Tag Archives: Muslims of Mangaluru

HIF INDIA opens Seva Kendra, launches new website in Mangaluru

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education- Excellence, Coaching, Training, Tutorials (wef. Feb 09th, 2024), Karnataka (under research project), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

Highland Islamic Forum (HIF INDIA) inaugurated its new Seva Kendra and launched its official website at a programme held at the HIF Auditorium on Friday evening. The programme began with Qirat by Ahil Farooq, followed by an address by chief guest Mohammed Kunhi. Explaining the services offered by the Seva Kendra, Rafil Ahmed said the centre would help people access various government services and welfare schemes. These include assistance with Voter ID, PAN card, Aadhaar updates, Senior Citizen cards, Ayushman cards, scholarships, Gruha Jyothi, Gruha Lakshmi, and income and caste certificates.

People seeking assistance can contact the Seva Kendra at +91 98450 81312. Website to showcase HIF’s charitable work Shaz Rasheed, convenor of the programme, introduced HIF INDIA’s new website, www.hif.org.in, developed by Nexhala Solutions LLP. The website brings together information about the organisation’s various social welfare and charitable initiatives, including house construction for needy families, care for orphans, assistance to masjids, provision of clean drinking water and medical support.

Describing the website as a platform for “Shopping for the Aakhirah”, Shaz Rasheed explained that it would allow people to choose projects they wished to support, understand how their contributions would be used and make donations online. The platform offers multiple payment options, including UPI and bank transfers, and provides receipts for donations. It is available in English, Kannada and Hindi.

The guests jointly inaugurated the Seva Kendra and launched the website during the programme.

Mementos presented to contributors HIF President Rizwan Pandeshwar, Mr. Nazeer from the Minority Department and Rafeeq Master of Namma Nadu Okkuta also addressed the gathering.

The Khatheeb Ustad of Masjid Ul Ehsan was among those present.

During the event, HIF presented mementos to Namma Nadu Okkuta in recognition of its role in training the Seva Kendra staff, and to Nexhala Solutions LLP for developing the website. A memento was also presented to Mr. Nazeer in appreciation of his guidance and assistance regarding scholarships and other government welfare benefits.

Bilal Raif hosted the programme and delivered the vote of thanks.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / October 10th, 2026

Barakah NEET Academy students record strong results in 2026 medical admissions

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Education- Excellence, Coaching, Training, Tutorials (wef. Feb 09th, 2024), Karnataka (under research project), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

Students of Barakah NEET Academy’s 2026 batch have recorded strong results in medical admissions, with around 30% securing MBBS seats and another 25% gaining admission to BDS courses.

The results mark the second consecutive year of encouraging performance by the academy, which reported 100% medical course admissions among its students in 2025.

The remaining students are awaiting the third round of counselling, with the academy expecting them to secure seats in MBBS, BDS, BAMS and other government medical courses. The academy has expressed confidence in achieving 100% enrolment for the batch.

Following the results, the academy has launched a new NEET repeater batch, particularly for female students, offering preparation in a safe and culturally sensitive environment.

The academy provides hostel accommodation, nutritious food, attention to cultural and religious needs, round-the-clock security, an affordable non-commercial fee structure and professional academic training.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / September 20th, 2026

Mangaluru’s Dr Afla Rafeeq secures AIR 21st in NEET-PG 2026

Amazing Feats, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Science & Technology, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bajpe (Dakshina Kannada District), KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

Dr Afla Rafeeq of KS Hegde Medical Academy has secured the 21st All India Rank in the NEET-PG 2026 examination, scoring 614 marks out of 720.

According to data released by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS), 2,73,096 candidates registered for the examination, while 2,65,980 candidates appeared for the test.

Dr Afla is currently pursuing her MBBS internship at KS Hegde Hospital. During her MBBS course, she secured 13 gold medals. She now aims to pursue postgraduate studies in Radiology.

Originally from Bajpe, Afla completed her schooling up to Class 8 at Ansar School in Bajpe. She later completed her SSLC at St. Mary’s High School, Mangaluru, securing 97% marks.

