In a city where commuters often face refusals from auto drivers, one Muslim driver has earned appreciation for his consistent service and care for passengers. Habib Bhai, an auto rickshaw driver, has gained attention for never refusing rides and offering added comfort to those who travel with him.
Passengers shared their experience, noting that finding an auto in Mumbai often involves repeated refusals for short or inconvenient routes. In contrast, Habib Bhai accepts all rides, whether short distance or long distance, across routes including the western line. This approach has changed the travel experience for many regular commuters.
What sets him apart is the effort he makes to ensure passenger comfort. His auto carries free drinking water, biscuits, chips, and sometimes fruits for riders. For many, the journey feels less like a routine commute and more like a welcoming service. His vehicle also includes simple arrangements to provide relief during hot weather.
Habib Bhai says his motivation comes from a sense of duty and the blessings he receives from people. He believes that refusing passengers causes inconvenience, so he makes it a rule to accept every request. He also shares that he keeps items ready for passengers so they feel cared for during the ride.
Beyond passenger service, he extends his care to animals on the road. He keeps food with him and offers it to animals he encounters during his daily work. This practice reflects his broader approach of kindness in everyday life.
His auto also displays the national flag, showing his sense of belonging and pride. Through small actions, he has built a reputation among commuters who now seek him out for a reliable and respectful ride.
Regular passengers say such examples highlight how simple efforts can improve daily experiences in a busy city. His work shows that public service roles carry opportunities to create positive impact through consistency and empathy.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Pride of the Nation> Markers of Excellence> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / April 07th, 2026
In a streak of luck for Indian expatriates in the Middle East, four individuals have bagged Dh 25,000 each in the first weekly e-draw of Abu Dhabi’s Big Ticket for the month of April. Among the winners is a Mangaluru native who turned her birthday into a life-changing celebration.
Double celebration for Mangalurean winner
Veera Lobo, a 50-year-old Dubai resident originally from Mangaluru, received the best birthday gift she could have imagined. Lobo decided to purchase her ticket on Easter Sunday, which coincided with her 50th birthday.
Participating as part of a group of four, Lobo expressed her shock and joy upon hearing the news. “I was overwhelmed with happiness and excitement. I never expected it at all,” she said. The group plans to split the prize money, and Lobo has pledged to donate a portion of her share to charity.
Other winners from the region
The weekly draw saw three other Indian expats, including residents from Kerala and Kuwait, securing the Dh 25,000 prize:
Anzil Nazar: A 33-year-old aircraft technician with Air Arabia originally from Kerala, Nazar has lived in the UAE since 2022. Unlike his usual practice of pooling money with friends, he tried his luck independently this time with a random ticket selection. Initially mistaking the winning notification for a promotional call, Nazar said he plans to continue participating in the future.
Amritha Babu: A 30-year-old teaching assistant at a GEMS school in Sharjah, Amritha’s win came on only her fourth ticket purchase. A resident of the UAE for eight years, she chose her ticket based on her lucky number, ‘8’. She recognised the voice of Big Ticket host Richard over the phone before the news even sank in.
Fathima Afeedha: Another native of Kerala, Fathima’s winning ticket was purchased by her husband, a supervisor based in Kuwait for the last 15 years. Her husband, who has been buying tickets for five years, expressed his delight and stated he would continue to try his luck in the upcoming draws.
Grand prize awaits
The weekly e-draws are part of the lead-up to the grand live draw on May 3, which features a massive Dh 25 million jackpot. In addition to the top prize, five other participants will walk away with Dh 1 million each. Three more weekly draws remain for the month of April, with four winners guaranteed to win Dh 25,000 every week.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Top Stories / by Daijiworld Media Network – Abu Dhabi / April 15th, 2026
In the narrow lanes of ‘Kelabadi’ locality in Durg, a 9-year-old girl could be seen playing hockey with boys. She had neither expensive shoes nor her own hockey stick. She used her elder brother’s old, broken stick, wrapped with tape, to step onto the field. Her father worked as a muezzin in a local mosque.
The family’s income was so low that sometimes it was difficult to light the stove even for one meal a day. When she decided to pursue hockey as her passion, society mocked her, “A girl will play wearing shorts?” But her father was determined that his daughter would write her own destiny. This is the story of Saba Anjum Karim, the girl who rose from the dusty lanes of Chhattisgarh to wave the tricolor on global sports fields.
