Tag Archives: Muslims of Hyderabad

Hyderabad-born Prof. Mumtaz Ali wins Malaysia’s National Book Award for third time

Hyderabad, TELANGANA / Kaula Lumpur, MALAYSIA :

Kuala Lumpur/New Delhi: 

In a significant achievement, Professor (Dr.) Muhammad Mumtaz Ali, hailing from Hyderabad, India, has been honored with Malaysia’s National Book Award for the third time. Currently teaching at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) in Kuala Lumpur, Prof. Ali was recognized for his outstanding contribution through his latest work, “Islamic Research: Theory, Methodology, and Thesis Writing,” published in 2022.

pix: amazon.in

The prestigious National Book Award 2023 and Certificate for the year 2023 were presented to Prof. Ali in a grand ceremony held on December 22, 2023. The certificate carries the signatures of Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Minister Dato Seri Zambry Abdul Qadir.

Born in Hyderabad in 1955, Prof. Ali holds a doctorate in philosophy in Islamic studies from Aligarh Muslim University. He began his academic journey by completing his master’s degree in Islamic studies at Aligarh Muslim University and a bachelor’s degree in modern western political thought from Osmania University.

Joining IIUM in 1987 as an assistant professor, Prof. Ali has been a dedicated member of the university ever since. Currently, he leads the Abdulhamid Abusulayman Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences in the Department of Usul al-Din and Comparative Religion.

His award-winning book, “Islamic Research: Theory, Methodology, and Thesis Writing,” advocates for the transcendence of Islamic research beyond religious topics, emphasizing its relevance to all aspects of life and society. The book distinguishes Islamic research from conventional methods, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive theory and methodology.

Prof. Ali’s contributions extend to various branches of Islamic theology, including developmental studies, modernization, epistemological and methodological studies, critical thinking, philosophy of science, and modernity. His books, especially those on the Islamization of Knowledge, are widely regarded as bestsellers on campus.

In 2014, Prof. Ali received the National Book Award for his book, ‘Issues in Islamization of Human Knowledge: Civilization Building Discourse of Contemporary Muslim Thinkers.’ His consistent recognition reflects his commitment to advancing Islamic research and knowledge.

source: http://www.islamicvoice.com / Islamic Voice / Home> National News and Affairs / pix of book added – amazon.in / by Islamic Voice / February 24th, 2024.

Professor Dr. Zeenat Kausar Passed Away

INDIA / MALAYSIA :

Professor Dr. Zeenat Kausar breathed her last at 12:10 am on March 16, returning to her Creator. She had served for a long time at the International Islamic University Malaysia. Her death is not only a loss for academic circles but also a great loss for the entire Muslim Ummah.

Dr. Zeenat Kausar taught at the International Islamic University Malaysia, in the Department of Political Science from 1990 to 2006 and later taught at Qatar University, in the Department of International Affairs from 2007-2009.

A leading figure in faith-based women’s intellectual struggle, Dr. Zeenat Kausar completed her Master’s degree in 1986 and her PhD in 1991 from Aligarh Muslim University. At international conferences, she frequently spoke as a keynote speaker, presenting Islam and its perspectives on women in a highly effective and engaging manner, leaving a strong impression even on people of other faiths. Her book, Islamic Feminism: A Critique (Islam Vs Feminism: Emancipation, Liberation and the Development of Women) is widely known.

She had deep interest and expertise in various academic fields, including Islamic and Western political thought, feminism and its Islamic critique, modernity, development studies, and globalisation.

Professor Zeenat Kausar used to contribute her thought-provoking articles to Radiance Viewsweekly, especially when the magazine requested her to write articles for its Special issues.

Her recently completed book is about Dr. Wan Azizah, the wife of Malaysia’s Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. She had also requested Dato Iqbal to arrange a meeting with the Prime Minister’s wife. In this book, Dr. Wan Azizah’s personality is portrayed in detail – as a homemaker, a mother, a party leader, a political activist who helped realise the dreams of her imprisoned husband (when Anwar Ibrahim was Deputy Prime Minister), and a woman of struggle. Sadly, she passed away before her wish to meet Dr. Wan Azizah could be fulfilled.