She subsequently studied at Sri Chaitanya PU College, Mangaluru, where she secured 96% marks and achieved a top rank.

Dr Afla Rafeeq is the daughter of Mohammed Rafeeq and Fathima Rafeeq.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / September 25th, 2026

Highland Islamic Forum elects Rizwan Pandeshwar as new president

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Rizwan Pandeshwar

Mangaluru:

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Highland Islamic Forum (HIF) was held at the organisation’s head office in Mangaluru, marking the completion of Adil Parvez’s three-year term as president and the election of a new leadership team.

Members actively participated in the AGM, with voting held as part of the leadership election process.

Janab Mohammed Kunhi attended the programme as the guest speaker. Br. Shuhaib, former president of the HIF Qatar Wing, was also present.

During the meeting, members appreciated Adil Parvez for his leadership and contributions to the organisation during his three-year tenure.

Following the voting, Rizwan Pandeshwar was elected as the new president of the Highland Islamic Forum, while Bilal Raif was selected as secretary.

Members expressed confidence in the new leadership and wished them a successful tenure.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of unity, cooperation and collective responsibility in strengthening the organisation and continuing its community-oriented activities.

The AGM concluded with members pledging their support to the new leadership and expressing their commitment to taking the Highland Islamic Forum forward with renewed energy and dedication.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / August 24th, 2026

Surathkal: Veteran social, political leader Abubakar Haji (Kannada Nadu) passes away

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, Uncategorized, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Surathkal (Mangaluru), KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru : 

Abubakar Haji, a well-known figure in social, political and religious circles and a resident of Krishnapura, passed away at his residence on Sunday afternoon at 2 pm following a brief illness.

Abubakar Haji was widely respected for his active involvement in community affairs and public life. He had served as the former president of Badrul Huda Juma Masjid in Krishnapura and was known for his dedicated service to the community.

In the political arena, he had contested the elections from Mangaluru North constituency representing the Kannada Nadu party, earning recognition for his grassroots engagement and leadership.

He is survived by his two sons, Faizal and Naufal, besides a large number of relatives and well-wishers.

According to family sources, the funeral rites will be held at the Krishnapura Idgah Kabarsthan before Maghrib prayers on Sunday.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Karnataka / by Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru / March 01st, 2026

Sahill Zaheer awarded Indo Arab Social Icon Award in Saudi Arabia

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), NRI's / PIO's, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA / Al Khobar, SAUDI ARABIA :

Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia:

International host Sahill Zaheer was honoured with the Indo Arab Social Icon Award at an international gathering held in Al Khobar on February 7, where the Saudi Arabia Chapter of SIBEC – SYPA International Business & Entrepreneurs Chamber was officially launched.

SIBEC is a global business and economic collaboration platform that brings together entrepreneurs, investors and professionals to strengthen cross-border partnerships. The Saudi chapter launch was organised in association with Enerfac Solutions.

Enerfac Solutions, led by CEO Nazurudin Ahamed and Director Sivaprakash Umapathy along with its board members and team, describes itself as a company focused on ethical business practices and inclusive growth. The organisation has been supporting entrepreneurs, small and emerging businesses as part of its CSR initiatives, while encouraging partnerships and industry development. Company representatives said its approach centres on responsible business and ensuring that growth benefits the wider community.

Sahill Zaheer, who works as a host and event manager, has earlier been associated with Namma TV as a VJ and with Radio Mirchi 98.3 FM as an RJ. Over the years, he has hosted national and international shows, corporate events and award functions. He has shared stage space with singers such as Sonu Nigam, Udit Narayan and Shreya Ghoshal. He has also anchored events connected to cricket tournaments, including T10 and T20 formats and IPL-related programmes.

Recently, he hosted the Festival of Cricket – Women’s Edition in Al Khobar, described as the first women’s cricket celebration of its kind in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The award was presented in recognition of his contributions as a host and his involvement in international events connecting Indian and Arab audiences.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / February 15th, 2026

English daily ‘News Trail’ launches Mangaluru edition

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

English daily News Trail has launched its Mangaluru edition. The launch function was held on Friday at The Ocean Pearl in the city.