Saba Anjum playing hockey
Former Indian women’s hockey forward Saba Anjum says that when she started playing, her family’s financial condition was not good. Her father worked as a muezzin in the mosque, while her mother worked to support household expenses. Once, during a summer camp at the playground, children were given jaggery and chickpeas after playing. She started playing thinking she would get jaggery and chickpeas. With this thought, she began her sports journey. Later, a running competition was organized where she participated and secured first place. As a prize, she received a hockey stick. That moment became her inspiration to continue playing hockey.
Her school later participated in the Nehru Hockey Tournament, after which she was selected for the Indian national team. She never looked back after that. She played the Nehru Hockey Cup in 1999. From 2002 to 2012, she was a member of the Indian national hockey team and represented the country in many competitions. During this period, she also captained the Indian team. Her elder brother was also a national-level hockey player.
The President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presenting the Padma Shri Award to Smt. Saba Anjum, at a Civil Investiture Ceremony, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on April 08, 2015.
Saba Anjum receiving an award from former President Pranab Mukherjee
Born on 12 June 1985, Saba Anjum shared that in 1997, during a match, her coach dropped her from playing and did not give her another chance in the team. She was only 11 years old then. Her father went to the coach and requested him to give his daughter another opportunity to play. That moment remains very special in her memory. Her father was pleading with the coach to allow her to play. This incident motivated her to continue playing and improve. That day became a turning point in her life.
Padma Shri awardee Saba Anjum says that during her childhood, when she returned home after playing, her father worked at the mosque. She would wait outside the mosque for him to come out and buy her cashews, raisins, or some food items. She often sat outside the mosque waiting for him. That memory remains very close to her heart.
Saba Anjum on the hockey ground
According to the Arjuna Award-winning player, there were some social barriers because she came from a Muslim family. But her father and mother always supported her. They encouraged her to play at all times. When she was selected for the Indian team, she faced difficulties in making her passport because of financial problems. At that time, her mother even sold household utensils to arrange money for her passport. Her parents made countless sacrifices for her future.
Serving as an Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), Saba Anjum said that when she joined the Indian team, she was inspired by senior players. She was motivated to perform better and one day become the captain of the Indian hockey team. Hockey gave her a lot in life. She received the Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri award. She was also appointed as a DSP in the Chhattisgarh Police.
Saba Anjum playing hockey
She gave a clear message to the youth — whether they are athletes or students, they should recognize their potential and work continuously to improve it. Success comes only through hard work. Hard work gives you a unique identity. There is no shortcut to success; only dedication leads to progress.
Educated in Raipur, Sab a Anjum was a regular member of the Indian women’s hockey team. Her ability to run fast on the wings and carry the ball toward the goalpost gave her a unique identity. In 2002, the world was watching the Manchester Commonwealth Games. Seventeen-year-old Sab a was the youngest player in the Indian team. When India won the gold medal in the finals, she became an overnight star.
Saba Anjum on the hockey ground
She not only scored goals but also pierced through the opponent’s defence with her speed. Success continued after that. Whether it was the 2004 Asia Cup gold or captaining the Indian team in 2011, she proved herself at every stage. Scoring 92 goals in 200 international matches showed her skill and talent.
After shining on the hockey field, the Government of India honored her with the Arjuna Award (2013) and Padma Shri (2015). The Chhattisgarh government also recognized her achievements and appointed her in the police department. Today, when Sab a wears her police uniform, she is not just an officer but a beacon of hope for thousands of girls living in hardship.
People who once mocked her near the same playground in Durg now salute her with pride.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz,The Voice / Home> Stories / by Mandakini Mishra, Raipur / April 06th, 2026
At just seven years, Amaan Ahmed, a visually impaired student of Indian School Al Seeb, is showing that disability is no obstacle to achievement.
Armed with remarkable technological skills, a passion for public speaking, and a record of academic excellence, Amaan has become an inspiration for his peers, teachers and parents alike.
Born with a vision impairment, Amaan quickly adapted to the digital world. By the age of four, he was already using a laptop in class, mastering touch typing, screen readers and shortcut keys. Unlike many visually impaired children who depend on scribes, he answers exams on his own and often scores a perfect 100 per cent.
