Category Archives: Leaders

Award-Winning Educator from Bangalore, Noor Ayesha, Begins Postgraduate Studies at Harvard University

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Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Bangalore’s own Noor Ayesha, an award-winning educator and visionary school leader, has been admitted to Harvard University for advanced postgraduate studies in Education Leadership. She joins the globally renowned Harvard Graduate School of Education to further her lifelong mission of transforming education through value-based learning and holistic child development.

Founder, Vice-Chairperson, and Managing Director of the Iqra Group of Schools in Bangalore, Karnataka, India, which includes Iqra International School, Iqra Juniors, and Iqra British Academy. For over a decade, her schools have redefined education by blending academic excellence with character formation, nurturing young minds to become not only successful learners but also compassionate, ethical citizens.

Her admission to Harvard marks a historic milestone, not just for her but for the entire region, as it highlights the global recognition of her impactful work in education. Noor’s leadership journey continues to inspire educators, parents, and youth, especially young women leaders striving to create change through education.

Quoting the famous line from the Spider-Man movie, Noor often reminds her team: “With great power comes great responsibility,” and she adds her powerful extension: “With great responsibility comes even greater accountability.” She believes educators carry the moral responsibility of shaping future generations and must be held accountable for the world they help create.

“As educators, we hold the power to shape the future,” says Noor. “My goal is to establish value-based schools across the world that nurture responsible, purpose-driven individuals who will lead with integrity and compassion.”

Her selection by Harvard is a proud moment for Bangalore, and a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership in education.

source: http://www.thecognate.com / The Cognate / Home> Education / by The Cognate News Desk / August 11th, 2025

Whiff of breeze from Deoband

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Deoband, UTTAR PRADESH :

  Asad Madani (left) and Salim Qasmi

The quarter-century-old feud in Deoband seems to be coming to an end.

Stalwarts of Deoband, Maulanas As’ad Madani and Salim Qasimi have realised the futility of the dispute which led to a split in the world-famous Darul Uloom making way to two institutions, the old and a new one identified as “Waqf”. Personality clash between the two revered clans which dominated Darul Uloom, the then rector Qari Tayyib and scion of Maulana Husain Ahmad Madani, led to violent clashes in 1982 when firearms and knives were used to settle scores and the Madani group took over the institution allegedly with Indira Gandhi’s tacit support to Maulana Madani who was a Congress MP (Rajya Sabha) at the time.

The other group licked its wounds, moved on and built a new institution with same name and philosophy while the personality clash continued with disastrous results for the Muslim community in India and abroad which highly revered Deoband and many followed it too in matters of faith.

The split seemed final until recently when Maulana As’ad Madani was suddenly hospitalised during Haj, and on 28 January Urdu newspapers carried a report based on Jamiatul Ulama-e Hind sources that Maulana Madani is hospitalised in a critical condition in the King Fahd Hospital in Madinah.

Maulana Salim Qasimi took the initiative and phoned his archrival to enquire about Maulana Madani’s health and arranged for a meeting to pray for his health. This touched Maulana Madani deeply and on his return to India a few days later he wrote on 31 January to Maulana Qasimi thanking him and adding, “It is a fact that Hazrat Nanotwi, may his secret be sanctified, is the basis of this group. We do not equal even the dust beneath his feet. Whatever differences arose in the past were ill-fated. Let all that was said, done and occured be forgiven and not left for the Hereafter.” 

Maulana Qasimi reciprocated the feeling and said in his reply on 9 February that these sentiments are a reflection of his own old wishes. He added that “Prestige of the [Deoband] group lies in an end to hurting the way of the great past leaders and ending the disputes altogether. In my view, at the last leg of my life, it is my shared wish and effort that you and me should not leave behind for the new generation this unblessed heritage. Rather we should prepare to meet Allah the Almighty according to the tradition of the ancestors based on unity, accord, theoretical and practical unity and shared sincere wishes to serve knowledge and faith.”

Thus a new phase was inaugurated in the recent sad history of Deoband. The two groups, whose influence runs to many countries around the globe, were not even on talking terms only a few weeks ago. A number of meetings over tea and dinner have been held since between the two groups. According to a report, Maulana Anzar Shah Kashmiri, an important member of the Qasimi group, has gone to the extent of saying to Maulana Madani that “everything is now placed in your hands.” 

