Twin brothers Mahroof Ahmed Khan and Masroor Ahmed Khan from Odisha have cleared the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main, and qualified for the advance examination which is the gateway to India’s top engineering and technical colleges, and, amazingly, with the same percentile.
As the JEE Main 2026 results were announced recently, the twins from Odisha who studied in the same coaching classes at Kota, Rajasthan, were among the successful candidates.
This success has created an atmosphere of joy and excitement among students studying in Kota, a city famous for its coaching classes for entrance of engineering colleges.
Mahroof and Masroor scored 285 out of 300 in the JEE Main 2026. What’s more remarkable is that these two brothers had studied at the same coaching institute in Kota and wrote the exam together.
Mahroof said, “I have been in Kota since class 10, attending the coaching material for three years. I followed the class lectures and took regular tests. I would review and revise my doubts again and again. I also got motivation from my brother. There were always ups and downs, but I always remained motivated. We both studied together from the beginning. Our study time was also the same. We both used to sit on the same study table and motivate each other. We learnt a lot from each other.
#WATCH | Kota, Rajasthan: Twin Brothers Mahroof and Masroor Ahmed Khan from Bhubaneswar have got the same score in several exams, including the JEE-Main 2026 Session 1 examination.
Masroor Ahmed Khan says, "I have been in Kota since class 10 and have been following coaching… pic.twitter.com/mfmxw9LOGP
Mahroof and Masroor’s family, especially their mother, Dr Zeenat Begum, a gynaecologist in the Odisha government, has been a great support to the brothers. She left her job to support her children’s education. Three years ago, she moved to Kota to live with them.
Mahroof and Masroor with their mother Dr Zeenat Begum
Dr Zeenat not only provided mental and emotional support to her boys, but also kept their morale high when they scored low in tests.
Her constant refrain to her children was, “Don’t be discouraged by low scores; work hard and move forward.”
Interestingly, Maharoof and Masroor also studied in the same school till their 10th grade. Mahroof scored 95.2 per cent and Masroor 97.2 per cent.
Their dream is to study Computer Science at IIT Bombay.
Maharuf and Masroor’s success wasn’t limited to the JEE Main. They also performed exceptionally well in national and international Olympiads, winning over 30 gold medals.
After their JEE Main success, Mahroof and Masroor are now focused on the JEE Advanced.
Their goal is to study Computer Science at IIT Bombay. They believe that with the right amount of hard work and focus, any success is achievable. Now, they are fully focused on preparing for their upcoming exam, and they are ready to work hard to achieve this goal.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Onika Maheshwari, New Delhi / February 18th, 2026
Amid our fast-paced lives, there exists a remarkable group of individuals who believe in slow, steady, and consistent efforts to create meaningful change.
These individuals are known as changemakers—people who quietly dedicate themselves to bettering society, far from the spotlight and the noise of daily routine.
They don’t seek fame or recognition. Instead, they focus on making a positive impact in their communities. Often unheard of, these changemakers influence others through their actions, values, and vision for a better world.
Awaz–The Voice is proud to launch a special series starting this Sunday, spotlighting Indian Muslim changemakers of India.
Through their inspiring stories, we aim to shine a light on individuals whose work exemplifies compassion, dedication, and innovation.
Our editorial team has carefully selected these changemakers based on several parameters, including the authenticity of their efforts and the tangible impact they have made.
These are everyday heroes who are addressing pressing social, environmental, and economic challenges—often with limited resources but unwavering commitment.
They are improving access to education, healthcare, and sanitation; they are empowering women, protecting the environment, and uplifting their communities—all without expecting any rewards or recognition. For them, the satisfaction of doing good is reward enough.
Their actions may seem small, but their impact is profound. As the saying goes, “Every drop counts in making an ocean.” Each changemaker is a vital part of the wave of progress that is quietly transforming India.
One of our key criteria in identifying these individuals was whether they are creating tangible change or inspiring others to become changemakers themselves. For us, a changemaker is someone who brings positivity into the world through innovative solutions, leadership, and a commitment to improving lives and systems.
In a world that often celebrates loud success, we believe it’s important to pause and acknowledge those who uphold the highest ideals of humanity. These changemakers serve as a moral compass, reminding us of our own responsibilities to society and to one another.
We begin our series with changemakers from Uttar Pradesh, featuring stories like that of Capt. Saria Abbasi, who dreamt of joining the Indian Armed Forces from a young age. After earning her engineering degree and receiving multiple job offers, she chose instead to follow her dream and joined the Indian Army—becoming a role model for countless Muslim women aspiring to serve the nation. She has done challenging missions like serving at Indo-China border post at Tawang in October 2021.
