Category Archives: Leaders

Mewat, Haryana: The birthplace of Tablighi Jamaat and the Mewati Gharana of Indian Classical Music

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HARYANA :

Arshad Shaikh digs into some amazing facts about the Mewat region in the Indian state of Haryana, which was recently in the news for the wrong reasons. Meo-Muslims have been targeted by cow-vigilantes and anti-social elements. Communal violence rocked the region last week.  Six people lost their lives, scores were seriously injured, thousands were arrested and many houses were controversially demolished. The Hindu-Muslim violence in the Mewat region was extensively covered by the media, however, not many know about some of the amazing facts of this region and how it is emblematic of the denial and deprivation that Muslims have suffered in post-Independence India.

Mewat (now officially re-named as Nuh) is a Muslim-majority district in the state of Haryana. The Mewat district was established in 2005, through the incorporation of regions from Gurgaon district and the Hathin Block of Faridabad district.

Nonetheless, in 2008, the Hathin sub-division underwent restructuring with the formation of Palwal district. In 2016, Mewat district’s name was changed to Nuh, given that Mewat represents a cultural area that extends across Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh states. Mewat (Nuh) is located in the southern part of Haryana. It is one of the 22 districts of Haryana.

The region is bordered by the Aravalli Range to the north, the Gurgaon district to the northeast, the Alwar district of Rajasthan to the south, the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan to the southwest, and the Palwal district of Haryana to the west.

The following Table compares the district of Mewat (now known as Nuh) with the entire state of Haryana:

VariableHaryanaNuh districtComparison
Area44,212 sq km
(17,070 sq miles)		1,860 sq km
(720 sq miles)		4.2% of the state
Population25,351,4621,089,2634.2% of the state
% of Rural population65.12%95.36%Shows the degree of neglect by successive governments
% of Urban population34.88%4.64%
Sex ratio (number of females per 1000 males)926/1000907/100019 less than state sex ratio (this is surprising, given that Mewat is a Muslim-majority district and Islam strictly prohibits any preference for male children)
Literacy75.55%54.08%21% behind the state, again highlights a problem that poses a challenge to both the government and the community
Hindu versus Muslim populationHindu (87.46%)Muslim (7.06%)Hindu (20.3%) Muslim (79.2%)Mewat is one of the few districts in India with a Muslim population close to 80%
Languages spokenHindi – 47.9%
Haryanvi – 37.1%
Punjabi – 7.3%
Bagri – 2.1%		Mewati (1.66%)
Urdu (1.48%)
Number of Railway Stations2113Ferozepur Jhirka, Punhana and Tauru

Legislature: Mewat has three Haryana Vidhan Sabha constituencies:  Nuh, Ferozepur Jhirka and Punhana. All three are parts of the Gurgaon Lok Sabha constituency.

Roads: There are currently 5 national highways in the Mewat region of Haryana. The Delhi Mumbai Expressway will pass through the Mewat region. This expressway will connect Delhi and Mumbai via Manesar, Gurugram, Sohna, Nuh, and Palwal.

History: Mewat was once a princely state, ruled by the Meo Rajputs. The Meos are a Muslim Rajput tribe who are believed to have migrated to the region from Rajasthan in the 12th century. In the 16th century, Mewat was conquered by the Mughal Empire. The Mughals ruled Mewat for over 300 years, until the decline of the Mughal Empire in the 18th century.

In the 18th century, Mewat was conquered by the Maratha Empire. The Marathas ruled Mewat for about 50 years, until the British East India Company conquered Mewat in 1803. The British ruled Mewat until Indian Independence in 1947. After Independence, Mewat became a part of the state of Haryana.

Here are some not-so-well-known facts and “figures” from the Mewat region in India:

Raja Hasan Khan Mewati, a Khanzada Rajput ruler, held dominion over Mewat as a Muslim leader. He succeeded his father, Raja Alawal Khan, in a dynasty that had governed the Mewat State for approximately two centuries. He undertook the reconstruction of the Alwar Fort during the 15th century. In a significant historical event, he allied himself with 5,000 compatriots from the Rajput Confederation and participated in the Battle of Khanwa. Tragically, he met his demise on the battlefield, confronting the Mughal forces commanded by Babur.

Firuz Khan Mewati was a Mughal commander who served under the emperor Bahadur Shah I. He was born in Mewat in the 17th century and is known for his bravery and military prowess. He was also a skilled diplomat and administrator.

