Through rigorous training, continuous hard work and self-confidence, Insha Taskeen has turned her childhood dream into reality. She has now obtained her commercial pilot licence, earning the distinction of being the first woman commercial pilot from Udupi taluk.
Insha Taskeen is the daughter of Ikhlaq Ahmed and Syed Tabassum from Bailur in Udupi city. Her brother serves as a senior executive for Air India at the Delhi airport.
Insha Taskeen completed her education from LKG to Class 12 at Little Rock Indian School, Brahmavar. Afterwards, driven by her dream of becoming a pilot, she underwent training at Redbird Flight Training Academy. At Redbird’s institution in Delhi, she attended ground classes and prepared for the required exams over a period of one year, passing all exams successfully on her very first attempt.
As the next phase of her training, she successfully completed 200 hours of flight training at the Belagavi flying base and obtained her commercial pilot licence.
Insha Taskeen’s achievement of fulfilling her childhood dream through dedicated training, persistent effort and confidence serves as an inspiration to the young women of Udupi district, especially those aspiring to build a career in the aviation sector.
“Initially, I had no interest in becoming a pilot. While studying in SSLC, we once went to Delhi. Seeing the airport there sparked a desire in me to become a pilot. With the support of my family, I was able to make my dream come true. In the coming days, I aim to work as a commercial pilot and dream of achieving even more in the aviation field,” says Capt. Insha Taskeen.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / September 21st, 2026
Syeda Reha Khadri has been awarded a gold medal for scoring 8.65 CGPA in MSc Chemistry. She is a student of Dr. G Shankar Government Women’s First Grade College and Post Graduate Study Centre, Udupi. Reha scored high ranks in the post-graduate exams conducted by Mangalore University for the academic year 2022-23.
“I put in my efforts, and Allah gave me the result,” Reha expressed gratefully, emphasizing the importance of dedication, focus, hard work, and prayer.
She conveyed a powerful message to the upcoming generation: “Whatever you do, put in a lot of dedication and effort. It’s not just about the result but about being satisfied with the amount of effort you put into any activity. Be righteous, truthful, and honest and grab every opportunity, despite any hindrances, and excel in it.”
Reha Khadri shared her study routine and the factors contributing to her success. “I always made sure to keep up with my classes and prepare my notes,” she explained. “I would wake up early in the morning to prepare, be attentive in class, and understand every topic thoroughly before attending. Reading a lot of books and the support from my college in providing resources were key. My teachers and parents have always been supportive and ready to help.”
Reha credited the eco-friendly and supportive environment of her college for fostering her academic growth and encouraging her participation in various competitions. Her motivation stemmed from a desire to excel and create good opportunities for her future, especially in her Ph.D. studies at MIT Manipal, where she is focusing on renewable energy under the guidance of Dr. Murti Dharma Pura.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education> Focus> Markers of Excellence / by Mohammed Atherulla Shariff / June 15th, 2024
“There is growing concern among communal forces regarding the progress of the Muslim community, and this has led to them being increasingly targeted,” said Maulana Syed Tanveer Hashmi, a member of the Karnataka State Waqf Board and All India Muslim Personal Law Board. He stressed that the community must intensify its efforts towards educational and overall development, especially encouraging the youth to aspire for civil services.
He was addressing a seminar titled “Current scenario and our responsibilities” organised by the Udupi District Muslim Federation at the mini auditorium of the Udupi Town Hall on Tuesday.
Maulana Hashmi highlighted the need to integrate Islamic values deeply into daily life to reform the challenges prevailing in society. “The community must actively engage in social service, extend help to the underprivileged, and foster harmonious relationships with people of other religions. During festivals, we must invite our non-Muslim brothers and share the joy of the celebration with them,” he said.
He further emphasised that Muslims should fully practice religious values and instil Islamic principles within their families, including children, women, and men. Education must be prioritized, with awareness cultivated within the community to promote academic growth.
Cautioning against objectionable behaviour on social media, he urged the youth to be responsible and avoid provocative posts. “We must stay away from the hateful narratives of ‘Godi Media’, communal provocations, and toxic online environments,” he stated.
