In an era where charitable acts are often measured by the length of a queue or the flash of a camera, a quiet revolution of compassion has been unfolding in the streets of Cumbum. For over a decade, the local unit of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) has chosen a path less travelled: bringing relief not to a distribution centre, but directly to the doorsteps of those in need.
On Tuesday, this mission reached a new milestone as volunteers navigated the town’s lanes to deliver essential ration kits to 120 underprivileged families. The initiative, now in its 13th consecutive year, is built on a foundation of Dignified Giving, ensuring that the recipients never have to experience the vulnerability of standing in a public line for their daily bread.
The intervention is far from symbolic. Each kit is a meticulously curated package of 10 essential commodities, including staples like rice, pulses, cooking oil, sugar, and tamarind. These kits are designed to provide a nutritional safety net for families struggling against the tide of rising costs.
“Our philosophy is simple: no one in our vicinity should go to bed hungry,” says Sheikh Muhammad Rafi, head of the Social Service Wing. “By taking the kits to their homes, we preserve their self-respect. It is not an act of pity; it is an act of brotherhood.”
The initiative draws its strength from the Islamic principle of Zakat. Ghaus Khan, District President of JIH South Markapuram, explains that this is a structured social responsibility rather than a random act of kindness.
“The Qur’anic injunction to ‘establish prayer and give Zakat’ is a call to bridge the gap between the haves and the have-nots,” Mr. Khan notes. “The mandatory 2.5% contribution from one’s annual savings is a powerful tool for social equity. It belongs to the poor by right, not by favour.”
The programme’s longevity is a testament to the seamless collaboration between the local diaspora and residents. This year’s efforts saw participation from diverse quarters, including Zainul Abideen, an NRI from Kenya, and Syed Abdul Jaleel, Secretary of the Mandal Consumers Association.
The youth wing, Students Islamic Organisation (SIO), led by Cumbum President Waseem Akram and Secretary Abu Bakar Siddiq, provided the logistical muscle for the door-to-door distribution. The event concluded with a prayer by Mufti Yasin Saab, who sought continued strength for the community’s philanthropic endeavours.
As the sun set over Cumbum on Tuesday, 120 hearths were lit with a little more ease – not just because of the rations provided, but because of the grace with which they were delivered.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Muhammad Gouse Khan / March 05th, 2026
Abrar Aland, a resident of Ramwadi in Kalamb, Pune, Maharashtra, has fulfilled his father’s dreams by clearing the tough exam and becoming a Chartered Accountant at the age of 23.
His father, who sold fruit in the weekly market of the Walchandnagar area in Pune, was keen that his son should hold a good position in society.
Chartered Accountant (CA), awarded by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) after enrolled candidates clear a three-level examination (Foundation, Intermediate, Final) and complete practical articleship. While not a traditional academic degree, the UGC recognises the CA qualification as equivalent to a postgraduate degree.
Abrar Aland’s father, Ayub Jungbahadur Aland, manages the family with his income from selling fruit in the weekly market.
Growing up in ordinary circumstances, Abrar had harboured the dream of becoming a CA right from the beginning. To fulfil this dream, he worked hard by studying for ten to twelve hours every day.
Abrar told Awaz-The Voice, “Since childhood, I wanted to become a Chartered Accountant. This thought came to my mind when I was in the seventh or eighth grade. At that time, my cousin was pursuing CA, and taking inspiration from him, I also decided to choose this path.
Abrar Aland with his family
Abrar went to school in Walchandnagar. For his eleventh and twelfth-grade education in the commerce stream, he joined the BMCC College in Pune city. He completed his B.Com education at MMCC College in Pune.
He passed the CA Foundation exam in November 2020. After that, he passed the Intermediate exam in May 2022. Later, he passed the first group of the CA Final in the year 2025 and, by passing the second group in January 2026, he finally realised his dream of becoming a Chartered Accountant.
Speaking about his exam preparation, Abrar said, “Immediately after the HSC exams were over, I joined classes for CA Foundation and began my preparation. Since it was the COVID time, I was studying from home, and my exam was in December 2020. I passed the CA Foundation in my very first attempt with a score of 257/400.”
He further said, “After taking a two-week break, I started classes for CA Intermediate in Pune. But due to the second wave of COVID in 2021, classes went online again, and I returned home to prepare, but I did not achieve success at that time. Then, without waiting for the results, I started studying again. I got the fruits of this hard work in May 2022, when I passed both groups of CA Intermediate with a score of 411/800.”
Abrar shared that he received invaluable guidance from his parents, siblings, teachers, and. He also mentioned that getting various training facilities like computer skills, communication skills, skill development, and expert guidance through the Pune branch of The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) was highly beneficial.
Abrar said, “After passing CA Intermediate, I gained practical work experience in all important areas of the CA field for three years. My final CA attempt was in May 2025. Therefore, I took a study leave from the office in December 2024 and started preparing. At that time, my mother and sister decided to come and live in Pune to help me with my studies, so that I could get home-cooked meals and emotional support. My father could not come to Pune due to his work, but he used to come to visit us occasionally. During that period, he was living alone, and the three of us were living in Pune.”
The result of the Chartered Accountant exam, considered to be extremely tough in the country, was declared on March 1, 2026. Abrar Aland cleared the level.
Abrar says, “When the result was declared, I got a call from my brother Waseem Aland, and he happily said, ‘Hello CA Abrar Ayub Aland, you have passed!’ My joy at that moment could not be put into words.”
Speaking about that special day, Abrar said, “Since Ramadan was going on the day of the result, we were all fasting, and the result came around 6:30 PM, which was close to Iftar time. The joy was so immense that my family and relatives started sharing the news of my success everywhere. In that joy, they even forgot to complete their Iftar properly.”
Abrar Aland’s cousin, Waseem Aland, is also a Chartered Accountant. Meanwhile, his other cousin, Azam Aland, is working as a Police Sub-Inspector (PSI).