According to sources, both sides have agreed in principle to withdraw dozens of court cases which both sides had slapped against each other. A number of meetings have been held on various levels. Some resistance remains within both groups. The best outcome would be to merge the two darul ulooms into one (they stand facing each other) and both administrations absorbed into one. Even if vested interests prevent this desired outcome, the old enmity will give way to cooperation and mutual respect which in turn will be good omen for the entire Indian Muslim community. «

source: http://www.milligazette.com / The Milli Gazette Online / Home / by Zafarul-Islam Khan / 16-31 March 2025 / print edition

Obituary: Maulana Muhammad Salim Qasmi, an ocean of knowledge

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Deoband, UTTAR PRADESH :

With scarcity of good ulama, the passing away of Maulana Muhammad Salim Qasmi, rector of Al-Jamia Al-Islamia Darul Uloom Waqf, Deoband, has sent a sense of gloom across India.

People have written obituaries describing his death as the loss of the last chain in the golden series of Khanwada-e-Qasmiyat, a metaphor used to describe the great legacy whose history got prominence with establishment of Darul Uloom in Deoband in 1867 against the backdrop of persistent British onslaught on Indians on the one hand and its ugly design to kill ulama in large numbers on the other hand, to mitigate the impact of resistance against the Colonial power.

Maulana Salim Qasmi was a witness to the British cruelty on Indians and the Indian ulama during the eventful years if Independence. He had lived those times as a young student of India’s most prominent madrasa that had been a great centre of anti-British movements like the Silk Letter Movement.

Being the great-grandson of Maulana Muhammad Qasim Nanautwi, Salim Qasmi knew well the role he had to play to live up to the reputation and expectations both of his family and its followers and admirers spread over countries and continents. He rightly did so. His demise thus has rightly been described as the end of that golden chain. However, as there are others from the same family trying to carry forward both the academic and social and historical legacy, will they be able to do justice with that, only time will tell.

Muhammad Salim was born on 8 January, 1926 at Deoband and received primary education from many teachers. He completed his studies in 1948 from Darul Uloom Deoband where his teachers included great luminaries like Maulana Hussain Ahmad Madani, Maulana Aizaz Ali, Allama Ibrahim Balyawi, Maulana Syed Fakhrul Hasan Moradabadi.

He is said to be the last surviving disciple of Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi from whom he studied Mizan, an important book of Arabic grammar. Soon after passing out, he was appointed a teacher there. However, later, due to a serious conflict and crisis then in Darul Uloom, he along with some other colleagues, decided to stay away from it and established Darul Uloom Waqf which he nurtured till his last breath. Besides looking after its administrative affairs as a rector, he also taught Bukhari Sharif, the well-known book of hadith. Earlier, he had taught Muslim Sharif, another important book of hadith.

Some of the key positions he held at the time of his death are as follows:

Chief Rector, Al-Jamia Al-Islamia Darul Uloom Waqf, Deoband,

Vice-President, All India Muslim Personal Law Board,

Member, Aligarh Muslim University Court,

Member of Advisory Board and Managing Committee, Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama,

Member of Advisory Board, Mazahir Uloom Waqf, Saharanpur,

Permanent Member of the Fiqh Council, Al-Azhar,Cairo,

President, All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat (before two fractions of it finally united),

Patron, Kul Hind Rabta-e-Masajid,

Patron, Islamic Fiqh Academy, India.

About his written contribution to the domain of knowledge, the website of Darul Uloom Waqf Deoband mentions that besides being:

… one of the top speakers of ulama, his articles and writings are also much admired. Some of the books are worthy to be mentioned here like (1) Mabaadi al-Tarbiyat al-Islami (Arabic), (2) Jaiza Tarjama Quran Karim, (3) Taajdar-e-Arz-e-Haram ka Paigham, (4) Mardaan-e-Ghaazi, (5) Ek Azeem Tarikhi Khidmat, (6) Safar Nama-e-Burma.

(7) The book Khutbat-e-Khatibul Islam (a collection of his speeches) has been published in 5 volumes. Moreover, there are many articles and scripts awaiting publication.

Formally, Maulana received bai’at (a reformative and self-actualization method historically in vogue for quite long as an Islamic tradition in certain schools of thought) at the hand of Maulana Shah Abdul Qadir Raipuri. However, he received much of the training from his glorious father, Qari Muhammad Tayyib (d. 17 July, 1983)

A remarkable trait of his personality was to maintain the dignity of a true aalim (religious scholar) by not partaking in sectarian lines as is the wont of some Ulama. He was therefore respected among all sections of Muslims and his views were very well received. Maulana Salim did not create the binary division of education between religious and modern. He believed that ‘the source of all streams of knowledge is one’.