The Tablighi Jamaat was established in 1926 by Maulana Muhammad Ilyas al-Kandhlawi, in the Mewat region. According to community historian Siddique Ahmed Meo (as reported in the Hindustan Times) – “People from Mewat would travel to Delhi for work and halt for lunch near the masjid in Nizamuddin, before proceeding ahead with the journey. Maulana Ilyas took notice of the labourers and enquired about them one day. Through conversations with the Meos, he realised that while they were Muslims, they did not have a good understanding of Islamic practices.

“Driven by his interactions with Meos in Nizamuddin, Maulana Ilyas visited Ferozepur Namak in Mewat for the first time in 1925. He started surveying the region and over subsequent visits, he came to the understanding that Meo-Muslims needed to be introduced to Islamic practices and brought back into the fold. A panchayat was called in Nuh and a charter consisting of names of 103 people was shared. Some 31 proposals aimed at laying the groundwork for the Jamaat were passed in that panchayat. Finally, in 1926, the Jamaat started undertaking trips to reach out to people and spread the message of Islam.”

The Mewati Gharana is a Hindustani classical music tradition that was founded in the late 19th century by Ustad Ghagge Nazir Khan. The gharana is named after the Mewat region of India, where Ustad Ghagge Nazir Khan was born and raised. The Mewati Gharana is known for its emphasis on purity of tone, intricate taans, and expressive singing.

The gharana also has a unique style of khayal singing, which is characterised by its use of subtle ornamentation and its focus on the emotional content of the lyrics. Some of the most famous vocalists of the Mewati Gharana include Pandit Jasraj, Pandit Maniram, and Pandit Pratapnarayan. Pandit Jasraj is considered one of the greatest khayal singers of all time, and he helped to popularise the Mewati Gharana around the world.

Mewati Martial Art is a traditional martial art that originated in the Mewat region of India. It is a combination of wrestling, boxing, and stick fighting. Mewati martial arts are known for its emphasis on self-defence and its focus on using the opponent’s strength against them. Mewati martial art was further developed in the 17th century, when the Mewat region was ruled by the Mughals. This led to a fusion of Mewati martial arts with Mughal martial arts, which resulted in the development of the modern form of Mewati martial arts.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Amazing Facts / by Arshad Shaikh / Radiance News Bureau / September 01st, 2023

Last Kashmiri Muslim DGP of J&K no more, Ghulam Jeelani Pandit passes away at 92

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Srinagar, JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Pandit was the then state’s director-general of police (DGP) from 1987 to 1989, the years during which Kashmir began its descent into turmoil.

Ghulam Jeelani Pandit / sourced by the Telegraph

Ghulam Jeelani Pandit, the last Kashmiri Muslim to head Jammu and Kashmir police and whose tenure saw the rise of militancy in 1988, died on Sunday evening nearly three-and-a-half decades after his retirement. He was 92.

Pandit was the then state’s director-general of police (DGP) from 1987 to 1989, the years during which Kashmir began its descent into turmoil. He was laid to rest at his ancestral graveyard in Jamalata in Srinagar’s old city.

On October 12, 1988, Pandit had dropped a bombshell saying that around 100 Kashmiris had returned after receiving arms training across the Line of Control, and that a weeklong crackdown had nabbed 72 of them.

Pandit’s tenure as the DGP witnessed low-key insurgency. It was after his removal on December 20, 1989 — as part of a new hard line pursued by the V.P. Singh government at the Centre — that Kashmir erupted into mass uprising.

The trigger for the protests was the large-scale killings of civilians, beginning with the Gaw Kadal massacre of January 21, 1990.

A series of electrifying events had preceded Gaw Kadal. Pandit helmed the police when Rubaiyya Sayeed, daughter of then Union home minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, was kidnapped on December 8, 1989.

Delhi reportedly prodded the Farooq Abdullah government to release five top JKLF militants in exchange for her release, giving the militants their first major success.

Pandit became a casualty and was replaced by the hardliner J.N. Saxena, a non-local. A month later, on January 19, Delhi appointed Jagmohan as governor, plunging the region into chaos. The Farooq Abdullah government resigned in protest a day before Jagmohan took the oath of office.

The killings at Gaw Kadal and other places led to mass protests and prompted thousands of Kashmiris to cross the Line of Control to secure arms training.

Current DGP Nilin Prabhat mourned Pandit’s death and offered “tribute and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family”. Pandit is survived by his wife, son and two daughters.

Born on February 22, 1933, in Srinagar, Pandit joined the police and rose through ranks to take over as DGP on May 21, 1987.

“Ghulam Jeelani Pandit was only the second and the last local Muslim ever to head the state police in its over 100-year history,” People’s Democratic Party leader and former minister Naeem Akhtar wrote on X.