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Aamin Shaikh, Pune / March 14th, 2026
Prof. Zakia Athar Siddiqi, former Principal of Women’s College of AMU and Officer on Special Duty at Aligarh Public School, exemplifies an ideal of educational leadership that is founded on integrity, discipline and vision. In her first year as Principal in 2006, Prof. Siddiqi led the institution through a successful revitalization, stabilization and development process. More than anything, Prof. Siddiqi stands out from other educational leaders by being a true volunteer leader—she has never financially benefited from her service at either school. For example, she did not take advantage of school transportation nor receive housing at either institution. Rather, her contributions to both institutions are more about commitment than they are about convenience.
When Prof. Siddiqi began as Principal in 2006, the academic results of the school were troubling. About 40% to 50% of students passed the High School examination. Within a few years, due to consistent planning for academic improvement and appropriate reforms, student results improved significantly. Since 2007, the school’s pass rate has consistently increased to 90% to 95%, and has achieved a 100% pass rate on a number of occasions; multiple students have passed with distinct grades for many subjects. The evolution of these outcomes did not occur by chance; they resulted from an intentional focus on teacher preparation, educator accountability, and student support programs.
Academic upliftment was the primary focus of her leadership in revamping the institution. Classrooms were well-structured; lessons were planned systematically; and student performance was monitored transparently. The teachers were encouraged to implement more effective pedagogical strategies so that all students not only passed their tests but also developed confidence through conceptual clarity. In a time when high-quality education often comes at a high cost, APS has been able to keep a low fee structure during her tenure as head of the institution. This has enabled families in the Aligarh area to obtain quality schooling without having to worry about financial burden. Education was a right, rather than a privilege, under her leadership; she ensured that the institution’s social character was preserved while strengthening its academic stature.
The extent of her concern for inclusion is evidenced by her provision of significant financial assistance via freeships to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. In just the 2025-26 academic year, she provided Rs 17,000,000 in assistance to students. While this is just a number, for hundreds of families, it represents their ability for their children to continue their education without interruption. This reinforces the idea that APS is truly an academic institution and a socially responsible one.
The way that Prof. Siddiqi has led staff welfare also brought dignity and structure to it. When she took charge, she implemented a formal salary scale and created a systematic way to increase salaries according to the U.P. Government’s pay scales for teachers and staff where applicable. There were regular salary increases for all staff and teachers that used a process that was transparent. This created motivation, consistency and loyalty to the institution for the staff. The way that a school will develop is by ensuring that its teachers believe they are valued and feel safe.
Under her leadership, administrative reforms led to an increase in transparency. This included modernising the record keeping systems, streamlining work processes, and making information easily accessible. Institutional discipline improved while not creating rigidity. Transparency became a signature of the APS administration providing trust between the parent body, the staff and governing bodies.
Under her leadership, infrastructure development has been another mainstay. The construction of a new hall complex that is fully air-conditioned and has other modern features was completed in 2015, giving the school an enhanced ability to host both academic and cultural events. In 2020, four additional classrooms with modern furniture were added to assist with the increase in enrolment. Both of these projects enhanced the amount of space available for additional academic related usage and were not just cosmetic upgrades to the school.
Serious attention was focused on security and preparedness with the installation of CCTV surveillance systems throughout the campus in 2017 to help keep students and staff safe. A Renault Triber vehicle was purchased to help respond to emergencies and to safely transport employees when necessary. These types of measures demonstrate a style of leadership that looks at anticipated challenges instead of merely reacting to them.
The development of an all-new computer laboratory under the SAFAL Project of the Ministry of HRD provided yet another addition to APS’s academic framework. The laboratory has been outfitted with updated technology that will help support competency-based learning and diagnostic assessment. The SAFAL initiative has been designed to help schools track and measure how students learn, as well as to modify and enhance their overall instructional strategy. By providing progressive initiatives such as this, Prof. Siddiqi is able to align APS with national educational reform efforts.
The school’s financial transformation likely represents the best example of how Prof. Siddiqi has fulfilled her role as an educational leader. When she assumed control of the school in 2006, the school had approximately one crore rupees available in the corpus. By 2025, that corpus had expanded to ten crores. This significant increase in the school’s finances was accompanied by significant expansion of the school’s physical infrastructure, increased salaries for employees, and increased amount of financial assistance provided to low-income families. The financial consolidation that occurred during this time frame is a reflection of strong financial management, transparency, and long-term planning. A growing corpus provides all financial stakeholders with confidence that their respective financial contributions to the school are being utilized in a responsible manner, as well as allowing them to feel secure in their respective long-term commitments to the school.
Her ongoing ability to provide continuity during periods of administrative change reinforces her professionalism in a variety of environments. She has worked under numerous vice chancellor ships since commencing work at Aligarh Muslim University, including those of Mr Naseem Ahmad (IAS), Professor P.K. Abdul Aziz, Lieutenant General Zameer Uddin Shah and Professor Tariq Mansoor. Continuing in a prominent role during all of these administrations demonstrates the level of trust within the organisation to her competence and integrity.
She has received recognition for her contributions to education at the national level as evidenced by numerous awards that include the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Award (2025), the Women Icon Award (2024), the A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Award (2024), the Bharat Leader Award (2024), the Lifetime Achievement Award (2023 – by the Government of Maharashtra), the Best Principal Award (2018 – by the Government of Uttar Pradesh.
Today, Aligarh Public School is exemplary in its academic performance, transparent administration, social equity, and ability to carry on financially. The way APS grew from those early days of little student success, minimal resources to now being so strongly and consistently successful, is directly attributed to the incredible leadership of Prof. Zakia Athar Siddiqi. Thousands of students and families she impacted or touched throughout this development have had irrevocably changed futures as a result of her quietly powerful work. Her service has demonstrated that visionary leadership combined with integrity and compassion can create a transformation in an institution. As a result of her devoted efforts, APS has become a stronger institution and has reaffirmed the importance of education as a vehicle for social progress and national development.