Teachers at his school fondly call him a ‘hero’. His accomplishments include winning awards in storytelling, recitation and quizzes, among them the top prize at ISQUIZ, a mega inter-school competition of 22 Indian schools in Oman.
At his school’s Fusion Fest, he captivated audience by reciting 200 digits of Pi, earning a standing ovation.
Speaking to Muscat Daily, Amaan’s mother, Nausheen Galaria, said, “Every time I see Amaan conquer a new challenge, I am reminded that disability is not a limitation but a different way of achieving greatness. His achievements give hope to parents like me, and I believe he will continue to inspire many more children to dream without fear.”
She added, “In my own journey with Amaan, I’ve had to learn a whole new world of skills – from teaching maths on a computer to using screen readers and accessibility shortcuts. I’ve learned not just for him, but with him.”
Amaan has also been recognised beyond the school walls. In 2024, he was featured at the National Awards for the Empowerment of People with Disabilities, where he demonstrated how assistive technology can transform education. More recently, he received the Robinage Bright Spark Award 2024-25, a recognition of outstanding young achievers across India.
Beyond academics, Amaan holds a national record in the India Book of Records for blindfold typing and has delivered motivational speeches, including a 12-minute address to graduating seniors at his school, which gained over 1,300 views on YouTube.
Through his own channel, WonderBoy_Amaan, he shares tutorials and motivational videos on assistive technology, AI tools and mental maths, spreading awareness about inclusive education.
Amaan dreams of one day becoming an inventor. “I want to create a suit or belt with smart navigation systems that will let humans fly,” he said.
For him, the sky is not the limit, but only the beginning.
source: http://www.muscatdaily.com / Muscat Daily / Home> Oman / by Muscat Daily Correspondent / Setember 01st, 2025
In an era where corporate success is often measured solely in balance sheets, Hamid Ahmed stands out as a rare blend of business acumen and social commitment—quietly carrying forward the towering legacy of his grandfather, Hakim Abdul Hameed, a visionary who believed that enterprise must serve society.
A young, suave, and dynamic Indian business leader, Ahmed today occupies multiple roles with ease and purpose. As the Chief Executive Officer and Trustee of Hamdard Foods India, and former Chancellor of Jamia Hamdard, he represents a new generation of leadership rooted in legacy but driven by innovation.Owing to his leadership acumen and expanding contributions to the service of humanity, he has been featured among the 100 Most Influential Muslims of India in the 2025 list compiled by the Muslim Mirror. The list also features distinguished personalities such as former Vice President of India Mohammad Hamid Ansari, noted industrialist Azim Premji, and politician-barrister Asaduddin Owaisi, among several other eminent names.
Born in 1977 in New Delhi, Ahmed’s early education at St. Columba’s School laid the foundation for a disciplined and forward-looking career. He went on to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Delhi, graduating in 1998, before earning an MBA from London in 2000—equipping himself with a global outlook at a young age.
His association with the Hamdard legacy began early. In 1995, he was appointed as a Trustee of Hamdard Laboratories India by his grandfather. By 2000, he had formally joined the organization, embarking on a professional journey that would span over two decades. When he assumed the role of CEO in 2016, Ahmed brought with him not just experience, but a renewed vision—one that sought to modernize while preserving the ethos of Unani medicine and ethical enterprise.
Under his leadership, Hamdard Foods India has expanded its footprint across both domestic and international markets, strengthening its position in the food and Unani healthcare sectors. His approach combines strategic expansion with a nuanced understanding of regional consumer behavior, reflecting years of hands-on experience across diverse markets.
Yet, Ahmed’s influence extends well beyond boardrooms. His commitment to education is deeply intertwined with the legacy of Jamia Hamdard, an institution founded on the principles of accessible and value-based learning. As Chancellor, he played a key role in reinforcing its academic and institutional growth, ensuring that the university continues to serve as a hub of excellence for students from all backgrounds. Today, Jamia Hamdard has secured a top-tier position among a plethora of private universities, distinguished for its academic excellence, research output, and commitment to holistic education.
He is also the Founder and President of the Unani Drug Manufacturers Association (UDMA), where he has worked to strengthen the traditional medicine sector and advocate for its modernization and global relevance.