Professor Dr. Tamim Usama mentioned that Dr. Zeenat was writing a detailed article on “Women’s Empowerment in Islam.”

The distinguished scholar’s husband, Professor Muhammad Mumtaz Ali, is himself a prominent scholar associated with the Department of Revealed Knowledge at the International Islamic University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. When her body was placed in the room and colleagues stood around her, Professor Dr. Mumtaz Ali, spoke emotionally. He said: “It had not even been a month since our marriage. We were standing at a railway station. I had to leave for a training camp organised by the Jamaat. I told my wife, Dr. Zeenat: From this station, two trains are departing in different directions. One goes towards our home, and the other is the one I must take for social and missionary work. You may board whichever train you prefer.”

“Without a moment’s hesitation, she said: I will travel with you on the train that is going for the work of faith and Dawah.”

He further added: “From that day on, throughout our 46 years of married life, she remained my support and strength. Her thoughts and writings were a source of awakening for society. She was a practical example of the freedom that Islam envisions for women. She always had a thirst for knowledge, read extensively, and expressed her ideas in very simple language. As a wife, as the mother of my children, and as a thinker beneficial to society, she lived a meaningful life. I request all of you to pray for her success in the Hereafter.”

Thus, Dr. Mumtaz Ali concluded his brief yet deeply moving words about his wife, Professor Dr. Zeenat Kausar.

May Almighty Allah accept her good deeds and grant her the highest place in Jannat al-Firdaus. Aameen.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Obiturary / by Radiance News Bureau / March 17th, 2026

Hyderabad’s Ramsha Farhan Tops NLSAT-LLB 2025, Bringing Pride to the City

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Ramsha is an alumna of Azim Premji University, Bangalore, where she pursued her undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts. She later went on to complete a Master’s in History and Persian from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.

Hyderabad: 

In a moment of immense pride for Hyderabad, Ramsha Farhan has secured the 1st Rank in NLSAT-LLB 2025, the national-level entrance examination for admission to the prestigious National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore — widely regarded as the top law school in the country.

Ramsha is an alumna of Azim Premji University, Bangalore, where she pursued her undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts. She later went on to complete a Master’s in History and Persian from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.

She hails from a family with a strong legacy of intellectual and cultural contributions. Ramsha is the daughter of Ashhar Farhan and Humera Ahmed, co-founders of Lamakaan, Hyderabad’s iconic open cultural space. She is also the granddaughter of the celebrated writer and Padma Shri awardee Jeelani Bano.

Known for her academic excellence and deep social commitment, Ramsha Farhan’s achievement is not just personal but a proud milestone for her city and community. Her success is a testament to the values of education, culture, and progressive thought that her family has championed for decades.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ramsha and wish her continued success as she embarks on her legal journey at NLSIU.

source: http://www.munsifdaily.com / Munsif News 24 x 7/ Home> Hyderabad / by Syed Mubashir / June 03rd, 2025

Hyderabad man Mohammed Aziz feeds nearly 300 patients daily outside hospitals through grassroots initiative

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

The idea took shape after Aziz read about a food bank in Chennai. Moved by the concept, he decided to start something similar in Hyderabad.

The menu remains simple — usually rice, bagara rice and dal — ensuring freshly cooked, nutritious food for those who need it most.Photo | EPS

Hyderabad :

Hyderabad is a city synonymous with food — from the aroma of biryani to bustling night markets. But for Mohammed Aziz, the city’s most important meal is not served in its famous restaurants. It is handed out at dawn outside hospitals to patients and families who often go hungry after exhausting their savings on treatment. What began in 2015 with 34 packets cooked in his mother’s kitchen has grown into a daily effort feeding nearly 300 people across the city.

The idea took shape after Aziz read about a food bank in Chennai. Moved by the concept, he decided to start something similar in Hyderabad. With help from his mother and four friends, he prepared the first batch of meals and distributed them on the streets. “There was no big plan; just a Facebook page and the belief that if people saw the need, they would come forward,” Aziz, 38, a corporate professional, tells TNIE.