***
( Author is Writer, Donor Member of AMU & Director of Media Centre at Aligarh. Email: nikhatoffice@gmail.com )
source : http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Positive Story / by Nikhat Parveen / March 10th, 2026
MBBS graduate Dr. A R Rajah Mohaideen secured AIR 7 in UPSC CSE 2025 after three attempts. His journey from Covid-19 hospital wards to civil services reflects purpose, learning, and a wider vision for public health.
When the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2025 results were declared, A R Rajah Mohaideen was not anxiously refreshing a results page like thousands of other aspirants. Instead, he was at the mosque in Jamia Millia Islamia, attending the Friday afternoon prayer during the holy month of Ramzan.
When he returned to his room at the university’s Residential Coaching Academy (RCA), a friend delivered the news that would change everything: he had secured All India Rank 7 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2025.
The 26-year-old doctor from Chennai had hoped to find his name somewhere on the list. A single-digit rank was far beyond what he had imagined.
In an exclusive conversation with Indian Masterminds, the soon-to-become officer shared details about his life, preparation, struggles, and victory.
GROWING UP IN AN ACADEMIC HOUSEHOLD
Rajah Mohaideen was born in Chengalpattu in Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu and raised in Chennai. Education formed the foundation of his upbringing.
Both his parents serve in Tamil Nadu’s government education system. His mother is the principal of R K Nagar Government Arts and Science College in Chennai, while his father heads a Government Teachers’ Training College in Varathanadu near Thanjavur.
An only child, he grew up in an environment where academic pursuit was natural. His schooling took place in the DAV Group of Schools in Gopalapuram, Chennai, where he studied science subjects including physics, chemistry, biology and mathematics.
He later joined Government Cuddalore Medical College (Rajah Muthiah Medical College) under Annamalai University in 2016 and graduated with an MBBS degree in 2022.
“I wasn’t a topper. In school I was maybe third or fourth in class,” he recalled. “I was among the top 10 or 20 per cent, but never the absolute topper.”
THE PANDEMIC THAT CHANGED HIS CAREER PATH
For most of his early life, Rajah Mohaideen had one clear ambition: becoming a doctor. But his final year internship coincided with the Covid-19 pandemic, placing him directly on the medical frontlines. Hospitals were struggling with shortages of oxygen, equipment and protective gear.
During that time, he also observed another set of professionals working intensely behind the scenes: civil servants coordinating supplies, hospital infrastructure and emergency responses.
One particular incident stayed with him. Sanitation workers in his government hospital lacked proper masks. When the local IAS officer visited and heard the concern, N95 masks were quickly arranged.
“I saw how important the administration’s role was,” Rajah told Indian Masterminds. “As a doctor I could serve patients individually. But as a public servant, I felt I could serve a much wider section of people.”
That moment reshaped his career direction. By the time he graduated in 2022, he had decided to prepare for the Civil Services Examination.
THE LONG PREPARATION JOURNEY
Rajah Mohaideen’s UPSC journey stretched across three attempts. His first attempt ended at the Preliminary stage. The setback meant starting the entire process again.
In 2023, he moved from Chennai to Delhi and joined Jamia Millia Islamia’s Residential Coaching Academy, entering an environment where the exam dominates everyday life.
The transition brought new challenges such as language differences, unfamiliar surroundings, and adjusting to North India.
“Initially there was hesitation to interact because of the language barrier. But I learned Hindi gradually and made many friends,” he said.
These friendships soon became a support system during preparation.
A STRATEGY BUILT ON TARGETS, NOT TIMETABLES
Instead of rigid daily schedules, Rajah Mohaideen structured his preparation around clear targets.
“The key is not a fixed timetable but fixed goals,” he said. “For example, finishing a subject in a week or a month. If you miss a day, you put in double the effort the next day and reach the target.”
His preparation included structured mock tests such as Prelims programmes, along with continuous revision and answer-writing practice. He chose Anthropology as his optional subject, a crucial component of the UPSC Mains examination. His mentor, senior IPS officer Mahesh M. Bhagwat, also played a crucial role in preparing him for his personality development round.
By CSE 2025, his third attempt, he cleared Prelims, Mains, and the Interview for the first time, securing AIR 7.
MUSIC: THE QUIET COMPANION IN A DEMANDING JOURNEY
Beyond books and mock tests, another part of Rajah Mohaideen’s life played a key role in keeping him balanced — music.
He has been trained in Carnatic music since childhood, first learning the electronic keyboard and later becoming a vocalist. He has also played instruments such as the kazoo and cajon, and enjoys composing jingles on the keyboard.
“When I felt stressed, I sang or played the keyboard. It calmed my nerves,” he told Indian Masterminds.
Music had been a constant presence throughout his life. In school and college he was part of bands and even served as a cultural secretary during medical college.
INSPIRATION FROM THE HEALTH SECTOR
Rajah Mohaideen’s interest in governance was also shaped by his interaction with senior administrators in the health system.
During his internship, he was part of a student delegation that met Tamil Nadu’s former Health Secretary Dr. J. Radhakrishnan regarding stipend issues faced by interns.
The experience left a deep impression.
“He listened patiently to our concerns and mediated with the administration to resolve them. I realised how much impact someone in that position can have,” Rajah said.
The encounter strengthened his interest in public administration, particularly in the health sector.
MANAGING ISOLATION AND SELF-DOUBT
Preparing for UPSC meant watching many of his medical college friends move ahead with postgraduate degrees and careers. At times, the contrast created uncertainty.
“I saw my friends getting into PG, completing their courses, and working as medical officers. Sometimes I felt I wasn’t doing anything substantial yet,” he admitted.
Staying connected with friends helped him stay grounded. One close friend working as a medical officer in a Primary Health Centre in Ooty often discussed real healthcare challenges with him.
