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
Almuzain Company was awarded the Best Performer for the Main Packages of the 2025 Mega Turnaround at Petro Rabigh, which is ranked as the largest turnaround executed based on its scope and complexity.
The prestigious award was presented by Othaman AlGhamdi, President and CEO of Petro Rabigh. Almuzain management representatives Bajpe Zakaria and T.V. Deepak accepted the award on behalf of the entire Almuzain team who contributed to this achievement.
The overall performance award covers safety, quality and on-time completion, contributing to the success of the project.
The company secured the Best Performer Overall Turnaround First Prize.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 10th, 2026
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.
Amid our fast-paced lives, there exists a remarkable group of individuals who believe in slow, steady, and consistent efforts to create meaningful change.
These individuals are known as changemakers—people who quietly dedicate themselves to bettering society, far from the spotlight and the noise of daily routine.
They don’t seek fame or recognition. Instead, they focus on making a positive impact in their communities. Often unheard of, these changemakers influence others through their actions, values, and vision for a better world.
Awaz–The Voice is proud to launch a special series starting this Sunday, spotlighting Indian Muslim changemakers of India.
Through their inspiring stories, we aim to shine a light on individuals whose work exemplifies compassion, dedication, and innovation.
Our editorial team has carefully selected these changemakers based on several parameters, including the authenticity of their efforts and the tangible impact they have made.
These are everyday heroes who are addressing pressing social, environmental, and economic challenges—often with limited resources but unwavering commitment.
They are improving access to education, healthcare, and sanitation; they are empowering women, protecting the environment, and uplifting their communities—all without expecting any rewards or recognition. For them, the satisfaction of doing good is reward enough.
Their actions may seem small, but their impact is profound. As the saying goes, “Every drop counts in making an ocean.” Each changemaker is a vital part of the wave of progress that is quietly transforming India.
One of our key criteria in identifying these individuals was whether they are creating tangible change or inspiring others to become changemakers themselves. For us, a changemaker is someone who brings positivity into the world through innovative solutions, leadership, and a commitment to improving lives and systems.
In a world that often celebrates loud success, we believe it’s important to pause and acknowledge those who uphold the highest ideals of humanity. These changemakers serve as a moral compass, reminding us of our own responsibilities to society and to one another.
We begin our series with changemakers from Uttar Pradesh, featuring stories like that of Capt. Saria Abbasi, who dreamt of joining the Indian Armed Forces from a young age. After earning her engineering degree and receiving multiple job offers, she chose instead to follow her dream and joined the Indian Army—becoming a role model for countless Muslim women aspiring to serve the nation. She has done challenging missions like serving at Indo-China border post at Tawang in October 2021.
Rubina Rashid Ali, who lives in Aligarh Muslim University’s campus has become a champion for women earning their livelihood out of applique (ornamental needlework in which pieces of fabric are sewn or stuck). She has stood up for them to ensure that these women from poor backgrounds get the wages they deserve.
The changemakers of India
Dr Farha Usmani, a medical practitioner who hails from Aligarh, went to US to pursue her career in the United Nations Population Fund in 2007. Leaving behind her family was a tough call for her. She is the only Muslim woman to have risen to the position of director in the UNFPA. Today, she is making world policies for women’s health and rights. She is the Vice President of SAFAR, an organization that is responsible for the overall advancement and rights of minority and marginalized women and girls in India.
Another inspiring figure is Babban Mian, a businessman who runs a large gaushala (cow shelter) in Bulandshahar, caring for hundreds of cows. Inspired by his late mother’s deep affection for animals, Babban Mian’s work also challenges stereotypes and promotes harmony by offering a different perspective on the Muslim community’s relationship with animal care.
Some of the changemakers will remind you of characters straight from Indian folklore and vernacular literature. People who have been nurtured by Indian civilizational values of compassion and selflessness.
Through these stories and many more, we hope to inspire our readers and celebrate the quiet revolution being led by changemakers who are shaping a better, more inclusive India.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this series. Write to us at input@awazthevoice.in or engage with us on our social media platforms.
