Mangaluru-based author Harsha Shankar Bhat’s book ‘Navaithi of Bhatkal’ was launched on Sunday February 14 at Bhatkal’s historic site ‘Nawje Fatar’, Mushma Street, where the author shared her impressions quoting a language is like a window. When we peek and see what is inside, the people inside the window will open the door when they see us outside. The Nawayati people opened the door of the house for me, took me inside and informed me about their language.
Addressing the Nawayath community, she said that we should be proud of our language, the Nawayath community has its own culture, the people here are mostly educated and the way of life is different from others. Nawayath is a community that goes to any corner of the world, wherever they go to earn money, they come back to Bhatkal, spend their money here, build their house here, this is what makes a community strong. She said, “I became interested in learning about the Nawayati language when my father told me that the Muslims of Bhatkal have a different Konkani language.
“After researching how Bhatkal’s Nawayati is spoken, what are the rules of Nawayati language, I have penned a book and opened a window for people, which will help more people to come forward,” she added.
On the occasion, she recited the poem ‘Apauta Amka Gaon Ya’ in her melodic voice, which was written by the well-known Nawayati poet Shabbir Baida.
Addressing the welcome speech, Gurudat Bantawal, said, “After every 15 km there is a slight change in the language. He said that no matter how many languages ??are spoken in India, there is a similarity in all languages. According to him, the language spoken by the Nawayath people is called Nawayati. The language spoken by the people in Gujarat is Gujarati, the language of the people living in Punjab is Punjabi, the language of the Kashmir people is Kashmiri. The language of the people where they live is named after their respective area. Similarly, the language spoken in Konkan areas is called Konkani.
He gave a brief introduction of ‘Vishwa Konkani Kendra’, and said that through this center established in 2009, research is being done in different languages ??of Konkani and those who do research on Konkani language, Konkani people or Konkani society are given fellowships.
The book ‘Navaiti of Bhatkal’ was launched by the president of Nawayath Mehfil, Jan Abdul Rahman Mohtasham. Maulana Ilyas Jakti Nadvi, Pradeep Pai and Atiqur Rahman Muniri, who were present as guests expressed their views on the occasion.
The programme, organized jointly by Nawayath Mehfil, Sunshine Sports Center and Vishwa Konkani Kendra, began with the recitation of Holy Quran in Nawayati and Kannada translation, followed by Naat. Sunshine’s anthem was also sung on the occasion and well-known Nawayati poet Samiullah Barmawar recited a poem of his own. Vishwa Konkani Kendra’s president Waman Shenai presided over the function. Atiqur Rahman Shabandari compered the programme.
Qamar Sada, Maulana Abdul Aleem Qasmi, Sunshine Sports Center general secretary Qaisar Mohtasham, Siddique Ismail, Jafar Mohtasham, K V Kharvi, Vasant Kharvi, Pooja V Naik, Zubair Jukaku, and many others were present onstage.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Karnataka / by Media Release / February 15th, 2021
The annual social gathering of Anjuman Boys’ High School (ABHS) was celebrated on the Anjumanbad campus, Bhatkal. During the event, the ‘Viqaur-e-Anjuman’ Gold Medal award was presented to the outstanding student for the year 2023-24.
The ‘Viquar-e-Anjuman’ award was conferred to Mohammed Mohtesham S/o Mohammed Sajid Mohtesham. Mohammed Tanoof S/o Mohammed Taha Channa, and Mohammed Afeef S/o Rayees Farooqi, were awarded the Silver Medal as the runners-up for ‘Viqaur-e-Anjuman.’
The Chief Guest of the function, Maulana Abdul Aleem Khateeb Nadvi, Imam and Khateeb of Jamia Masjid, emphasized the pivotal role of education in shaping the future of the world. He highlighted the significance of the current educational period in students’ lives and urged them to recognize its importance.
Maulana also encouraged students to strive for excellence and continuous improvement, stressing the need for them to nurture big dreams and envision a future where they can make a positive impact on society. He recommended that students delve into the biographies of great personalities who have achieved remarkable success in their lives.
