Tag Archives: Yamin Hazarika

A different take on the Assamese Muslims

Dibrugarh, ASSAM / NEW DELHI :

A book titled ‘The Identity Quotient: The Story of the Assamese Muslims’, authored by Zafri Mudasser Nofil, attempts to define the Assamese Muslims as distinct from the Muslims in other parts of India and different from the immigrant Muslims in Assam.

New Delhi-based author Zafri Mudasser Nofil, who hails from Dibrugarh, says the Assamese Muslims are different from the rest of the community in the country.

Over the years, they have assimilated to the greater Assamese society to such an extent that barring religion, there is not much to differentiate them.

But of late, this community has been suffering from the ignominy of being bracketed with illegal immigrants as ‘Miya’, Nofil, who himself is an Assamese Muslim, laments.

Muslims residing in the state for centuries consider themselves to be an integral part of Assamese society, he writes.

In the book, he cites an example of this aspect: The ancestors of the Daullahs, a respected Muslim family in Sivasagar town played the negera – a kind of drum – at the Dols in Sivasagar during the reign of the Ahom kings.

During those days, animals were sacrificed on Ashtami day of Durga Puja as offering to the goddess.

As a gesture of respect to people of other beliefs, the Sivasagar Dol Development committee offers a sacrificial goat to the Daullah family even now. (From an edited excerpt)

Another excerpt which reveals the assimilation reads: “Magh Bihu for Deshi Muslims is Pushna while Bohag Bihu is Beshoma. On Goru Bihu, the first day of the Bohag Bihu, people in the state give a traditional bath to their cows and bulls they rub a paste of pulses and turmeric and then birch them very gently with leaves of some shrubs… After the cattle are given a bath the Deshis eat Misheli, a preparation of fried rice, lentils, onions and chillies.”

Nofil says that the contribution of Assamese Muslims over the years had been multi-faceted, diverse and immense.

“Be it politics, civil services, literature, art, education, medical science, law, sports, music, films and entertainment, they have excelled in every field. Of the most valuable contributions to the cultural richness of Assam are the Zikir and Zari songs,” he elaborates.

“Litterateur Imran Shah says the contribution of Assamese Muslims to the greater Assamese society is unparalleled. But it’s a case of ‘little done and vast undone’ as far as documentation is concerned,” he further says.

As he was toying with the idea of this book, he remembered what Toni Morrison once said: “If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.”

Despite the vastness of the subject and the challenges it posed, the fact that there was very little published materials regarding the Assamese Muslims prompted Nofil to go ahead and write the book on this topic.

The book unravels the journey of this community and looks at how they have contributed significantly to the composite heritage of the state.

It profiles icons like Bagh Hazarika and Bahadur Gaon Burha to achievers like Imdad Ali, Yamin Hazarika, Adil Hussain and Begum Parveen Sultana, and also looks at some of the interesting customs of Deshis, Moriyas and Julhas.

“Assam is a land representing cohesive social and cultural tapestry and Muslims have a history of over seven-and-a-half centuries in the state.”

“The indigenous Assamese Muslims trace their lineage to the medieval period when Muslim rulers and generals invaded the region. They came to Assam in various phases.

“Ali Mech is believed to be the first person to convert into Islam sometime in the early 13th century and ever since, Muslims have merged into the sociocultural milieu of Assam,” Nofil says.

“I have attempted to write this book as narrative non-fiction though I have profusely quoted from historical texts that are relevant to the discussion,” he adds.

There are several nuggets highlighting age-old camaraderie and also chapters on Azan Pir and his Zikirs, cuisine, Muslim marriages, the NRC and the CAA.

(‘The Identity Quotient: The Story of the Assamese Muslims’ is available on Amazon and with Har-Anand Publications. The author can be reached at zafri.nofil@gmail.com and @zafrimn on Twitter)

source: http://www.nenow.in / North East Now / Home> Article / by Smita Bhattacharya / December 26th, 2020

Historian Rana Safvi gets Yamin Hazarika award

NEW DELHI :

istorian Rana Safvi. Credit: Twitter/@iamrana

Read more at: https://www.deccanherald.com/national/historian-rana-safvi-gets-yamin-hazarika-award-891896.html

Historian Rana Safvi has been conferred an award instituted in memory of Yamin Hazarika, the first woman from the Northeast to join the central police service.

Safvi, who has published several books on culture, history, and monuments of India, was chosen for her “contribution to the syncretic culture of India”.

Hailing from Assam, Hazarika was selected for the NCT of Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli Police service (DANIPS) in 1977. She held the post of assistant commissioner of Police in Chanakyapuri (Delhi) and went on to become deputy commissioner of police (Crime against Women Cell) in the national capital.

In the crucial period after the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, Hazarika was in-charge of three key police stations. In 1998, she was posted in Bosnia as part of the UN peacekeeping force. But her life was tragically cut short by destiny as she succumbed to cancer at the age of 43 in 1999.