These conversations kept him connected to the ground realities of public health.
AN ATTEMPT TO STAY CONNECTED TO HOME
The UPSC journey demanded sacrifices. He missed family gatherings and friends’ weddings, while many of his medical college peers moved ahead with postgraduate degrees and professional careers. For several years, his own path remained uncertain.
Support from his family and a Tamil Nadu government scholarship for civil services preparation helped sustain him through this period.
Living in Delhi meant long stretches away from Chennai, with visits home limited to a few days at a time. Small routines helped him stay connected to familiar comforts, such as occasional visits to Andhra Bhawan for South Indian flavours like gunpowder and ghee.
These reminders of home offered a brief pause amid the demanding preparation schedule.
A MESSAGE FOR ASPIRANTS
Looking back at the long preparation journey, Rajah Mohaideen believes that aspirants must not forget the reason that brought them to civil services.
“You should always remember the dream that made you start preparing,” he said. “Sometimes people forget the dream and only chase success in prelims or mains.”
He also emphasises mental well-being during preparation.
“Taking care of mental health is very important. Keep your friends and family close. UPSC can be isolating, so finding the right balance is essential.”
LOOKING AHEAD
With AIR 7 in UPSC CSE 2025, Rajah Mohaideen has opted for the Indian Administrative Service and hopes to serve in his home state of Tamil Nadu, though he remains ready to work anywhere in the country.
For a young doctor who once imagined his future inside hospital wards, the goal has expanded far beyond that.
The ambition now is to shape systems that influence healthcare, governance and public welfare, not just for individual patients, but for entire communities.
source: http://www.indianmasterminds.com / Indian Masterminds / Home> Features> UPSC Stories / by Bhakti Kothari / March 08th, 2026
In a significant achievement, Professor (Dr.) Muhammad Mumtaz Ali, hailing from Hyderabad, India, has been honored with Malaysia’s National Book Award for the third time. Currently teaching at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) in Kuala Lumpur, Prof. Ali was recognized for his outstanding contribution through his latest work, “Islamic Research: Theory, Methodology, and Thesis Writing,” published in 2022.
pix: amazon.in
The prestigious National Book Award 2023 and Certificate for the year 2023 were presented to Prof. Ali in a grand ceremony held on December 22, 2023. The certificate carries the signatures of Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Minister Dato Seri Zambry Abdul Qadir.
Born in Hyderabad in 1955, Prof. Ali holds a doctorate in philosophy in Islamic studies from Aligarh Muslim University. He began his academic journey by completing his master’s degree in Islamic studies at Aligarh Muslim University and a bachelor’s degree in modern western political thought from Osmania University.
Joining IIUM in 1987 as an assistant professor, Prof. Ali has been a dedicated member of the university ever since. Currently, he leads the Abdulhamid Abusulayman Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences in the Department of Usul al-Din and Comparative Religion.
His award-winning book, “Islamic Research: Theory, Methodology, and Thesis Writing,” advocates for the transcendence of Islamic research beyond religious topics, emphasizing its relevance to all aspects of life and society. The book distinguishes Islamic research from conventional methods, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive theory and methodology.
Prof. Ali’s contributions extend to various branches of Islamic theology, including developmental studies, modernization, epistemological and methodological studies, critical thinking, philosophy of science, and modernity. His books, especially those on the Islamization of Knowledge, are widely regarded as bestsellers on campus.
In 2014, Prof. Ali received the National Book Award for his book, ‘Issues in Islamization of Human Knowledge: Civilization Building Discourse of Contemporary Muslim Thinkers.’ His consistent recognition reflects his commitment to advancing Islamic research and knowledge.
source: http://www.islamicvoice.com / Islamic Voice / Home> National News and Affairs / pix of book added – amazon.in / by Islamic Voice / February 24th, 2024.
Professor Dr. Zeenat Kausar breathed her last at 12:10 am on March 16, returning to her Creator. She had served for a long time at the International Islamic University Malaysia. Her death is not only a loss for academic circles but also a great loss for the entire Muslim Ummah.
Dr. Zeenat Kausar taught at the International Islamic University Malaysia, in the Department of Political Science from 1990 to 2006 and later taught at Qatar University, in the Department of International Affairs from 2007-2009.
A leading figure in faith-based women’s intellectual struggle, Dr. Zeenat Kausar completed her Master’s degree in 1986 and her PhD in 1991 from Aligarh Muslim University. At international conferences, she frequently spoke as a keynote speaker, presenting Islam and its perspectives on women in a highly effective and engaging manner, leaving a strong impression even on people of other faiths. Her book, Islamic Feminism: A Critique (Islam Vs Feminism: Emancipation, Liberation and the Development of Women) is widely known.
She had deep interest and expertise in various academic fields, including Islamic and Western political thought, feminism and its Islamic critique, modernity, development studies, and globalisation.
Professor Zeenat Kausar used to contribute her thought-provoking articles to Radiance Viewsweekly, especially when the magazine requested her to write articles for its Special issues.
Her recently completed book is about Dr. Wan Azizah, the wife of Malaysia’s Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. She had also requested Dato Iqbal to arrange a meeting with the Prime Minister’s wife. In this book, Dr. Wan Azizah’s personality is portrayed in detail – as a homemaker, a mother, a party leader, a political activist who helped realise the dreams of her imprisoned husband (when Anwar Ibrahim was Deputy Prime Minister), and a woman of struggle. Sadly, she passed away before her wish to meet Dr. Wan Azizah could be fulfilled.
Professor Dr. Tamim Usama mentioned that Dr. Zeenat was writing a detailed article on “Women’s Empowerment in Islam.”