The other Kashmiri Muslim to have headed Jammu and Kashmir police was Peer Hassan Shah, who became the force’s first DGP in 1982. Till then, an inspector-general of police would head the force. Shah is still alive.

Ali Mohammad Watali, who was Srinagar police chief in 1988 and became the target of an unsuccessful militant assassination attempt that year, said Pandit was a good officer.

“It was Delhi that replaced him with Saxena. The Farooq Abdullah government had no say in (such big decisions). At that time, Mufti Sahab was the (Union) home minister,” Watali told TheTelegraph.

“He (Pandit) lived a quiet life after retirement and stayed away from controversies.”

The attack on Watali took place on September 17, 1988. It woke up the administration to the lurking danger of militancy.

In July that year, the Valley was rocked by two bomb blasts in Srinagar but there were no casualties. According to the grapevine, Khalistani militants were behind the explosions.

After Pandit, the only Kashmiri to become DGP was Kuldeep Khoda, but he was a Hindu. While most of the DGPs during the last 36 years have been non-local, two were from Jammu. They were A.K. Suri and S.P. Vaid.

source: http://www.telegraphindia.com / The Telegraph Online / Home> India / by Muzaffar Raina / September 23rd, 2025


Sarangi maestro Ustaad Sultan Khan is no more

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri Award (since January 01st, 2024), Leaders, World Opinion, , , , , , , , , ,

Jodhpur, RAJASTHAN :

The Padma Bhushan awardee, who hailed from Jodhpur, died of kidney failure in Mumbai.

Sarangi maestro and classical singer Ustad Sultan Khan, the soulful voice behind hits such as Piya basanti re and Albela sajan, passed away in Mumbai on Sunday after kidney failure.

The Padma Bhushan awardee, 71, who hailed from a family of sarangi players in Jodhpur, was on dialysis for the past three months and died on his way to the hospital, family sources said.

Khan is survived by his second wife Bano, son Sabir – also a well-known sarangi player – and two daughters. His funeral will take place in Jodhpur on Monday.

Credited for reviving the sarangi, Khan is famous for his extraordinary control over the instrument and his husky voice. He started performing at the age of 11, and later collaborated at the international level with sitar maestro Ravi Shankar, on George Harrison’s 1974 Dark Horse World Tour.

Khan’s was a family of sarangi masters from Rajasthan. He was initially tutored by his father, Ustad Gulab Khan. Later, he trained under Ustad Amir Khan, a classical vocalist of the Indore gharana. After establishing himself as a sarangi player, Khan worked with Bollywood musicians, such as Lata Mangeshkar and Sanjay Leela Bhansali, apart from collaborating with western musicians, such as Ornette Coleman, George Harrison and Duran Duran.

Apart from the Padma Bhushan, Khan won numerous musical awards, including the Sangeet Natak Academy Award (twice), the Gold Medallist Award of Maharashtra and the American Academy of Artists Award in 1998.

Khan was also a member of the Indian fusion group Tabla Beat Science with Zakir Hussain and American bassist Bill Laswell.

The news of Khan’s death came through a post by music composer Salim Merchant (of Salim-Sulaiman fame) on Twitter.

“I lost my ustad – Ustad Sultan Khan, my guru my friend my idol. He passed away this afternoon. We will never have a sarangi maestro like him,” he tweeted.

Eminent sarod player Amjad Ali Khan also condoled his death, saying it was a great loss to the music world. “I am deeply saddened at his demise. He gave a different meaning and dimension to the sarangi ,” he said.

Among the other musicians who expressed grief were music director Vishal Dadlani, and singers Shreya Ghoshal, Abhijeet Sawant and Shaan. “Just heard about the loss of our dear ustad sa’ab :(I had the gr8 fortune and honour of working with him. Too saddened,” Ghoshal tweeted.

Actors Akshay Kumar, Rahul Bose and Dia Mirza also wrote on Twitter. “This has not been a good year what with so many great personalities leaving us. My thoughts and prayers with his (Khan’s) family,” Akshay said.

“He played on the soundtrack of my directorial feature, Everybody Says I’m Fine! Ustad Sultan Khan saab had a huge heart and an impish sense of humour,” Bose recalled.

source: http://www.indiatoday.in / India Today / Home> News> West / by India Today Online, Mumbai / November 28th, 2011

Pages from Bahmani days

Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

KARNATAKA :

Six more books from the period of Adil Shah have been released

A GLIMPSE OF… the books, manuscripts and maps

The ambitious work of translating Adil Shahi literature in Kannada, has now achieved another milestone. Six more rare books of that era written in Persian and Dakhani Urdu have been released and are available for the readers.