The Guest of Honour, Mr. Usman Ubaid Jubapau, a Chartered Accountant, emphasized the pivotal roles of communication and technology in today’s world. He expressed the opinion that social media should not be merely used for entertainment but should serve as a platform for “edutainment” or “informatainment,” promoting knowledge acquisition.
Mr. Jubapau advised parents not to impose their ambitions on their children but rather allow them to make choices for themselves. Addressing the management, he highlighted the rapid advancements in technology and emphasized the need for staying updated. Mr. Jubapau also recommended the implementation of career counseling and guidance programs and workshops for students to enhance their career prospects. He stressed the importance of regularly conducting such sessions for the betterment of students’ future careers.
In the morning session, Maulana Syed Salik Barmawar Nadvi, Teacher of Jamia Islamia, was present as the chief guest and addressed the gathering. Meanwhile, several students were awarded trophies, certificates, and cash prizes for their performance and achievements in academics, sports, and co-curricular activities during the academic year.
The program, presided over by the Vice-president of Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen, Mohammed Sadique Pillore, commenced with the recitation of verses from the Holy Qur’an by Abubaker Siddique Ruknuddin, followed by a Naat sung by Mohammed Jukaku. Maulana Abdul Hafeez Miftahi welcomed the guests, Ahmed Arif Akrami introduced the guests, and Headmaster Abdullah Umer Ruknuddin presented their school’s annual report. Jareer Hassan Shoupa delivered the vote of thanks.
On the dais, Chief Qazi Martkazi Khaleefa Jamaatul Muslimeen Bhatkal, Maulana Khaja Mohinuddin Akrami Madni, Additional Secretary Ishaque Shabandri, Secretary School Board Sadullah Ruknuddin, and many others were present.
source: http://www.sahilonline.org / Sahil Online / Home> Coastal News / by SO News Service / December 31st, 2023
Mohammad Afzal, senior Congress leader, distinguished journalist, former Rajya Sabha MP and presently vice chairman of Delhi’s Urdu Academy has been appointed India’s ambassador to Angola by the President of India APJ Abdul Kalam. He will take up his new assignment soon.
Angola is one of the 30 odd countries of the African continent and is situated in northwest part of the Atlantic coast. Area-wise it is a fairly large country, almost double the size of Pakistan but populationwise a small country, with a total population of 12 or 13 million only. After Nigeria, it is the second largest petroleum producing country of Africa. Petroleum was discovered recently in this country and after that its progress has been rapid. The country is also famous for its diamond and copper mines and almost 10 percent of the world’s diamond is found in Angola.
Born in Delhi in January 1952, Afzal received his education at Delhi’s Anglo-Arabic Higher Secondary School, thereafter at Delhi College (now Zakir Husain College), Jamia Millia Islamia and Delhi University. He is a fearless and principled journalist and as chief editor of widely circulated Urdu weekly Akhbar-e Nau he gave a new direction to Urdu journalism. He was elected president of All India Urdu Editors Conference, member of All India Newspapers Editors Conference, Indian Federation of Small and Medium Newspapers Federation and Legislatures of India. He was also appointed member of National Integration Council. He has written nearly five thousand articles and write-ups, interviewed a large number of political leaders and important personalities which is a record in Urdu journalism. As a journalist he visited more than 25 countries of the world including Japan, Jordan, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Libya, Hong Kong, Namibia, Tanzania and Thailand in addition to USA, Russia and almost all countries of Europe and wrote a number of travelogues.
He started his journalistic career from the Urdu weekly Nai Duniya and thereafter started his own weekly Akhbar-e Nau which soon became popular.
Elected to Rajya Sabha in 1990, he worked as an active member and raised his voice for the promotion of Urdu language and Urdu journalism. Whether it was enactment of TADA or innocent people arrested under TADA, repression in Kashmir, disappearance of voters’ name from voters lists, he strongly raised all these matters in Parliament.
He also served as member of many standing committees of Parliament, advisory committee of ministry of Information and Broadcasting for Urdu programmes and as a member of delegations of prime ministers and Presidents to foreign countries.
source: http://www.milligazette.com / The Milli Gazette Online / Home / Jyly 11-15, 2005
Tucked between the roaring waves of the Arabian Sea and the lush green canopy of the Western Ghats lies a jewel of a town – Bhatkal.
