Category Archives: Karnataka (under research project)

Safe walls of Bijapur’s past

Vijayapura (formerly) Bijapur, KARNATAKA :

A secure inn for gem traders during the Adil Shahi era, Nawab Mustafa Khan Sarai houses prisoners today.

The interiors of the Nawab Mustafa Khan Sarai now known as Dargah Jail Photo | Express

Vijayapura :

Several historical remnants dot the landscape of Vijayapura, reflecting Bijapur’s glorious past. While Gol Gumbaz and Ibrahim Roza are some shining examples of Deccan Indo-Islamic architecture, there is another imposing structure of that bygone era, which is still alive and in use today.

With its formidable heightened walls built with large black stone over five acres of land; a narrow arched-entrance, flanked by small rooms for guards; and a grand courtyard, surrounded by rooms for accommodation, a large kitchen, and bathrooms, Nawab Mustafa Khan Sarai served as the most secure place of stay and rest for travellers and traders in precious gems for over four decades.

Nawab Mustafa Khan Sarai, translated as Nawab Mustafa Khan Inn, continues as a secure place of boarding even today, the only difference being that it’s no longer an inn. Located around 4 km from the central bus stand in Vijayapura city, this splendid monument houses hundreds of prisoners, since being converted into a jail during the British Raj.

Dargah Jail

Popularly known as Dargah Jail, owing to its proximity to the shrine (Dargah) of Sufi saint Hazrat Khwaja Ameen Chishti, the monument is a reminder of the architectural marvels sanctioned by the Adil Shahi dynasty that ruled the South-Western part of India during 1490-1686 CE. Specifically, the Bijapur Central Prison, which is historically Nawab Mustafa Khan Sarai, was built by Nawab Mustafa Khan in 1636 CE. Khan was appointed Commander-in-Chief during the reign of Sultan Mohammed Adil Shah, and proved himself to be an astute administrator.

Elucidating the need for such an inn or boarding house, historians cite the wealth and prestige of the Sultanate of Bijapur in the 17th century that called for such structures to be built.

“Since Bijapur had gained immense prosperity during the Adil Shahi period, hundreds of domestic and international travellers and traders started visiting it. At that time, a new suburb called Shahapur was commissioned, which had all modern facilities of the time. Since travellers traded in precious stones from across the globe, they needed a safe and secure place to stay in Bijapur. Considering the need, Mustafa Khan got the inn built in 1636 CE near Vijayapura city, which was located close to Shahapur then,” explains Dr Abdul Gani Imaratwale.

A painting Nawab Mustafa Khan

The veteran historian, who has written several books on Bijapur’s history, said the inn’s tall walls were designed to prevent intruders from entering the premises, protecting the resident traders and their priceless wares.

“To instil a sense of security among traders and travellers, Khan also got a verse of the Quran inscribed on a wall of the monument. The verse means – ‘Allah is assuring all those who have entered heaven they need not to be scared or carry any fear as they are now safe and secure because they are in the custody of Allah’. This verse is meant to reassure visitors that they are in a very safe and secure place,” Dr Imaratwale elaborates.

Further, he says the sultan had appointed guards, whose job was to keep the precious items of the traders in their custody and maintain a complete record. The visitors were charged some fee for the service.

Inn becomes prison

The inn continued to function for several years until the end of the Adil Shahi dynasty, and then it was captured by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1686 CE. Soon after, the traders stopped arriving, and the once bustling structure fell to ruin and disrepair, and remained deserted for another two centuries.

In 1885, the British, under whose control Bijapur was at that time as part of the Bombay Presidency, decided to convert the Sarai into a prison. Historical records suggest that the British wanted to build a prison, but first wished to explore the possibility of converting any monument into one, with some minor changes. The colonial authorities found the inn suitable, and decided to go ahead with turning it into a jail, allocating Rs 20,000. “The British found the monument best-suited for a prison, because of the high walls surrounding it. Also, it had rooms that could be converted into barracks for inmates,” Dr Imaratwale informs.