Rubina Rashid Ali, who lives in Aligarh Muslim University’s campus has become a champion for women earning their livelihood out of applique (ornamental needlework in which pieces of fabric are sewn or stuck). She has stood up for them to ensure that these women from poor backgrounds get the wages they deserve.
The changemakers of India
Dr Farha Usmani, a medical practitioner who hails from Aligarh, went to US to pursue her career in the United Nations Population Fund in 2007. Leaving behind her family was a tough call for her. She is the only Muslim woman to have risen to the position of director in the UNFPA. Today, she is making world policies for women’s health and rights. She is the Vice President of SAFAR, an organization that is responsible for the overall advancement and rights of minority and marginalized women and girls in India.
Another inspiring figure is Babban Mian, a businessman who runs a large gaushala (cow shelter) in Bulandshahar, caring for hundreds of cows. Inspired by his late mother’s deep affection for animals, Babban Mian’s work also challenges stereotypes and promotes harmony by offering a different perspective on the Muslim community’s relationship with animal care.
Some of the changemakers will remind you of characters straight from Indian folklore and vernacular literature. People who have been nurtured by Indian civilizational values of compassion and selflessness.
Through these stories and many more, we hope to inspire our readers and celebrate the quiet revolution being led by changemakers who are shaping a better, more inclusive India.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this series. Write to us at input@awazthevoice.in or engage with us on our social media platforms.
The author is the Editor-in-Chief of Awaz-the Voice portal
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Atir Khan, Editor-in-Chief, Awaz-the Voice portal / May 22nd, 2025
In a land shaped by upheaval—where countless dreams were long overshadowed in remote corners—a silent revolution is underway. Far from the spotlight, a group of remarkable individuals is reshaping the social fabric of Kashmir. They are quietly overcoming obstacles, challenging norms, and inspiring countless others with their unwavering commitment to progress.
Sakeena Akhtar
Sakeena Akhtar is a trailblazer who has shattered deep-rooted gender norms in Kashmir, where women in sports—particularly cricket—have historically faced stigma and exclusion. From being the only girl playing cricket in the narrow lanes of Munawarabad to becoming India’s first female National Cricket Coach from Jammu and Kashmir, her journey is a powerful testament to resilience, courage, and transformation.
Seerat Tariq
At just 19, Seerat Tariq has turned her personal journey of artistic expression into a movement for empowerment and cultural revival. With national records and international accolades to her name, she uses her platform to amplify the voices of others—especially young women in conflict zones—helping them discover their strength and creativity through art.
Shabnam Kausar
In a conflict-ridden region, Shabnam Kausar stands as a beacon of purpose-driven leadership. Starting with just four students and no infrastructure, she transformed the Army Goodwill School in Bandipora into a nationally recognized educational institution. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of education, vision, and resilience.
Suhail Saeed Lone
Born in Bandipora and scarred by the violence of militancy, Suhail Saeed Lone could have succumbed to disillusionment. Instead, he channeled his trauma into storytelling through cinema. Now working in Mumbai’s film industry, he uses the medium to share narratives of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism, turning pain into powerful, purposeful expression.
Sarwar Bulbul
Sarwar Bulbul is preserving and redefining Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural legacy through the timeless medium of music. As a celebrated Naat Khwan and founder of the Bulbul Academy of Performing Arts (BAPA) in rural Rafabad, he mentors underprivileged youth in Kashmiri classical, Sufi, and devotional music—ensuring that age-old traditions are passed on with reverence and relevance.
Irtiqa Ayoub
Irtiqa Ayoub is changing the game—literally—for women in Kashmir. As the region’s youngest Rugby Development Officer, she challenges patriarchal norms in a male-dominated sport. Her work promotes empowerment, equality, and confidence among young women, showing that sports can be a powerful platform for social change.
Anissa Nabi
Anissa Nabi seamlessly fuses public service with personal passion. As a JKAS officer and Chief Sports Officer, she champions grassroots sports development across Jammu and Kashmir. A marathoner and fitness advocate, she founded the Wondrous Women community and serves as an ambassador for the Fit India Movement—proving that leadership thrives on action, inclusivity, and inspiration.
Ghulam Nabi Tantray
Ghulam has launched educational institutions such as a B.Ed. college in Bandipora and the Doon International School in Jammu to mentoring rising sports stars like Tajamul Islam, Ghulam Nabi Tantray has made community empowerment his life’s mission. In times of crisis, he has stepped up with compassion and aid. Despite accolades at the national and international levels, he remains deeply rooted in his community—proving that true leadership begins with purpose, not position.