Today, much of the distribution happens near Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, where many patients and caregivers struggle to afford even a basic meal. “My parents always told me that doing good eventually finds its way back to you,” Aziz says. “Hyderabad is known for its food, but seeing eople starving outside government hospitals felt like a personal insult.”

For the past decade, his days have followed a steady rhythm. Early mornings are spent distributing meals to patients, caregivers and migrant workers sleeping on pavements. After the last packet is handed out, he heads to his corporate job. “We serve around 300 to 400 people every morning — patients and their families who have nothing left after paying for medicines,” he says.

Over the years, the initiative has grown into a volunteer network of students, professionals and homemakers. Meals are distributed near major government hospitals such as Niloufer Hospital, Gandhi Hospital and Osmania General Hospital, where the need is often most visible. “You see cancer patients and migrant workers who have not had a hot meal in days. Giving them food is not just about nutrition; it is about ensuring they do not lose their dignity while they are suffering,” Aziz says.

Interestingly, the initiative does not accept monetary donations. For the past decade, the group has followed a zero-cash policy. Those who wish to contribute either cook food at home, sponsor raw materials or volunteer during distribution. As the effort expanded, the team set up a small kitchen in King Koti to manage the daily cooking. Preparations begin at about 5.30 am, and by 7.30 am the meals are ready for distribution.

The menu remains simple — usually rice, bagara rice and dal — ensuring freshly cooked, nutritious food for those who need it most.

What started with four friends has now grown into a citywide volunteer network, with over 40 active members helping with cooking, packing and distribution. After a decade of work, Aziz says the mission remains unchanged. “I want to reach every major hospital in Hyderabad,” he says. “No one waiting for treatment should have to worry about their next meal.”

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Good News / by Megha Nath / March 15th, 2026

Fraternity Movement–MSF–NSUI Alliance Wins EFLU Students’ Union, Defeats ABVP

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Hyderabad:

The Awaaz Alliance—comprising the Fraternity Movement, Muslim Students Federation (MSF), and the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI)—has won all Central Panel posts in the English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU) Students’ Union elections, defeating the right-wing student group Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP).

Harshad Shibin NK a PhD student from the Fraternity Movement has been elected as the new Students’ Union president.

Irfan Shajudheen from MSF a student of BA (digital communication) won the post of general secretary, while NSUI’s Sonu Raj 2year BA (English) student was elected vice-president. Other winners include MSF’s Haleemathu SS Adiya studying BA Arabic (Joint Secretary), Fraternity Movement’s Ayisha Neha (Cultural Secretary), and NSUI’s Udita Purkait (Sports Secretary).

ABVP finished second in all seats, while the Left student group Students’ Federation of India (SFI) emerged a distant third across all positions.

“This historic victory demonstrates the growing unity of democratic student forces committed to safeguarding campus diversity, social justice, and students’ rights. The mandate clearly rejects the politics of hatred and polarisation and affirms the students’ aspiration for an inclusive, egalitarian, and vibrant campus culture,” the Fraternity Movement said in a statement.

The newly elected panel members said they are committed to working tirelessly for academic welfare, gender justice, minority rights and democratisation of campuses.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / February 07th, 2026

Beyond Faith and Flames: The Nampally Heroes Who Defined Humanity

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

​Hyderabad:

In a world increasingly fragmented by invisible walls and bitter divides, two young men from Nampally recently proved that the pulse of humanity beats stronger than the fear of death. Mohammad Imtiaz and Habib didn’t just save lives; they offered the world a profound lesson written in soot and sacrifice: “Humanity is the greatest religion of all.”

​The Dance of Death

​The day began like any other, but it quickly turned into a nightmare as a ferocious fire broke out in the narrow lanes of Nampally. As the sky turned black with smoke and the screams of trapped children pierced the air, a crowd gathered. Many watched in horror, paralysed by the spectacle of the “dance of death.”

​But Imtiaz and Habib did not hesitate. They didn’t stop to ask the names of the children or the faith of their parents. To them, they weren’t “someone else’s children”; they were simply young lives on the verge of being extinguished.

​A Sacrifice for the “Tender Buds”

​Driven by a singular, frantic urge to protect the innocent, the duo plunged into the inferno. Witnesses describe a scene of pure heroism: two shadows moving through the orange glow, determined to pluck “tender buds” from the jaws of a fiery end.