In recognition of his services to the domain of knowledge and ideas Maulana Salim was honoured with many awards, some of which are as follows:

Nishan-e-Imtiyaz (Mark of Distinction) from the Government of Egypt for being a distinguished aalim of the Indian Sub-Continent,

Imam Muhammad Qasim Nanotwi Award,

Shah Waliullah Award.

Prominent leaders and ulama from different countries have expressed grief over the demise of Maulana Salim Qasmi. In her telephonic message, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said that Maulana Salim’s love for education was amazing. Outside the country he worked as an exemplary ambassador of education. Congress President Rahul Gandhi said Maulana Salim Qasmi illuminated the world through education and he would touch people through simplicity. Samajwadi Party chief, Mulayam Singh Yadav said that Maulana never asked anything for himself. He was a crown prince of education whose absence would be felt long.

Former Justice of Pakistan’s Shariah Court, Mufti Taqi Usmani described Maulana Salim Qasmi as an ocean of knowledge. His death is a huge loss to the Islamic world. The simplicity with which he lived is rare, he said adding, “His service in the field of education is a golden chapter”.

Member of Parliament and AIUDF President Maulana Badruddin Ajmal Qasmi termed the demise of Maulana Salim Qasmi as ‘end of an era’ whose enumerable services are worth to be written in golden words. Senior leaders Ahmad Patel, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Syed Shahnawaz Hussain and others also sent their condolence messages.

Maulana Syed Rabey Hasani Nadwi, President of All India Muslim Personal Law Board, who had closely worked with Maulana Salim Qasmi and had also been his classmate at Darul Uloom Deoaband, wrote an article in which he stated that Maulana Salim Sahab had acquired many of the qualities of his father Qari Tayyib Sahab and his great grandfather Maulana Qasim Nanautwi. He worked in a similar way from whom different sections of ummah benefitted. His death therefore has caused concerns about the void in the ummah and in religious circles.

Maulana Arshad Madani described Maulana Salim Qasmi’s death as a loss which does not seem to be filled in near future. “Whenever there is a crisis he would be remembered’ he said. The responsibility to protect the institution that he established falls on all of us.

Prof Humayun Murad said that Maulana knew well how to avoid confrontation and find peaceful and constructive ways. Darul Uloom Waqf Deoband is its living example.

Maulana Muhammad Sayeedi, nazim, Mazahir Uloom Waqf said, “In the passing away of Maulana Salim Qasmi, Mazahir Uloom has been deprived of one of its true guide and patron”. He was its member since 1988. Mufti Muzaffar Husain would trust him a lot and his suggestions were highly helpful.

As against the commonly held opinion of ulama who do not tire of speaking about the division of knowledge between religious and modern or worldly, Maulana Salim Qasmi, in June 2013, had in a public programme, very categorically said that all the available forms of knowledge are from Allah. There is nothing as religious and worldly knowledge.

Maulana Qasmi said that the division of knowledge (between religious and worldly) is a political creation because all streams of knowledge flow from God. He then asked heads of madrasas to invite people of other faiths to their madrasas and exchange views and, share their problems with them also.

As I write this obituary, his soft-spoken words remind me of the sincerity with which he would draw the attention of the people to real issues and to the approaches that need to be adopted to find their solution.

Maulana Salim Qasmi was among the important personalities who had set up the Darul Uloom Waqf. His colleagues Maulana Muhammad Nayeem Deobandi died a little over a decade ago on 23 August, 2007, Shaikhul Hadith Maulana Syed Anzar Shah Kashmiri died 10 years ago on 26 April, 2008, Mufti Khursheed Alam died on 7 February, 2012, while Maulana Salim’s younger brother Maulana Muhammad Aslam Qasmi, an outstanding orator, died about five months ago on 13 November, 2017. Finally, this great son of the great Khanwada-e-Qasmiyat passed away on 14 April, 2018. He is survived by four sons and two daughters.

May the Almighty grant him an exalted place in Jannah!

The author is a PhD Fellow at the Academy of International Studies, Jamia Millia Islamia and is also doing an online program “Contending Modernities” of the University of Notre Dame, USA.

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> Articles> Indian Muslim> Lead Story / by Manzar Imam for TwoCircles.net / April 28th, 2018

Maulana Abdul Waheed Siddiqui Mujahide-Azadi aur Meyma’re-Sahafat

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DELHI :

The alternative historiography and discovery of real heroes of the society is always important in any age or any society.

The compilation and publication of “Maulana Abdul Waheed Siddiqui: Mujahide-Azadi Aur Meyma’re-Sahafat” is the result of this realisation.

The book and authors have tried to explore his personality and achievements in the broader context of history and developments of his times.