A place where coconut palms sway in the ocean breeze, where the call to prayer echoes through the valleys, and where the scent of cardamom-laced biryani mingles with the salty sea air. But beyond its scenic charm and poetic quietude, Bhatkal tells an inspiring story – a story of legacy, faith, culture, and a deep-rooted commitment to education.
Once a humble trading post frequented by Arab merchants, Bhatkal today is a dynamic blend of history and modernity. Its people, mostly of Arab descent, still carry the flame of their forefathers – traders who braved the seas, settled in distant lands, and left behind more than just wealth. They bequeathed a way of life, a sense of community, and a passion for learning that continues to flourish in remarkable ways.
Imagine waking up to a view where mist-kissed mountains tumble into spice-scented fields, only to meet a coastline where waves pound golden sands under the watchful gaze of age-old palms. That’s Bhatkal – not just a town, but a canvas painted with the green of the hills, the blue of the sea, and the gold of tradition. And amid this natural splendour, an educational movement has quietly taken root – transforming lives and reaffirming the town’s historic role as a cradle of knowledge and cultural resilience.
A Legacy Carried on the Tides
The story begins not just in Bhatkal, but far beyond – across the seas in the Gulf. Over the last five decades, thousands of Bhatkalis migrated to the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait – carrying with them their culture, values, and a remarkable sense of unity. Wherever they went, they established Jamaats (community organisations), which became lifelines of cultural preservation and mutual support.
But by the 1990s, community elders noticed a worrying trend. Amid the glitz of Gulf jobs and the comfort of petro-dollar salaries, education was beginning to take a back seat. Young boys were dropping out after high school, opting to join the workforce early. The allure of quick earnings began to eclipse the pursuit of knowledge.
It was then that the Bhatkal Muslim Khaleej Council – an umbrella body of 11 Gulf-based Bhatkali Jamaats – decided to act.
The Birth of the Rabita Educational Award
The Council launched the Rabita Educational Award to rekindle academic ambition among Bhatkali youth. It wasn’t just about giving away medals or cash – it was about igniting pride, ambition, and a sense of purpose. The idea was simple: if we honour excellence, others will strive for it.
When the initiative began 30 years ago, the bar was modest. Students securing 65-70% were among the awardees. Yet even then, it was revolutionary. For the first time, young boys and girls felt seen and celebrated, and parents began to regard education as a shared community value.
Fast forward to today: Rabita Award winners score as high as 98% and above. This year, the difference between the topper and the runner-up was a mere 0.0375%. That’s not a gap – it’s a heartbeat.
This Year’s Celebration: A Festival of Learning
The 2025 Rabita Award Ceremony, held on 24th July at the sprawling grounds of Anjuman Islamiah Anglo-Urdu High School, was nothing short of majestic.
Even as rain poured steadily over the coastal town, the people of Bhatkal gathered in full strength. The makeshift auditorium overflowed with parents, teachers, and well-wishers – proving once again that no weather can dampen a community’s spirit when the cause is education. The stage, draped in the colours of Bhatkal’s spirit, welcomed an audience of thousands – parents, educators, students, and dignitaries.
Dr. Saud Alam Qasmi, a respected professor from Aligarh Muslim University and member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, addressed the gathering. His words resonated deeply:
“The United Nations declared education a basic human right in 1947. But 1,450 years ago, Islam declared: ‘Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim man and woman.’”
His speech wove together spiritual insight and modern urgency, urging families to view education not as a luxury, but as both a sacred duty and a social necessity.
Joining him was Karnataka State Minister Mankal Vaidya, who praised Bhatkal’s educational institutions and pledged full support for establishing a medical college – recognising that Anjuman already offers nearly every other academic faculty.
More Than Medals: The Power of Encouragement
This year, 35 students across SSLC, PUC, and degree levels were honoured with gold medals and thoughtful gifts. Among them, female students once again outshone their peers, capturing two-thirds of the recognitions – a heartening sign of changing mindsets and growing gender parity in education.