​They succeeded in their mission – the children were brought to safety. But in a cruel twist of fate, the fire that failed to claim the little ones took the lives of their saviours. Imtiaz and Habib breathed their last, leaving behind grieving families and a city in mourning.

​The Message in the Blood

​These were young men with dreams, parents waiting at home, and a future ahead of them. Yet, in that defining moment, they chose “the other” over themselves. Their sacrifice sends a stinging rebuke to a society often blinded by communal friction. Through their actions, they declared that their faith was one that gives life, not one that takes it.

​As the saying goes, “It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.” Imtiaz and Habib became those candles. They burned out, but in doing so, they ignited a flame of empathy in thousands of hearts.

​Our Debt to the Martyrs

​The question now remains: How do we honour such a colossal sacrifice?

​State Recognition: It is imperative that the government supports their families and recognises their bravery with posthumous gallantry awards.

​A Living Tribute: The truest monument we can build for them is not made of marble, but of mindsets. To truly salute Imtiaz and Habib, we must purge the religious prejudice from our hearts and learn to see the human before the creed.

​In the ashes of Nampally, a grim tragedy occurred. But from those same ashes, a story of immortal love has risen – one that Hyderabad, and the nation, must never forget.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Features > Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / January 29th, 2026

Telangana Govt Honours Azad Reporter Abu Aimal with Lifetime Achievement Award in Digital Media

TELANGANA :

Hyderabad:

The Telangana Urdu Academy celebrated Minority Welfare Day at Ravindra Bharathi by presenting the first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award in the Digital Media category to veteran journalist Mohammed Akram Ali, popularly known as Azad Reporter Abu Aimal.

The award, instituted under the Revanth Reddy-led Congress government, marks the growing recognition of digital journalism’s role in promoting awareness and preserving Urdu culture. The award includes a memento, a citation, and a cash prize of Rs. 50,000, presented by Minister for Minorities Welfare Mohammed Azharuddin.

Mohammed Akram Ali was honoured for his decades-long contribution to digital journalism and his consistent efforts to advance Urdu language and literature through online media platforms. His work has been widely regarded as instrumental in connecting Urdu-speaking audiences with contemporary issues through accessible and credible digital channels.

The event was attended by several senior officials and community leaders, including Advisor for Minorities Welfare Md Ali Shabbir, Secretary of Minorities Welfare Department B. Shafiullah, Urdu Academy President Taher Bin Hamdan, Haj Committee Chairman Khurso Pasha, and CMFC Chairman Deepak John.

Syed Ghouse Mohiuddin, General Secretary of the Digital Media Publishers and Broadcasters Federation, congratulated Abu Aimal and praised the government for acknowledging digital media professionals.

The Telangana Urdu Academy announced plans to continue recognising contributors in emerging digital sectors to motivate younger generations and strengthen Urdu’s presence in modern media spaces.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / November 12th, 2025

Meet Ghazala Hashmi: Daughter of AMU Alumnus is New Virginia Lt Governor

Hyderabad, TELANGANA / New Virginia, U.SA :

Indian-American Ghazala Hashmi, who is closely linked with the prestigious Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has won the Virginia Lieutenant Governor 2025 Election result of which was declared on Monday.

Virginia: 

Indian-American Ghazala Hashmi, who is closely linked with the prestigious Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has won the Virginia Lieutenant Governor 2025 Election result of which was declared on Monday.

A Democrat Party candidate, Ghazala Hashmi, defeated Republican candidate and the state’s first gay statewide nominee, John Reid, to become first Muslim and first South Asian American elected as Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, a Republican stronghold.

Ghazala Hashmi polled over 55% votes as against her nearest rival John Reid who got the support of around 44.7% voters. Hashmi had earlier defeated five primary challengers in June, narrowly winning the nomination with 28% of the vote, as per the final result of the Virginia Lieutenant Governor Election 2025.

Ghazala Hashmi was the first Muslim woman to be elected to the Virginia State Senate following her stunning victory over sitting Republican Senator Republican Glen Sturtevant in the 2019 U.S. elections.