The ceremony was held online though Hazarika’s daughter Huma presented the silver salver to Safvi in Delhi. Assam DGP Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta was the guest of honour. He recalled the contribution of Hazarika and also spoke about her grit and determination.

The award is given every year by a collective of women professionals since 2015. Previous winners are author Indrani Raimedhi, athlete Tayabun Nisha, actor Moloya Goswami, environmental activist Purnima Devi Barman and social activist Hasina Kharbhih.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> National / by PTI, New Delhi / September 23rd, 2020

Second Yamin Hazarika Award Goes to Athlete Tayabun Nisha

Guwahati, ASSAM :

tayabunnishampos16oct2016

Guwahati :

The strains of Assam’s state anthem ‘O mur apunar dex’ marked the conclusion of the memorial meeting held in memory of one of the iconic daughter of Assam, late Yamin Hazarika.

The second Yamin Hazarika Woman of Substance Award 2016 was presented to Tayabun Nisha, former athlete of Assam who represented India in the 1982 Asian Games. She is the second recipient after noted author and columnist Indrani Raimedhi who received it last year. This award was institutionalised to honour late Yamin Hazarika, DCP, Delhi Police, who passed away while still in service. She was the first woman police officer from Assam, a trendsetter in those times. The award is given by Women’s Hub, a collective of women professionals from around the country.

This year’s award ceremony was held on her 17th death anniversary (24 July) at Blue Paradise in Six Mile, Guwahati amidst an august gathering. Dr. Nahid Islam, Consultant Psychiatrist, GNRC, in her welcome address, gave a brief overview of Women’s Hub. She said that this award is given to honour and appreciate women from diverse fields who have made a mark against all odds.

The function opened with three books written by members of Women’s Hub being released by the guests. This event was co-ordinated by Dr. Shabnam Choudhury, Dental Surgeon. Noted writer Indrani Raimedhi released the book Aasroi written by Nazin Ahmed. Ahmed became emotional when talking about her late father who had inspired her to write.

Santikam Hazarika released Marjina Haque’s book Anutapto Prabansak, which is a set of short stories based on real-life stories. Dr. Dhruvajyoti Saikia, VC, Cotton College State University, released a book of poems by Tinat Atifa Masood. The collection, titled ‘10 on 20’, has random thoughts on love and drug addiction.

Sabrina Iqbal Sircar, Department of Political Science, Cotton College, moderated the Panel Discussion on the theme ‘Women: Breaking Stereotypes.’ The panelists were Nayama Ahmed, Assistant Jailor, Tezpur Central Jail, Darshana Sengupta, first Car Driving Trainer in the Northeast, Megha Kashyap, Program Coordinator for UTSAH, a child rights organisation, Afrida Hussain, programme head of Radio Mirchi, North East, Taanishi Inaam, Entrepreneur and Purnima Devi Barman, wildlife activist.

Nayama Ahmed spoke of the challenges she faced when taking up a job that was traditionally given to men. She said that one has to rise above the obstacles that come in the way of fulfilling one’s responsibilities.

Darshana Sengupta spoke of the need for women to take an active interest in their own well being. She said that she started a women’s car rally to inspire women to live life fully.

Megha Kashyap spoke of the challenges she faced when she gave up a secure future in a job to take up social work. She said women must come out of the restrictions imposed by society.

Taanishi Inaam quoted Malala Yusufzai who said, “I raise my voice not to shout but for the voiceless to be heard.” She shared a few tips on how to be successful: do not stuck with micro management, do not feel guilty about your work, and have different dreams to strive for.”

Purnima Devi shared her experiences during her struggle to save an endangered bird Greater ‘Adjutant’ Stork or Hargilla, in Assam. She spoke of the physical hardship she had to face and sacrifices she had to make to commit to such causes.

While summing up, Sabrina Iqbal Sircar asked the audience to reflect on who creates stereotypes and how they permeate in society. She said one should be aware of how such stereotypes hinder women’s development.Yasmin Ahmed, sister of Yamin Hazarika, Indrani Deb, Chairperson of FICCI FLO, Swabera Islam, academician, Jabin Rahman Ghosh Dastidar and Huma Hazarika Sharma, daughter of Yamin Hazarika, felicitated the panelists.

Nellie Ahmed Tanweer, eminent educationist shared her impression of the late Yamin Hazarika, her cousin and friend, who she knew very closely. She recalled how, when going out for a family dinner, they spotted a man lying on the road fighting for his life and Yamin Hazarika immediately stopped the car and rushed the man to hospital. She said that for her cousin, work always came first. The late Yamin Hazarika was known since childhood for her quiet demeanour, hard work and for being a vivacious reader. Tanweer hoped that younger generations will be inspired to follow her example and make the nation proud.

Vikram Hazarika Sharma, Yamin Hazarika’s son, recalled the precious time that he and his sister spent with their mother. He said that they never felt neglected even though their mother was a busy police officer in Delhi.

Reshma Shah, Education Consultant, introduced the awardee Tayabun Nisha. She said that it was the undying spirit and hard work of women like Tayabun Nisha who can be an inspiration for younger generations.