The author is the Editor-in-Chief of Awaz-the Voice portal
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Atir Khan, Editor-in-Chief, Awaz-the Voice portal / May 22nd, 2025
Energia on Sunday inaugurated its Corporate Service Center in Mangaluru, marking a step towards strengthening its global corporate operations and expanding its presence in India.
The new office was inaugurated in the presence of U. T. Khader, Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, and NRI Busnessman Dr. Ronald Colaco along with members of Mangaluru’s business and community circles.
The ceremony was led by Shahid Hassan, CEO of Energia, along with Mohin Sheikh, Managing Director, Rajan Mengoth, Operations Director, and Mehboob, Chairman of Energia. Senior officials and team members of the company were also present.
The Mangaluru Corporate Service Center will function as a dedicated support office for Energia’s operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company said the centre will help improve coordination, strengthen back-end support and enhance governance across key corporate functions. It is expected to improve service delivery through structured processes and better operational control.
Energia stated that the new centre will create employment opportunities in Mangaluru, particularly in corporate services and support roles. The company also plans to introduce structured career pathways and skill development programmes for professionals in the region.
While the immediate focus of the centre will be to support overseas operations, Energia said it intends to deepen its long-term engagement in India. The company indicated that it is exploring opportunities in the renewable energy sector in line with India’s expanding clean energy landscape. The Mangaluru office is expected to act as a base for future partnerships and renewable initiatives in the country.
“This Corporate Service Center reflects Energia’s long-term commitment to building strong capability and governance. Mangalore gives us access to high-quality talent, and this office will play a critical role in supporting our Saudi operations while also helping us prepare for future renewable initiatives in India,” said Shahid Hassan, CEO of Energia.
Among those present at the event were Chairman of State Allied and Health Care Council UT Iftikhar Ali, President of New Jumma Masjid Sharif Whitestone, Chairman of Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industry SM Rasheed Haji, Founder of Team B-Human Asif Deal, Dr Haroon Hussain and others.
Energia is an energy solutions company with operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and a growing presence in other markets. The company provides integrated energy solutions across sectors with a focus on reliability and long-term value creation.
Indian karateka Zaara Vasim Assadi emerged as the standout performer at the International Karate Open Championship held as part of the Muscat Night Festival, clinching four gold medals in a remarkable display of skill and consistency.
The prestigious tournament saw participation from around 400 athletes representing 24 clubs across multiple countries. Amid intense competition, Zaara, aged just 10, created history by becoming the only girl at the championship to secure gold in all four categories she competed in individual Kata, individual Kumite, team Kata, and team Kumite.
Zaara’s achievement adds to her already impressive record. She has remained undefeated in Kata since the age of five, underlining her long-standing dominance in the discipline. Her performances were widely praised for technical precision, discipline, and composure well beyond her age.
Training at The Champ Sports & Arts in Muscat, Zaara’s journey has become a source of inspiration for young martial artists, reinforcing the idea that dedication and passion can overcome age-related barriers in competitive sport.
The championship also served as a platform for cultural exchange, bringing together athletes and spectators from diverse backgrounds and celebrating the unifying spirit of karate.
Zaara Vasim Assadi is the daughter of Vasim Assadi and Hasra Sana and hails from Udupi. She is the granddaughter of Zikriya Assadi.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 02nd, 2026
KUWAIT / Raigarh District (MAHARASHTRA) / New Jersey (U.S.A) :
Kokan’s daughter Lubna Qazi Chaudhry took the oath as Administrative Law Judge in New Jersey with her hand placed on The Holy Quran, pledging to uphold constitutional responsibilities.
Mumbai:
Lubna Qazi, a lawyer originally from Maharashtra’s Raigad district, has created history by taking oath as an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) in the US state of New Jersey, becoming the first Muslim woman to be appointed to this position in the state. The appointment is being widely regarded as a significant milestone for minority representation in the American judiciary.
The oath-taking ceremony was held recently, where Associate Justice Rachel Wainer Apter of the New Jersey Supreme Court administered the oath. On the occasion, Lubna Qazi placed her hand on the Holy Quran and pledged to faithfully discharge her constitutional duties.