Philanthropy remains central to his work. Through the Hamdard National Foundation India and the Hamdard Learning and Welfare Society, Ahmed has championed initiatives focused on education, skill development, employment generation, and the upliftment of economically weaker sections. These efforts echo his grandfather’s philosophy—that business must ultimately serve humanity.
His contributions gained particular prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he led large-scale vaccination drives, organized holistic healthcare camps, and initiated environmental campaigns such as tree plantation drives—demonstrating a hands-on approach to crisis response and community care.
In recognition of his service, he was conferred the Paul Harris Fellow award by the Rotary Club of Delhi South in 2022—an honor reserved for individuals who make significant contributions to society.
Beyond his executive and philanthropic roles, Ahmed has also brought his expertise to the corporate governance space. He has served as a Non-Executive Independent Director on the boards of several prominent companies, including Religare Enterprises Limited, Religare Finvest Limited, Religare Housing Development Finance Corporation Limited, Care Health Insurance Limited, and Religare Broking Limited.
At a time when legacy institutions often struggle to remain relevant, Hamid Ahmed’s journey offers a compelling narrative—of continuity without stagnation, of growth anchored in values, and of a leadership style that sees business not merely as a vehicle for profit, but as a force for social transformation.
On his inclusion in the 100 Most Influential Muslims-2025 list, senior journalist Abdul Bari Masoud engaged Hamid Ahmed in an in-depth conversation for Muslim Mirror, exploring a wide spectrum of issues—from his leadership at Hamdard and vision for the Unani sector to his commitment to education, philanthropy, and inclusive nation-building.
Excerpts from the Interview
Q:To what extent were you inspired by your grandfather, Hakim Abdul Hameed Sahib?
A : Hakim Abdul Hameed Sahib was not only the founder of Hamdard but also a visionary who believed in combining traditional health system with modern scientific approaches. His life’s work was deeply rooted in service to humanity, education, and healthcare. His philanthropic initiatives, like establishing Jamia Hamdard University and other institutions, shows how he linked business success with social responsibility. His vision continues to inspire Hamdard’s focus on blending tradition with innovation. His humility and dedication to public welfare set a self reliant leadership and business model that balances growth with ethical responsibility.
Q:Which aspects of his life and philosophy had the greatest influence on you?
A: His decision to dedicate Hamdard as a charitable institution inspires my own sense of responsibility towards society. His passion for education, his humility and ethics, simplicity and global vision not only motivates me but drives me to spend my energies in the research, innovation and making Hamdard’s every effort relevant to the human beings in everyday life. For me, his life is a compass that shapes my journey into the future.
Q:What made Hamdard diversify into the food sector? And what was the thinking behind this transition?
A: Having Rooh Afza- a beverage stalwart already a household name, diversification into the food sector was a natural extension of consumer trust in Hamdard’s quality and purity. Naturally consumers expected that Hamdard could reach out for their food’s need requirements in the categories of core food and functional foods. This way Hamdard could see the light of faster growth and avenues for ensuring sustainable revenue growth, which helps out our charitable mission requirements. To meet India’s growing demand and global needs of quality foods, we introduced several products in a short span of time like, Milkshakes, Lassi, Juices, Squashes, Coconut Water, Honey, Saffron, Soya Nuggets, Vermicelli, Mustard Oil, Olive Oil and range of Spices.
Q:How do you assess the position of Hamdard Foods India within the current Indian food industry?
A: At Hamdard Foods, we have always believed in blending tradition with innovation. Consumer preferences in India are evolving rapidly, with a growing emphasis on quality foods and convenience. Our iconic brands like Rooh Afza continue to resonate deeply, but we are also expanding into new product categories that meet modern lifestyles — from ready-to-drink formats to sugar-free variants. Sustainability and quality remain at the heart of our mission, and we are committed to ensuring that every product we deliver carries forward our legacy of trust while embracing the future of the food business.
Q:What are your future plans and long-term ambitions for Hamdard Foods and the broader Hamdard legacy?
A: Hamdard Foods has always stood for trust, tradition, and purity. As we look ahead, our future plans are centered on three pillars: innovation, expansion, and sustainability. We are committed to introducing new product formats that cater to evolving consumer lifestyles, while ensuring that our heritage brands like Rooh Afza continue to remain relevant across generations.