Today, the jail has 10 barracks, with each having a capacity to house around 40 inmates. There are around 500 prisoners (male and female, and convicts and undertrials) lodged here. In due course, more amenities have been added for the inmates. Security features such as CCTV cameras too have been installed.

In 1983, the jail was converted into a District Central Prison, where convicts began to be incarcerated. But over time, the authorities found the prison proving to be small to accommodate an increasing number of prisoners, prompting the government to construct a new high-tech jail on the city’s outskirts. Officials said that work on the new building is under way. Soon, the present jail will be shifted to a new facility. Till then, Dargah Jail will remain one of the oldest prisons in the country.

A symbol of piety

Besides constructing a ‘sarai’ or inn for travellers, Nawab Mustafa Khan also got a large mosque built in the central part of old Bijapur city. Located on Bari Kamaan (large arch) Road, the mosque is said to be built in 1639 CE, and later became popular as Nawab Masjid. It is still used regularly for prayers. Though a masjid committee is taking care of the Masjid, since it is listed as a ‘protected monument’ by the Archaeological Survey of India as it is an edifice of historical importance. Historians view the Masjid as a unique monument, constructed using only large stone slabs. Another striking feature is that it has no pillars, entirely standing on huge stone walls. The design of the inner arch, where the Imam leads the namaz, is said to have been derived from the historical Jama Masjid. The inner area can accommodate at least 200 worshippers, while an equal number of people can offer prayers in the outer area. The mosque also has a tank for ablution, which used to be full of water round the year in past, since it was connected via underground pipes to the Begum Talab, almost 3 km away.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Good News / by Firoz Rozindar / July 21st, 2024

Writer Banu Mushtaq Inaugurates Dasara Festival In Mysuru

KARNATAKA :

BanuMushtaq was accompanied by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, several ministers in the state cabinet, among others.

Banu Mushtaq inaugurated the Mysuru Dasara festival.

Mysuru :

The famous Mysuru Dasara festival commenced in the city and palaces on Monday with religious and traditional fervour, with International Booker Prize-winning writer Banu Mushtaq inaugurating the festivities.

Banu Mushtaq inaugurated the festivities during the auspicious “Vrushchika Lagna” by showering flowers on the idol of goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of Mysuru and its royals, amid chanting of Vedic hymns by priests, at the premises of Chamundeshwari temple atop the Chamundi Hills here.

Celebrated as ‘Nada Habba’ (state festival), the 11-day Dasara or ‘Sharan Navaratri’ festivities are expected to be a grand affair this year, showcasing Karnataka’s rich culture and traditions, coupled with reminiscence of royal pomp and glory.

In the inaugural event, Banu Mushtaq was accompanied by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, several ministers in the state cabinet, among others.

Earlier, Banu Mushtaq, along with Chief Minister and other dignitaries, visited the Chamundeshwari temple and offered prayers to the goddess, referred to as the “Naada Devate” (state deity), ahead of the inaugural. 

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

source: http://www.ndtv.com / NDTV / Home> News> India News / by Press Trust of India / September 22nd, 2025

Grand double for Ishaan, Shonal, Rivaan,and Shiv

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA /Pune, Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

The winners in various categories, standing from left, Shonal, Rivaan, and Shiv Tummala. Sitting: Ishaan. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Ishaan Madesh, a seven-time National champion across various categories, held off his sibling Rohaan in both the Pre-Finals and Finals in the Senior Max class for a grand double in the second round of the MECO-FMSCI National Karting Championship Rotax Max Classes at the CoASTT circuit in Coimbatore on Sunday.

Shonal Kunimal from Kozhikode (Birel Art India) and Pune’s Arafat Sheikh (Crest Motorsports) won the Finals and the Pre-Finals respectively in the Junior Max category.

Expectedly, Chennai’s Rivaan Dev Preetham (MSPORT) dominated the newly introduced Mini Max category, winning both the Finals and the Pre-Finals to complete a double, as did Shiv Tummala from Bengaluru (Peregrine Racing), who was an equally facile winner in the Micro Max class, where he comfortably held off his rivals.