The Adil Shahi Literature Translation Committee which was earlier headed by the late M. M. Kalburgi, is rapidly doing its work to complete the entire project by the end of this year.

Writer Krishna Kolhar Kulkarni, director of the committee, who now heads the project after the demise of Prof. Kalburgi, said that last year the committee came up with six books, this year, as the second instalment, the committee has released six more rare books after translating them into Kannada.

It was a difficult task to collect these books, since they are rare and hard to find. Names of the books that will be released and their brief description:

Mohammad Naama: The book written by Zahoor Bin Zahoori in Persian is gives demographic details of Karnataka and the expansion of Adil Shahi dynasty into southern parts of the country. The writer offers critical information about the life of Mohammad Adil Shah (1636-1656) who got the historic Gol Gumbaz built. The book has been translated by Dr. Mehnoor Zamani Begum, Prof. A.H. Masapati, Fakir Mohammad Katpadi and Moulana Rashid Al Khashmi.

Ali Naama and Tarikh-e- Sikandari: The books written in Dakhani Urdu by Mulla Nusrati, are primarily poems in which writer gives illustrated description of Ali Adil Shah-II (1656-1672) and Sikandar Adil Shah (1672-1686). The book meticulously writes about the historic Umarani war between Maratha King, Shivaji and Ali Adil Shah-II in which Shah humiliatingly sends Shivaji back from the battle field.

The books are translated by the late, Dr. Mohammad Sibkhatullah and Dr. Vithalrao Gaikwad.

Urus-e-Irfan: The book written by Hazrat Kazi Mehmood Behri in Persian, is about contemporary details of religious and historical moments. The book is translated by Bode Riyaz Ahmed Timmapuri.

Tazkirat-ul-Mulk: The book written by Rafiuddin Ibrahim Shirazi in Persian, is one of the best books on ancient Bijapur history of the famous Rakkasaki-Tandagi war in 1565.

The writer gives an eye-witness account of the war and mentions the fall of Vijayanagar Empire. The book is translated by Fakir Mohammed Katpadi.

Kitab-e-Nouras: Written by Ibrahim Adil Shah-II in Dakhani Urdu, who adored art and music. In his books, the king introduced Indian music to Persian people. The book is translated by Dr. Krishna Kolhar Kulkarni.

Rouzat-ul-Auliya: The book written by Mohammed Ibrahim Zuberi in Persian is about some 105 men and eight women Muslim Saints who lived in Bijapur district.

The writer visits each tomb and collects details of all the saints before compiling a book on their lives. The book is translated by Dr. Amiruddin Kazi.

While six book are translated now, previously, another six books that were translated and released are: Tareekh-e-Farishta, Basateen-e-Salateen, Guldasta-e-Bijapur, Ibrahim Naama, Tareekh-e-Haftakursi and Futuhat-e-Alamgeer .

Meanwhile, Dr. Kulkarni said that the team of experts is busy working on the final volume of eight books to be released by the end of this year.

“It is surely a painstaking and labour-intensive job. It has to be translated without distorting the originality,” he said.

Maps and manuscripts

He said that during their search of books, the team laid hands on some of the rare maps of ancient Bijapur district prepared between 1763 and 1909.

“This is no less than a treasure for us . We also got hundreds of manuscripts and ‘Farmaans’ (official correspondents between Kings and landlords).

We have decided to display them in a museum to be established in future,” he said.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Features> Friday Review / by Firoz Rozindar / October 18th, 2016

Mumbai Youth Congress gets its first woman president in Zeenat Shabrin

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , ,

MAHARASHTRA :

Mumbai Youth Congress member Zeenat Shabrin

Mumbai :

Mumbai Youth Congress member Zeenat Shabrin has been elected the new president of the outfit, becoming the first woman to hold the post after securing the highest 10,076 votes in the recently concluded organisational elections.

The elections for office-bearers in the Congress’s youth wing in Mumbai were conducted between May 16 and June 17 with nine candidates in the fray for the president’s post. The results were announced on Sunday with Shabrin, who secured the maximum 10,076 votes, emerging victorious, a party press release said on Monday.

Indian Youth Congress (IYC) office-bearers are chosen through internal elections rather than nominations.

Shabrin, who hails from a non-political background, said under her leadership, the Congress wing try to become the voice of Mumbai’s youth.

The party statement quoted her as saying, “The Indian Youth Congress has given me, a person from a non-political background, a platform. I thank the Indian National Congress, the Mumbai Congress, the Maharashtra Congress, and the Mumbai Youth Congress family for their guidance and trust. We will work to become the voice of Mumbai’s youth.”