Mohammad Hafeez Furqanabadi
Mohammad Hafeez Furqanabadi has dedicated his life to transforming society through education and compassion. In an environment where girls’ education was often discouraged, he visited homes personally to shift mindsets and advocate for equality. As a teacher and founder of a charitable trust, he has provided free education and resources to countless underprivileged children—regardless of religion or background—promoting communal harmony and opportunity.
Wajahat Farooq Bhat
Once a stone-pelting teenager driven by rage and radical ideologies, Wajahat Farooq Bhat’s life took a transformative turn after an unexpected encounter with SSP Imtiyaz Hussain in Baramulla in 2018. As a young man from Sheeri village near Baramulla, Wajahat grew up amid narratives of jihad, revenge, and martyrdom, reinforced by mosque sermons and community glorification of violence. However, a deeply personal moment, witnessing the hypocrisy of a local cleric, and later, a heart-to-heart with the soft-spoken SSP during his NCC stint, triggered his awakening. Imtiyaz’s message. Today, he leads Jammu and Kashmir Save Youth Save Future, a grassroots organisation that has helped deradicalise over 3,000 Kashmiri youth. Wajahat aspires to take his mission global, to inspire hope where despair once reigned.
These changemakers may not often make headlines, but their impact is undeniable. Through courage, creativity, and conviction, they are not only rewriting narratives in Kashmir but also illuminating a path for others to follow. Their stories are a reminder that even in the most challenging environments, transformation is possible—quietly, steadily, and powerfully. In the days to come Awaz-The Voice will bring their detailed stories for our readers.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by ATV, posted by Aasha Khosa / June 22nd, 2025
As the year draws to an end, we have compiled a brief list of the Indian Muslims who have been in news during 2021.
Danish Siddiqui :
Danish Siddiqui was a Pulitzer Award winning photojournalist from New Delhi, who was killed by Taliban while covering the war in Afghanistan. An alumnus of Jamia Millia Islamia, Siddiqui was one of the country’s most well known photographers who documented the Rohingya refugee crisis, Covid deaths and the Delhi riots to win several awards. In July 2021, Reuters assigned him documentation of the Afghanistan War as an embedded journalist with Afghan Special Forces. On July 16, Siddiqui was killed in action. Governments of India, USA, Afghanistan and United Nations expressed grief and shock on his death and thousands joined his funeral procession in DelhI.
Dr Shahid Jameel :
Dr. Shahid Jameel is a world renowned virologist and is one of the leaders of India’s fight against Covid-19. The Covid-19 outbreak has thrown new challenges to the scientific community. When the Government of India set up an Indian Sars-Cov-2 Genomics Sequencing Consortium (INSACOG), which consists of 38 laboratories to monitor the genomic variations in the SARS-CoV-2, Jameel was appointed as the head of its scientific advisory group. He served the INSACOG in this position till May, 2021 and still advises different government and non-government bodies in strategising the war against Covid-19.
Coach Naseem Ahmed with Olympian Neeraj Chopra
Naseem Ahmed :
Naseem Ahmed: On 7 August, 2021, Neeraj Chopra threw Javelin for 87.58 mts. and became the first Indian to win an Olympic Gold in track and field events. With this success, Naseem Ahmed of Panchkula also hit the headlines. Ahmed was his first coach, who coached Chopra for almost six years at Tau Devi Lal Sports Complex in Panchkula. It was under his guidance that Chopra turned into an athlete from a chubby child. After returning to India, Chopra went to meet and receive blessings from his coach.
Mohammad Shareef alias Shareef Chacha receiving Padma Shri from President Ran Nath Kovind
Mohammad Shareef :
Mohammad Shareef is a bicycle mechanic from Faizabad, Ayodhya and hit the news headlines this year for receiving Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award in India, from the President Ram Nath Kovind. In 1992, his son was murdered and was eaten by animals as nobody claimed it. This incident moved him so much that he took it upon himself to perform the last rights of unclaimed dead bodies. In the last 28 years, he has performed the last rights of more than 25,000 unclaimed dead bodies according to their religions.
Firoz Alam as an IPS officer (Left) and as a Constable of the Delhi Police (Right)
Firoz Alam :
Firoz Alam’s story is straight out of a fiction, where his character bears resemblance to those played on screen by several film stars. Alam, a resident of Hapur in U.P, was a constable with Delhi Police since 2010. In 2014, he started preparing for UPSC CSE. The work pressure and family responsibilities did not allow him to devote full time to the studies, like many availing coachings could do. After five unsuccessful attempts, in his sixth attempt he qualified UPSC CSE and joined as an IPS officer. His inspiring journey from a constable to IPS had taken the nation by a storm when he joined the training after leaving the job as constable.