The Best School Award continues to be named after Janab Usman Hassan, the legendary headmaster of Islamia Anglo High School, who worked tirelessly to promote education in Bhatkal. A pioneer in his own right, he laid the foundation for a culture of academic excellence that still echoes through the town’s institutions.
In a meaningful addition this year, the Best Teacher Award was named after Janab Syed Khaleelur Rahman Sahib, the very same visionary celebrated in the tribute volume “Iftikhar-e-Qaum Janab SM Khaleelur Rahman”. From his Gulf office in Dubai, he dreamt of uplifting his people through knowledge – and worked quietly but tirelessly to turn that vision into reality.
Though he now rests in the desert sands of Arabia, his legacy continues to bloom each year in the smiles and successes of the awardees he once imagined. Honouring him through the Best Teacher Award is both a tribute and a reminder that behind every great student is a teacher who believed in their potential.
This year’s recognitions reflected that enduring vision.
Ali Public School (Girls) received the Best School title, led by their standout student Hafsa Bint Hafeezullah, who scored an impressive 98.04%.
The Best Teacher honour went to Ms. Fatima Wida Siddiqui of Noonahal Central School, recognised for her outstanding dedication to education.
District toppers such as Shagufta Anjum (Urdu) and Bhoomika (English) were also felicitated, symbolising the inclusive spirit of academic celebration that the Rabita Awards embody.
Why This Model Deserves to Be Replicated
In an age when education is increasingly commodified, where coaching institutes manufacture toppers and commercial schools chase ranks, the Rabita model stands apart.
It is community-funded, value-driven, and inclusive. It celebrates the bright, uplifts the average, and motivates the struggling. It views education not merely as individual success, but as a shared legacy and a community responsibility.
The Rabita Award isn’t just a medal; it’s a signal fire – telling every child, “We see you. We believe in you. We’re with you.”
Imagine This in Every Town
What if every small town like Bhatkal decided to invest in its children this way?
What if the diaspora of Hyderabad, Azamgarh, Kutch, or Kolkata pooled their earnings not just for lavish marriages and luxury homes, but for educational dreams?
What if every community – regardless of faith, culture, or geography – told its youth: “We are proud of your academic journey. Keep going. We’re watching. We care.”
Communities that value knowledge rise. Those that don’t, perish slowly.
A Lesson from the Sea and the Ghats
Just like the waves of the Arabian Sea, education must be relentless – always pushing, always reshaping. And like the roots of the Western Ghats, it must be deep, nourishing generations, and anchoring identity against the floods of time.
Bhatkal is not just a place; it’s a model of what’s possible when community, culture, and commitment converge.
As the sun sets behind its palm-draped shores, one truth becomes clear:
Awards don’t just honour achievers. They create them.
Let This Be Your Takeaway
If you’re reading this in another town, another country, another community – know this: you too can start your Rabita. You too can plant the seeds of pride, perseverance, and purpose in your youth.
Start small. Honour the top three in your school. Involve your elders. Call the students to the stage. Clap for them. Gift them a medal. Take their picture. Tell the story. And do it again next year.
That’s how legacies begin.
And who knows? One day, someone may write about your town the way we write about Bhatkal – a place where the sea sings songs of learning, and the mountains stand tall in witness to dreams fulfilled.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education / by Mohammed Talha Siddi Bapa / July 26th, 2025
She calls upon council and the people for concerted efforts to take district forward
IUML Malappuram district president Sayed Sadikali Shihab Thangal offering sweets to newly elected District Panchayat President M.K. Rafeeka in Malappuram on Wednesday.
Indian Union Muslim League (IUML)’s M.K. Rafeeka was elected president of the Malappuram District Panchayat here on Wednesday. IUML’s Ismail Moothedam was elected vice president.
Ms. Rafeeka became President by winning 26 of the 32 votes. She defeated Left Democratic Front (LDF)’s Arifa Nasar, who got five votes. One vote was declared invalid.
Congress’s N.A. Kareem proposed Ms. Rafeeka for the president’s post, and P. Manaf backed her. Ms. Rafeeka represents Anakkayam division of the District Panchayat.