The position of Administrative Law Judge holds considerable importance within the American judicial system. ALJs preside over cases involving decisions of government agencies, administrative disputes and public grievances, delivering rulings based on established legal principles.
Lubna Qazi’s Life Journey
Lubna Qazi’s life journey spans multiple countries and cultures. She was born in Kuwait, where she spent her early childhood with her parents. In 1990, during a school vacation, she travelled to the United States. However, following the outbreak of the Gulf War, the family decided to settle there permanently.
Lubna later pursued her education in California, completed her graduation from the University of California, and earned her law degree from Western State University College of Law.
After marrying Ahsan Chaudhry in 2005, Lubna moved to New Jersey, where she served in various government legal positions for nearly two decades. Recognising her extensive legal experience and professional competence, the Governor of New Jersey nominated her for the post of Administrative Law Judge in 2025.
Lubna Qazi is also distinguished for her linguistic abilities. In addition to English, she is fluent in Urdu, Hindi and Konkani, and has working knowledge of Arabic. Committed to preserving cultural and linguistic heritage, she is personally teaching Urdu and Arabic to her two children at home.
Family Feels Honoured
Expressing his pride, Lubna’s father Inayatullah Qazi said that the entire family feels honoured by her achievement. He described the appointment not merely as a position, but the result of years of hard work, sacrifice and prayers.
Speaking to the correspondent, Inayatullah Qazi said that his family hails from Tala taluka of Raigad district in the Konkan region. He completed his education up to Class VI at Jamia Millia Islamia School, Delhi, and his high school education at Anjuman Islam, Mumbai.
After obtaining a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Government College of Engineering, Aurangabad, in 1975, he moved to Kuwait for employment, beginning his career with an air-conditioning company. After working there for fifteen years, he migrated to the United States with a single suitcase following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait after the Gulf War, as his children were already in the US at the time. He later ensured higher education for all four of his children.
Inayatullah Qazi said that the family’s roots are deeply embedded in Islamic tradition and that Urdu is spoken with pride at home. He added that Lubna completed recitation of the Holy Quran at the age of seven.
He further shared that around five to six generations ago, their ancestors were sent to the Konkan region as Qazis (judicial authorities) to administer justice without discrimination based on religion, caste or race. Although the profession discontinued a few generations ago, he expressed happiness that his daughter has now proudly revived the family’s judicial legacy.
Lubna Qazi is also the granddaughter of Dr Rehana Ahmed, a noted educationist and Executive Chairperson of the Girls’ Board of Anjuman Islam, Mumbai. Dr Ahmed expressed joy over Lubna’s achievement, stating that it serves as a shining example for young women across the community and will inspire girls to pursue higher education and professional careers. She is widely recognised for her dedicated efforts toward the promotion of girls’ education, particularly within the Muslim community.
Meanwhile, several social and legal organisations, including the Asian Pacific American Lawyers Association of New Jersey, have congratulated Lubna Qazi on her appointment. Observers believe that this development marks a significant step forward in strengthening Muslim and minority representation within the American judicial system.
source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> United States / by Mohiyuddin Altamash / January 30th, 2026
Muslim Mirror’s 100 Most Influential Muslims of 2025
New Delhi:
Muslim Mirror has released its much-anticipated annual list of the “100 Most Influential Indian Muslims of 2025,” spotlighting individuals who have made significant contributions to India’s public life across a wide spectrum of fields including politics, culture, education, business, media, religion, sports, and social service. Now in its second edition, the list aims to document influence not merely as power or popularity, but as sustained impact, leadership, and the ability to shape public discourse.
A defining feature of the 2025 edition is the growing prominence of younger achievers, signalling a visible generational shift within Indian Muslim leadership. Alongside established national figures, the list includes emerging voices who have built influence through grassroots activism, professional excellence, digital platforms, legal advocacy, education, and community engagement. Editors associated with the project said this was a deliberate attempt to recognise new centres of influence beyond traditional hierarchies.