The new edition will cater to readers in coastal and Malenadu regions of Karnataka. The publication is already being brought out from Bengaluru, Qatar and Hubballi.

Among those present at the event were Dr. U.T. Ifthikar Fareed, Chairman, Karnataka State Allied and Healthcare Council; Ivan D’Souza, MLC; Fr Sudeep Paul, Director, Sandesha Foundation; Sister Vishweshwari of Brahmakumari International Centre, Mangaluru; M.A. Gafoor, Chairman, Coastal Development Board; T.M. Shahid Thekkil, Chairman, Minimum Wage Advisory Board; Adoor Ibrahim, former Deputy Commissioner of Mangaluru; S.M. Arshad, Managing Director, Mohtisham Complexes Pvt. Ltd.; and S.M. Rasheed Haji, President, Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

K.M. Siddique, Director, News Trail; Ashraf Ali Basheer Ahmed, Associate Director; M.A. Siraj, Associate Editor; and Aftab H. Kola, Regional Business Head for the Mangaluru edition, were also present.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 14th, 2026

Energia opens Corporate Service Center in Mangaluru, eyes future renewable projects in India

Business & Economy, Karnataka (under research project), NRI's / PIO's, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

Energia on Sunday inaugurated its Corporate Service Center in Mangaluru, marking a step towards strengthening its global corporate operations and expanding its presence in India.

The new office was inaugurated in the presence of U. T. Khader, Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, and NRI Busnessman Dr. Ronald Colaco along with members of Mangaluru’s business and community circles.

The ceremony was led by Shahid Hassan, CEO of Energia, along with Mohin Sheikh, Managing Director, Rajan Mengoth, Operations Director, and Mehboob, Chairman of Energia. Senior officials and team members of the company were also present.

The Mangaluru Corporate Service Center will function as a dedicated support office for Energia’s operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company said the centre will help improve coordination, strengthen back-end support and enhance governance across key corporate functions. It is expected to improve service delivery through structured processes and better operational control.

Energia stated that the new centre will create employment opportunities in Mangaluru, particularly in corporate services and support roles. The company also plans to introduce structured career pathways and skill development programmes for professionals in the region.

While the immediate focus of the centre will be to support overseas operations, Energia said it intends to deepen its long-term engagement in India. The company indicated that it is exploring opportunities in the renewable energy sector in line with India’s expanding clean energy landscape. The Mangaluru office is expected to act as a base for future partnerships and renewable initiatives in the country.

“This Corporate Service Center reflects Energia’s long-term commitment to building strong capability and governance. Mangalore gives us access to high-quality talent, and this office will play a critical role in supporting our Saudi operations while also helping us prepare for future renewable initiatives in India,” said Shahid Hassan, CEO of Energia.

Among those present at the event were Chairman of State Allied and Health Care Council UT Iftikhar Ali, President of New Jumma Masjid Sharif Whitestone, Chairman of Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industry SM Rasheed Haji, Founder of Team B-Human Asif Deal, Dr Haroon Hussain and others.

Energia is an energy solutions company with operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and a growing presence in other markets. The company provides integrated energy solutions across sectors with a focus on reliability and long-term value creation.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 15th, 2026

HRM Forum, Roshni Alumni association organises seminar on Human Resources

Business & Economy, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru: 

The HRM Forum, in association with the Roshni Alumni Association, organised a seminar titled “HR Unplugged: From Classroom to Corporate Reality” at the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya (Autonomous), Mangaluru, on 16th February 2026.

Sujah Mohammed, CEO of Marhaba Group, Mangaluru, delivered the inaugural address, sharing insights from his personal and professional journey. He spoke about the challenges he faced and the determination required to succeed.

Emphasising the importance of communication and interpersonal skills, he urged students to continuously upgrade their knowledge to remain relevant in a fast-changing corporate environment.

Sujah also highlighted professional ethics, leadership qualities, teamwork, and practical exposure through internships as key factors in bridging the gap between theory and practice. He advised aspiring HR professionals to stay confident, adaptable, solution-oriented, and committed to their long-term career goals.