The results (provisional):

Senior Max: Finals (20 laps): 1. Ishaan Madesh (Peregrine Racing) 15mins, 06.320s, 2. Arjun Vijay Chheda (Crest Motorsports) 15:14.080, 3. Rohaan Madesh (Peregrine Racing) 15:15.424.

Pre-Finals (15 laps): 1. Ishaan 11:24.689, 2. Rohaan 11:34.956, 3. Laksh Manish Bafna (Kart Crew Motorsports) 11:35.157.

Junior Max: Finals (18 laps): 1. Shonal Kunimal (Birel Art India) 13:51.050, 2. Eshanth Vengatesan (MSPORT) 13:53.974, 3. B. Kumar Gowda (Rayo Racing) 14:04.270.

Pre-Finals (16 laps): 1. Arafath Sheikh (Crest Motorsports) 12:04.909, 2. Hridaan Sanadhya (Crest Motorsports) 12,21.680, 3. Shonal 12:24.750.

Mini Max: Finals (16 laps): 1. Rivaan Dev Preetham (MSPORT) 12:31.339, 2. Hamza Balasinorwala (Crest Motorsports) 12:35.028, 3. Yatharth Gaur (Leapfrog Racing) 12:35.630.

Pre-Finals (14 laps): 1. Rivaan 10:59.312, 2. Yatharth 11:04.510, 3. Danish Dalmiya (Rayo Racing) 11:14.365.

Micro Max: Finals (13 laps): 1. Shiv Tummala (Peregrine Racing) 10:34.726, 2. Zidaan Arshaan Anees (Peregrine Racing) 10:39.957, 3. Aarav Surekha (Rayo Racing) 10:40.030.

Pre-Finals (12 laps): 1. Shiv Tummala 09:43.943, 2. Zidaan 09:47.055, 3. Aarav 09:54.239.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Sport> Motorsport / by Sports Bureau / August 04th, 2025

Fikrokhabar launches Online Naat Competition 2025 for children

Bhatkal (Uttara Kannada District), KARNATAKA :

Bhatkal: 

Fikrokhabar, a news portal based in Bhatkal, has announced its Online Naat Competition 2025, inviting children from coastal Karnataka to take part in the programme during the holy month of Rabi al-Awwal.

The initiative is aimed at celebrating the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad by encouraging children to express their devotion through Naat recitation.

According to the organisers, the contest has been designed to nurture both the spiritual and creative growth of children by giving them a platform to present Naats in a digital format. The online mode ensures easy access and wider participation across the region.

The competition is open to boys up to the age of 13 years and girls up to the age of 8 years.

Participants are required to record a video of their recital, which should not exceed three minutes, and submit it through the Google Form link shared by the organisers. 

The event has been divided into categories based on age and gender to ensure fair participation.

The organisers said that the programme is not merely a contest but also an opportunity for children to learn more about the life of the Prophet, strengthen their faith, and showcase their talent before a larger audience. It also encourages memorisation and thoughtful reflection on poetic tributes dedicated to the Prophet, fostering deeper appreciation of Islamic teachings.

Parents and guardians interested in registering their children have been asked to get in touch with the coordinators for more details regarding deadlines, judging process and prizes.

Further information can be obtained by contacting +91 9916131111, +91 9620573395 or +91 9108080800.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / September 05th, 2025

Three siblings from Bhatkal excel at state-level Karate Championship

Bhatkal (Uttara Kannada District) / Mangaluru , KARNATAKA :

PIX

Bhatkal/Mangaluru:

Three siblings from Bhatkal, currently studying in Mangaluru, secured top honours at the State-level Karate Championship held in Moodbidri on September 1, 2025 The event was organised by the Shorin-Ryu Karate Association in association with Swami’s Strength Training and MK Ananthraj College of Physical Education.

Ismail Nameer, a 15-year-old student of Huda Islamia School, Mangaluru, won first place in Kumite (fight). 