On the global front, we aim to strengthen our presence in international markets, taking the Hamdard legacy of quality to new geographies. At the same time, we are investing in sustainable practices — from responsible sourcing to eco-friendly packaging — so that our growth is aligned with the well-being of both people and the planet.
Our long-term ambition is to ensure that Hamdard remains not just a household name in India, but a global symbol of nutritious food producer imbibing traditions along with innovations. We want the Hamdard legacy to inspire future generations by showing that a company rooted in heritage can thrive in modern times while staying true to its values.
Q:Is there any particular experience or anecdote that significantly shaped your outlook or altered the course of your thinking?
A: One experience that profoundly shaped my outlook was witnessing how Rooh Afza continued to unite generations within families. I recall visiting a household where grandparents, parents, and children all had their own stories tied to the drink — from Ramadan evenings decades ago to modern-day summer gatherings. That moment reminded me that Hamdard is not just about products, but about memories, traditions, and emotional connections.
It strengthens my thinking by reinforcing the idea that our responsibility goes beyond business growth. We are custodians of a legacy that touches lives deeply in personal ways. This realization drives me to ensure that every decision we make — whether it’s innovation, expansion, or sustainability — honors that heritage while preparing the brand for the future. It’s a constant reminder that Hamdard’s strength lies in being timeless yet adaptable.
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Interviews> Positive Story / by Abdul Bari Masoud / April 02nd, 2026
Recognising Hanif’s potential, Javed has been providing everything needed to ensure that his studies continue.
Md Javed, a Hindi teacher at the Government High School in Savaran, explains the working principle of a telescope to his student, Syed Hanif.(Photo | Express)
Karimnagar :
It began years ago with one struggling student — a boy who is now a software engineer in Hyderabad.
Today, government school teacher Md Javed is repeating that quiet act of kindness. Determined that poverty should not crush talent, he has stepped forward to support another promising student, Syed Hanif.
Javed, a Hindi teacher at Government High School in Savaran, has taken responsibility for the education and welfare of Hanif, a Class 9 student from a financially struggling family. The teacher has promised to support him until he completes his SSC.
For the teacher, this is not the first time he has changed a life. Earlier, while working at Government High School Dhangarwadi, he had supported another poor student — a boy who today works as a techie in Hyderabad.
Recognising Hanif’s potential, Javed has been providing everything needed to ensure that his studies continue. He arranged a bicycle for the student to commute to school, pays the rent for his room and has also arranged tuition in mathematics and spoken English, facilities usually available only to private school students.
To encourage better learning habits, the teacher provides Hanif with newspapers, study materials and nutritious food, including fruits. A small library has also been set up in the room where the student stays. Javed’s gesture has inspired others at the school. Fellow teachers recently contributed Rs 10,000 to support the boy’s education.
Hanif’s family had migrated to Karimnagar from Manuguru in search of work. His father earns a livelihood by selling buttermilk on a pushcart. To help the family become financially stable, Javed even purchased a pushcart and handed it over to Hanif’s father.
“I recognised Hanif’s talent, but poverty was holding him back. I wanted to ensure he gets the opportunity to succeed and become a responsible citizen,” Javed tells TNIE. With support from donors, he now spends nearly `1 lakh every year on Hanif’s education and other needs.
Hanif said the support has changed his life. “Earlier, I struggled to focus on studies because of our financial problems. Now I feel confident and can concentrate on my education,” he says.
Javed believes the boy will perform well in the SSC examinations among students from nearly 20 government schools in Karimnagar.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Good News / by Naveen Kumar Tallam / March 22nd, 2026
Aisha, a student of Barakah Degree College, has secured the fifth rank in the B.A. stream of Mangalore University.
Aisha is the daughter of Ashraf Ali and Ramlath. She is married to Althaf Umar and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in English Literature at Mangalore University.
Following the announcement of the results, the management, Principal and staff of Barakah International School and College visited Aisha at her residence and honoured her for the achievement. They congratulated her and wished her success in her future academic pursuits.