Sulaiman Khan Sahib from Bengaluru, assistant general secretary of the All India Milli Council and Karnataka co-coordinator of the “Save Waqf, Save Constitution” movement, also addressed the gathering.
The event was presided over by Udupi District Muslim Federation president Muhammad Wawla. During the seminar, a book titled ‘Dharmadharma’ authored by federation member and writer Mustaq Hennabail was released.
The stage was graced by senior vice president Rafiq Kundapur, vice presidents Shabhi Qazi, Fareed Sheikh, and Fayyaz Byndur. The programme began with a recitation from the Holy Quran by Udupi Jamia Masjid Imam Maulana Rasheed Umri.
The event was welcomed by Maulana Zamir Ahmad Rashadi. Former district president M P Modinabba delivered the introductory address.
General secretary Ismail Hussain Katapady extended the vote of thanks, while Yaseen Kodibengre compered the event.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld.com / Home> Karnataka / by Daijiworld Media News Network – Udupi / July 29th, 2025
Nuzha Fathima Sarfaraz, a student of G.M. Vidyaniketan Public School in Brahmavar, Udupi, has achieved an outstanding 95% in the CBSE Class 10 board examinations, the results of which were declared on May 13, reported the Varta Bharati.
Daughter of Sarfaraz T.S. and Farzana Sarfaraz, and granddaughter of the late T.S. Ismail Saheb and Sabeera Ismail of Kodi Bengre, Nuzha’s accomplishment has earned her praise and admiration from teachers, family, and peers alike. Her dedication, focus, and perseverance have been widely appreciated as the foundation of her academic success.
Her performance stands as an inspiration for fellow students in the region, showcasing the possibilities that hard work and determination can bring.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / May 15th, 2025
Abdul Salaam Chittoor from Kundapura taluk in Udupi district has been appointed as the state director of the Karnataka State School Development and Management Committees (SDMC) Coordination Centre.
The appointment order was issued by Moiddin Kutti, the director of the Karnataka SDMC Coordination Centre, and will be effective until further notice. This role underscores Abdul Salaam’s commitment to advancing educational initiatives across the region.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld / Home> Karnataka / by Silvester D’Souza / Daijiworld Media Network-Kundapur / October 07th, 2024
Association for Protection of Civil Rights, Karnataka chapter has elected Yaseen Kodibengre as its new district president of Udupi district.
Sham Raj Birti and Najma were elected as vice presidents. Salahuddin was elected as general secretary, Prashant Mogaweera as joint secretary, Mujahid Ali Navunda as treasurer and Shahrukh Theerthahalli as Communications and Media secretary.
The new Advisory Committee members are Riaz Kodi, advocate Asadullah, Rihan Trasi, advocate Manjunath Giliyar, Dinakara Bengre, advocate Raghu, Tajuddin, Muneer Kandlur, Idrees Hoode, advocate Afwan Hoode, Muhammad Taufeek Gangolli, Riaz Mudrangadi, Siddique Kannangar, Zakaria Nejar, Ayyan Malpe, Sameer, Simran were selected.
State general secretary Muhammad Kunhi who presided over the meeting said, “We should not have the desire for power but should deal with the power that has come honestly and fairly. APCR has been continuously working to provide justice to the oppressed and downtrodden community in the society for the past 20 years and has also been working to create awareness among the public about the law.”
APCR state secretary Hussain Kodibengre and Waseem Abdullah were present on this occasion.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld.com / Home> Karnataka / by Media Release / August 04th, 2024
Haarish during one of his jungle visits with his camera
Udupi:
Haarish Mohammed, a wildlife photographer from Udupi, now residing in Saudi Arabia, has won the international photography competition organized by 35 Awards in the Black and White category. This contest saw a remarkable participation of 465,000 photographs submitted by 111,253 photographers from 174 countries.
Reflecting on his journey, Haarish shared, “I’ve been fascinated with nature and forests since childhood. During my college years, trekking through the Western Ghats became a regular activity. In 2011, I moved to Saudi Arabia for a job, realizing that my connection to the forest could only be maintained through a career in the Forest Department, becoming a naturalist, or pursuing wildlife photography. I dedicated 1.5 years to learning the theory of photography before purchasing my first camera in 2013.
