Monthly Archives: February 2026

Kerala schoolboy’s bravery brings three back from the brink of death

Mankada Village (Malappuram District), KERALA :

Mohammed Shamil C

That Sunday afternoon still lingers in Mohammed Shamil’s mind: the loud cries for help and the rush to save lives. Without hesitation, he dived into a murky village pond and brought three girls back to life from the brink.

One of them needed CPR, and he gave her the breath of life with the little knowledge he learned from school. Now, Shamil is hailed as a hero and showered with felicitations, trophies and mementoes – more than three dozen in less than two weeks.

Schools and clubs invite him to share his story, inspiring others to act in moments of crisis. For the Class 12 boy, it is about saving lives and not seeking praise.

Mohammed Shamil (right) and his younger brother Mohammed Shehin being felicitated with currency garlands at their school. | Photo Credit: SAKEER HUSSAIN

On July 13, around 2 p.m., Shamil’s peaceful afternoon at his Puthanveedu home at Mankada near Manjeri was disrupted. His mother Shahida had just received a distressing alert from ASHA worker Hafsath Palliyalthodi that three girls were drowning in a nearby pond.

Shahida’s frantic cry propelled Shamil into action. He sprinted 200 meters to the pond and plunged into the muddy waters, where two girls were desperately struggling to stay afloat while the third had already slipped underwater.

Muslim Youth League national secretary Najma Thabsheera felicitating Mohammed Shamil. | Photo Credit: SAKEER HUSSAIN

With careful precision, Shamil rescued the two girls. He was mindful of not putting himself in danger. “When one girl raised her hand, I did not grab it,” he said. “Instead, I caught her dress from behind and pulled her to safety.”

Just as Shamil thought it was over, the rescued girls broke down in tears, revealing that one more person was still submerged underwater. “That moment sent shivers down my spine,” Shamil recalled. “Initially, I was unsure what to do, but I took a few deep breaths and dived multiple times in a desperate attempt to rescue the last one.”

Fire and Rescue Services officers felicitating Mohammed Shamil. | Photo Credit: SAKEER HUSSAIN

The pond was over two meters deep, with murky water, making it difficult to locate the missing girl. As more people arrived, Shamil dove in three times before finally pulling out the 12-year-old girl with the help of his younger brother, Mohammed Shehin, who is a class 8 student.

She was not breathing, and her face was pale. Shamil used his school biology knowledge to do chest compressions. When she showed signs of life, he gave her mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Within minutes, she started breathing again. The girl was then rushed to the hospital.

Shamil’s parents, Shahina and Ashraf, beamed with pride as they looked at the table filled with trophies and mementoes. The recognition came from all corners – the Fire and Rescue Services, local clubs, the MLA, the district, block, and grama panchayats.

Shamil, once just a student, has become a symbol of hope and bravery for the people of Mankada. “I just did what needed to be done,” he humbly said.

source: htttp://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Kerala / by Abdul Latheef Naha / July 25th, 2025

Maroof Raza – A bridge between academia and rugged realities of battlefield dies at 67

INDIA :

Gurugram (TIP) :

Major Maroof Raza (retd), a respected voice in India’s strategic circles, passed away today, February 27, following a prolonged battle with cancer.

Major Raza, 67, who breathed his last in Gurugram, was an Army officer with ground experience in tackling counter insurgency in the north-east. After leaving the Army, he blossomed as a military historian, a respected strategic affairs commentator and authored several books on Pakistan and China.

Known for his analytical mind he connected the gap between military doctrine and public understanding of military jargon. His work was a ‘bridge’ between academia and the rugged realities of the battlefield. “Maroof had great confidence and oratory skills, the transition towards being a strategic commentator was natural for him,” says Maj Gen Jagatbir Singh (retd), a long-standing friend of Major Raza.

Born into a military family — his father was Brigadier MM Raza from the Grenadiers regiment. Schooled at Mayo College, Ajmer, Major Raza graduated in history honors from the St Stephen’s College, New Delhi.

He joined the Army and was commissioned into the 6th battalion of the Grenadiers regiment and later the battalion was converted into 14 Mechanized Infantry. In his early days, he had extensive involvement in counter-insurgency (CI) operations, in the north -east. He later served as instructor at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, from where had passed out in December 1980.

Major Raza resigned from his commission to pursue a career in strategic studies and media and did his Master’s in War Studies from King’s College, London, and did an MPhil in International Relations from Cambridge University.