The awardee was presented with a shawl, a salver and a bouquet. In her acceptance speech, Tayabun Nisha said that she was touched by the gesture. She recalled her early days when she had to look after her younger siblings after her parents passed away. She also shared her adventures when travelling alone to different places to play. She advised the younger generation to lead a fit and healthy life by doing exercise regularly. She suggested that such functions should be held at different educational institutions to inspire the younger generation.

Sheila Bora, noted historian pointed out that the women’s movement was just taking shape throughout the world when women like Late Yamin Hazarika broke many stereotypes and joined a profession which was dominated by men. She said that the late Yamin HHazarika’s life will inspire many to follow in her footsteps. Dr. Dhrubajyoti Saikia, the chief guest, said that backward societies such as tea tribes and scheduled castes need to be empowered. He said that society needs more Yamin Hazarikas to combat the problems in society. Indrani Raimedhi, in her speech, said that one should also try to understand the forces that drive women to commit crimes. She announced that she will be dedicating her next book in the memory of Late Hazarika.

Anjuman ara Begum, lawyer and activist recalled the struggles she faced when working on the ground with different communities in different parts of the world. Tinat Atifa Masood, the anchor for the evening, thanked everyone and advised the young girls present in the audience to be inspired to achieve more. Mehbooba Begum, Deputy Secretary, Legislative Department, Government of Assam delivered the vote of thanks.

(Reshma Shah is an education consultant based in Guwahati)

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 Love of Chocolates Made Tayabun Nisha An Athlete, And One to Reckon With!

ABDUL GANI

Guwahati :

She is as strong as ever. Meet Assam’s first ever female athlete to win a medal at the national level. She is Tayabun Nisha who broke a national record in discuss throw in 1971 and represented the country in several international events across the globe.

“Even today, I want to achieve so many things. Maybe I’ve again too many challenges. But I will overcome those,” Nisha told Thumb Print.

Though it was the love for chocolates which dragged her to the field of athletics and she went on to become the first female athlete to win a medal for Assam at the national platform. But later it is her determination and toughness to see off the challenges which sailed her through for success.

On receiving the ‘Yamin Hazarika Woman of Substance Award 2016’, she is elated. “What else I can ask for? It’s a great feeling for me. I wish people know more about Yamin Hazarika. She can be a source of inspiration for many. I feel myself to be a part of it. I also thank the organizer for choosing me the worth of it,” said Nisha.

Moving on her past, the champion athlete said that the road was never been an easy one. “When I look back to my childhood, it seems so funny. There used to be some village level competitions in my native place at Dhaiali in Sivasagar district on various occasions like Independence Day, Republic Day or on Bihu. Those days the winners used to get a box of chocolates. The love for the chocolates made me work harder to win medals as we could not afford chocolates. But gradually, I realized winning a medal also gives a recognition and later on I took it seriously,” Nisha said.

Belonging to a conservative Muslim family was another hurdle for her to take part in sports activities and all these things could not deter her from the goal.

“Losing my parents at an early age was a setback but it gave me the courage to fight back the odds in life. I lost my father in 1970 when I was a class VIII student. It doubled the responsibility on my shoulders to look after my siblings. There were people in our neighbourhood who used to say things against a girl going out to take part in outdoor activities. But simply didn’t care because I knew in the hour of crisis these people never came forward to help us,” said Nisha. But earlier, her father was encouraging.

All these developments always motivated her to be even stronger. “We did not have much facility to practice but I used to be prepared mentally always. I knew only my dedication can lead me to the success,” she said.

Then even when she was going through a bad phase, Nisha started working for the Railways at a salary of Rs 250 in 1970s.

In 1971 Nisha took part in the 9th Inter State Athletic Meet to make her debut in Ahmedabad. Bronze in that tournament created a history in sports as she became the first woman athlete from the state to won a medal in a national championship.

In 1974 in Jaipur broke a 12 year old national record in discuss throw throwing a distance of 29.32 metre.

In 1982 Asian Games she missed medals but it did not hamper her mental strength.

“Though we worked hard before the games, I could not win a medal. But I was upset as I knew the reality. We were not up to the mark of other countries,” she said.

But a thought always haunts her that if they were provided better facilities, there would have been more medals. “We never had proper training. We did not have idea about the proper diets. But our contemporaries from other countries were well ahead than us. So I sometimes feel that we could have done much better,” Nisha added.

Now, she is planning to set up a sports academy and hostel especially for girls who are from poor families.

“As we have experienced lack of proper facilities for the rural girls, I’m planning to start a hostel where a young will be taken care of to build her sports career. But I’m not sure when we can start it,” she said.

On the present generation, the veteran athlete said that the determination is must. “One has to be determined to achieve. But unfortunately that kind of determination and hunger for success is missing among the today’s youngsters,” she said.

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source: http://www.thecitizen.in / The Citizen / Home> Border / by Reshma Shah / Guwahati – Tuesday, July 26th, 2016