South Village (Guwahati), ASSAM :

The historic achievement brings pride to his family, the state, and the nation; it proves that dedication, family support, and strong values can lead to exceptional results.

New Delhi / Guwahati :

In a proud moment for Assam and the entire Muslim community, a young boy from the South Village in Guwahati has written his name in the history books. Musa Kaleem, 18, has emerged as the state topper in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2025, leaving behind over 42,000 aspirants from Assam. With the 99.97th percentile, Musa’s achievement is not just academic excellence — it is a powerful reminder of the potential of the Muslim youth.

Out of 20.08 lakh students who appeared for the NEET UG exam nationwide, 12.36 lakh students cleared the cut. Among them, Musa stood out in Assam, becoming the number one in the state. Nationally, the top rank went to Mahesh Keshwani of Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. While Mahesh made the nation proud, Musa brought immense joy and hope to Assam by becoming the highest scorer in the state.

Musa’s story begins in Sri Bhumi, Assam, where he was born. His family later moved to South Village in Guwahati. His father, Anwar Hussain, once worked as an engineer in Sri Bhumi. Now, he runs a small cosmetic shop in Guwahati. His mother, Rehana Begum, is a homemaker. Coming from a modest background, Musa’s success becomes even more meaningful.

Speaking to Salam TV, Musa said, “I am very happy. I give all the credit to my parents. Their support never stopped. They stood by me in every moment.”

Musa prepared for the exam at Allen Coaching Institute in Guwahati. Known for his quiet focus and regular study schedule, his teachers describe him as a student who never wasted time. He avoided distractions and remained deeply committed to his goal of becoming a doctor.

At a time when many from the Muslim community face social bias and economic challenges, Musa’s result shines like a ray of hope. His determination sends a clear message: success is possible through effort and discipline, even without wealth or privilege.

Speaking to reporters, Musa said, “My dream is to serve the country. I don’t just want to become a doctor. I want to become someone who helps the poor and stands with those who have no support.”

His words reflect the values many Indian Muslims hold dear—serving humanity, staying humble, and always standing for justice.

Musa’s father, Anwar Hussain, expressed deep happiness over his son’s success. With teary eyes and a proud smile, he said, “I never asked him to run after money. I always told him to become a good human being first. Only then will you become a good doctor.”

His advice is touching. In a world where success is often measured in numbers and bank balances, Anwar Hussain’s simple yet strong message brings back the true meaning of education—character and compassion.

News of Musa’s achievement quickly spread across Assam, especially among the Muslim community. Social media platforms and local mosques were abuzz with congratulations and prayers. From imams to teachers, everyone expressed pride.

Maulana Naseeruddin, an Islamic scholar from Guwahati, said, “This boy has shown what true Islam teaches us—to seek knowledge and to serve mankind. May Allah bless him and make him a source of pride for the community.”

In a time when Muslims are often portrayed unfairly in the media, stories like Musa’s are a reminder of the silent majority who quietly focus on education, ethics, and contribution to the nation.

Local leaders and education officials have praised Musa for his outstanding performance. Assam’s education minister, during a press conference, said, “We congratulate Musa Kaleem. This is a big moment for Assam. He is an inspiration for students across communities and regions.”

Although no government reward has been announced yet, many believe that a talent like Musa deserves both recognition and support for future studies.

For decades, Muslims in India have faced multiple challenges in the field of education—poor access to quality schools, financial constraints, and social discrimination. Yet, despite these odds, young Muslim boys and girls continue to prove their strength.

Educational researcher Dr Sameera Ahmad pointed out, “Musa’s result is part of a quiet revolution. More and more Muslim families are investing in their children’s education, even when they don’t have enough for themselves. This is courage, not just sacrifice.”

Musa Kaleem’s story stands as an answer to those who stereotype Indian Muslims as backward or uninterested in studies. It shows that when given a fair chance, they can lead in merit-based competitions like NEET UG.

Musa plans to join a top medical college to continue his studies. His dream is to work in rural and poor areas where healthcare is still far from reach. He believes that doctors have a duty to serve beyond city hospitals and five-star clinics.

“I want to go where people have no help,” he said. “A real doctor should always be available for the needy.”

This thinking, especially from such a young man, shows maturity and compassion, traits India needs from its future doctors.

Musa Kaleem’s story is not just about topping an exam. It’s a story of dreams, belief, and values. It reminds the country that Indian Muslims are not behind. They are rising, despite hurdles, with dignity and dedication.

The achievement also calls upon society to treat Muslim students fairly, to support their education, and to highlight their success, not just their failures.

As Musa moves forward in his journey to become a doctor, he carries with him the hopes of many—of parents who never gave up, of teachers who believed, and of a community that wants nothing more than peace, respect, and a better future for its children.

“Success will come and go,” Musa said quietly. “But being a good human being is forever.”

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Indian Muslims / by Mohammad Bin Ismail / June 17th, 2025