The contents of the book are documentary in nature.

The commentaries of Maulana Imdad Sabri are the personal observations and experiences of an eminent scholar and historian of Urdu journalism.

Similarly, the articles by Maulana Anzar Shah Kashmiri of Daryl Ulum Deoband, Mr. Parwana Rudaulavi , a senior journalist, Maulana S M Wali Rahmani, Dr. Khalique Anjum, Mr. G D Chandan, Mr. Shariful Hasan Naqvi, Sardar Rachpal Singh, Maulana A M Siddiqui Rahi, Ms. Surayya Siddiqui and Mr. Shahid Siddiqui are observations and experiences of those who saw and experienced him closely. These are also opinions of eminent critics and experts of language, literature, journalism, politics and history.

History and biographies open the windows of experiences and observations to human beings, and gives them the ability to discover themselves, understand their surroundings, see the impact of situations and events, look inside them and build future paths. History is the name of the waves and splashes of water in the river of time from which people emerge and nations are formed.

Maulana Abdul Waheed Siddiqui, the journalist and freedom fighter is a milestone, a bridge and a delicate and difficult chapter of modern Indian history, which holds many lessons, for present and future generations.

Maulana was a visionary, a man with deep roots in Muslim culture and religious ethos but with a very modern and enlightened outlook.

He laid the foundations of free press in post independence India. He gave the confidence to Indian Muslims to stand up and fight for their rights under the Constitution and not.

source: http://www.amazon.in

Ahmed Bhai, a friend and one of the few political leaders who inspired respect

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GUJARAT / NEW DELHI :

Obituary

A man of few words, he would listen more and speak less. He was not known for dropping names, loose talk or gossip. No wonder he had friends across the political spectrum, recalls Shahid Siddiqui.

I met Ahmed Patel in 1980 for the first time as a journalist.

He mostly preferred to remain away from lime light but I persuaded him to give an interview to my weekly Nai Duniya. Even then I was impressed by his very precise responses to the most provocative questions. I came to know him in last thirty-five years both as a politician and friend. What held him above other politicians in Delhi was his honesty and dedication not only to the Congress Party but to basic moral values of public life. While many leaders protected their personal interests at the cost of the party, Ahmed Bhai did everything rising above his own political and personal interests.

Ahmed Patel was one of the finest Congressman in modern times, especially after the demise of the generation of leaders groomed by Indira Gandhi. Congress was in shambles in the post-Narsimha Rao period and with the emergence of NDA, future seemed to be bleak for Congress. It was pragmatic, realistic, dedicated hard work of Ahmed Patel and few others, which allowed UPA, led by Indian National Congress to form a government in Delhi in 2004. His networking abilities, his humble demeanor, his ability to listen to everyone and then give a sane and practical advice to the Congress President Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was what kept UPA together and allowed it to come back to power with larger numbers in 2009.

There came many occasions when this twenty-four or more parties’ ragtag alliance would have collapsed, but for the persuasive abilities of Ahmed Bhai. Political analysts call him troubleshooter for Sonia Gandhi, in my view he was Sankat Mochak and firefighter for the Congress Party.

On 7th December 1992, a day after the demolition of Babri Masjid, I sent my resignation from the Congress Party. I was an AICC member and part of a Committee with Shri Pranab Mukherjee, Manmohan Singh ji, K. R. Narayanan Saheb, called, ‘Pamphlet Committee’. Ahmed Bhai immediately rushed to my house and said if you resign I will also resign, and if we Muslims resign from Congress in large numbers, would we be helping the cause of Secularism or damaging it? Ultimately a call from Harkishan Singh Surjeet, who in a way was my political Guru, persuaded me to withdraw my resignation. Much later I learned that Ahmed Bhai had requested Comrade Surjeet to call me and desist from resigning from the Congress Party.

Ahmed Bhai was famous for his nighttime politics when he would call friends and opponents for advice and information. He was fond of good food and would suddenly ring me up at night saying, ‘Yaar can I come to have a few kebabs at your house’. He used to come alone without fanfare at midnight and chat. He was a political animal, who breathed Congress politics twenty-four-seven, but never tried to harm even his worst opponents.

Ahmed Bhai was ears and eyes to Sonia Ji in the most crucial days of her Presidentship. Her ability to take everyone along and keep the party together made Congress a force again, but no less was the contribution of Ahmed Bhai, who didn’t hesitate in sacrificing even his close friends if the party’s interest demanded it and advised Sonia Ji accordingly. He was one Congressman who had hundreds of critics and opponents but no enemies. Even most bitter enemies of the Congress Party could speak to Ahmed Bhai in confidence, knowing that their faith will never be betrayed.

