gifted him a set of MBBS books. These very books were then passed down to his younger brothers, Mohsin and Rameez, allowing them to continue their medical studies without the burden of purchasing costly textbooks.

With the grace of Allah and their relentless dedication, all three brothers secured admission through government quota seats, making their achievement even more remarkable. Their story sends a powerful message to the Muslim community—education is the key to empowerment, and no financial obstacle is too great when faith and hard work go hand in hand.

Their success serves as a beacon of hope for underprivileged students across India, proving that financial struggles should never stand in the way of education. It also underscores the vital role of community support in nurturing young talent and fostering success.

As the Patel brothers step into the medical field, they carry with them a legacy of resilience, faith, and an unshakable belief in the transformative power of knowledge. Their achievement is not just a personal victory but a source of immense pride for the entire Muslim community.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / February 26th, 2025

Inauguration of Fajr Trust Office: Another Milestone in the Journey of Service to Humanity

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Bangalore:

The inauguration of the new office of the well-known social organisation, Fajr Trust, located in Thani Sandara, Gulistan city of Bangalore, took place recently in a dignified ceremony at Faizi Masjid, Thani Sandara. The event saw enthusiastic participation from esteemed personalities and local residents. The office was inaugurated by Mr. Khadim Nabi Khan, a senior member of Fajr Trust.

On this occasion, a review of the welfare services provided by the trust to the underprivileged and needy was presented. Speaking about the objectives of the trust, Mr. Masood, a member of Fajr Trust, stated that its key mission is to encourage people to attend Fajr prayers in congregation, attain the blessings of Fajr, work towards eradicating poverty among Muslims in the Thani Sandara area, and promote education.

Another member of Fajr Trust, Mr. Burhanuddin, recited and explained Surah Al-A’raf, Ayah 34. He emphasised that Allah grants every nation a fixed time to prove itself. Those who use this time wisely to please Allah will succeed, while those who stray from His guidance and become engrossed in worldly life will face failure and punishment in the Hereafter. He stressed the importance of self-accountability in all our actions.

Fajr Trust is a welfare organisation dedicated to serving the Muslim residents of Bhartiya City, Nikoo Homes, Sobha City, Piccadilly, and other housing societies in the Thani Sandara area.

Under its microfinance programme, Fajr Trust has provided interest-free financial assistance to over 100 individuals. Additionally, in a very short period, the trust has distributed 21 sewing machines to support needy families. To promote education, the “School Re-enrolment Programme” has facilitated the return of 30 children to school, covering their fees, books, and other essentials.

Furthermore, the “Masjid Musalla Programme” has been launched in two different slum areas to provide Islamic education for children and to establish regular congregational prayers. Considering the employment needs of the underprivileged, 15 individuals were provided with pushcarts to sell fruits and vegetables. Additionally, 25 deserving families received financial aid to help with marriage expenses.

On this occasion, Advocate Mohammad Naushad provided insights on income tax and other legal requirements.

Expressing his thoughts, Mr. Rauf, a member of Fajr Trust, stated that the trust is committed to expanding its services further, and this new office will play a crucial role in achieving that mission.

The event was attended by several members of Fajr Trust, including Mr. Akbar Sharif, Mr. Sameer, Mr. Shayan Umar, Mr. Irfan Razaq, Mr. Shahid, Mr. Parvez, Mr. Azeem, Mr. Azgar Pasha, and Mr. Farhat Abbas, among others.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Social Service / by Radiance News Bureau / February 28th, 2025

AMP Founder Aamir Edresy Honoured by Eminent Personalities in Mumbai

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

AMP Founder Aamir Edresy being honored by eminent personalities at a function in Islam Gymkhana, Mumbai

AMP Founder Aamir Edresy Honoured by Eminent Personalities in Mumbai

Mumbai’s Islam Gymkhana witnessed a grand event as Aamir Edresy, founder of the Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP), was honoured by distinguished personalities for his organization’s transformative impact on education and employment in India.

AMP, established in 2007, has provided job placements and skill training to over 100,000 youth, trained 30,000+ teachers, and organized career guidance seminars in 50+ cities. It has also registered 300,000 students for the National Talent Search Exam, enabling rural and underprivileged students to access top institutions.

Eminent guests praised AMP’s nationwide network of 200+ city chapters, which connects professionals, educators, and NGOs to uplift marginalized communities.

“AMP has built pathways where none existed,” remarked Padma Shri Prof. Akhtarul Wasey.

A documentary showcased AMP’s journey, highlighting how it has empowered thousands, making it a beacon of hope and progress in India’s socio-economic landscape.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / February 14th, 2025

Dr. Haneef Shabab Honored with Karnataka Urdu Academy Award 2024

Bhatkal, KARNATAKA :

Photo Credit: Varta Bharati

Bengaluru :

Renowned Urdu scholar, poet, and educator Dr. Haneef Shabab from Bhatkal has been selected for the prestigious Karnataka Urdu Academy Award 2024 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Urdu literature. The award will be presented to him on February 27 at a special ceremony in Bengaluru.