“The period from 2013 to 2017 was all about learning, and in 2017, I met a group of talented photographers in Saudi Arabia called Photomates, which I joined. With their support, I honed my skills. However, my job in Saudi Arabia limited my opportunities to explore the forests of Karnataka. After the first wave of COVID-19 in 2020, I decided to resign and return to India to start my own business. Since then, I’ve had many of my works featured and published on various platforms. I visited national parks like Nagarhole, Kabini, and Bhadra, photographing beautiful animals such as tigers, leopards, elephants, and many colorful birds.”
Haarish elaborated on the story behind his winning image: “It was taken during an evening safari in the lush forests of Kabini, Karnataka. We were waiting for a herd of elephants to cross our path to reach a water body. To our surprise, a single tusker emerged from the dark forest.”
Haarish’s photo that bagged first place in international photography competition organized by 35 Awards
Haarish’s achievements include being featured in BBC Earth, the international online magazine PawsTrails, and Nature In Focus.
He secured third place in the 2020, 2021, and 2023 photography competitions held by Pilikula Biological Park in Mangalore. His work was also accepted for the International Wildlife Photo Exhibition held by Alvas Virasat in 2023.
Additionally, he won a certificate of merit in the National Level Photography Contest conducted by the Karnataka Forest Department in 2023. His most recent accolade is the first place in the 2023 international photography competition conducted by 35 Awards in the Black and White category.
“Wildlife photography is like a window into the world of animals. It helps us understand and appreciate them better by capturing their beauty and diversity. Moreover, wildlife photography raises awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats. By showcasing the wonders of nature, it encourages us to take care of it. When we see how amazing animals are, we’re more likely to want to save them,” Haarish added.
Haji Abdul Razak Kote Hejmady, owner of Metalco Group of Companies was conferred with ‘Best Entrepreneur of Bahrain’ award.
Former President of India Ramnath Kovind presented the award to Haji Abdul Razak.
Abdul Razak, who is the president of Dakshina Kannada Muslim Welfare Association in involved in social and religious works since many years.
Abdul Razak has been residing in Bahrain from the past 47 years. He hails from the Kote family of Hejmady in Udupi district.
He has been the voice of Muslim Community of this Island for three decades and with his vision he established Dakshina Kannada Muslim Welfare Association, which continuously works for the betterment of the community.
Abdul Razak has been a tireless advocate for the Tulu and Kannada communities. His contribution towards various programmes to promote Tulu and Kannada languages and culture has been phenomenal.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Top Stories / by Daijiworld Media Network – Bahrain (MS) / September 23rd, 2023
M Manna Iqbal was on Monday reinstalled as the President of the Giants Group of Udupi for the year 2023, in a ceremony held at the Woodlands Hotel here in the city.
Dinkar K Amin, a Central Committee member of the Giants Welfare Foundation was present as the Chief Guest of the event while Vasudev Mahale, Unit Director of Federation 6 was the installation officer at the ceremony.
Former Federation President Jayarajprakash was the keynote speaker at the event while Dr. Junaida Sulthana, Academic Head, MET, Udyavara, Udupi, Tejeshwar Roa, Federation vice-president, and Lakshmikanth Beskoor, Federation coordinator were present as the guests of honor.
Four women – Dildar Akbar – Special Needs School, Udupi, Sushma Gopalkrishna – Police Inspector Udupi Women’s police station, Bindu Thankappan, Advocate, Shaila Amanna, Asha Nilaya, Udupi – were also felicitated for their outstanding services and selfless contribution towards the society.
The new committee of the Giants Group Udupi was also formed. Yashwant Salian and Vincent Saldana were appointed vice-presidents, Roshan Ballal. Director of Administration, Vadiraj, Joint Director of Administration, Ganesh Ural, Director of Finance, Dayanand Kalmady, Joint Director of Finance. Prabhakar Bangera, Liyaqath Ali, Vinay Kumar Poojary, Zeenath, Geetha Rao, and Diwakar Sanil took oath as Directors.