Congress has no replacement for Ahmed Patel, at a juncture when he is required most. His contribution to Indian democracy and Secularism is immense. At a time when politicians of all hues and parties are losing respect in the eyes of the common man, Ahmed Patel will be missed much more for his cool, unemotional, positive attitude.

source: http://www.nationalheraldindia.com / National Herald / Home> States360 > Obituary / by Shahid Siddiqui / November 25th, 2020

Secab Engineering College Vijaypur Celebrates 79th Independence Day

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Vijaypur (Vijayapura), KARNATAKA:

Vijaypur:

The 79th Independence Day was celebrated at Secab Engineering College here on 15th August 2025 with great enthusiasm. The chief guest of the function was Salauddin Ayub Punekar.

After the flag hoisting, Nazeer Ahmed Kazi, Retired Executive Engineer, addressed the gathering. In his speech, he highlighted that India, with a population of 140 crore, is home to people of many religions, yet united as one nation. He said, “Unity in diversity is the true culture of our country. Nowhere else in the world do we find such an example. Let us be proud of it.”

He reminded everyone that Independence Day marks India’s freedom from British colonial rule on 15th August 1947. The day honours the courage and sacrifices of the freedom fighters and inspires citizens to uphold the values of liberty, unity, and responsibility. He recalled the contributions of great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, and Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who declared in 1916: “Swaraj is my birth-right and I shall have it.”

Quoting Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, he stressed the need for India to be self-reliant and globally competitive. Addressing the students, he said that engineers have a dual responsibility – both as citizens and as professionals – in nation-building. Referring to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s vision of engineers as the builders of the nation, he urged them to come to the forefront in technology development and achieve technological independence through innovative and globally competitive practices.

He also acknowledged India’s remarkable progress, standing today as one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies. However, he cautioned against persisting challenges like communalism, casteism, corruption, unemployment, and social injustice, calling for collective efforts to overcome them.

The Director of SECAB Association, Salauddin Punekar, in his address, emphasised that independence should not remain a symbolic celebration but must reflect in every walk of life.

Several students and staff members also spoke on the occasion.

The Founder of SECAB Association, Shamshuddin Punekar, was present on the dais along with Principal Abbas Ali. The programme concluded with the President’s address, who welcomed all and extended heartfelt Independence Day wishes.

It was a memorable and meaningful celebration.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / August 17th, 2025

All India Muslim Development Council (AIMDC) Unveils List of 40 Future Leaders 

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INDIA :

The All India Muslim Development Council (AIMDC) has officially unveiled the final list of “40 Under 40 Leaders” — a landmark initiative aimed at identifying, nurturing, and empowering the next generation of Muslim leaders in India. The announcement follows one of the most exhaustive and merit-based selection processes in the nation’s recent history, spanning a year-long journey and involving multiple stages of evaluation.

From 950 Applications to 40 Leaders 

The initiative drew an overwhelming response, with approximately 95 applications from across the country. Candidates came from diverse fields — education, politics, corporate leadership, engineering, medicine, activism, journalism, law, research, academia, entrepreneurship, economics, Shariah scholarship, counselling, motivational speaking, Ulemas, students and governance.

The journey began with a meticulous application process, requiring detailed documentation of qualifications, achievements, contributions to society, and personal background. Based on rigorous assessment criteria, 215 applicants were shortlisted for personal interviews.

An expert panel then conducted comprehensive interviews, narrowing the field to 112. Following further scrutiny, 105 exceptional candidates earned a place in the in-person finale for 4 days.

Four Days of Intense Evaluation in Bengaluru 

In India’s startup capital, Bengaluru, hosted the four-day in-person selection event.

Candidates participated in group discussions, parliamentary-style debates, and collaborative tasks designed to assess both individual brilliance and teamwork capabilities.

Organizers also closely evaluated their commitment to nation-building, sincerity towards the Community, Human Relations and personal discipline

From this stage, 70 leaders were selected, each awarded a Certificate of Leadership in addition to a Certificate of Participation.

Silent Assessment for the Final 40 

On July 1, 2025, the same day as the 70 Leaders’ announcement, AIMDC formed an Adhoc (Consultation) Committee of 40 Under 40 Leader blending self-nominated leaders and organizer nominations.

They were asked to pick two projects of their interest from a curated list of initiatives aligned with Community and nation-building. The objective: evaluate their decision-making capabilities, foster team bonding, spark brainstorming, and plant the foundational seeds of advanced leadership skills.