The distinguished scholar’s husband, Professor Muhammad Mumtaz Ali, is himself a prominent scholar associated with the Department of Revealed Knowledge at the International Islamic University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. When her body was placed in the room and colleagues stood around her, Professor Dr. Mumtaz Ali, spoke emotionally. He said: “It had not even been a month since our marriage. We were standing at a railway station. I had to leave for a training camp organised by the Jamaat. I told my wife, Dr. Zeenat: From this station, two trains are departing in different directions. One goes towards our home, and the other is the one I must take for social and missionary work. You may board whichever train you prefer.”
“Without a moment’s hesitation, she said: I will travel with you on the train that is going for the work of faith and Dawah.”
He further added: “From that day on, throughout our 46 years of married life, she remained my support and strength. Her thoughts and writings were a source of awakening for society. She was a practical example of the freedom that Islam envisions for women. She always had a thirst for knowledge, read extensively, and expressed her ideas in very simple language. As a wife, as the mother of my children, and as a thinker beneficial to society, she lived a meaningful life. I request all of you to pray for her success in the Hereafter.”
Thus, Dr. Mumtaz Ali concluded his brief yet deeply moving words about his wife, Professor Dr. Zeenat Kausar.
May Almighty Allah accept her good deeds and grant her the highest place in Jannat al-Firdaus. Aameen.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Obiturary / by Radiance News Bureau / March 17th, 2026
Ramsha is an alumna of Azim Premji University, Bangalore, where she pursued her undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts. She later went on to complete a Master’s in History and Persian from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.
Hyderabad:
In a moment of immense pride for Hyderabad, RamshaFarhan has secured the 1st Rank in NLSAT-LLB 2025, the national-level entrance examination for admission to the prestigious National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore — widely regarded as the top law school in the country.
Ramsha is an alumna of Azim Premji University, Bangalore, where she pursued her undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts. She later went on to complete a Master’s in History and Persian from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.
She hails from a family with a strong legacy of intellectual and cultural contributions. Ramsha is the daughter of Ashhar Farhan and Humera Ahmed, co-founders of Lamakaan, Hyderabad’s iconic open cultural space. She is also the granddaughter of the celebrated writer and Padma Shri awardee Jeelani Bano.
Known for her academic excellence and deep social commitment, Ramsha Farhan’s achievement is not just personal but a proud milestone for her city and community. Her success is a testament to the values of education, culture, and progressive thought that her family has championed for decades.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ramsha and wish her continued success as she embarks on her legal journey at NLSIU.
source: http://www.munsifdaily.com / Munsif News 24 x 7/ Home> Hyderabad / by Syed Mubashir / June 03rd, 2025
As the world celebrated International Women’s Day on 8th March, it would be relevant to mention Khanzadi Begum’s case, a property rights dispute in 19thcentury British India, which originated from District Bulandshahr, and culminated before the Privy Council in England. The dispute pertained to the colonial Government’s attempt to revoke a sanction that had previously been granted, raising questions about the limits of executive discretion. During the Revolt of 1857, a large section of nobility and landed gentry, i.e., Taluqdars and Zamindars in the Bengal Presidency (which included North-Western Provinces, the earlier name of United Provinces or U.P.) and the Princely State of Oudh (Awadh) took up arms against the East India Company. When the British regained control in 1858, a severe crackdown followed against the rebels, wherein persons convicted of ‘mutiny’ were executed, and their lands were confiscated en masse under the Forfeiture Act, 1857[1]. This retributive and deterrent exercise of forfeiture gave birth to innumerable claims arising out of the seized lands. By way of Act IX of 1859, Courts of Special Commission were set up in the Lower and North-Western Provinces of the Bengal Presidency for adjudication of these claims.
Khanzadi Begum was born in District Bulandshahr to Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah Khan, landed proprietor of “Khanpur Estate” which sprawled Bulandshahr, Meerut, Budaun and Moradabad districts. He died in 1852, leaving behind a son named Abdul Latif Khan and two daughters Bibi Mariam and Khanzadi Begum. Abdul Latif Khan allotted five villages (out of his father’s estate) to his sister Bibi Mariam for her maintenance, but couldn’t make such an allotment for Khanzadi Begum. Meanwhile, in the aftermath of the Revolt of 1857, Abdul Latif Khan was convicted of ‘mutiny’, which led to confiscation of his properties in 1860 under the 1857 Act. In 1860, Khanzadi Begum petitioned the Court of Special Commission against the Government, claiming her inherited share in her deceased father’s estate. The Court rejected her claim to the full share, but passed a decree assigning five villages in District Bulandshahr for her maintenance, which were to be equal in area, Government (revenue) assessment and income of her Bibi Mariam’s villages, along with awarding mesne profits. The Government authorities allowed her to choose five villages. Accordingly, in August, 1860, consequent to the sanction obtained from the Sadar Board of Revenue, the Collector handed over to her the possession of these villages, her name was entered in Government records and she was paid mesne profits. A few months later, in October, the Sadar Board wrote to the Government, expressing a doubt about the Court of Special Commission’s decree. Pursuant to this, the Lieutenant-Governor Sir George Frederick Edmonstone, KCB, ordered that the Court of Special Commission was not empowered to pass the decree for maintenance (a cause which was not sued) when it had rejected Khanzadi Begum’s claim for her full share in the property. The Lieutenant-Governor was also of the view that the villages allotted to her were more than the value of Bibi Mariam’s villages. Consequently, Khanzadi Begum was ousted in January, 1862.
Being aggrieved by her unlawful dispossession at the hands of the Government, Khanzadi Begum initiated execution proceedings before the Court of Special Commission, which came to be dismissed, and the dismissal was affirmed in appeal on the ground that the decree was not properly carried out. She then filed a fresh suit before the District Judge, seeking declaration and possession of the property along with mesne profits. The said suit was, however, also dismissed. The court, accepting the Provincial Government’s contentions, took a view that the Court of Special Commission only declared that Khanzadi Begum (i.e., the Plaintiff) should receive a suitable maintenance from her ancestral property, and it neither conferred any specific proprietary right nor could she acquire any such right unless the Government had sanctioned a particular property, which was never done.