Barakah International School and College, located in Adyar, offers education from Pre-KG to degree level. The institution has been recording notable academic results and its students have been receiving recognition in both academic and non-academic fields.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / March 06th, 2026
Muslim journalists Muhammad Sabith, Fousiya Musthafa and Munsif Vengattil have earned recognition at the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards 2026, reflecting the growing contribution of diverse voices in Indian media.
Muhammad Sabith, representing Mathrubhumi, received the award in the Print and Digital Regional Languages category along with colleague Akhil Sivanand. Muhammad Sabith has built his work around regional reporting, bringing local developments into public focus. His stories reflect ground realities and strengthen the role of regional journalism in public discourse.
Fousiya Musthafa, associated with News Malayalam 24×7, secured the award in the Broadcast and Digital Regional Languages category. Fousiya Musthafa has gained recognition for consistent field reporting and clear storytelling across television and digital platforms. Her work highlights key social issues and ensures strong audience engagement.
Munsif Vengattil, based in Bengaluru, leads technology news coverage in India for Reuters. Munsif Vengattil tracks developments at the intersection of technology, business, and labour. With nine years of reporting experience, Munsif Vengattil has covered India’s electronics manufacturing push, tech policy developments, artificial intelligence and election interference, satellite internet, streaming platforms, and data breaches. Munsif Vengattil has also reported on corporate strategies of major global technology firms including Apple, Facebook, Google, Foxconn, Samsung, and Nvidia. His work focuses on India-specific challenges and initiatives within the global technology ecosystem, bringing clarity to complex policy and business developments.
The Ramnath Goenka Awards, instituted by the Indian Express Group, recognise excellence across categories such as investigative reporting, politics, environment, and regional journalism. The awards honour journalists who uphold accuracy and public accountability.
The recognition of Muhammad Sabith, Fousiya Musthafa and Munsif Vengattil highlights the strong presence of Muslim journalists in India’s evolving media space. Their work continues to bring forward important stories and strengthen informed public debate.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Markers of Excellence> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / March 28th, 2026
Mohammad Sher Khan, a Muslim iron craftsman from Udaipur, Rajasthan, has drawn attention for his innovative Vishwaguru Chulha, a stove designed to cook meals for 25 people within 30 minutes while reducing fuel use and smoke.
Khan, a class 8 dropout, spent 27 years refining the design after observing women spending long hours cooking multiple dishes using large amounts of firewood. His aim was to reduce cooking time and ease the burden on households. He patented the stove in 2017 after testing it in homes and dhabas. More than 10,000 units have been sold.
The stove features a three layer system. The top section bakes items like rotis and bread. The middle section handles frying. The bottom section boils dal and other dishes. This design allows users to prepare multiple items at the same time.
Khan states that the chulha uses around 2 kilograms of firewood compared to nearly 10 kilograms in traditional methods. The design also reduces smoke, improving working conditions in kitchens.
Demand has increased due to disruptions in LPG supply linked to global tensions affecting key shipping routes. Many households and small eateries face rising costs and supply delays. The Vishwaguru Chulha offers an alternative priced at around Rs 10,000.
The innovation highlights how local solutions address everyday challenges. Khan plans to expand reach across homes, eateries, and small businesses, offering a practical option for efficient cooking.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence> Personality> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / March 30th, 2026
In its series Parwaz featuring extraordinary Muslim women of India, Awaz-the Voice brings you the stories of ten Muslim sportswomen, each one a name to reckon with in her field. Their achievements and acts of bringing glory to the nation have often come after they dared to defy social norms and relentless pursuit of their dreams. Their achievements have also resulted in a change in the attitude of society towards Muslim women:
Here are their brief stories:
Alfiya Pathan
Alfiya Pathan
From the narrow lanes of Nagpur, Alfiya Pathan has risen to become a world champion. Her journey was marked by persistence and quiet defiance of societal norms. Inspired by her brother and the film Mary Kom, she trained rigorously despite resistance, eventually clinching gold at the AIBA Youth World Boxing Championship in Kalisz with a dominant performance.
Known for her sharp technique in the ring and simplicity off it, Alfiya’s rise reflects the making of a formidable athlete who continues to chase Olympic dreams while inspiring young girls to step beyond conventional boundaries.