Sadaf Choudhary
Sadaf Choudhary :
Sadaf Choudhary came into limelight when the UPSC CSE results were declared in September and she secured 23rd rank. She was the highest rank holder among Muslims this year and will become an IAS officer. It must be kept in mind that since independence only 179 Muslims have secured ranks to get IAS allotted to them.
Mohammed Siraj praying at the gave of his father
Mohammed Siraj :
Mohammed Siraj is an Indian cricketer from Hyderabad who made it to the headlines in January by becoming the highest wicket taker from India during the India – Australia Test Match Series in Australia. To claim his 13 scalps, he played only three of the four tests in the series. The fact that his father had died just before the series and he was given an option to return to the country, which he declined citing his commitment to the nation made it even more special.
In the last test match at Brisbane, he bagged five Australian wickets to script a historic win and became a national hero. The headlines of the sports column were filled with his heroics, commitment and ability. Since then he has been a regular feature of the Indian Cricket team as a pacer.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Saquib Salim / December 30th, 2021
Punjab is facing severe devastation due to floods, with entire villages destroyed, crops submerged, and cattle swept away. Thousands of families have been left homeless. In response, Okhla MLA Amanatullah Khan of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has initiated a large relief campaign in Delhi.
Khan has urged people of Jamia Nagar and surrounding areas to unite in this humanitarian mission. He announced the setting up of relief camps at several locations in Okhla, including Zakir Nagar Jama Masjid, Batla House Chowk near Government School, Jamia Metro Station close to Swatantrata Senani Fountain, and High Tension Khamba No. 1.
“These camps will serve as collection centres for aid,” Khan said. “We appeal to every household to contribute so that the people of Punjab can feel that the nation stands with them in this testing hour.”
On social media, Khan stressed Punjab’s long tradition of helping people across India whenever disasters struck. He recalled how Punjabis extended support to people in Okhla and other parts of Delhi during times of difficulty.
“Punjab is currently facing the brunt of floods,” Khan wrote. “Whenever there was a disaster anywhere in the country, the people of Punjab stood with everyone. Today Punjab needs us. I urge people to support Punjab in this hour of trouble.”
Khan also reminded citizens of Punjab’s contribution during earlier national struggles. He cited the role of Sikh and Punjabi organisations during the Shaheen Bagh protests against NRC, when they arranged food through langar services.
He further highlighted their assistance during the Delhi riots, when Punjabis came forward to help distressed families regardless of religion.
“During Shaheen Bagh, Punjab’s organisations not only extended moral support but also arranged langar for protestors,” Khan said. “During the Delhi riots, their help reached victims across communities. That spirit of humanity must inspire us today.”
The Okhla MLA urged residents of Jamia Nagar, particularly Muslims, to show solidarity at a time when Punjab is suffering. He called it both a moral and human duty to support those in pain.
“Punjab’s people have always been by our side. Today, they are in need. It is our turn to stand by them,” Khan appealed.
Local residents in Okhla have responded positively. Abdul Rashid, a shopkeeper in Batla House, said: “We remember how Punjabi brothers brought langar for us during the protests. Now, we will surely give whatever we can for them.”
Another resident, Shabana Begum, added: “This is the time to prove that humanity comes first. Amanatullah Sahib is right; it’s our duty to support Punjab now.”
With relief camps being set up, people in Okhla are expected to donate essential supplies including food, clothing, and medicines. Khan emphasised that no contribution is too small, urging citizens to participate actively in the campaign.
“We can overcome any disaster when we stand together,” Khan concluded. “Punjab stood with us; now it’s our turn.”
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Big Story> India> Indian Muslim / by Team Clarion / September 08th, 2025
Assistant Professor Ejaz Ahmed further informed that the carbon nanotubes produced during the separation of hydrogen from methane are a high-strength material.
Jharkhand IIT-ISM students develop eco-friendly fuel by enriching coal bed methane with hydrogen.(Photo | Special Arrangement)
Ranchi :
Second-year students of the Chemical Engineering department at IIT-ISM Dhanbad have developed a technology to convert greenhouse gases like coal bed methane into environmentally friendly fuel, which can be used directly in CNG cars.