Ismail Moothedam was elected Vice President by winning 27 votes against LDF’s A.K. Subair. K.T. Ajmal proposed Mr. Moothedam’s name and P.K.C. Abdurahman seconded it. Mr. Moothedam represents Chokad division of the District Panchayat.
District Collector K. Gopalakrishnan administered the oath of office to Ms. Rafeeka.
IUML district president Sayed Sadikali Shihab Thangal; Sayed Basheerali Shihab Thangal; IUML district general secretary U.A. Latheef; P. Ubaidullah, MLA; former District Panchayat presidents K.P. Mariyumma, Arimbra Mohammed, Suhara Mampad and A.P. Unnikrishnan; senior IUML leaders Umer Arakkal, Salim Kuruvambalam, Kurukkoli Moideen, Noushad Mannisseri, and Congress leaders V.A. Kareem and K. Mohandas addressed a meeting that followed the oath taking ceremony. A commerce postgraduate, Ms. Rafeeka said that she would look upon the responsible position with due respect.
She called upon the entire council and the people for concerted efforts to take the district forward in comprehensive development.
Former president of Pulamanthol grama panchayat, Ms. Rafeeka was elected from Anakkayam division with 11,449 votes majority. She was instrumental in winning many accolades for Pulamanthol grama panchayat between 2010 and 2015. In 2011, the panchayat won the State Swaraj Trophy, the Central Vayo Sreshta Samman, and Gaurav Grama Sabha award. In 2013, she won a Central award for panchayat empowerment. In 2014, Pulamanthol won Rajiv Gandhi Best Grama Panchayat award.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Kerala / by Staff Reporter / December 30th, 2020
In Marapala, under the Thitimathi Gram Panchayat of Kodagu district, a dilapidated house belonging to a poor family—damaged over the years due to heavy rains—has been rebuilt into a beautiful new home. The initiative was undertaken by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Kodagu District’s Baitu Zakat unit, with generous support from donors and the Sadrimane team.
In a simple ceremony held on the evening of Wednesday, July 23, the newly built house was inaugurated, and the keys were handed over by JI Abdussalam, Convenor of the Mysore Zone.
The event was graced by Gram Panchayat President Mrs. Ponnu, Vice President Mrs. Shyamala, members JI Afroz, local cleric Maulana Kamaruddin Ahsani, Baitu Zakat supervisor, and businessman JI Ahmed Balele, JIH Kodagu District Convenor JI C.H. Afsar Madikeri, District Secretary P.K. Abdurrahman Virajpet, Gonikoppa Circle Convenor JI Tanvir Ahmed, and JIH Siddapur Local President JI M.K. Ashraf, who played a key role in overseeing the construction.
source: http://www.thehindustangazette.com / The Hindustan Gazette / Home> News> Latest News / by The Hindustan Gazette / July 24th, 2025
Among them are women who, through their work, have not only guided society but also become role models themselves. With courage, dedication, hard work, and limited resources, they are bringing about changes.
The list includes teachers, entrepreneurs, social workers, and heralds of change. Their stories fill us with pride and remind us that you can realise your objectives of serving society.
Khursheed Ahmad
Khursheed Ahmad has played a pivotal role in reviving Bihar’s cultural soul and turning Patna into a vibrant center of literature and arts. He has brought traditional forms like qawwali, poetry, literature, and Sufi music back into public life, infusing them with fresh energy and contemporary relevance.
Jabir Ansari
The right guidance at the right time can profoundly shape a life. Jabir Ansari, who hails from a humble background, reached the international martial arts arena thanks to his unwavering dedication. Hailing from Tumba Pahaad village in the Naxal-affected Jhajha block of Jamui district, he has won many gold medals and made his mark in martial arts.
Shams Alam
When doctors diagnosed a tumor in Shams Alam’s spine, they reassured him he would be running again in weeks. That day never came. Paralysis left his body’s lower half numb—a life-changing moment. Instead of despairing, Shams chose determination. Through grit and love for swimming, he emerged as a para‑swimmer who has made an indelible mark in Bihar, across India, and on international stages—breaking records and breaking barriers.