Unbeknownst to many participants, this period doubled as an “invisible” final evaluation. Organizers monitored sincerity, akhlaaq (good character), ikhlaas (pure intentions), punctuality, and the ability to follow through on commitments. Participation in educational events, organizational skills, and collaborative spirit were also critical factors in determining who would advance.

The Final 40 — India’s Muslim Leaders of Tomorrow 

After months of observation, assessment, and engagement, AIMDC has now announced the final 40 Under 40 Leaders — individuals under the age of 40 whose vision, expertise, and dedication position them as catalysts for positive change.

We were truly overwhelmed by the remarkable talent, dedication, and vision demonstrated by all 70 leaders who participated in the process. After a rigorous evaluation, the final 40 leaders selected under the 40 Under 40 Initiative will form the National Executive, serving as the strategic and driving force of the initiative.

Recognizing the immense value and potential of the remaining 30 outstanding leaders, we have proudly welcomed them as members of the National 40u40 Team. They will play a pivotal role in executing projects and events at all levels, ensuring our mission reaches communities across the country and contributes meaningfully to nation-building.

“This initiative is more than a recognition program — it is the foundation of a Change,” said an AIMDC Gen Secretary. – Mohammed Imthiyaz “These leaders represent the intellectual, moral, and strategic strength needed to guide our community and contribute meaningfully to the nation.”

“I came here thinking I would meet other young leaders. I leave knowing I am part of a network, a brotherhood and sisterhood of purpose,” said one of the selected leaders from Maharashtra.

“The process was humbling. It wasn’t just about our CVs — it was about our character, our sincerity, and our ability to work for something bigger than ourselves,” added another finalist from Kerala.

Sidebar: Fields of Expertise Represented in the Final 40

•                   Education Specialists

•                   Politicians & Policy Advocates

•                   Corporate Leaders & Entrepreneurs

•                   Engineers & Doctors

•                   Activists & Journalists

•                   Legal Experts & Researchers

•                   Shariah Scholars & Counsellors

•                   Motivational Speakers & Coaches

•                   Economic Policy Experts

•                   Ulemas

•                   Students

Names of the Selected  Candidates: 

Afza Khan

Imaan Hawwa Hafiz

Amreen Farooq

Juveriya Sarkar

Amrin Ayaz Shaikh

K. HAJIRA SULTHANA

Areefa ali

Ramsa Jaan

B Seeni Rahfu Nisha

Raniya Zulaikha

Fathima Saba

Rikza Pervez

Gulzar Karishma Malik

Shabnam Mohammed Akbar Khan

Hina Fatima Sarfraz Ali Sayed

Zulekha S Rajani

Mufti Yahya Moin Samar

Mohd Imad Ali

Abdul Gani Nadeem Punjabi

Mohd Ovais

Adil kampoo

Mohd Zeeshan

Afsar Rayeen

Mossab Mustafa Khan

Asadullah Waliullah Khan

Muhammed Rafi KE

Asiruddin Shaikh

Mujtaba Muneeb

Dr Bilal Sheth

Nawaz S

Dr Mirza Alamdar Ali Baig

Nouman Alam

Fahad Abdul Basit Hani

Ramiz Abdul Wadood

Khan Abdur Rehman

Reyaz Haider

Md Faizan

Sarfaraz Khan

Md Faizan Ahmad

Sarfraj Nawaj

Md Faizul Bari

Seemab Qayyum

Md Fateen Raza

Shaaz ahmed faruqui

Md Hifzur Rahman

Shaik Shabeer

Md Osama

Sharukh Syed

Md Sadaf Kamran

Sheikh Khurshid Alam

Md Saleh Umar

Suhaim ul islam

Md Yazdani Feroze

Syed Ansar Ali

Meer Faisal

Syed Hamid Ali Moin

Mohamed Maaz

Syed Shoaib Qasim

Mohammad Aamir Ansari

Syed Umar Ahmed

Mohammad Abdul Ahad

Tariq Abdullah Akhon

Mohammed Aftab Ahamed

Umar Farooq Masoodi

Mohammed Feroz

Wafi Shihad

Mohammed Gulam Ahmed Khan

Yusuf Mohamedy

Mohammed Ismail

Zubair Ahmed

About AIMDC’s Vision

The All India Muslim Development Council (AIMDC) is committed to fostering leadership that serves both the Community and the nation with excellence, integrity, and unity. The 40 Under 40 Leaders Initiative is envisioned as an incubator for change-makers, equipping them with networks, mentorship, and the moral compass required to navigate the complex challenges of modern society with Collective Efforts

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslims> Positive Story / by Muslim Mirror Network / August 16th, 2025

10 inspirational stories of visionaries from Kerala

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KERALA :

Kannur

Among the change makers from Kerala are pioneers and achievers in various fields of life. They have either been trying to bring about changes in society or the fields of business. They have used music, literature, and sometimes love to bring humanity closer, to spread joy and peace.