Dr. Shabab, a veteran in the field of Urdu literature, has dedicated his life to teaching, research, and literary enrichment. As a poet, mentor, and academic, he has made significant efforts to preserve and promote Urdu through scholarly writings and literary works. His research and critical analyses have played a vital role in nurturing a new generation of Urdu scholars. With over 25 years of experience as an Urdu teacher at Shams English Medium School in Bhatkal, he has influenced countless students.

Throughout his career, Dr. Shabab has actively participated in seminars, workshops, and literary festivals, fostering a deeper appreciation for Urdu poetry and prose. His writings are not just academic but also deeply reflective of cultural values, emotions, and social issues.

One of his most celebrated works is the poem “Aur Line Cut Gayi,” which poignantly addresses the issue of female foeticide. Written as an emotional dialogue between a deceased child and her mother, the poem has received international acclaim for its profound social message.

Apart from poetry, Dr. Shabab has significantly contributed to Urdu journalism, writing insightful articles and critiques on various cultural and societal matters. He has also authored two books: “Sulagte Khwaab” (1997) and “Lahu Lahu Mausam” (2009), both collections of his poetry.

The recognition by the Karnataka Urdu Academy is a testament to Dr. Shabab’s lifelong dedication to Urdu literature and his impact on the literary world.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Award / by Radiance News Bureau / February 26th, 2025

Anam Zafar becomes first MANUU student to get All India Rank 1 in UGC NET JRF

Chandanpatti Village (Darbhanga District) BIHAR / Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Hyderabad:

Here is an amazing story of a single mother and her only child who brought tears of joy to her eyes by securing the first rank in the UGC-NET JRF examination.

Anam Zafar, 25, secured the 100 percentile in the examination. Her mother, Rehana Khatoon, lives in Chandanpatti village, Darbhanga district in Bihar. When Rehana Khatoon heard about the feat achieved by her daughter she could not stop tears flowing down her cheeks.

Anam Zafar is in the last leg of her M Ed fourth semester at Maulana Azad National Urdu University.

The Department of Education and Training felicitated Anam Zafar at a special event organised on Wednesday, two days after the news broke out. Faculty members, students, and university officials gathered to celebrate her exceptional accomplishment.

During the ceremony, the faculty members praised Anam Zafar’s dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. Her achievement was highlighted as a role model for aspiring researchers.

Prof Shaheen A Shaik, Head of the Department, commended her hard work and stated, “Anam Zafar’s achievement is a testament to the high academic standards and research culture at MANUU. Her success will inspire many students to aim for excellence.”

Alongside Zafar, the department also felicitated other students who successfully qualified for UGC-NET and JRF. Their accomplishments were celebrated as a collective success of the university’s academic environment and the faculty’s dedicated mentorship.

Anam’s mother was divorced by her husband when the girl was only eight years old. Working as a teacher at a private school for Rs 800 a month, Rehana Khatoon enrolled her child in a school that worked under the Central Board of Education.

According to sources at MANUU, except for Anam’s uncle (her father’s brother), no one checked on her condition during her difficult years. Treading a difficult social and economic path her mother enrolled her in B Ed at the Centre for Teachers’ Education of MANUU in Darbhanga. Her obvious next step was joining M Ed of the University at Hyderabad.

In the meantime, she was married to Johar Ali, a technocrat working with a private firm in Hyderabad. The couple lives in the Lingampally area, close to the MANUU campus.

Anam says she could not have trodden the difficult road so far if her mother had not encouraged her at every step. “Now my husband has joined my mother and wishes me to complete PhD,” she said.

Anam, as a research fellow is expected to get about Rs 45,000 per month.

She expressed gratitude to her mother, mentors, faculty members, and family for their continuous support and encouragement and credited the university’s academic environment and guidance from her professors as key factors behind her success.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> Hyderabad / by Mir Ayoob Ali Khan / February 26th, 2025

Darul Musannefin – Azamgarh’s Pride

Azamgarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Darul Musannefin, an institute established to propagate the rich cultural heritage of Urdu, Arabic and Persian texts through the institute’s publications and magazine, was established in 1914 by Maulana Shibli Nomani

Darul Musannefin, an institute established to propagate the rich cultural heritage of Urdu, Arabic and Persian texts through the institute’s publications and magazine, was established in 1914 by Maulana Shibli Nomani.

However, over the years like many other institutes associated with the Muslim community in India, this institute has fallen on bad days courtesy the apathy of the governments and the community’s disinterest with anything associated with its cultural and academic heritage.

When we talk about the rich heritage of Urdu books, then every Urdu lover bemoans that the government is not doing enough for saving and promoting the Urdu language – a language which binds at least 70% of Indians, socially and literally.

Yet, few of us ponders that what the Urdu lovers themselves are doing for saving and promoting the language. Their concern becomes abundantly clear by the everyday decreasing sales of Urdu books and newspapers. Further, what they are doing to save institutions which have been the flagbearers in propagating and saving the language by publishing books on different topics in Urdu. The answer is pretty obvious: nothing concrete except bemoaning and using hollow words.