Tayyaba Afroz
She’s a pilot, and her social media bio proudly features phrases like “Born To Fly,” and “Dream, Achieve, Fly.” But behind these inspiring words lies a powerful story—selling ancestral land, withstanding social criticism, and overcoming physical and emotional barriers. Tayyaba Afroz from Jalalpur village in Saran district is not just the state’s first Muslim woman commercial pilot—she is a vibrant symbol of struggle, perseverance, and lofty dreams.
Dr. M. Aijaz Ali
Former Rajya Sabha MP Dr. M. Aijaz Ali has been an advocate for the marginalized for nearly 30 years. His guiding belief is that true development is incomplete without social equality and protecting the rights of the poor. Born in 1958 and raised in an orphanage, he overcame poverty through his academic passion to gain admission to the prestigious Patna Medical College.
Jameel Akhtar
As Deputy General Manager at NTPC, Jameel Akhtar has dedicated his life to educating underprivileged children in Bihar. His commitment is so intense that he has chosen to remain unmarried, believing marriage might hinder his mission. “If I marry, managing the education and care of 550 children will become difficult,” he told Awaz –The Voice. In a senior role at NTPC, his heart beats for the children who have no means to attend school.
Mohammad Ibrahim
A resident of Ramna in Motihari, Mohammad Ibrahim’s extraordinary journey inspires not just the youth of Bihar but all of India. His path from Motihari to Dubai is a powerful testament to determination and purpose. Recently honoured with Oxford University’s Best Travel & Immigration Services Award, his story marks a significant milestone in his professional journey.
Dr. Mumtaz Nair
Dr. Mumtaz Nair hails from a small village in the Kishanganj district of Bihar. In her early years, her family struggled even to meet basic needs. Despite hardships, her family chose to invest in her education—a decision that one day contributed significantly to the global fight against some of the world’s deadliest viruses.
Faizan Ali
At just 18 years, Faizan Ali was earning a degree in business studies when life called him to a deeper purpose. More than studies or ambition, he realised his true calling was serving humanity. “If you truly want to share someone’s pain, age and education don’t matter—passion does,” Faizan told Awaz – The Voice. Now 23, Faizan from Gaya is a shining example of selfless service. Raised in a modest family, he never imagined his life would pivot from a corporate future to community work.
Rani Khanam
Rani Khanam is the first Muslim Kathak dancer in Independent India to turn her love for classical dance into a profession. Originally from Gopalganj, Bihar, she practiced Kathak clandestinely, in a family that did not allow music or dance. Through her art, she has empowered women and highlighted key social issues.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home>The Changemakers / July 20th, 2025
Yet another feather in the cap of paediatrician Dr Abdul Kasim Jaleel Ahamed as he was honoured with ‘Eminent Doctor Personality Award’ for the year 2025 at an event held at Indian Medical Association (IMA) headquartered in New Delhi. The occasion was during National Doctors Day
“Medicine cures diseases but only doctors can cure patients.” This thought-provoking quote of Swiss psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and psychologist Carl Gustav Jung is relevant in the context of noted paediatrician from Coimbatore Dr Abdul Kasim Jaleel Ahamed as he was honoured with ‘Eminent Doctor Personality Award’ for the year 2025 at an event held at Indian Medical Association (IMA) headquartered in New Delhi on the National Doctors Day event.
Indian Medical Association (IMA), the world’s largest association of doctors with over 4 lakh members and 1,800 branches across the country, held its prestigious national award ceremony in the nation’s capital on July 14, wherein scores of medical professionals in different categories were recognised with the honour by Chief Guest Dr Jitendra Goyal, Union Minister of Science and Technology besides the Guest of Honour Dr Anil Goyal, MLA from Delhi.
With over four decades of dedicated service, Dr Jaleel Ahamed carved a niche for himself in treating children at his Cloud One Smart Clinic at West Ponnurangam Road in RS Puram neighbourhood in Coimbatore city. No gainsaying the fact that the child specialist earned name and fame among the residents within and off the city. Noteworthy to mention, he earlier served as Chief Paediatrician and Neonatologist at Sri Ramakrishna Hospital for 34 years.
It is pertinent to point out that Holy Quran researcher, noted speaker, author and publisher Dr Ameer Althaf, in his book ‘Pettagam’ released in 2013 which is a compilation of 300 years history of Coimbatore Muslims, has a separate chapter on Dr A K Jaleel Ahamed.