The eco-friendly fuel has been named as H-CBM (Hydrogen Enriched Coal Bed Methane). Chemical engineering students Kailash Krishna, Nitin Gaur, and Devashish Das, under the guidance of Assistant Professor Ejaz Ahmed, have also developed a hydrogen-enriched coal bed methane-powered car. Professor Alok Das of Mechanical Engineering Department also helped them in research work.
Coal-bed methane gas is released during coal mining. It is a dangerous greenhouse gas, considered to be approximately 25 times more harmful than carbon dioxide.
Ahmed said they are using a waste product that previously polluted the environment and creating an environmentally friendly fuel that can be used in any CNG car without any modifications.
Coal bed methane contains sulphur and methane, he said. “It is purified to produce pure methane. Then, a portion of the methane is cracked, through which hydrogen and carbon nanotubes are obtained. The hydrogen-enriched coal bed methane, produced through this process, can be used directly in cars as a substitute for CNG,” said Ahmed.
He further informed that the carbon nanotubes produced during the separation of hydrogen from methane are a high-strength material. They are used in bulletproof jackets and the steel industry. Its market price is up Rs 500,000 per kilogram, he said. The associate professor said that since carbon nanotubes are produced alongside hydrogen, the cost of the hydrogen becomes virtually zero.
Ahmed informed that the release of coal bed methane significantly increases environmental pollution. However, capturing coalbed methane offers considerable benefits. “Capturing 1 kilogram of coalbed methane is equivalent to reducing pollution by the same amount as 25 kilograms of carbon dioxide, which is crucial for environmental protection,” said the professor. It will prove to be a game-changer in the field of green mining, he added.
Second-year student Devashish Das, who is also a part of the research team, explained that CNG cars emit less carbon dioxide than petrol and diesel vehicles, but the emissions are not completely eliminated.
“Coal bed methane gas, extracted from the coal mines of Dhanbad, is far more dangerous. Considering this, hydrogen fuel has been developed from CBM,” said Das. Because hydrogen has a higher calorific value than CNG, it also provides better fuel efficiency for vehicles, he added.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Nation / by Mukesh Ranjan / February 09th, 2026
Indian ultra-distance runner Sufiya Sufi, 38, from Ajmer, Rajasthan, has officially received her Guinness World Record certificate for completing the formidable Manali–Leh high-altitude run in 98 hours and 27 minutes, a feat no woman in the world has accomplished before.
The record, formally approved by Guinness World Records in 2023, spans nearly 480 kilometres across some of the most treacherous terrain in the Himalayas. The route crosses five high mountain passes, involves a cumulative elevation gain of over 8,500 metres, and exposes runners to freezing temperatures and dangerously low oxygen levels. The challenge is widely regarded as one of the toughest endurance runs on the planet.
Although the achievement was validated in 2023, the physical certificate reached Sufi only in early 2026, following prolonged delays related to international delivery logistics and customs clearance. Once the certificate arrived, her accomplishment drew renewed admiration from the global running community, sponsors, and the wider public. Supporters celebrated the milestone as another defining moment in an already extraordinary athletic journey.
Sufiya Sufi on Manali-Leh run
Sufiya Sufi’s record-setting run on the Manali–Leh route represents a remarkable benchmark in endurance sports. The challenge begins in Manali, a Himalayan hill town in Himachal Pradesh, and winds its way through rugged, unforgiving landscapes before culminating in Leh, Ladakh. Along the way, runners cross legendary high-altitude passes such as Rohtang Pass and Tanglang La, where temperatures often plunge well below zero and oxygen levels drop dramatically.
At such extreme altitudes, even the most experienced athletes struggle to breathe, recover, and maintain pace. Completing this journey on foot in under 100 hours is considered exceptional. By finishing in 98 hours and 27 minutes, Sufi not only met the challenge but surpassed it, becoming the fastest woman ever* to traverse this Himalayan stretch on foot.
Despite the physical run being completed and officially recognised in 2023, the nearly two-year delay in receiving the certificate became a story in itself. Sufi later spoke about the delay publicly, addressing it with humour and gratitude rather than frustration.
In a post on the social media platform *X*, she described her accomplishment as the fastest-ever run from Manali to Leh across all five high passes. She also expressed heartfelt thanks to her sponsors, support crew, and well-wishers who stood by her throughout months of preparation and recovery. Members of the running community and followers on social media responded with admiration, highlighting the sheer brutality of the terrain and the mental toughness required to succeed.
Day 03 done with 03 KM.
01 to 100 Km Running Challenge.
No Speed, No pace, Just showing up everyday with 01 Km stronger mindset.