Ghazala Hashmi was born in India and emigrated to the US as a child with her family. She is also a former director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching & Learning at Reynolds Community College.

Ghazala Hashmi’s AMU Link

Ghazala Hashmi was born to Zia Hashmi and Tanveer Hashmi in Hyderabad in 1964. She spent her childhood days at her maternal grandparents’ house in Malakpet, Telangana.

She migrated to the United States with her mother and older brother as a 4-year-old child to join her father in Georgia.

Ghazala Hashmi’s mother, Tanveer Hashmi, is an alumna of Osmania University’s Women’s College in Kothi from where she did BA and B.Ed before migrating to the United States.

Ghazala’s father Professor Zia Hashmi is the alumnus of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) from where he did MA and LLB. He completed his PhD in International Relations from University of South Carolina and soon after began his university teaching career. He retired as the Director of Centre for International Studies which he founded.

Ghazala Hashmi is married to Azhar Rafiq. The couple have two adult daughters – Yasmin and Noor – who both graduated from Chesterfield County Public Schools and the University of Virginia.

According to information available on her official website, Ghazala Hashmi is an experienced educator and an advocate of inclusive values and social justice. Her legislative priorities focus on public education, voting rights and the preservation of democracy, reproductive freedom, gun violence prevention, environmental protection, housing, and affordable healthcare access.

Hashmi spent nearly 30 years as a professor, first teaching at the University of Richmond and then at Reynolds Community College. At Reynolds Community College, Hashmi also served as the Founding Director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL).

Former Minister, MLA and BRS leader KT Ramarao has congratulated Ghazala Hashmi on her victory.

“This is massive! From Malakpet to Virginia… Congratulations to Ghazala Hashmi on becoming the first Indian-American Lieutenant Governor of Virginia. There is nothing more beautiful when democracies celebrate diversity of the world”. KTR wrote on X.

source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> United States / by ummid.com news network / November 05th, 2025

Former National Footballer Syed Ahmed Khan Passes Away at 64

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Hyderabad:

Former national footballer Syed Ahmed Khan passed away at the age of 64. He is survived by two daughters and a son.

Ahmed was a prominent player who represented the Police team for nearly three decades. His long career and consistent performance earned him respect in the football community. Teammates and officials remember him as a disciplined player who dedicated his life to the sport.

The Telangana Football Association expressed condolences to his family and acknowledged his contribution to the game. Football lovers in the region recalled his role in strengthening the Police team and inspiring younger players during his career.

His death is a significant loss for the local sporting fraternity. Community members paid tribute to his achievements and extended support to his family.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / September 01st, 2025

Faraz Ahmed Elected SIO Telangana President for 2025-26

TELANGANA :

Hyderabad:

The Students Islamic Organisation (SIO) Telangana conducted its elections for the term 2025-26 here Tuesday. Chaired by Dr. MKM Zafar, President of JIH Telangana, and Abdul Hafeez, National President of SIO India, the meeting elected Mohd Faraz Ahmed, a Political Science graduate from MANUU, as Zonal President for the term 2025-26. Faraz Ahmed has a notable record of service, having previously served as State Secretary, SIO Telangana, and Secretary SIO Nizamabad. His contributions to SIO’s organ, Rafeeq-e-Manzil, have also been widely recognised.

Mohd Hammaduddin, a student of M. Pharm, was appointed Zonal Secretary. He brings with him extensive experience, having served as President of SIO Hyderabad and as a member of ZAC.

The Zonal Advisory Council (ZAC) members for the 2025-26 are Ashfaq Ahmed, Dr. Osaid Waseem, Suhaib Ahmed Khan, Umar Shahroz, Adv. Ghiyasuddin, Musab Abdul Rahman, Sohail Rizwan, Irfan Khan, Hussain Shahbaz, Abdus Salam Shakir, Samaan Rafid, Qayamuddin, Abdul Khaliq Subhani, Faheemuddin Sufi, Faizan Khan, Azeem Khan, Faisal Khan, Fazl-ul-Bari Irfan.

These leaders took their oath of responsibility during the event, with Dr. MKM Zafar offering prayers for their success.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Report / December 04th, 2024