His younger brother, Hamdan (11 years), a student of Presidency School, Mangaluru, secured first place in Kumite (Fight) and second place in Kata in the under-11 category.

Their sister, Umme Kulsum, also a student of Presidency School, claimed first place in the Fighting category in the under-8 category.

The siblings are children of Nisar Ahmed Ruknuddin and Nada of Bhatkal, who are presently residing in Mangaluru.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / September 03rd, 2025

Calligraphy and a message deep within

Vijayapura (formerly Bijapur) / Kalaburagi (Gulbarga), KARNATAKA :

Around 40 artists from all faiths are on a campaign to preserve the Islamic art, and build communal harmony

Calligraphy paintings created by various artists

Vijayapura :

When veteran artist Dr Subbayya Neela was invited to join a campaign to spread communal harmony through the ancient but fading art of Islamic calligraphy, he could not hide his delight. For him, the idea was not merely about preserving an art form, but about exploring the potential of art to transcend barriers of faith and culture.

“I have always believed that art knows no religion or boundaries. Art has the power to touch the hearts of people across communities. That is why, when I was approached to contribute to this unique initiative, I immediately agreed. I prepared a few pieces of Arabic calligraphy that were later exhibited in different places as part of the campaign,” recalled Dr Neela.

Among his works was a calligraphic representation of the Arabic phrase ‘Allahu Akbar’, which means ‘God is Great’. “I was given the liberty to interpret the phrase through my own artistic imagination, while maintaining the sanctity of the verse. It was both a responsibility and a joy,” he said.

Dr Neela is among 40 artists from across Karnataka, both Hindus and Muslims, who have joined this movement that began in Kalaburagi in 2020. The campaign was conceived not only to preserve Islamic calligraphy, which has been steadily losing ground, but also to foster unity at a time when society is fractured along communal lines.

The group of artists who joined the campaign

The Initiative

It was the brainchild of noted artist Mohammed Ayazuddin Patel, a veteran painter from Kalaburagi and recipient of the Lalit Kala Akademi Award. “When hatred and intolerance seemed to be gaining ground in society, we felt the need to bring people together. We thought of reviving Arabic and Islamic calligraphy because it embodies both artistic beauty and deep spiritual messages. At the same time, it offered us a platform to involve artists of all faiths to work together for harmony,” he explained.

Ayazuddin was soon joined by another respected artist, Rehman Patel, and together they expanded the circle of participants. What started with around 15 artists, junior and senior, has now grown into a diverse collective of 40, half of whom are Hindus. These artists work closely with their Muslim counterparts to ensure accuracy in Arabic writing, while retaining artistic freedom.

The campaign, in many ways, draws inspiration from the history of the Deccan itself. Rehman Patel points out that after the decline of the Chalukyan dynasty, many local artisans and craftsmen found themselves unemployed. With the arrival of Muslim rulers in the region, particularly in erstwhile Bijapur and Gulbarga, these artisans were drawn into projects that fused Persian and Turkish influences with local Indian traditions.

“The architecture of that time was a collaboration. While designs came from foreign artists, the actual construction was executed by local Hindu craftsmen. The result was Indo-Persian art, a blend of Indian and Islamic architecture that still stands testament to cultural harmony,” he said. Arabic and Islamic calligraphy flourished during this period, adorning monuments and manuscripts, but over the centuries, as tastes and practices changed, the art form began to fade. “Our campaign is an attempt to not only revive this vanishing tradition but also to remind people of the harmony that once defined this land,” he added.

Preserving sacredness

A key aspect is the selection of verses from the Quran. The organizers have been deliberate in choosing verses that emphasize unity, peace and brotherhood, values that are not confined to one faith but resonate universally. “The artists are given complete freedom to use their imagination while ensuring that calligraphy remains the focal point. We guide them on the technicalities of Arabic script, but artistic interpretation is entirely theirs,” explained Ayazuddin. “This way, we safeguard the sacredness of the verses while allowing creativity to flourish.”