Daily effort. Daily discipline. Daily belief. This is how 1% turns into something unimaginable. pic.twitter.com/mYSxRTZJIu
Sufiya Sufi’s journey is as compelling as the record itself. Born in *1987 in Ajmer, she spent nearly 10 years working in the aviation industry. Running initially entered her life as a way to stay fit and break free from the monotony of a demanding job. Over time, what began as a fitness routine evolved into a deep passion for endurance sports, eventually redefining her professional and personal identity.
Her rise as an ultra-runner has been marked by a series of achievements. In 2018, she earned her first Guinness World Record for running the most marathons by a woman in a single calendar year*. This milestone established her as a serious force in long-distance running.
She went on to complete the Kashmir to Kanyakumari run, covering approximately 4,000 kilometres in 87 days, another Guinness-certified feat. Shortly thereafter, she conquered the Golden Quadrilateral, a 6,002-kilometre route linking India’s major highways, in just 110 days, securing yet another world record.
Sufiya Sufi’s journey is as compelling as the record itself. Born in *1987 in Ajmer, she spent nearly 10 years working in the aviation industry. Running initially entered her life as a way to stay fit and break free from the monotony of a demanding job. Over time, what began as a fitness routine evolved into a deep passion for endurance sports, eventually redefining her professional and personal identity.
Her rise as an ultra-runner has been marked by a series of achievements. In 2018, she earned her first Guinness World Record for running the most marathons by a woman in a single calendar year*. This milestone established her as a serious force in long-distance running.
She went on to complete the Kashmir to Kanyakumari run, covering approximately 4,000 kilometres in 87 days, another Guinness-certified feat. Shortly thereafter, she conquered the Golden Quadrilateral, a 6,002-kilometre route linking India’s major highways, in just 110 days, securing yet another world record.
Each of these runs required not only exceptional physical endurance but also rigorous mental conditioning, logistical planning, and resilience. Sufi has often credited her family for their unwavering support, especially her partner, who frequently serves as part of her on-ground support crew.
She has spoken about the challenges of acclimatising to high altitudes, training in extreme conditions, and preparing her body for prolonged exposure to thin air and severe cold.
Sufi’s expanding list of accomplishments has drawn the attention of corporate partners as well. In October 2024, Hindustan Zinc Limited appointed her as a brand ambassador, reflecting growing corporate confidence in her ability to inspire communities and promote fitness as a sustainable lifestyle choice.
Looking beyond national records, Sufi has set her sights on even larger international goals. According to previous interviews and public statements, she plans to undertake a “Run Around the Globe” expedition, covering tens of thousands of kilometres across multiple continents. She envisions the project not merely as an athletic challenge, but as a global mission promoting *Humanity, Oneness, Peace, and Equality, collectively referred to as HOPE.
Sufiya Sufi’s journey stands as a powerful testament to human resilience, courage, and the transformative power of unwavering determination. Her transition from a stable career in aviation to pushing the limits of endurance in the harshest Himalayan conditions reflects a profound belief in personal growth and self-discovery.
In a world often dominated by narratives of division and despair, her story offers a rare and uplifting reminder of what is possible through perseverance, discipline, and purpose. Her achievements celebrate not only athletic excellence, but also the boundless potential of the human spirit.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Aasha Khosa / February 03rd, 2026
The Malegaon Secular Front of ISLAM Party and the Samajwadi Party, secured the mayor and deputy mayor posts in the civic body, while AIMIM and BJP stayed away from voting
Malegaon :
Malegaon in Maharashtra has entered a new phase in local politics after the mayor and deputy mayor elections brought a clear win for the ISLAM Party–Samajwadi Party alliance, known as the Malegaon Secular Front. Sheikh Nasreen Khalid was elected mayor, while Shan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed was chosen as deputy mayor on Saturday.
The election took place in the 84-member Malegaon Municipal Corporation, where 43 votes were needed to secure a majority. With the backing of the Congress, the Malegaon Secular Front reached the required number and took control of the civic body.
Sheikh Nasreen Khalid received 43 votes in the mayoral election. These included 35 councillors from the ISLAM Party, five from the Samajwadi Party, and three from the Congress. Her nearest rival, Shiv Sena candidate Lata Ghodke from the Eknath Shinde group, managed to secure only 18 votes.
All India Majlis Ittehad-ul Muslimeen’s (AIMIM) 21 councillors and the BJP’s two councillors stayed away from the voting process. The BJP, which is part of the ruling alliance at the Centre and in Maharashtra, did not vote in support of the Shiv Sena candidate, dealing a setback to the Shinde faction in Malegaon.
Speaking after her election, Mayor Sheikh Nasreen Khalid said, “This victory belongs to the people of Malegaon. We will work for justice, development, and equal respect for every section of society.”