Roshan Ballal presented the annual report while Vivek Kamath proposed a vote of thanks and compered the event.
The event was followed by an Iftaar arrangement for the members and audience.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavalii / by Vartha Bharati / April 18th, 2023
Sahebaan UAE, a premier organization for the Urdu-speaking Muslim Community hailing from the twin districts of DK & Udupi, hosted a grand social family get-together followed by gala dinner at Al Jumairah Ballroom, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, on 4th February 2023 from 5.30 PM onwards.
The event, sponsored by the Sahebaan Business Community UAE, was a grand success attended by more than 800 community members from all over UAE, neighboring GCC countries and India. Eminent personalities from the Sahebaan Community graced the occasion.
The event commenced with the recitation of verses from Holy Quran by Master Fazil Raheel Ali. Althaf M.S Coordinator, Sahebaan UAE welcomed the gathering and stated that Sahebaan UAE has been providing a platform for the community members to come together, connect and strengthen the brotherly bond.
The patrons of the Sahebaan community Janab Hidayathullah Abbas, K.S. Nissar Ahmed and Afroz Assadi were honoured in recognition of their outstanding business achievements and contribution to the local economy, commendable humanitarian service, charity work and unstinted support to Sahebaan UAE and its activities. Janab Syed Siraj Ahmed, Suhail Kudroli, and Althaf Khalife initiated the honoring proceedings.
On behalf of the patrons, Janab Hidayathullah Abbas thanked the organisers and the gathering for the honor bestowed on them. He urged the Community to strive hard for success, prioritize family, help the Community, and give back to society, thus earning goodwill for Sahebaan.
The Chief guest of the evening Janab Kassim Ahmed H.K., founder of Hidaya Foundation Mangalore, while addressing the gathering called for the upliftmemt of the poor and the deprived.
Janab Mohd. Akram, Mohammed Asif, Althaf Khateeb and Irshad Moodbidri conducted the felicitation of Sponsors. Dr. Abdul Rahiman Beig, Professor at Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi & recognised as a top rated scientist by Stanford University and Mrs.Yasmeen Irfan, winner of Foodshala UAE 2022 were honoured on the occasion.
Janab Afroz Assadi Patron and Convenor of Sahebaan UAE presented awards to the talented Sahebaan Youth, namely, Sham Akbar Sheik, Safa Tamadur, Rafa Riyaz Khalife, Daniyal Danish Iqbal, Rafhan Balanthi Baig, Mohd. Rafan, Sheikh Saahir Akbar, Mehek Sheikh, Nuha Riyaz Khalife for excellence in academics.
Anbar Althaf and Saqib Baji for Sports achievement and Anam Aslam for performing arts.
Faizaan Khateeb, Mohd. Samiullaha, Mohd Sufiyan and Abdul Ahad presented a photo journey of Sahebaan UAE through the years.
Well-known bollywood stand-up comedian and mimicry artist Jayvijay Sachan entertained all with his mimicry & comedy. A Sufiana troupe from mumbai mesmerized the crowd throughout the evening with their melodious rendering.
Sahil Zaheer, a fellow Sahebaan and a hugely popular stage & radio artist from Mangalore, compered the program and entertained the crowd with his wit and humor.
Sahebaan Ladies Wing members Sahara Asif, Reena Althaf, Mehek Sheik and Riza Mustafa managed the children’s Program.
The function was sponsored by Hidayath Group, NASH Engineering FZCO, Northern Insurance brokers LLC, Prestige Engineering LLC, Petrosolutions FZCO, Creative House Scaffolding, Advanced Creative Techncial Services, Al Sitara Gulf Contracting, Multiline Technical Co. LLC, Progressive Technology & Services LLC, Sumtech Multiline Trading, Right Choice Trading, Al Bustan Trading, Vertex Engineering, Izza Gold & Diamonds Dubai, Cell Town, Invension Medical Requisities, Core Elements Interior Decoration LLC and Hasmai Mangalore.
The function concluded with a raffle draw and vote of thanks by Syed Mohd. Ajmal.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 13th, 2023