For many Hindu artists like Basavaraj Totad and Rajani Talwar who are involved in it, it has been a learning experience. Working with Arabic characters is not easy, and ensuring accuracy requires constant collaboration. Yet, this very collaboration has built bonds of trust and friendship. “It is heartening to see artists from different backgrounds sit together, discuss and create something so meaningful,” said Ashok Hiremath, an artist from Bidar.

To showcase their work and reach a wider audience, the collective has organized exhibitions, usually coinciding with Id-Milad, the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammed. So far, five exhibitions have been held, each drawing large crowds from different faiths. “The response has been overwhelming,” Ayazuddin said. “We have seen people from all communities attend and appreciate the art. Many told us that such initiatives give them hope that religious harmony is still alive in our society, and voices of hate and division are not as strong as they seem.”

The exhibitions are not limited to calligraphy, but also feature paintings and photographs of ancient monuments from the Deccan region, tying the campaign to the cultural and architectural heritage of Karnataka. “This serves two purposes. It connects people with their shared history, and encourages them to protect and preserve monuments that are our national heritage,” said Rehman Patel.

Messages beyond borders

For the participating artists, the project is as much about personal conviction as it is about art. Dr Neela believes the messages of peace from saints and prophets have universal appeal. “Prophet Mohammed spread the message of peace, which can be accepted by anyone, anywhere in the world,” he said.

“If art can be used as a language of unity, it should not remain confined to one place. Art has always been a reflection of society. If society is fractured, art can heal and unite. That is what we are trying to do through this campaign,” Ayazuddin said.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Good News / by Firoz Rozindar / September 14th, 2025

Senior writer and thinker Prof. M. Karimuddin passes away

Ganjam Village (Srirangapatna) , KARNATAKA :

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah condoles


Mandya/Srirangapatna :

Senior writer, multilingual scholar and progressive thinker Prof. M. Karimuddin (95) passed away at his home in Ganjam, Srirangapatna on Saturday morning due to age-related illness.

Karimuddin, who was unmarried, had served as a Kannada professor and later as a principal in government degree colleges in Mysore, Mandya, Madikeri and elsewhere before retiring.

A student of Kuvempu, he had studied Kannada, English, Urdu, Persian, Arabic and Sanskrit.

He had written many works including Orphan Muslims, Sanchita Chintana, and Baalu ​​Baddu. Many of his thought-provoking speeches on All India Radio were popular. ‘Prof. Karimuddin’s Life and Literature’ was the text for students of class 9 who were studying Kannada as a second language in Urdu medium.

A good orator, Karimuddin was actively involved in farmer, Dalit, pro-Kannada, progressive, and anti-idiotic movements even in his later years. His ancestors were relatives of Tipu Sultan.

Karimuddin, who retired as a Kannada professor at Maharaja’s College, Mysore, was well-versed in Kannada grammar, Old Kannada and New Kannada literature.

He had also done a lot of research on Tipu Sultan. It is said that he had written many collected works on the history of Tipu Sultan.

His friend Prof. Nanjaraja Urs expressed his condolences, saying that his death is a huge loss to the Kannada nation.

Chief Minister’s condolences

“I am saddened to hear the news of the death of senior writer and popular professor Prof. M. Karimuddin. A simple gentleman, Prof. Karimuddin used to help educate the children of the poor. I also share in the grief of his family. I pray that God may grant peace to his soul.”

– Chief Minister Siddaramaiah

source: http://www.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati, Kannada / Home> News> State / by News Bharti (english translation of Kannada article) / September 02nd, 2023

Treasure trove of memories: Khaleel’s scrap museum in Malemar

Mangaluru (Dakshina Kannada District) , KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru : 

In the heart of Malemar stands a unique museum that has become a treasure trove of memories for the community. What began as a small scrap business two decades ago, and later transformed into a distinctive museum eight years ago, is today capturing the attention of visitors with its fascinating collection of vintage artefacts — all thanks to the dedication of Ibrahim Khaleel.

Originally hailing from Kulur, Khaleel developed the idea of converting his scrap shop into a museum when he noticed antique and traditional pieces entering scrap shops.