In the deputy mayor election, Samajwadi Party councillor Shan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed defeated Shiv Sena’s Advocate Nilesh Kakade by the same margin. Nihal Ahmed secured 43 votes, while Kakade received 18. AIMIM again stayed away, and the BJP did not take part in the vote.
After her win, Deputy Mayor Nihal Ahmed said, “Malegaon has shown faith in secular values. Our duty is to serve the city honestly and listen to the voice of the common people.”
The municipal elections were held on 15 January. Results showed the ISLAM Party emerging as the single largest party with 35 seats. AIMIM won 21 seats, Shiv Sena secured 18, the Samajwadi Party five, Congress three, and the BJP two.
The ISLAM Party was founded by former Congress MLA Sheikh Asif Sheikh Rashid on 20 October 2024. In its first civic election, the party succeeded in winning the mayor’s post, marking a strong start in local politics.
District Collector Ayush Prasad conducted the election as the presiding officer. He said, “The mayor and deputy mayor elections were completed in a peaceful and orderly manner.”
For many residents, the result reflects the political strength and unity of Malegaon’s Muslim-majority population and reinforces their role in shaping the city’s democratic future through the ballot box.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslims / by Team Clarion / February 08th, 2026
Visually-impaired children from deprived Muslim families gain education and dignity at the institution founded by Mohammad Usman in Chennai and Ranipet
Chennai :
In the busy streets of Chennai and surrounding districts, where poverty often limits opportunity, one institution is rewriting the story for visually impaired Muslim children. Madrasa Imdadiya, a semi-residential trust founded by Mohammad Usman, offers education, skills, and dignity to children who might otherwise have spent their lives begging.
Ashraf Khan, a Tamil teacher in a private college in Chennai, was born blind into a poor family. He recalls his early years at a small madrasa for blind students in Melvisharam, near Ranipet, as life-changing. Today, he earns about ₹50,000 per month. “Education saved my life,” he says.
Usman draws a stark contrast. He has often seen blind children on streets with equally deprived parents. “This is what happens with the poorest Muslims. When parents are blind and poor, the children end up on the streets,” he explains. This inspired him to act.
Founded in 2010, the madrasa now runs centres in Chennai and Ranipet, inspiring similar institutions in Pune, Ahmedabad, Aurangabad, and Kashmir. The Tamil Nadu centre, the largest, covers 5,000 square feet and hosts 50 blind students, including ten girls, with hostel staff managing daily needs.
The madrasa blends religious and formal education, filling gaps left by government institutions. Students study the Qur’an, Hadith, and other religious texts in Braille, alongside school and college instruction via audio tools. Children with other disabilities are also accepted, though Braille education is separate.
Usman stresses self-reliance. “Some parents still take financial help from the trust, but many become self-reliant through their educated children. This is the real success,” he says. Students often pursue higher education, vocational training, or government jobs, with some returning as teachers.
The madrasa also produces copies of Qur’an in Braille, distributed free across India and abroad. Each copy costs about ₹3,500 to print. “All our students become Huffaz and complete Class 12 and degree education,” Usman adds.
Mobina (name changed), a blind and disabled girl who lost her father early, is a shining example. With the madrasa’s support, she now teaches in a government school and earns ₹75,000 per month. “Without this madrasa, I would have remained invisible,” she says.
Challenges remain, especially for girls. Deep social barriers, safety concerns, and marriage prospects keep many girls out of school. Usman says patience is key. “Families do not outright reject education but hesitate. Inclusion is about changing attitudes regarding gender, disability, and value,” he explains.
Disability activists note that blind children in poorer districts often lack access to formal education. Government schools exist only on paper, and families may be unaware of disability certificates, scholarships, or assistive technology. Without early intervention, entire families risk cycles of begging or informal labour.
Madrasa Imdadiya shows how targeted community efforts can break generational poverty and empower blind Muslim children. By providing education, accommodation, and skills, the madrasa transforms lives and reinforces that education is a right, not charity.
“Other communities invest in education, but we do not,” Usman remarks, highlighting a broader challenge within the Muslim community. Yet he takes pride in his students’ successes. With over 500 students across India benefiting from similar madrasas, he dreams of a school for blind children in every district and tuition centre in every village.