He married the daughter of Sakkarai Mohamed Rowther, a philanthropist, who spared a considerable amount for charity even while running his transport company in the 1970s. Those were the days when the less privileged and poor waited in front of Jungle Beer Dargah, Jamesha Dargah and Five Corner mosque during Jumma Ki Raat and on Jumma day.
Dr Jaleel Ahamed taking a cue from his father-in-law is doing his mite continuing his tradition in reaching out to the poor and the needy. Not to be left behind, Dr Jaleel’s service to mankind fetched him accolades from several quarters from far and near while not to speak of the recent IMA Delhi’s ‘Eminent Doctor Personality Award’ at a function organised in connection with ‘National Doctors Day’.
Making heads turn, Dr Jaleel treated an 800-gram test-tube baby claimed to be the country’s first while serving at Sri Ramakrishna Hospital as Chief Paediatrician & Neonatologist, which was the talk of the town then. Interestingly, the baby whom he had treated grew to become a graduate bringing pride to the paediatrician for his noble gesture. This particular incident finds a place in the Pettagam book.
Significantly, he was instrumental in donning the role of Organising ChairPerson – State Neocon 2007 and 2014, Organising Committee Ooty Pedicon (State IAP Conference 2005), Organising Committee , Kongu Pedicon (State IAP Conference 2017 Coimbatore, Organising ChairPerson – South Neocon 2018 in Chennai besides Organising Chairperson – State Neocon 2019 in Madurai, Organised Various CME and Neonatal and Paediatric Workshops in Coimbatore and was State & South Zone Coordinator for IAP Presidential Action Plans.
To his credit, he has numerous awards, including Sr Paediatrician Award, IAPTNSC Senior Neonatologist Award, NNFTN Academic Excellence Award, IMA Community Service Award UG, PG at Coimbatore Medical College during 1976 to 1981,1983-1985 besides Fellowship in Neonatology & Paediatric medicine.
Moreover, he had attended various International, National and State level conferences, workshops, CME programmes in Neonatology at Germany, Norway, Singapore, Italy, UK, South Africa, Dubai, Malaysia, Netherland, Athens, and Alexandria.
Adding more to this, Dr Jaleel said that he was part of the International vaccine summit during 2004 at Thailand and submitted various papers, presentations in paediatrics and neonatology and was selected as a special invitee to attend surfactant replacement therapy during 2006, 2007 in Norway (Oslo), and Italy (Ancona) while not speak of his participation at ESPGHAN summit held in UK, Czech Republic., Geneva, Scotland Visited Marburg, Germany as an observer in neonatology and paediatric nephrology during 2005.
He obtained observer fellowship in neonatology during 2012 at Texas Children’s Hospital USA. The list is endless as he is armed with many recognitions across the globe.
Radiance takes pride in felicitating Dr Jaleel Ahamed for the IMA honour for his dedicated service to the needy.
[The author is former Indian Express and Deccan Chronicle chief]
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Pride of the Nation> Awards / by M Rafi Ahmed / July 22nd, 2025
The bond between Assamese Hindus and Assamese Muslims is very strong and no one can easily break the traditional friendship between the two communities, Wasbir Hussain, author and executive director of Centre for Development and Peace Studies, has said.
Addressing the fourth anniversary celebrations of the Assamese Syed Welfare Trust, an organisation representing the Assamese Syeds, Hussain on Sunday urged Gauhati University to start a chair in the name of Azan Pir, a 17th-century Muslim reformer and Sufi saint, on the subject of ‘inter-faith harmony or harmony of communities’.
Assamese Syeds are one of the five Muslim groups officially recognised by the Assam government as indigenous communities of the state.
Hussain said except religion, there is no difference between Assamese Hindus and Assamese Muslims. Their language is the same, culture is the same, food habits are the same and they dress the same way, he said.
“I strongly believe that no one can easily break the traditional bond of friendship between Assamese Hindus and Assamese Muslims,” he said.