Around the same time 24×7 news channels were holding daily shows in the evening and Raza became a household name providing the “soldier’s perspective” on national security issues. His ability to explain the nuances of the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan or the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China was his forte.

His major published books include: Low Intensity Conflicts (1995); Wars and No Peace Over Kashmir (1996); Kashmir’s Untold Story: Declassified (2019); Contested Lands: India, China and the Boundary Dispute (2021).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Maroof Raza made a rich contribution to the world of journalism. He enriched public discourse with his nuanced understanding of defense, national security as well as strategic affairs. Pained by his passing.

source: http://www.theindianpanorama.news / The Indian Panorama / Home> United Nations / February 27th, 2026

From Balaghat to bureaucracy: Farkhanda Qureshi’s inspiring rise to UPSC Rank 67

Balaghat, MADHYA PRADESH:

Balaghat (Madhya Pradesh):

When she was in Class 8, a young girl in Balaghat sat watching television as district collector B Chandrasekharan appeared on a local channel. For many, it was just another news segment. For Farkhanda Qureshi, it was a turning point. In that moment, a dream quietly took root — she would one day become a civil servant.

Years later, that dream has turned into reality.

Farkhanda Qureshi, a determined young woman from the small town of Balaghat in Madhya Pradesh, has secured an impressive 67th rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024. She will soon begin her training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Dehradun, stepping into the journey she once only imagined.

“I had decided that one day I would become a collector and work for society,” she recalls — a promise she made to herself as a schoolgirl.

Her success did not come easily. Farkhanda began preparing for the UPSC in 2021. The road was marked by setbacks and disappointments. Yet, she chose persistence over defeat. It was her fourth attempt that finally brought her success.

Through every failure, her parents stood firmly beside her. “My parents never let me break down. They kept telling me that I would succeed one day. Without their support, I might have given up after my first or second attempt,” she shared with media persons.

Farkhanda’s preparation strategy challenges common myths about the UPSC. She believes that marathon study sessions are not the key. “Studying 18 hours a day is not necessary. What matters is consistency and the right strategy,” she says. She dedicated 6 to 8 focused hours daily, ensuring that she studied every single day. Previous years’ question papers, standard reference books, newspapers, and current affairs formed the backbone of her preparation.

An alumna of St Mary’s School for her 10th standard and Methodist Mission for her 12th, Farkhanda believes that coming from a small town was never a disadvantage. “Balaghat has never been my weakness. If young people here get the right guidance and resources, they too can achieve national success,” she asserts.

She calls her father, Abdul Malik Qureshi, a lawyer, and her mother, Nikhat Anjum Qureshi, a homemaker, her true heroes. Their faith in her, she says, is the foundation of her achievement.

Farkhanda Qureshi’s journey is more than a rank on a list. It is a reminder that dreams born in small towns can reach the highest corridors of power — with courage, consistency, and unwavering support.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Top Stories / by Daijiworld Media Network – Balaghat / February 26th, 2026

Two Muslim Youth Honoured for Saving Drowning Hindu Man in Ranchi

Ranchi, JHARKHAND :

Ranchi :

In a remarkable demonstration of courage and humanity, two young men from this capital city of Jharkhand, Abul Fazal and Mohammad Naushad, saved the life of Narayan Pandey, who was drowning in Bada Talab. Their swift and fearless action has earned them widespread accolades across the city.

According to eyewitnesses, Narayan Pandey was struggling in the waters of Bada Talab when Abul and Naushad immediately jumped in, pulling him to safety without any hesitation. “I couldn’t believe my eyes,” said one onlooker. “They didn’t think of anything else; their only concern was saving a life.”

Residents have praised the two youths, emphasising that their bravery is not only heroic but also a strong message against communal prejudice. “The courageous act by Abul and Naushad is like a slap on the face of those who try to divide people on religious lines,” said a local community leader.

Recognising their selfless act, Shamsher Alam, Vice President of the Minority Commission, formally honoured the youths by presenting them with a memento and incentive money. “This work is an example of true humanity,” Alam said. “They did not see religion or caste; they saved a life for the sake of humanity alone. I urge the district administration and government to provide them employment for their brave efforts.”

The Mahavir Mandal has also appealed to local authorities to encourage and reward such acts of heroism. Jai Singh Yadav, President of Mahavir Mandal, said, “Youth like Abul and Naushad should be recognised and provided small employment opportunities as a token of appreciation for their dedication to human life.”

This incident has highlighted the spirit of communal harmony and the exemplary bravery of young Muslims in the country. Social media users have shared their admiration widely, calling Abul Fazal and Mohammad Naushad role models for all.