One such institution is Darul Musannefin or Shibli Academy, just like the Rampur raza library of Rampur or the Khuda Baksh Library of Patna, in addition to a vast repertoire of books in private collections of individuals and organisations throughout India.

Darul Musannefin or Shibli Academy is a research academy based in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh. Its aim was to add authentic historical literature in Urdu so that people could have easy access to history. It was started as Darul Musannefin but later it was named after its founder Shibli Nomani.

Maulana Shibli Nomani, a Sunni Muslim scholar established it in Azamgarh in February 1914; after failing to establish the Academy in Lucknow, it was established in Azamgarh at Nomani’s mango orchard. It started working on 21 November 1914, 3 days after Maulana Nomani’s death under the guidance of Maulana Hamiduddin Farahi. Other founders included Maulana Syed Sulaiman Nadvi, Maulana Abdus Salam Nadvi and Maulana Masood Ali Nadvi.

Established just three days after Shibli’s death in 1914, the Academy is a leading institution of Oriental, Islamic and Mediaeval Indian Studies, and Azamgarh’s pride. It occupies nine acres donated by Shibli and his relatives. The centrepiece is a beautiful whitewashed building housing a massive library of over 1.5 lakh books and around 700 manuscripts, some of them rare, and an office.

Staff residences, the mosque and a conference hall stand apart.

Shibli Academy: A Treasure Trove

The Academy’s library is a treasure trove. Its spacious central hall is furnished with sofas and chairs, which have been graced by personalities ranging from Mahatma Gandhi, to Jawahar Lal Nehru, Indira Gandi or in other words virtually every Indian Prime Minister and President, except the present dispensation, and scores of other Indian and foreign dignitaries. “Here have sat dozens of famous dignitaries,” Academy’s senior fellow Mohammed Umair Siddique Nadvi, told me on my recent visit to the acclaimed institute.

Mohammed Umair showed me rare books and manuscripts, including Persian translations of Ramayan and Mahabharata, and Sirr-e-Akbar, Persian translation of the Upanishads by Mughal prince Dara Shikoh, a great scholar. The excellent condition in which most of these rare books have been preserved over the years shows the dedication of the institution’s staff despite meagre resources. The gold embossed titles and pages decorated with gold border still retain their sheen.

[Akbar Nama (L) and Monsiual Arwah]

Another gem is Monisul Arwah, a book on Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti by Dara’s sister Jahanara. “This is our most prized possession which Maulana Shibli found at an old bookshop in Lucknow and bought for Rs 100 in 1906. It was very dear to him and travelled to an international exhibition of rare manuscripts in Paris,” says Nadvi.

There’s a section where testimonies of some famous visitors, including Mahatma Gandhi, Madan Mohan Malaviya and Maulana Azad, are kept. Motilal Nehru and Jawaharlal Nehru, stayed at the Academy several times during their visits to Azamgarh. When Gandhi first visited it in the 1920s, the Academy’s founding secretary, Maulana Syed Sulaiman Nadvi, showed him the library by lantern light since electricity supply was erratic.

Another famous visitor was Bi Amma, mother of Muhammad Ali Jauhar and Shaukat Ali, freedom fighters and Khilafat Movement leaders better known as the Ali brothers. But while the Academy is Azamgarh’s pride, it faces a severe financial crunch. It has only one librarian, 48-year-old Saleem Javed, son of the Academy’s former director Maulana Ziauddin Islahi, to look after the vast collection.

“I do whatever I can, but it is not possible for one person to look after so many books. I opened my eyes on this campus and have been working here for around 25 years, and will continue to do so.” says Javed, apparently resigned to his and the institute’s fate.

The funding crunch prevents the management from hiring more staff and expediting translation and digitisation of titles from Arabic, Persian and Urdu into other Indian languages and English.

Future of Darul Musannefin

The Academy’s primary purpose is to protect and propagate the scientific, authentic history and rational interpretations of Islam. It also upholds Hindu-Muslim harmony, or the much talked about Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb, and sheds light on the life and times of Maulana Shibli, yet so far no one has come forward to help the institute and its committed staff to restore the institute to its former glory. Before Independence, it received grants from Nizam of Hyderabad, Nawab of Bhopal, and others. But now that those streams have dried up, many say the cash-starved institution should look beyond its four walls.

Maulana Shibli had donated his own land with a mango orchard and persuaded close relatives to donate parcels of their land for Darul Musannefin, the library, printing press and publication of Maarif, the monthly journal founded in July 1916.

Since Urdu is shrinking, the library’s patrons have dwindled over the years.Today, it would help if more people started subscribing to Maarif for Rs 10,000 as a life member or even if subscribing to the same for Rs 400 or Rs 1800 towards annual or five years subscription, as a corpus of Rs 10 crore can bail out the institution and help implement its future development plans. In this regard any of the big business houses can also help, as part of their CSR responsibility.

(The writer, Asad Mirza, is a New Delhi-based senior commentator on national, international, defence and strategic affairs, environmental issues, an interfaith practitioner, and a media consultant.)

source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> Special Report / by Asad Mirza / February 25th, 2025