The organisation would continue to fight under the leadership of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and IYC national president Uday Bhanu Chib to strengthen the outfit and safeguard democracy and the Constitution, she asserted.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Sports / by PTI / posted by Vidushi Gaur / September 22nd, 2025

Ghiasuddin Babukhan’s legacy: building institutions, empowering lives

Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Leaders, , , , , , ,

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Ghiasuddin Babukhan, one of Hyderabad’s most respected builders, philanthropists, and educationists, died Monday at 83. He is survived by his wife, three sons, and a daughter.

Known for his compassion, Babukhan leaves behind a legacy that bridged stone and society — architectural heritage inherited from his father and a philanthropic network of his own making.

He was the son of Khan Bahadur Abdul Karim Babukhan, a legendary builder who left an indelible mark on India’s architectural history. Abdul Karim Babukhan’s construction empire produced some of the most celebrated structures of the 20th century, including the Arts College at Osmania University, the Hyderabad House in New Delhi, and the Kadam Dam in Nirmal, then in Adilabad district.

Ghiasuddin inherited not just this construction legacy, but also the conviction that enterprise must serve society. In the early 1990s, he shifted decisively from business to social service. In 1992–93, he founded the Hyderabad Zakat and Charitable Trust (HZCT), creating a structured and transparent system of charitable giving. For him, philanthropy was not about token donations but about building institutions that could sustain dignity and hope for generations.

The trust focused primarily on education, which Babukhan believed to be the most powerful tool for empowerment. Its annual scholarship program for orphans became one of its most impactful initiatives. For more than a decade, over 10,000 orphaned students across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana pursued education with dignity through these scholarships. Many went on to become doctors, engineers, teachers, and entrepreneurs — living proof of Babukhan’s belief that charity must enable, not merely provide.

Unlike many who confined themselves to charity within their community, Babukhan’s work cut across religious and social lines. He was committed to humanitarian relief, healthcare support, and the preservation of Hyderabad’s plural cultural ethos. His schools, social programs, and charitable initiatives reflected an inclusive philosophy rooted in compassion, justice, and service.

“The passing of Ghiasuddin Babukhan is a great loss for Hyderabad. He was a dedicated philanthropist whose efforts in educating the poor will be remembered. My condolences to his family and friends. May Allah grant him maghfirah and patience to his loved ones,” Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi said in an X post.

Jamaat-e-Islami Hind president Syed Sadatullah Husaini called him a “true champion of education and a benefactor to the Muslim community.” In a post on X, Husaini said Babukhan’s contributions through the Hyderabad Zakat and Charitable Trust transformed the lives of thousands and would be remembered for generations.

“He was a true champion of education, a liberator of the marginalised, and a benefactor of the Muslim community — an embodiment of the noble spirit of zakat and compassion. Through his philanthropic initiatives, he played a pivotal role in the educational upliftment of the Ummah, poverty alleviation, relief work, and community development,” Husaini wrote.

source: http://www.maktoobmedia.com / Maktoob Media / Home> India / by Maktoob Staff / August 26th, 2025

 Senior IPS Officer Syed Javaid Mujtaba Gilani Promoted To DGP Grade

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Jammu, JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Jammu :

The Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India has ordered the promotion of senior IPS Officer, Syed Javaid Mujtaba Gilani to the DGP Grade with effect from the date of assumption of charge.

An order issued by Rakesh Kumar Singh, Under Secretary to Government of India, reads: “In pursuance to the recommendations of the Screening Committee in its meeting held on 20.12.2023 and with the approval of the Competent Authority, Syed Javaid Mujtaba Gilani, IPS (AGMUT:1994) is herby promoted to the DGP Grade (Level-16 IN THE PAY MATRIX) with effect from the date of assumption of charge”.

source: http://www.dailyexcelsior.com / Daily Excelsior / Home> J & K Government Order /by Daily Excelsior / December 12th, 2024

The Changemakers: 10 stars of Rajasthan who have made society proud

Amazing Feats, Arts & Crafts / CraftsPersons (wef. January 14th, 2025), Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri Award (since January 01st, 2024), Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Leaders, Science & Technology, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

RAJASTHAN :

Changemakers of Rajasthan

Jaipur :

Rajasthan is known for its sandy deserts, historical monuments, especially forts, vibrant culture, and above all, its brave people, some of whom are inspiring others and changing society for the better. Under our series ‘The Changemakers’, Awaz-The Voice, brings you ten such personalities of Rajasthan, who have done extraordinary and pioneering work. Batool Begum: A living legacy of musical heritage.