In the current climate, where communal tensions often make headlines, the actions of these two youths remind the nation of the enduring values of courage, humanity, and unity. “We must celebrate people who rise above divisions to protect life,” said one resident. “Abul and Naushad have shown the true meaning of bravery.”

As the city hails their heroism, calls for formal employment and recognition reflect a broader desire to encourage selfless acts and reinforce inter-community respect. Their story now serves as an inspiring example for young Indians everywhere.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslims / by Team Clarion (headline edited) / September 05th, 2025

Muslim scrap-dealer sets an exemplary precedent of honesty, returns jewellery worth Rs 15 lakh to owner Sharmaji

Ballabgarh (Faridabad), HARYANA / Delhi NCR :

New Delhi:

In a period marked by suspicion and sharp communal divides, a quiet act of integrity by a Muslim scrap dealer in Faridabad has drawn attention for its moral clarity.

Haji Akhtar Khan, a kabadi trader in Ballabhgarh, returned gold jewellery worth around Rs 15 lakh to its Hindu owner nearly four months after unknowingly buying it as scrap. The jewellery, weighing close to 100 grams, had been accidentally mixed with household waste during a Diwali clean up and sold along with other discarded items.

The ornaments belonged to Ashok Sharma, a resident of Ballabhgarh. Weeks after selling the scrap, the Sharma family realised that a small packet containing gold jewellery was missing. The loss caused distress, since the ornaments represented years of savings and family memory. By then, the scrap had already passed into the informal recycling chain.

Khan had purchased the scrap in bulk, a routine practice in the trade. Months later, while sorting stored material in his warehouse, he noticed a packet hidden among old items. On opening it, he discovered gold jewellery. The find came at a time when Muslims in several regions face frequent suspicion in public life and trade.

Instead of treating the discovery as an unexpected gain, Khan chose a different path. When Sharma later approached him with inquiries, Khan admitted finding the jewellery and promised to return it without delay.

To maintain transparency, the handover took place at the office of ACP Ballabhgarh Jitesh Malhotra, in the presence of police officials. The moment carried visible emotion for the Sharma family, who received back their belongings intact. Police officers present described the act as rare and worthy of recognition.

Those familiar with Khan describe him as a practising Muslim who has performed Hajj and regards honesty as central to faith and livelihood. In Islamic teaching, amanah or trust holds deep importance, especially in trade and public dealings. Khan reportedly said the discovery felt like a trust placed upon him and returning it remained a duty before God.

The episode unfolded against a broader backdrop of heightened communal tension, economic boycotts, and stereotyping directed at Muslims in public discourse. In such an environment, everyday acts often receive communal labels. Khan’s decision challenged such narratives through conduct rather than argument.

Faridabad, part of the National Capital Region, mirrors many of north India’s social complexities. It hosts factories, migrant labour, and small traders from diverse communities. In this setting, an ordinary scrap transaction turned into a moment of shared trust between neighbours of different faiths.

For Ashok Sharma and Haji Akhtar Khan, the exchange rested on honesty rather than identity. The story has since circulated locally as an example of lived communal harmony. It offered a reminder that ethical choices remain possible even amid strained social conditions.

What began as a Diwali mistake ended with restored faith in human conscience. The return of the jewellery did more than correct a loss. It affirmed dignity, trust, and coexistence through a simple decision guided by principle.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / February 23rd, 2026

Mumtaza Begum’s sheep farm is inspiring women in Kashmir

Watrina Village (Bandipora District, North Kashmir), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Mumtaza Begum, Sheep farm owner

Mumtaza Begum, a 33-year-old homemaker from Watrina village in Bandipora district, North Kashmir, has changed her life through sheep farming. Despite limited resources, social challenges, and the compulsion to drop out of college early, Mumtaza refused to give up and is today recognised as a successful female entrepreneur in the area.

Mumtaza’s story is one of struggle and the spirit of fighting out adversity. Financial difficulties forced her to drop out of college, but she never gave up on her dreams. Her matrimonial family had 10 to 15 sheep, which were reared using traditional methods. This sparked the idea of ​​pursuing sheep farming on a larger scale.

Mumtaza’s dream wasn’t limited to mere subsistence; she wanted to turn it into a systematic and successful business.

With this thought in mind, she approached the Animal Husbandry Department in Bandipora. With the department’s guidance, she applied under the state-sponsored subsidy scheme, “Mini Sheep Farm.” In February 2019, she was selected and allotted a unit of 50 sheep.