In 1866, Khanzadi Begum challenged the District Judge’s decision before the newly formed High Court for North Western Provinces, which had recently replaced the Sadar Diwani Adalat and now sat in its place in Agra, before being shifted to Allahabad in 1875. A Bench comprising Chief Justice Sir Walter Morgan and Justice Sir F. B. Pearson allowed the appeal[2] and the District Judge’s verdict was overturned. While examining in detail the facts of Khanzadi Begum’s case, the High Court pointed out that the Court of Special Commission had granted her a right to maintenance in her ancestral property only after her claim for inheritance of her share in the ancestral property was dismissed in view of her family’s custom of male primogeniture, and such a declaration was, in the High Court’s view, conferred a substantial right to maintenance and was not a mere recommendation. As for the Government’s objection that the Court of Special Commission exceeded its jurisdiction under Act IX of 1859 by adjudicating upon a fresh cause of action (of maintenance), the High Court was of the view that the Court of Special Commission followed its summary procedure under Act IX of 1859 and even if it had proceeded irregularly, the decree could not be said to be a nullity, more so when its validity was never challenged, and it was long after the decree had been satisfied, that the Government made any objection to it. As per the High Court’s interpretation, in order to comply with the decree, the Government ought to have itself selected the villages to be granted to Khanzadi Begum, or should have sanctioned the selection made by her. The Government’s primary justification for dispossessing Khanzadi Begum was that the grant of five villages made to her by the Sadar Board of Revenue in compliance of the Court of Special Commission’s decree, was done without obtaining proper sanction from the Government. In simple words, the Government’s stance tried to distinguish itself from the Sadar Board of Revenue, even though it was very much an arm of the Government. As a matter of fact, the Government’s real intention behind dispossessing Khanzadi Begum was the apprehension that the villages allotted to her actually yielded much more profits than the amount specified by the Court of Special Commission. The High Court completely rejected both these contentions. Firstly, it was observed that the correspondence between local revenue officers and the Sadar Board revealed that the villages were to be selected on the basis of fixed annual revenue demand of the government (called “Jama”) and not as per the actual profits. Secondly, it was held that the Government’s sanction had already been expressed through the Sadar Board of Revenue on 20th July 1860 when it assigned the lands to Khanzadi Begum in satisfaction of the Court of Special Commission’s decree, and contention regarding refusal of sanction was disproved by official correspondence. The sanction was acted upon and Khanzadi Begum obtained possession of the five villages and held them until her dispossession in January, 1862. The High Court then pointed out that the sanction was not questioned until a year after it was granted in 1860, and held that now the Government could not interfere in any manner, once it had granted a ‘full and intelligent sanction’ (through the Sadar Board) and the same had been acted upon. The High Court referred to Privy Council’s 1861 judgment in The Collector of Masulipatam v. Cavaly Vencata Narrainapah[3] which was a case arising from the Sadar Diwani Adalat at Madras, wherein it was held “…the acts of a Government officer bind the Government only when he is acting in the discharge of a certain duty within the limits of his authority, or, if he exceed that authority, when the Government in fact, or in law, directly, or by implication, ratified the excess”. It was, however, held that in the present case the Sadar Board and the Revenue Authorities had not exceeded their authority, and thus, the Government was bound by their acts. The appeal was decreed with costs. Khanzadi Begum was represented in the High Court by Maulvi Fariduddin Ali, Maulvi Samiullah Khan and Shah Asad Ali, while the Government was represented by Lala Man Rai.
As the Government was unsatisfied with the High Court’s judgment, the matter reached the Privy Council as the Secretary of State for India filed an appeal on the Government’s behalf. The judgment was delivered on 1st March 1870[4], a 4-judge Bench comprising Sir James Colville, Sir R. Phillimore, Lord Justice Giffard and Sir Lawrence Peel rejected the Government’s appeal. The Privy Council was of the opinion that there was “no ground whatever for this appeal”, as the Government had not stated in its pleadings (or otherwise) that the decree of the Court of Special Commission was improper or non-binding. It was noted that on the date of the decree, the Government was in possession and the Collector was empowered to carry out the decree and handover possession (to Khanzadi Begum). Moreover, the Government did not raise any objection whatsoever in the Civil Court against Khanzadi Begum’s claim ‘except as to a certain particular portion of the land’, and, consequently, ‘her title was confirmed by the decree of a competent Court’. Resultantly, the Privy Council, while dismissing the appeal with costs, made strong observations against the Government that it ‘was much in the wrong in taking possession as they did, and that this appeal never ought to have been brought’. The Government was represented in the Privy Council by Mr. Forsyth QC and Mr. Merivale QC, while Khanzadi Begum was represented by Sir Roundell Palmer QC and Mr. Leith.
Khanzadi Begum’s case arose during a period when statutory protections were still evolving under the colonial rule. The High Court for North Western Provinces, after holding the Government liable, awarded exemplary costs of around Rs. 3,645[5], much higher than given standards of the day. Later, while putting a quietus to the issue, the Privy Council also came down heavily upon the Government. Although, not explicitly articulated in these terms, the reasoning given by the courts indicates the doctrine of estoppel, as the Government was not allowed to arbitrarily revoke its sanction.
This decision is an early instance of application of rule of law in reviewing executive action.