Batool Begum: Woman who took traditional music to the world

One name that resonates in the streets of Jaipur is that of Batool Begum. Born in Kerap village of Nagaur district, Rajasthan, this extraordinary singer is a living legacy of Indian classical music. Batool developed a deep passion for music in her childhood. Despite facing social and economic challenges, she continued her singing.

Her melodious voice and her passion for music not only earned her recognition as an artist but also proved that talent can break all barriers. Her art is a source of inspiration for her community and the entire Rajasthan.

Abdul Salam Johar: A lac bangle maker who received global recognition

The vibrant spirit of India’s Pink City, Jaipur, doesn’t only emanate from its colours and people but also from the traditional handicrafts that are made and sold here. Bangles worth lakhs are made in these streets, which are a symbol of the traditional beauty and hard work of thousands of its people.

Abdul Salam Johar is one such artist who not only preserved the traditional art of the State but also brought about a social change in a major way. Coming from the Manihar community, Johar was born in a family with little means, but his dreams were extraordinary. Seeing the struggles of his grandfather Hafiz Mohammad Ismail and parents Haji Abdul Aziz and Hajjan Qamar Jahan, he made hard work, dedication, and social service the main mantra of his life.

He began his journey from his ancestral shop ‘Indian Kangan and Colour Store’ located in Tripolia Bazaar of Jaipur, and today his wares are being sold under brands ‘Johar Design’, ‘Johar King’ and ‘Indian Crafts’ in the global markets. He is not only a successful entrepreneur, but also a social reformer who took his community and traditional art to new heights.

Abdul Latif ‘Arco’: A confluence of business and social service

Abdul Latif, who lives in Chini ki Burj in the capital Jaipur, and is known as ‘Arko’ in Rajasthan, is one such special personality. Born in a small village of Chomu in 1946, Abdul Latif’s father, Rahmatullah, and mother, Hafijan, taught him hard work, honesty, and the passion to help people, which became the basis of his life.

His company, Abdul Razzaq & Company (ARCO), is today a big name for social service along with electric motors, fans, and coolers. Apart from this, his hotel, ARCO Palace, is a symbol of his hard work and foresight. Abdul Latif’s story is not just of a businessman, but of a person who chose to work as a changemaker by combining his business and social responsibilities.

Qazi Nishat Hussain: A new voice breaking stereotypes

The voice rising from a small office located in the narrow streets of Johri Bazaar in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is today inspiring society to change. This voice is of Nishat Hussain, Rajasthan’s first Muslim female Qazi, social worker, and a strong advocate of the rights of Muslim women.

Her life journey is an example of courage, struggle, and change, which not only made thousands of women aware but also gave them a new direction to live.

Born in Sitabari Mohalla of Karauli district, Nishat’s childhood was spent in an environment of communal harmony. His family was the only Muslim family in the neighbourhood. There were three temples in front of her house. She says, “We did not know who was a Hindu and who was a Muslim.” In a backward area like Karauli, where girls’ education was not given importance, Nishat created history. She became the first Muslim girl in the district to pass the tenth standard, that too as the only Muslim student among 1200 girls. Today, she has become a torchbearer of the rights of Muslim women.

Captain Mirza Mohtasim Baig and Ruby Khan: An Inspiring couple in social service

An inspirational couple, Captain Mirza Mohtasim Baig and his wife Ruby Khan, hail from Jaipur. Captain Mirza is the first Muslim pilot of Rajasthan and has been operating national and international flights for the last 25 years. At the same time, his wife Ruby is an active social worker and politician.

Both believe that if one wants to bring change in society, then he has to take the initiative. Together, they had organised medical camps, documentation camps, free ration distribution, and offered financial help to families in the marriage of their daughters. The couple is an epitome of change brought about by spirited people.

Dr. Arif Khan: The village scientist who created history

Thirty-four years ago, a child was born in the small village of Masani in the Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan. Today, he is Dr. Arif Khan, a scientist who has brought laurels to India. In his village, most of the people toiled in the fields. His father, Advocate Farid Khan, wanted his son to become a doctor. His mother and grandfather also had the same dream. But there were few schools in Masani, and the path to making dreams come true was difficult. Still, Arif had a passion to do something extraordinary in his life.

With his hard work and dedication, he became a bio-scientist and brought glory to his family and village. His research on milk and food products brought a wave of change. His story proves that if the intentions are strong, then even a boy from a small village can become a scientist and make the country feel proud.