Sheep rearing requires hard work and patience. Besides, for Mumtaza, the lack of experience was also a major challenge. But Mumtaza didn’t give up. Through persistent hard work, a passion for learning, and a strong will, she gradually expanded her business. Over time, her experience grew, and her farm expanded.

Mumtaza credits her family, especially her husband, for her success. She says that her husband stood by her every step of the way. “He is always there for me, offering emotional support and actual help with work,” she says.

Mumtaza believes that family support is crucial for women entrepreneurs, especially when they have to juggle both home and work responsibilities.

Mumtaza also praises the officials of the Animal Husbandry Department for her success. Proper guidance, technical advice, and knowledge of government schemes helped her overcome many challenges. With the department’s support, she could manage her farm efficiently and increase production.

Today, Mumtaza Begum owns a successful farm with over 210 sheep. She earns a net income of over 5 lakh rupees annually. Most of her sheep are sold during Eid al-Adha, providing her with a substantial income. This work has not only improved her financial situation but also boosted her confidence and self-worth.

Mumtaza no longer considers herself merely a sheep herder; She wants to inspire other women to opt for entrepreneurship.

She shares her experiences with women and encourages them to move forward. She says that if women utilise the opportunities available to them, they can certainly improve their social and economic status.

Mumtaza says that the true rewards of hard work come when one proves oneself. For her, sheep farming is not just a means of earning money, but a path to self-reliance and respect.

This woman from Bandipora has proven that with the right mindset, hard work, and support, any dream can become a reality.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Arsla Khan, New Delhi / February 11th, 2026

Sahill Zaheer awarded Indo Arab Social Icon Award in Saudi Arabia

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

Muslim Man Keeps Century Old Jewish Store Alive in Kochi

Kochi, KERALA :

Kochi:

A video by American author Aija Mayrock has drawn global attention to a small embroidery shop in Jew Town, Mattancherry. The store stands as one of the last working links to the once thriving Cochin Jewish community of Kerala.

The shop belonged to Sarah Cohen, born in 1925. She was among the last Jews who lived permanently in Jew Town. Her store sold hand embroidery and souvenirs and became a known landmark in the area. After large scale emigration in the mid twentieth century, many Jewish homes and businesses shut down. This shop stayed open.

Thaha Ibrahim, a Muslim man, now runs the store. As a child, he sold goods on the street near Cohen’s shop. She later hired him and taught him embroidery and shop management. He assisted her for decades, handling customers, production, and daily operations.

Before her death in 2019, Cohen asked Ibrahim to continue the shop and preserve its character. He agreed. Today, the store functions under the same name and layout. It closes on Saturdays in respect of the Jewish Sabbath. Candles are lit on Friday evenings. Cohen’s photographs and belongings remain displayed inside.

Ibrahim has stated he remains Muslim. He sees his role as protecting the legacy entrusted to him.

Historians note that Jews lived in Kerala for over two thousand years. Although the community declined sharply after 1948, synagogues and heritage sites in Kochi still reflect that history. This small embroidery shop now stands as a living record of shared trust and continuity.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / February 21st, 2026

Paradise team clinches BCC Premier League 2026 title

Belvai (Moodabidri Taluk, Dakshina Kannada District), KARNATAKA :

Belvai:

The two-day BCC Premier League 2026 (Season 3), an underarm cricket tournament organised by the Belvai Community Center (BCC), concluded successfully on February 1 at the SMP High School Ground. The tournament was held on January 31 and February 1 and witnessed enthusiastic participation and community support.

The inaugural function took place on January 31 and was chaired by BCC President Anwar Hussain Ismail. The programme was hosted by BCC Secretary Shaikh Fahad.

The tournament was managed by Events Manager Zahid Hussain, assisted by Mohammed Siraj, while the inauguration was formally carried out by Hasdulla Ismail.

Several prominent community members attended the inaugural ceremony, including Mohammed Saheb Usman, Nasir Shaikh Gulam Hussain, Anwar A. Karim, Shawkath Ali, Ameer Gause, Hussain Saheb, Nasir New Master, Munir Yousuf, Nasir A. Kareem, Abdul Qayyum and Azeem Jafar Saheb.