Act XXV of 1857 ↑
Mussumat Khanzadee vs The Collector of Bolundshahur, Case No. 33/1866, 2nd July 1866 ↑
(1859-61) 8 Moo I.A. 529 @ 554 ↑
The Secretary of State for India in Council v. Mussamat Khanzadi, (1811-72) 4 IR 306 ↑
Report of the Legal Remembrancers, North-Western Provinces, for 1866-67. Government Press, Allahabad, 1867 ↑
Author Aman Alam is an Advocate At Supreme Court of India & student Barrister at University of London, U.K and Musa Munir Khan is an Advocate practising at High Court of Delhi. Views are personal.
source: http://www.livelaw.in / LiveLaw.in / Home> Articles / by Aman Alam & Musa Munir / March 16th, 2026
Col. Sofiya Qureshi’s briefing the media during Operation Sindoor surprised the world, for not only an Indian woman but also one from the Muslim community, was briefing the media in the utmost professional manner, befitting an Indian Army Officer. Forget about the world; even many Indians could not believe that the Indian Army had women officers. The fact is that Muslim women have been part of the armed forces and technical workforce for many years.
Awaz-the Voice is bringing you ten stories of such women to inspire the younger generation:
Ajeetha BegumSulthan stands as a compelling example of determination, discipline, and empathy in policing. Rising from a modest background in Coimbatore to become the Inspector General of Police (Crime Branch) in Kerala, she has built a reputation for tackling complex issues ranging from trafficking and drug networks to crimes against women and children. Known for her simplicity and strong sense of duty, Ajeetha believes that a police officer “cannot afford to go wrong,” a principle that has guided her through challenging postings and high-profile investigations.
Her journey reflects not only professional excellence but also a deep commitment to social responsibility and mentoring the next generation through initiatives like the State Police Cadet programme.
Anisa Nabi represents a rare blend of administrative commitment and athletic passion in Jammu and Kashmir. A 2012-batch JKAS officer and currently the Chief Sports Officer at the J&K Sports Council, she has consistently worked to promote sports, fitness, and youth engagement while building an impressive record as a runner who has completed major races like the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon and the Tata Mumbai Marathon.
Through her initiative “Wondrous Women,” Anisa encourages women to embrace fitness and mental well-being, while her work in government—from GST awareness to grassroots livelihood programmes—reflects a strong commitment to empowering communities. By promoting sports as a positive pathway for youth, she continues to inspire many to lead healthier and more purposeful lives.
Ishrat Ahmed, hailing from the village of Nuaan in Rajasthan, embodies a remarkable legacy of service, discipline, and patriotism. Commissioned into the Indian Army in 2001, she has risen through the ranks to command an Ordnance Unit in Meerut, becoming the first woman from the Qaimkhani community to hold such a significant role. Coming from a distinguished family of military and civil service officers, Colonel Ishrat’s journey reflects both inherited values and personal determination.
Beyond her achievements in uniform, she continues to inspire young people—especially girls from rural backgrounds—to pursue careers in the armed forces and public service, making her story one of courage, leadership, and lasting inspiration.
Bushra Bano’s journey from a small village in Kannauj to the ranks of the Indian Police Service is a story of resilience, faith, and unwavering determination. A scholar who completed her PhD at Aligarh Muslim University, Bushra balanced motherhood, professional responsibilities, and intense preparation for the civil services examination.
Remarkably, she appeared for her UPSC interview while eight months pregnant and eventually secured a place in the IPS, serving in the West Bengal cadre. Her journey—from lecturer and corporate employee to SDM and now a police officer—stands as an inspiring example for young women, proving that determination, family support, and education can turn even the most challenging circumstances into milestones of success.
Hana Qureshi has emerged as a leading voice in infertility treatment at the Cradle Fertility Centre in Kolkata, where she serves as the Centre-in-Charge of its Garia branch. Specialising in IVF procedures and advanced reproductive diagnostics, she combines cutting-edge medical science with compassionate patient care to help couples realise their dream of parenthood. Honoured with the ISAR Youth Icon Award in 2024, Dr Qureshi believes that discipline, perseverance, and continuous learning are key to success.
Through her patient-centred approach and commitment to innovation, she has become a trusted figure offering renewed hope to families facing infertility challenges.
Reshma Niloufer Naha has made maritime history by becoming the world’s first woman river pilot at Kolkata Port Trust in Kolkata. Trained at the Academy of Maritime Education and Training, she spent years sailing across the world before undergoing rigorous pilot training and earning her position in 2018.
Guiding massive ships through narrow and challenging river channels demands exceptional skill, physical strength, and quick decision-making—qualities that Reshma has demonstrated consistently. Honoured with the Nari Shakti Puraskar, her journey stands as a powerful symbol of perseverance and women’s empowerment, inspiring young women to pursue careers even in the most challenging and traditionally male-dominated fields.
Sara Rizvi, a 2008-batch officer of the Indian Police Service from the Gujarat cadre, has built a distinguished career marked by resilience and dedication to public service. Currently serving as Deputy Inspector General of the Udhampur–Reasi range in Jammu and Kashmir on inter-cadre deputation, she is the only woman officer in the region to hold the DIG/IG rank.
From overcoming early financial struggles and personal loss to handling critical assignments such as elections, intelligence operations, and security challenges, Rizvi has consistently demonstrated leadership and commitment. Her journey—from a determined civil services aspirant in Mumbai to a senior police officer serving in sensitive regions—stands as a powerful testament to perseverance, courage, and a deep sense of social responsibility.
Col Sofiya Qureshi has emerged as a powerful symbol of perseverance and merit in the Indian Army, challenging long-standing stereotypes about gender and identity in the armed forces. Rising through the ranks with discipline and professionalism, she has taken on demanding leadership and operational responsibilities, demonstrating that capability—not background or gender—defines a soldier’s worth.
Through her quiet determination and consistent excellence, Sofiya has inspired many young women to envision a future in uniform, proving that dedication to service and nation can break barriers and reshape perceptions.
Tuba Sanobar, a young lawyer from Seoni now based in Bengaluru, is emerging as a powerful voice for civil rights, women’s empowerment, and data privacy. With an LLM in Criminology from Osmania University, she blends legal expertise with grassroots activism, working closely with the Association for Protection of Civil Rights to raise awareness about domestic violence and minority rights.