The list includes social activists, singers, spiritual mentors, lawyers, teachers, and even IAS officers.

Ayisha Abdul Basith

Ayisha sings Naat or Islamic devotional songs, and at the age of 20, she has enthralled listeners in over 80 countries. Born in Kerala, Ayisha has migrated to Abu Dhabi, where she is pursuing spiritual music as a way to universal peace and joy, as she puts it.

Safna Nazruddin

She dreamt of becoming someone who could help the disadvantaged sections of society. Safna Nazruddin thought being an IAS officer would help her achieve that goal.

And she took her dream so seriously that at the age of 23, she became Kerala’s youngest Muslim IAS officer.

PC Musthafa

He wanted to pull his family out of their poverty. Growing up in rural Wayanad, watching his father toil in the fields as a farm labourer, he wanted to change his parents’ lives for the better.

When he completed his studies at IIM, he started small with his cousins in a 500 square feet room, selling 100 packets of idli batter to 30 shops in Bangalore.

Today, he is the king of idli batter supplying in more than 10 countries outside India and reigning over a 4000 crore business.

VP Suhara

VP Suhara has been fighting for changes in the Muslim personal law and is one of the petitioners appealing for equality of gender in the matter of succession rights.

She says she is not very optimistic, but she is not ready to give up her fight.

Kadeeja Mumtaz

Kadeeja is a novelist who won the Sahitya Academy award for her novel. But today she has taken to activism on a full-time basis, and her main preoccupation is with bringing different religious communities together to improve mutual understanding and communication.

Advocate Sukkur

Advocate Sukkur did the unthinkable when he remarried his legally wedded wife just to make a point to all his fellow Muslims.

He wanted to tell them that they can overcome the barriers to succession rights of their daughters by remarrying their spouses under the Special Marriages Act.

Noor Jaleela

Noor means light, and the luminous smile on Noor Jaleela’s face echoes her name. She was born without her four limbs. But her smile does not betray any such disability. She has been a model for courage and creativity in the worst circumstances.

She has been an influencer and also an artist, and a singer.

Padma Shri Mumtaz Ali

Mystic and spiritual mentor Padmashri Mumtaz Ali, or Sri M as his followers call him, hails from Thiruvananthapuram and heads a spiritual group called Satsang Foundation. His spiritual pursuits and his work among the people as a symbol of the oneness of humanity and the divine have made him transcend all man-made boundaries and divisions.

He has become an example of universal oneness and love as his life’s work and teachings appeal to people of different nationalities and religions. He asks them to continue following their religion while practising meditation and other spiritual pursuits to realise themselves.

 Hadiya Hakeem

Can a football mean anything other than a game? Well, Hadiya Hakeem has turned a football into a statement for the empowerment of women.

She is a freestyle football performer born in Kozhikode who has overcome all possible barriers of gender, nationality, and religion through her talents and her hard work in excelling in a unique kind of performance.

Onampally Faisy

Progressive scholar and Sanskrit enthusiast Onampally Faisy has tried to transcend boundaries by promoting interfaith education in his madrassa. A well-known scholar from Thrissur in Kerala, he has been working towards building bridges of understanding and communication between Muslims and other communities in Kerala.

Since he believes in becoming the change he wants, he started teaching holy texts of other religions in his madrassas in order to remove the veil of ignorance and bring communities closer.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> The Changemakers / by Sreelatha Manon / August 17th, 2025

Our youths have to change the direction of thinking : Salman Taj Patil IPS

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Solapur, MAHARASHTRA :

Salman Taj Patil

In 2012 Salman Taj Patil cracked the UPSC exam in first attempt and became the first Muslim IPS officer from Solapur.  In this candid conversation with Imran Inamdar the 31 year old talks of issues concerning the Muslim community, of the state of education among Muslims and of his own preparation for UPSC a few years ago.

How did you manage to achieve this feat?

I immersed myself into the preparation completely. There was only one aim in my mind and that was to crack UPSC. My parents provided very good emotional support and my father Mr. Jafar Taj always encouraged me saying that ‘you are too energetic and brilliant, you can easily crack UPSC, just focus on your studies and be consistent.’

Who is your role model and Why?