Mainuna Nargis: First Shia Muslim woman in art conservation

In a vast country like India, art conservation is important since it not only preserves history but also connects future generations to our heritage.  Mainuna Nargis, the country’s first and so far the only Shia Muslim woman art conservator, does the same work. Born in Bahjoi, a small town in Moradabad district of Uttar Pradesh, Maimuna’s childhood was ordinary, but her dreams were extraordinary. Rajasthan has now become Mainuna’s second home.

Her father, a Policeman in UP, always encouraged her. After studying Fine Arts from Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), she did a diploma in Museology, which became the most decisive turning point in her life. Maimuna’s story is not just of professional success, but a story of passion, struggle, and self-confidence, which revived the broken pieces of history.

Yoga Guru Naeem Khan: Global journey from music to yoga

The life journey of Yoga Guru Naeem Khan, who rose from the streets of Jodhpur, the cultural capital of Rajasthan, to spread his spiritual aura on international platforms, is a unique example. He rose from a common man to a global yoga guru and presented yoga as a universal energy beyond religion, culture, and boundaries.

Naeem Khan was born in a family where music was in every breath. His grandfather, Ustad Umardin Khan, was the court musician of the Jodhpur royal family, while his maternal uncle was Padma Bhushan-awarded Sarod player Ustad Sultan Khan. However, with changing times, that traditional flame of music started to fade. Naeem and his brother got involved in business, but yoga gave Naeem a new direction, and he took it to a global platform.

Syed Anwar Shah: A man who introduced girls to education

Thirty years ago, a dream was born in a small room in Jaipur, which has today become the light of education for thousands of girls. This is the story of Syed Anwar Shah, whom people fondly call Master Anwar Shah. He not only dreamt of his daughter’s education, but also made it a means of progress for the daughters of society.

Today his educational institution, Al-Jamia-tul Alia, is spreading the message of knowledge and Islamic ethics not only in Jaipur, but also in the whole of India and abroad. After completing his M.A. in Public Administration from Rajasthan University in 1980, he dedicated his entire life to the welfare of society and the service of education. In 1995, when his daughter Alia was born, he decided to set up an institution for the education of girls, which would impart both worldly and divine teachings.

Today, his effort has become a boon for thousands of families.

Padma Shri Shakir Ali: Patron of Miniature Painting

It’s no exaggeration to say that Jaipur is the art capital of Rajasthan. And in the field of miniature painting, the name of Syed Shakir Ali comes to the fore spontaneously. This genre of painting is an identity of the state of Rajasthan. 

Padma Shri awardee Syed Shakir Ali is not only a great practitioner of this art, but he is also the guardian of that heritage, which is an integral part of the cultural identity of Rajasthan. Born in 1956 in Jalesar village of Uttar Pradesh, Shakir Ali’s family soon settled in Jaipur, where his art got a new direction. 

Today, he has given recognition to this traditional art of Rajasthan not only in India but also on international platforms.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> The Changemakers / by Aasha Khosa, ATV / September 14th, 2025

Press Club of India remembers Maulvi Mohammed Baqar, the doyen of India’s investigative journalism

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, First War of Independence 1857 / Naval Mutiny 1946 / Others PreIndependece (wef. July 27th, 2022), Leaders, Martyrs of the Nation, , , , , , , , , , , ,

DELHI :

Press Club of India remembers Maulvi Mohammed Baqar on his 167th birthday on September 15, 2024.

New Delhi :

The Press Club of India (PCI) that has remained the last bastion to hold the flag of media’s independence high in the country, organised a programme on Sunday to remember the contributions of Maulvi Mohammed Baqar who used the power of his pen to challenge the Britishers who had brought a law to gag the press in India in the middle of 18th century.

Organized on the 167th martyrdom anniversary of Maulvi Baqar, the programme was attended by a host of writers, journalists, historians, academicians and intellectuals.

Shedding light on the contributions of Maulvi Baqar considered to be the founder of “spot” and investigative journalism in India, noted historian Dr. Swapna Liddle, author of The Broken Script, recalled Maulvi Baqar’s bold reporting of the events in Delhi’s 1857 revolt popularly known as India’s First War of Independence. It was when the press did not have facilities as available today, but Maulvi Baqar used to collect news stories from the field and print them in his newspaper published in the Urdu language.

The Britishers felt disturbed by the investigative reporting of Maulvi Baqar that became the reason for his martyrdom. British Army tied Maulvi Baqar to the mouth of a large gun and blew him into pieces.

Liddle emphasized how Moulvi Baqar became the voice of resistance against British rule, making him a significant figure in both the 1857Revolt and in the annals of Indian journalism.