Through initiatives like the SOZ programme and her advocacy on digital privacy and community participation, Tuba represents a new generation of lawyers who see the law not merely as a profession but as a tool for social change and dignity.
Hana Mohsin Khan has carved an inspiring path in aviation, proving that determination can overcome social labels and late beginnings. Born in Meerut and educated partly in Saudi Arabia, Hana’s journey to the cockpit was anything but conventional—moving from journalism and entrepreneurship to pursuing aviation after discovering her passion later in life.
After rigorous training in the United States and Greece, she eventually flew her first commercial flight in 2020, becoming one of the few Muslim women pilots in India.
Her story reflects resilience, curiosity, and a refusal to be confined by stereotypes, inspiring young women to pursue their ambitions with confidence and courage.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by ATV / posted by Aasha Khosa / March 12th, 2026
Nishat & Misba turn Panache into one of Mysuru’s most loved fashion exhibitions…
Nishat Mohsin and Misba Umrean, Co-founders of the fashion exhibition platform ‘Panache’, have been curating memorable fashion experiences in Mysuru for several years.
What began as a modest initiative has grown into one of the city’s most-loved fashion exhibitions, offering a thoughtfully curated experience while bringing designers and fashion enthusiasts under one roof.
Alongside its successful editions in Mysuru, ‘Panache’ has also travelled to Bengaluru and Coorg in collaboration with several high-end brands.
While successfully steering ‘Panache’, the duo also balances their entrepreneurial journey with family life and personal passions.
Nishat, born in Bengaluru & raised in Mysuru, is married to a businessman and is a mother of two who enjoys designing spaces and nurturing plants.
Misba, born in Mysuru and now based in Bengaluru, is a B.Com graduate, married to a Bengaluru-based professional and a mother of three who enjoys travel, adventure sports and cooking.
Speaking to Star of Mysore, the sisters open up about their journey, inspiration and vision behind ‘Panache’: “Fashion is not just about clothing, it’s about creativity, craftsmanship and giving designers a platform to shine.” —Ed
Star of Mysore (SOM): How did the fashion extravaganza Panache begin? And what inspired you both to venture into fashion exhibition curation?
Nishat Mohsin and Misba Umrean: ‘Panache’ was envisioned by Nishat in 2008 as an intimate platform connecting designers with fashion enthusiasts. When Misba joined in 2009, the exhibition gained new momentum and gradually evolved into a celebrated fashion destination.
Coming from business-oriented families, we always aspired to create something of our own. Our journey into exhibition curation is driven by a deep appreciation for fashion not just as clothing, but for the creativity and craftsmanship behind it. Through ‘Panache’, we’ve had the joy of bringing ideas to life while giving designers a platform to shine.
OM: Mysuru is known for its legacy of royalty and rich cultural identity. Do you think Mysureans have a unique fashion sense? And when it comes to style, what defines them more, silk sarees or contemporary fashion trends?
Nishat and Misba: Absolutely. Mysureans have a refined and graceful sense of style. Silk sarees hold a special place; they’re timeless, elegant and deeply rooted in tradition. At the same time, they embrace contemporary styles and modern silhouettes with equal grace. What makes their style truly distinctive is this seamless blend of heritage and modernity, marked by elegance and understated sophistication.
SOM: In your opinion, how has the representation of women in fashion events evolved over the years?
Nishat and Misba: The evolution has been remarkable. While women were once seen mainly as participants or models, today they lead as designers, entrepreneurs and key decision-makers, shaping the industry.
Fashion platforms have become powerful spaces for women to express their creativity and vision through their brands, and it’s inspiring to witness and contribute to this evolution.
SOM: How has the role of social media and digital platforms changed how fashion exhibitions are promoted and experienced?
Nishat and Misba: Social media have introduced a new dimension to fashion exhibitions. Promotions that once relied on word of mouth now reach audiences instantly. Digital platforms create anticipation even before the event begins, allowing us to connect with our audience early and extend the energy of the exhibition beyond its closing day.
SOM: What has been your most memorable exhibition moment? Have you encountered a last-minute crisis? How do you navigate them?
Nishat and Misba: Some of the most memorable moments are often the simplest. Watching a designer sell out, or a visitor finding exactly what they were looking for, is priceless.
Naturally, live events come with their share of challenges, from logistical hurdles to unexpected technical setbacks. Over the years, there have been many last-minute surprises and we address them with composure, teamwork & mutual trust.
Nishat Mohsin (sitting) with her younger sister Misba Umrean
SOM: How do you ensure smooth collaboration among teams and what defines the success of an exhibition for you?
Nishat and Misba: Effective collaboration begins with clear communication and mutual respect. We involve designers, production, and marketing teams from the very beginning. So, everyone feels aligned and valued.
For us, the success of an exhibition goes beyond numbers. It lies in the connections created when designers feel supported, visitors leave inspired and the continued trust people place in ‘Panache’ year after year.
SOM: How do you stay calm and manage stress when the event date is approaching?
Nishat and Misba: As the event date approaches, there is always a certain rush, but over the years with ‘Panache’, we have learnt that staying calm is a conscious choice. Careful planning helps minimise last-minute stress. A quiet prayer, deep breaths and trusting our team help us stay grounded and we believe that positive energy always reflects in the event.
SOM: What advice would you give someone who wants to break into fashion or event management?
Nishat and Misba: Fashion and event management may appear glamorous, but they require discipline, patience and emotional intelligence. Start small, build genuine relationships and stay consistent, as reputation is paramount. Above all, understand people, fashion is not just about clothing, but about emotions and confidence.
SOM: What message would you like to share with women this Women’s Day?
Nishat and Misba: To every woman, we would say that strength is not defined by others; it lies in your ambition and compassion. Celebrate your achievements without guilt, dream beyond your fears and never diminish yourself to make others comfortable. Your journey simply needs to be your own.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles> Top Stories / by Shadan Muneer / March 16th, 2026