Anand D’Silva encouraged students to make the most of every session, reminding them that life experiences often teach lessons beyond textbooks. He emphasised the value of hard work, genuine knowledge, and dedication, urging students to uphold the values and reputation of Roshni Nilaya in their professional journey. He also advised them to focus on their unique growth paths, remain patient, consistent, and positive, and avoid comparing themselves with others.

Adv. Ganesh Poojary, Partner at KG Pai & Co. and Director at Coreimpact Corporate Services Ltd., conducted an interactive session on labour laws. He started with an activity that required students to categorise various labour laws under the four Labour Codes, promoting critical thinking and engagement. He then explained the codes in detail, especially the Code on Wages, and discussed its implications for employees, employers, and organisational compliance.

During the panel discussion on “Who is HR?”, Ganesh Poojary, Ranjit Christopher Picardo, Associate Director, HR and Global Shared Services Leader, Brady Company India Pvt. Ltd., and Dolfred Norbert D’Souza, Director – Human Resources and Site Leader, APAC, Flexera Software India LLP, highlighted HR as a strategic partner that bridges management and employees. They stressed the role of HR in ethical decision-making, legal compliance, talent development, and shaping organisational culture.

Ranjit Christopher Picardo also led a session on “The Effective Interviewer”, focusing on structured interviews as a tool for effective talent acquisition. He demonstrated a practical framework for interviews and conducted an interactive mock interview with students. He emphasised the high cost of poor hiring and the need for discipline, consistency, and professionalism in recruitment.

The event was attended by over 100 HR students and professionals. Dr. Meena Monteiro, Dean – PG Studies; Dr. Sebastin K V, Dean – Research; Prof. Jinsa Joseph; Prof. Deepika Sanil; Dr. Anuradha Shetty; and Prof. Ramya were present. The session was compered by Saifana Sheik, the welcome address was given by Nagashree, and Prof. Deepika Sanil proposed the vote of thanks.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 16th, 2026

Shabana Faizal is the youngest among Indian philanthropists

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA / Kozhikode, KERALA / Dubai, U.A.E :

Shabana Faizal with her husband Faizal Kottikollon

New Delhi :

Mangalore-based Shabana Faizal has emerged as the youngest woman among India’s top 10 philanthropists, according to the EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025.

She has donated ₹40 crore (approximately $1.5 billion) through the Faisal & Shabana Foundation to education, health, and social development.

Shabana Faisal’s journey from being raised in a small town in Mangalore to co-leading a global enterprise is about he hard work and ambition.

Her entrepreneurial journey began in 1995 as a retailer of unique, speciality and luxury products. After leading the company for eight successful years, she decided to team up with her husband, entrepreneur Faizal Kottikollon, and support him in running the world-class foundry, Emirates Techno Casting (ETC).

Shabana took charge of all human resources and administrative processes at ETC, where she created a significant impact in shaping the company’s business success.

In her role as Vice Chairperson of KEF Holdings, she is actively involved in guiding the business’s growth strategy across global markets. Deeply committed to social improvement, Shabana and her husband founded the Faizal & Shabana Foundation in 2007, with the vision of ‘Giving to Create Impact’.

At 53, Shabana’s work has placed her among some of the most influential women in India’s philanthropy world, including Rohini Nilekani, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and Bina Shah.

EdelGive Foundation, in collaboration with Hurun Research Institute, recently released the 12th edition of the EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025.

The list honors India’s most generous individuals and families. Over the past three years, 191 philanthropists have donated a total of ₹10,380 crore, representing an 85% increase in contributions.

The education sector continues to lead as the top donor, receiving ₹4,166 crore from 107 donors.

Shabana is the mother of four children – Sophia, Sara, Zakaria, and Zarina – but continues to play an active role in business and philanthropy. Her work makes her one of India’s most influential female philanthropists, exemplifying how professional leadership and a commitment to giving can combine to create widespread social impact.

The EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025 states that the top 25 donors contributed ₹50,000 crore in just five years, or an average of ₹46 crore per day. Mumbai leads in philanthropy, contributing 28% of total donations, followed by New Delhi and Bengaluru.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home / posted by Aasha Khosa / November 10th, 2025