Determined to preserve them for future generations, he began collecting items not only from his own shop but also from households and other scrap dealers. Over the years, his efforts have turned discarded objects into priceless memorabilia — truly creating ‘wealth out of waste’.

Khaleel’s museum now showcases a wide array of antiques, including coins, watches, tape recorders, gramophones, vintage telephones, lanterns, and traditional household items. He has also created a small library within the museum, where children and students can access books free of cost, making his initiative both nostalgic and educational.

His work has received valuable support from organisations such as Plastic for Change, which helped him organise the scrap shop into different sections. Khaleel has also invested in machines to shred waste paper, ensuring sensitive documents are not misused, and to separate cable wires from copper for effective recycling.

Looking ahead, Khaleel hopes to create a separate, larger space for his museum so that more people can visit, relive memories, and appreciate the craftsmanship and design of a bygone era.

Khaleel’s scrap museum is not just a collection of old objects; it is a space where history lives on, nostalgia is rekindled, and generosity flourishes. For anyone visiting Malemar, it is undoubtedly a must-see destination.

Scrap Shop Turns Museum in Mangalore | Creativity of Ibrahim Khaleel / source: youtube.com

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld / Home> Top Stories / by Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru / pics: Dayanand Kukkaje / September 11th, 2025

Syed Sadath to Represent Karnataka in 31st Sub-Junior National Netball Championship 2025-26

Alur (Hasan District), KARNATAKA :

Syed Sadath, a Grade 10 student of The Mansoora School, Alur, Hassan, has been selected for the Karnataka team in the 31st Sub-Junior National Netball Championship 2025-26

Alur, Hassan:

Syed Sadath, a Grade 10 student of The Mansoora School, Alur, Hassan, has been selected for the Karnataka team in the 31st Sub-Junior National Netball Championship 2025-26. The championship will take place from May 25-28, 2025, at Alpine Academy in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. This event is being hosted by the Netball Federation of India in collaboration with the Netball Sports Association Madhya Pradesh.

The entire Mansoora School community, including management, principal, teachers, and students, extends best wishes to Syed Sadath and the whole Karnataka netball team for championship success, made possible under the exceptional guidance of PE Teacher Mr. Syed Touqeer Ahamed.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Sports / by Radiance News Bureau / May 23rd, 2025

M. Nurul Islam Honoured With Prestigious Al-Ameen All India Community Leadership Award in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA / WEST BENGAL :

Bengaluru:

On the occasion of its Founder’s Day, the Al-Ameen Educational Society felicitated M. Nurul Islam, Founder and General Secretary of Al-Ameen Mission, West Bengal, with the prestigious “Al-Ameen All India Community Leadership Award 2025” for his remarkable contributions to education and community empowerment, reported the MPositive.

The annual event, held in memory of the Society’s visionary founder, the late Dr. Mumtaz Ahmed Khan, brought together members and supporters of the Al-Ameen movement. Nurul Islam was invited as the chief guest and was honoured for his tireless efforts in transforming the educational landscape, particularly for underprivileged students in West Bengal.

Islam began the Al-Ameen Mission in 1986 by establishing a hostel and the Institute of Islamic Culture in Khalatpur through community donations—famously collected as a fistful of rice from every household. In 1987, he renamed the initiative Al-Ameen Mission, inspired by the title Al-Ameen (the trustworthy), given to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Since its inception, the Mission has achieved phenomenal success. With 77 residential branches, it currently houses more than 22,000 students, boasts a strong network of 50,000 alumni, and has produced over 2,400 doctors, 2,500 engineers, and numerous other professionals. In 2022 alone, nearly 500 students secured admissions in MBBS and BDS courses.

The late Dr. Mumtaz Ahmed Khan, who founded the Al-Ameen Educational Society in 1966 at the age of 30, is remembered as a renowned educationist, humanitarian, and reformer who dedicated his life to uplifting marginalized communities through education. His legacy continues to inspire the movement’s expansion across India.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / September 08th, 2025