“Every story here is regrettable. Happy stories go to cities and private schools; they do not come to my trust’s madrasa,” he admits, underscoring the ongoing need for support for India’s most vulnerable children.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India / by Team Clarion / January 10th, 2026
Ikram Hussain (wearing a cap) with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
Ikram Hussain was 15 years old when the manager of the Eidgah Gurdwara in Moradabad, UP, asked him to engrave his mother’s name on an aluminium plate. The young boy had never gone to school but had picked up the skill of metal carving from his father. The young boy felt embarrassed and told the manager that he must write the name for him since he was illiterate.
He engraved the name beautifully onto the plate and received Rs 10 for this work. This amount gave him confidence, and he decided to pursue his work seriously.
Today, Ikram Hussain, 61, from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, is a national award winner. None other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised him for his art.
One of the glorious moments of his life was when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was impressed and moved by his beautiful carvings at the The 12th Grameen Bharat Mahotsav at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi last year.
Ikram was carving a piece depicting Prime Minister with his late mother on a 3-feet brass jar. Prime Minister intently watched his carvings and patted him for his work and dedication. He displayed this work at the festival.
Moradabad, known as the “Brass City,” is renowned for its exquisite brass artefacts. Ikram Hussain says he could not study due to financial constraints at home. However, he never lost hope.
At a young age, he began assisting his grandfather and father in their brass engraving work. His father, Haji Abdul Hamid, and his uncle, Razak Medal winner Haji Ghulam Nabi, were well-known brass engravers in Moradabad. Ikram started learning this art at the tender age of seven.
Even today, his eyes well up with tears when asked why he couldn’t complete his studies. He explains that his family’s financial situation was extremely precarious. To help support the family, he had to leave school and start working.
The family worked day and night, yet they could barely earn five to seven rupees a week. Even that amount was hard to come by those days. Despite this, Ikram never let his circumstances become a weakness.
While working, he meticulously learned the intricacies of engraving. His hard work and dedication resulted in him gradually mastering the art of working with brass to the point where he could accurately engrave the likeness of any person’s face.
His engravings display emotion, depth, and lifelike detail. This is why his art has equally impressed people from all communities—Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians alike.
#VIRAL | मुरादाबाद, जो अपनी पीतल की कला और हस्तशिल्प के लिए पूरी दुनिया में प्रसिद्ध है, ने अनेक प्रतिभाशाली शिल्पकारों को जन्म दिया है। इन सभी में एक नाम विशेष रूप से उभर कर आता है—इकराम हुसैन। 61 वर्षीय इकराम हुसैन ने अपने जीवन की कठिनाइयों और संघर्षों के बावजूद पीतल की नक्काशी… pic.twitter.com/1Jvxm3iWTt
His hard work paid off, and in 2004, he received an award from the Uttar Pradesh government for his outstanding carving skills. He also received a cash prize of 5,000 rupees.
At that time, five thousand rupees was a considerable sum of money. Ikram recounts that when he went to deposit the check at the bank, the bank manager even offered him tea. This recognition was like a dream come true for him. There was an atmosphere of joy in his family, and his morale was boosted manifold.
Today, Ikram Hussain is recipient of honours and awards from various parts of the country.
He runs his company, which he started with a bank loan. This craftsman, who once earned just five rupees a week, is now providing jobs and training to many.
Ikram Hussain’s story is not just a success story of a craftsman, but an example of struggle, perseverance, and self-confidence. He proved that with determination and hard work, a lack of formal education cannot be an obstacle to success.
The master craftsman is recognised throughout the country for his art and social message. The demand for his brass products is high, and his business is worth millions.
The Bihar government has hired him to train the artisans. He trained more than 400 artisans at the Upendra Maharathi Shilp Anudan Sansthan.
Ikram Hussain inherited his passion for this art form, as his father also trained people in the same craft. His exceptional carvings have earned him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Ikram Hussain at his stall at the Surajkund Festival
Craftsman Ikram Hussain has conveyed a message of communal harmony by engraving symbols of Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Christian religions on his brass products.
He was honoured with a National Award in 2022 for his art and for promoting brotherhood in society.
Ikram Hussain believes that all religions are part of the same family and that we should rise above caste and creed to strengthen love and brotherhood. “We are all flowers of the same branch, only our colours are different. We should promote love and brotherhood, not hatred.”
His carving of the Ram Temple on a vase and his work on a 40-inch vase at the Golden Temple can be seen up close at the Lucknow Museum.
He has received numerous awards, including the State Award Second from Uttar Pradesh, the Bhim Rao Ambedkar Award, the Dr Ram Manohar Lohia State Award, the National Award Second from Union Minister Piyush Goyal, two honours from the Assam government, and an honour from the Prime Minister.
Overall, he has received 20 national and international awards. His work and contributions have also earned him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Dayaram Vashisth / February 05th, 2026