Hussain, who is also the editor-in-chief of Guwahati-based Northeast Live, spoke about how the indigenous Muslims of Assam follow cultural Islam compared to religious Islam and live peacefully with the larger Hindu population of the state.
He complimented Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for taking initiatives for the protection of the heritage of the Assamese Muslim community and its overall growth.
Gauhati University Vice Chancellor Nani Gopal Mahanta, the chief guest of the event, said people or communities can have multiple identities that transcend religion.
He cited the example of Assamese Muslims and Syeds who are descendants of Sufi saint Azan Pir, saying they are part of the greater Assamese society.
Mahanta assured that he will push for the Assamese Syed Welfare Trust’s proposal to introduce the Azan Pir chair in Gauhati University and that he will work towards republishing the works of renowned Assamese writer Syed Abdul Malik’s ‘Jikirs Aru Jari’.
Assamese Syed Welfare Trust president Syed Abdul Rashid Ahmed also spoke on the occasion.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> India / by Vartha Bharati / January 20th, 2025
ACP Rehana Sheikh, who received nearly 150 awards and served across Maharashtra, says she will continue to serve the nation even after retirement
Mumbai/Sangli , MAHARASHTRA :
Rehana Sheikh, Maharashtra’s first Muslim woman police officer, has retired after nearly 36 years of dedicated service. She started her journey as a sub-inspector and retired on 31 May from the post of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP). At the time of retirement, she was working in the VIP security at Raj Bhavan in South Mumbai.
Governor of Maharashtra CP Radhakrishnan honoured ACP Rehana Sheikh on her retirement. She was recognised not just for her long career but also for her contribution to law enforcement and her trailblazing role as the first Muslim woman in the Maharashtra police force.
Speaking to Clarion India, Rehana Sheikh said, “I was the first Muslim woman to become a police officer in Sangli and Maharashtra. When I applied, 25,000 women took the police recruitment exam. Only 25 were selected and I was the only Muslim woman among them.”
Sheikh, who hails from Sangli, said her father served in the military, but no one in her family had worked in the police before. Her dream began when she was a national-level volleyball player. Watching the TV serial Udhan, which showed a woman police officer, inspired her to serve the country.
“A kabaddi player from our neighbourhood had become a sub-inspector. I had job offers from banks, but my volleyball coach asked me, ‘Do you want to be a clerk or an officer?’ That question changed my life,” she recalled.
Despite social challenges and the fact that a police job was not seen favourably at the time, her family stood by her. Rehana’s journey in the force was marked by both professional achievements and personal hardships.
“Shortly after I joined the force, my father passed away. I had to take care of my mother, younger sister and brothers. Then I got married in 1991, but my husband died in an accident in 1993. My son was very young at that time,” she said.
After her husband’s death, she was transferred to Solapur and later promoted and posted in Kolhapur. She remarried in 2004 and continued her service with dedication in various cities and districts of Maharashtra.
Rehana Sheikh worked during some of the most dangerous times in Mumbai’s history. “When I began my career, the underworld was very strong. Crimes were violent — beatings, murders. Now, the nature of crime has changed. We see more cybercrime and online fraud,” she explained.
She played an active role in many high-profile operations. “I was part of the police team during the Lokhandwala shootout. I was also involved in the search at Arun Gawli’s Dagdi Chawl, where we seized weapons. Those were difficult times, and I believe the new generation will find such work challenging.”
She also spoke about being among the first batch of women allowed to work at police stations. “Earlier, women officers were only posted at airports or less active places. We were the first to be allowed to work in police stations.”
Balancing home and duty has never been easy. “My husband and my colleagues supported me. I had the responsibility of my family and later my in-laws, too. But I managed both because of their support and Allah’s grace,” she said.
During her long career, Rehana Sheikh was honoured with nearly 150 awards. But for her, the real success lies in the lives she touched and the message she now wants to spread.
“My message to women is: be educated and join the police force. Serve the society, the nation and the country. Even after retirement, I want to continue working for the betterment of people,” she said with pride.
ACP Rehana Sheikh’s journey from Sangli to the top ranks of Mumbai’s police force is not only inspiring but also a symbol of determination, courage, and service.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> India> Indian Muslim / by Team Clarion / June 03rd, 2025