According to Dr. Liddle, Moulvi Baqar’s work offers invaluable lessons for journalists today. His views on British governance, racial discrimination, job inequalities, and the exploitation of India’s wealth laid a foundation that remains relevant. Baqar’s sharp critique of British policies, combined with his unwavering call for unity among the people of Delhi, positioned him as a crucial figure in the anti-colonial struggle.

Presiding over the event, Gautam Lahiri, PCI President, hailed Moulvi Baqar as a pioneer of Indian journalism. Lahiri reflected on the state of modern journalism, pointing out that Baqar’s dedication and principles serve as a stark contrast to the current state of media, as reflected in India’s declining position on the World Media Freedom Index.

“It’s unfortunate that instead of rising to the level of journalism Baqar practiced, we seem to have regressed,” Lahiri noted, calling for introspection within the media industry.

Lahiri also stressed the importance of protecting institutions like the PCI, which he described as a cornerstone of Indian politics and modern history. “This land was given to us by our first prime minister, and it even served as the residence of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for a time. We must protect both the building and the institution, while upholding the constitutional values that it stands for.”

Senior journalist AU Asif, former member of PCI management committee, praised Baqar for his trailblazing work in investigative and field reporting. He underscored how Baqar’s journalistic integrity set a lasting example for future generations.

A panel discussion followed, focusing on Baqar’s legacy and the challenges faced by Urdu journalism today. Panelists included independent multimedia journalist Suhail Akhter, News18 Urdu anchor and author Munazah Shah, and Tasleem Raja, reporter for Siyasi Taqdeer and Qauwmi Aawaz. They discussed how Baqir’s newspaper, Delhi Urdu Akhbar, became a vital voice despite having a modest circulation of just 80 copies. The panel emphasized that the publication’s influence stemmed from its powerful content, which resonated with readers during a time of great political upheaval.

The discussion also touched on the difficulties Urdu journalism faces today, including issues of subscription, funding, and content creation. The panel drew parallels between the courage Moulvi Baqar exhibited in standing up to the British and the challenges modern journalists face in dissenting against the ruling establishment. The event was moderated by Mahtab Alam, journalist and PCI Joint Secretary.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> News / by Mohammed Naushad Khan / September 16th, 2024

Vision Academic City Inaugurated in Mewat: A Blessing for the Region, Says MLA Mamman Khan

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Maroda Village, (Mewat District), HARYANA :

New Delhi :

Human Welfare Foundation inaugurated the ambitious Vision Academic City” project in Mewat, one of Haryana’s most backward districts. Spread across 24 acres in Maroda village, the campus aims to transform the socio-economic landscape of the region by providing quality and affordable education, healthcare, and community services.

Speaking on the occasion, local MLA Mamman Khan described the campus as a “blessing” for the people of Mewat and assured full support to strengthen its educational initiatives.

P. Mohammed Ali Gulfar, Patron of Human Welfare Foundation and founder of the Gulfar Group, recalled that the dream of Vision 2026 was envisioned in 2005 and is now becoming a reality. “We will continue working for the educational and social upliftment of this region,” he said.

Adding to this, T. Arif Ali, Chairman of Vision 2026, emphasized that the sacrifices of Mewat’s people are deeply rooted in India’s soil, and the time has come to turn the dreams of their forefathers into reality.

Mewat is counted among the most underdeveloped districts of the country, grappling with poor education levels, lack of healthcare facilities, and inadequate sanitation. To address these challenges, the Vision Academic City has been developed under the Vision 2026 Programme.

During the inauguration, several institutions within the campus were formally opened, including Al Jamia Islamia Mewat Off-Campus, an undergraduate college building, separate hostels for boys and girls, and Chirag Middle School. The foundation stones of Scholar School and a Skill Development Centre were also laid.

The event also highlighted Mewat’s rich cultural heritage through Tarang Cultural Fest, Mewat Kitchen, and the Mewat Heritage Wall, showcasing the region’s traditions and identity.

Prominent guests included Engineer Mamman Khan (MLA, Ferozepur Jhirka), P. Mohammed Ali (Founder, Gulfar Group of Companies), and Maqbool Ahmed Anarwala (Retd. IPS Officer). Educationists, community leaders, and several eminent personalities also graced the occasion.

Speakers stressed the urgent need for quality education and skill development in Mewat, noting that Vision Academic City would not only provide modern infrastructure but also open pathways for higher education and research.

Among those present were M. Sajid (General Secretary, Human Welfare Foundation), Shibli Arslan (Academic Director, Al Jamia Mewat Campus), and many local dignitaries.

The inaugural ceremony concluded with a commitment to make Vision Academic City a hub of learning, development, and cultural pride for Mewat.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> Society / by Mohammed Naushad Khan / September 08th, 2025