In the final match, Paradise Team emerged victorious and was crowned Champion of the BCC Premier League 2026 (Season 3). Team Belvai Friends finished as the runners-up after a competitive tournament.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, President Anwar Hussain Ismail said that such sporting events help promote harmony, discipline and team spirit within the community. He expressed gratitude to the main sponsors, ALS Borderless Logistics, Expertise, AR Arabian Logistics and Team Ten Racing. He also thanked all donors, well-wishers, BCC members, volunteers, team owners, players and members of the organising committee for their contributions to the success of the tournament.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 03rd, 2026

How Imam Hussain’s Blessed Cap reached Jaipur’s historic mansion

Jaipur, RAJASTHAN:

Inside the Salim Manzil, Jaipur

In the bustling streets of Jaipur at Haldio Ka Rasta, Johari Bazar, time suddenly seems to stand still. Amidst ancient stone walls, arched doorways and the stillness of history, stands the Salim Manzil, a majestic building which is a living legacy of more than two centuries.

The mansion houses a relic – a cap of Imam Hussain, the grandson and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad; it adds to its importance.

The story behind the ‘blessed cap’ reaching the haveli is interesting and part of its rich history.

The entrance to Salim Manzil

In the early 17th century, an ancestor of today’s inmates of Salim Manzil treated an Iranian king. The King wanted to reward him with gold, silver and valuable gifts, but he declined the offer and instead requested the cap of Hazrat Imam Hussain.

The King presented the relic and a certificate with the royal seal to him as a reward.

Since 1876, this blessed hat has been preserved in Saleem Manzil in a special glass-framed box kept in a hall called “Kala-e-Mubaraq”.

Every year on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, it is opened to the public. In those days, Salim Manzil is turned into a pilgrimage centre, and its air filled with spirituality.

People viewing the Blessed Cap of Hazrat Imam Ali

Today, Moinuddin Khan, 33 and his younger brother, Hussamuddin Khan, 27, are living in the mansion. The two brothers are not only maintaining this legacy, but also modernising its upkeep and display of artefacts.

Moinuddin Khan says that his ancestors came to Jaipur from Delhi around 1812 AD. At that time, Maharaja Jagat Singh of Jaipur State granted them a fiefdom and honour to his elder brother, Hakim Wasil Ali Khan.

This honour was for Wasil Ali Khan’s academic and medical expertise, and he was admitted to the Royal Court.  One of the ancestors was the head of the intelligence department of Jaipur State, a sensitive position. He was responsible for the State’s security, political activities and gathering information needed for administration.

Bharion Singh Shekhawat with the inmates of Salim Manzil

Later, his son, Salim Ali Khan, worked in the same position.

The construction of Saleem Manzil began in 1867, and it was completed within three years. Spread over an area of ​​about a bigha, the building was gifted by the Maharaja of Jaipur. Even today, the haveli’s traditional Rajasthani carvings, arches, high ceilings and lattice windows are a testimony to the architectural craftsmanship of that era.

Over time, many havelis were converted into commercial hotels, but Saleem Manzil retained its original identity. The family also received offers to convert it into a hotel, but they preferred to preserve the spirit of the heritage rather than market it. 

Visitors inside the Salim Manzil

The mansion has been used as a set by many filmmakers for movies and web series. Moinuddin says he acted for the role of Sri Krishna in one of the web series. “We have a strong foundation in religion, but we also remain connected with art and dialogue.”

A large hall is decorated, the rooms are filled with the fragrance of perfume and roses, and the pilgrimage begins with Milad Sharif.

Devotees from Gujarat, Maharashtra and other parts of the country also arrive here. In those days, Shia Muslims read prayers and distribute Tabarak.

Moinuddin says that we consider it more of a trust than an inheritance. It is both an honour and a responsibility for us.

Many important persons have visited Salim Manzil. They include President Giani Zail Singh, Chief Ministers Haridev Joshi and Shiv Charan Mathur, Bhairav ​​Singh Shekhawat (Vice President), Natwar Singh (Minister), Najma Haibabullah (Rajya Sabha Chairperson), and Supreme Court Justice Gyan Sudha Mishra.

Head of the family, late Naseemuddin Khan, popularly known as Pyare Mian, founded the All-India Hakeem Ajmal Khan Memorial Society to perpetuate his family’s legacy of Unani medicine and social service.

Today, Moinuddin and Husamuddin Khan are trying to connect this heritage with modern dialogue. They are planning to build a new hall for better management of the pilgrimage during Muharram.

They are sharing information about this heritage with the world through social media and digital means for transparency.

Amid myriad historic monuments of Jaipur, Salim Manzil is unique since it not only preserves the relics of history but is also a pilgrimage centre.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Farhan Israeli, Jaipur / February 21st, 2026