 Being a Muslim obviously Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) is my role model. He has showed us the complete way of life. My parents are also firm pillars of support for me. They are always there to guide me.

How to study to appear for UPSC exam?

The preparation starts at school level. Reading news papers, taking part in extracurricular activities, essay writing, debate competition play a key role. One needs to be updated about all current events. Critical analysis is also very important and it improves and polishes writing skill. Practice makes a man perfect. Nobody comes to the world with all the knowledge and skills. Effort, positive atmosphere, focus and support of near and dear ones matters most.

Why are Muslim youths far behind in cracking UPSC exam?

This is very important question. In my opinion our educational infrastructure and negative mentality are fully responsible for this. It has been hammered that qualifying this exam is very difficult or nearly impossible for minority community youth. This type of thinking is damaging and we should come out from this depressing thinking. It is a very fair competition. Achievement is a result of hard work only.  It’s time to change our direction of thinking.  When we focus and work hard Allah also helps us.

How do you feel serving as an IPS officer?

It’s a wonderful experience. In fact working as a police officer is a great social work itself where one gets an opportunity to help the oppressed, put criminal behind bars and provide safety and security to women and children. For this service we are getting salary from the government and will surely get Ajar (reward) from Allah too.

Sachar committee reports reveal tremendous decline of Muslims in India in all walks of life. What are the reasons behind it?

We are ourselves responsible for this backwardness. We don’t follow the path of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) and teachings of Quran which shows the complete way of life. We don’t read, and think over it. ‘Iqra’ which means read was the very first Quranic word to be revealed. How many of us follow the same? Education should be on our top priority specially girls’ education.

During studies what did you do to relieve stress?

I used to study for about 10 to 12 hours a day. That was hectic so I played cricket with friends and took a walk in the park to get myself mentally fresh again. And horse riding is also my hobby.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Exclusive Reports> Indian Muslim> Interviews / by admin / June 26th, 2016

Khalid Jamil becomes Indian men’s football team coach on two-year contract

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PUNJAB / KUWAIT / Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

After confirming his appointment a few days back, AIFF has announced that Khalid Jamil has signed a full-time two-year contract to be the Indian football team coach.

The AIFF has announced that Khalid Jamil will be a full-time coach for the Indian men’s football team. Image: AIFF

Former midfielder Khalid Jamil has signed a full-time two-year contract to be the new Indian men’s football team coach, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed on Wednesday. Jamil, who was Jamshedpur FC’s coach in the Indian Super League (ISL), was picked as the top candidate by the AIFF Executive Committee on 1 August , but both parties were yet to agree on terms.

“I am both deeply proud and immensely privileged to have been entrusted with the responsibility of leading our national team,” Jamil said in an AIFF media release on Wednesday. “Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to train Indian players, and I’ve grown to understand their strengths and weaknesses intimately.

“These insights will be fundamental to everything we do as we prepare for the CAFA Nations Cup and the upcoming crucial Asian Cup Qualifiers against Singapore.”

Jamil to start tenure with CAFA Nations Cup

Jamil was picked by the AIFF ahead of India coach Stephen Constantine and Slovakian tactician Stefan Tarkovic. He will be the first Indian to coach the men’s national team after Savio Medeira in 2012.

The first training camp for the Indian football team under Jamil will start on 15 August at the Dravid-Padukone Centre for Sports Excellence in Bengaluru. The list of probables is expected to be announced soon.

Jamil’s first assignment as India coach will be the CAFA Nations Cup, where India are set to face hosts Tajikistan (August 29), IR Iran (September 1) and Afghanistan (September 4) in Group B.

In the October FIFA Window, India are scheduled to play AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers against Singapore (October 9 and 14).

Jamil’s coaching and playing career

While he doesn’t have the experience of coaching a national team, the 48-year-old has had an extensive management career at the club level, coaching Jamshedpur FC, NorthEast United FC, Aizawl FC, East Bengal FC, Mohun Bagan AC and Mumbai FC. With Aizawl FC, he won a historic I-League title in 2016-17.

He also helped Jamshedpur reach the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 final and the semi-finals of the ISL play-offs 2024-25.

As a player, he played 15 times for India, after making his debut in the 1997 SAFF Championship in Nepal, which the Blue Tigers won.

In his club career, Jamil won the National Football League, two Federation Cups and two IFA Shields with Mahindra United.

He also played for Air India and Mumbai FC. In the Santosh Trophy, Jamil represented Maharashtra, with whom he won the title in 1999.

source: http://www.firstpost.com / FirstPost. / Home / by FP Sports Desk / August 13th, 2025