Alima Rahman
Alima Rahman
In Kolkata, Alima Rahman—popularly known as the ‘Hijabi Biker’—has carved a unique identity by confidently riding through the city streets while staying rooted in her faith. Encouraged by her father despite societal resistance, she overcame ridicule and harassment to assert that women are equally capable in all fields.
Today, she stands not just as a biker but as a symbol of empowerment, promoting road safety and redefining the balance between tradition and modern aspirations.
Aneesa Sayyad
Aneesa Sayyad
At a time when Indian shooting celebrates stars like Manu Bhaker and Abhinav Bindra, the story of Aneesa Sayyad remains a powerful yet understated chapter. Rising from modest beginnings in Maharashtra, she built her own practice setup at home before achieving glory at the 2010 Commonwealth Games with double gold in the 25-metre pistol event.
Despite her achievements, she faced institutional neglect and personal challenges, and now lives a quieter life in Faridabad, her journey serving as a poignant reminder of both excellence and the struggles faced by many athletes beyond their peak.
Fariha Zaman
Fariha Zaman
Hailing from Guwahati, Fariha Zaman overcame administrative hurdles and personal adversity to become the ‘Backstroke Queen of India’. A prodigy who began swimming as a toddler, she went on to set national records and win multiple international medals. Forced to leave Assam due to systemic issues, she later returned with a vision to nurture future talent as part of the Sports Authority of Assam, determined to ensure that upcoming swimmers do not face the challenges she once endured.
Nazreen Ahmed
Nazreen Ahmed
Breaking barriers in an era when women’s cricket had little recognition, Nazreen Ahmed from Guwahati emerged as a pioneer of the sport. Training under Lala Amarnath, she led Assam to its first major victory in women’s cricket in 1981, showcasing resilience despite minimal facilities and societal constraints. Later, balancing a distinguished administrative career, she continues to advocate for the growth of women’s cricket, her journey forming the foundation for today’s stars like Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur.
Nikhat Zareen
Nikhat Zareen
From Nizamabad, Nikhat Zareen has emerged as one of India’s most celebrated boxing champions, transforming early struggles and societal resistance into global success. Training at the Sports Authority of India, she rose through the ranks to win back-to-back gold medals at the IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships in 2022 and 2023, along with a Commonwealth Games gold. Her journey reflects not only sporting excellence but also the growing empowerment of women through sport.
Umaira
Umaira
In Kannur, powerlifter Umaira has redefined age and gender norms by beginning her sporting journey at 39 and rising to national prominence. Competing in the Masters category, she has secured multiple medals with an impressive combined lift of around 350 kg, all while balancing family responsibilities and her role as a trainer. Despite injuries and financial constraints, her journey reflects determination and the growing acceptance of women in strength sports.
Shahnaz Parveen
Shahnaz Parveen
Shahnaz Parveen’s story goes far beyond a simple victory; it is an inspiring journey of struggle, determination, and the realisation of dreams. Recently, she showcased exceptional talent and mental strength by winning the gold medal at the All India Inter-University Taekwondo Championship held in Balasore. Amid tough competition, she overcame every opponent with discipline, strategy, and confidence, emerging as an outstanding athlete.
Today, Shahnaz stands as an inspiration for countless young girls who are forced to suppress their dreams due to social barriers. Her journey proves that with strong willpower and relentless effort, no obstacle is insurmountable.
Saba Anjum Karim
Saba Anjum Karim
From the modest lanes of Durg in Chhattisgarh, Saba Anjum Karim rose to become one of India’s finest hockey forwards.Beginning with a broken stick and humble incentives, she overcame financial hardship and social barriers to play a crucial role in India’s gold medal win at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
With over 90 international goals and prestigious honours like the Arjuna Award and Padma Shri, she continues to inspire as a police officer and role model for young athletes.
Tajamul Islam
Tajamul Islam
From Bandipora, Kashmir, Tajamul Islam rose to become a world champion in kickboxing. She not only comes from the periphery of India but also from a region that lacked amenities and the culture of women’s sports. She trained relentlessly and achieved international fame by winning gold at the World Kickboxing Championship 2016 at the age of eight.
Beyond her achievements, she has sparked a quiet social transformation, inspiring young girls to challenge stereotypes and pursue their ambitions with confidence.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / posted by Aasha Khosa / ATV / March 28th, 2026