The list reflects the diversity and plural character of Indian Muslim society, cutting across geography, ideology, profession, and language. From seasoned politicians and religious scholars to artists, entrepreneurs, academics, and social reformers, the compilation offers a broad snapshot of leadership trends at a time when issues of representation, constitutional values, and social justice remain central to national debate.
Representation Across Sectors
The 2025 list features several eminent academicians and intellectuals who have shaped higher education, policy discourse, and social research. Among them are Abul Qasim Nomani, Ameerullah Khan, Furqan Qamar, Shahid Jamil, and Ubaid-ur-Rahman, recognised for their contributions to education, public policy, and academic leadership.
In the business and entrepreneurship category, the list includes influential names such as Azad Moopan, Azim Hashim Premji, Farah Malik, Irfan Razack, M. P. Ahammed, Mecca Rafiq Ahmed, Meraj Manal, Syed Mohamed Beary, P. Mohammed Ali, Shahnaz Hussain, Tausif Ahmad Mirza, Yusuff Ali, and Ziaullah Sharif. Their inclusion underlines the growing economic footprint of Indian Muslim entrepreneurs, both domestically and globally, spanning sectors from retail and healthcare to infrastructure and consumer goods.
Community leadership remains a strong pillar of the list, with figures such as Arshad Madani, Mahmood Madani, Malik Motasim Khan, Mehmood Pracha, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, Navaid Hamid, Pirzada Md Abbas Siddiqui, Qasim Rasool Ilyas, Sadatullah Husaini, Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, and Yusuf Mohamed Abrahani recognised for their roles in religious guidance, legal advocacy, social mobilisation, and institutional leadership.
Culture, Media, and Public Discourse
In arts and entertainment, globally recognised names such as A. R. Rahman, Aamir Khan, Mammootty, Munawar Faruqui, and Shah Rukh Khan continue to command immense cultural influence, shaping narratives that extend well beyond cinema and music into social consciousness.
The list also acknowledges the growing importance of media and journalism in shaping opinion and challenging dominant narratives. Journalists and commentators such as Arfa Khanam, Irfan Meraj, and Seema Mustafa are recognised for their consistent engagement with issues of democracy, minority rights, and constitutional values.
Religious and Intellectual Scholarship
A significant section of the list is devoted to Islamic scholars and religious thinkers, reflecting their continued influence on moral leadership and intellectual discourse. Names such as A. P. Aboobacker Musliyar, Qasim Nomani, Prof. Akhtarul Wase, Asghar Ali Imam Mahdi Salafi, Asjad Raza Khan, Ibraheem Khaleel Al-Bukhari, Javed Jamil, Khalid Saifullah Rahmani, Khaleelur Rahman Sajjad Nomani, Qamaruzzaman Azmi, Rashid Shaz, Shakir Ali Noori, Shamail Nadvi, and Yasoob Abbas find place for their scholarly work, writings, and public engagement.
Politics and Governance
The political category features leaders cutting across party lines and regions, including Asaduddin Owaisi, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Hamid Ansari, Mehbooba Mufti, Omar Abdullah, Salman Khurshid, Najeeb Jung, Syed Naseer Hussain, Engineer Rashid, Akhtarul Iman, Iqra Hasan, Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rakibul Hasan, K. Rahman Khan, Kadir Mohideen, Mohibullah Nadvi, Md Shafi, Agha Mahadi, Asim Waqar, and Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal. Their inclusion reflects influence exercised through electoral politics, governance, diplomacy, and legislative advocacy.
Changemakers and Social Reformers
One of the most dynamic sections of the 2025 list is that of changemakers and social reformers, featuring individuals such as Safeena Husain, Shahabuddin Yaqoob Quraishi, Syeda Hameed, Zameer Uddin Shah, Mahbubul Hoque, Sabahat S. Azim, Mehmood Pracha, Faiz Syed, and Zahir Ishaq Kazi, among others. Many of these figures have earned recognition through long-term grassroots work rather than formal authority.
International Booker Prize 2025 winner Banu Mushtaq for Heart Lamp, along with renowned poet Wasim Barelvi, has been placed in the category of Literary Figures.
In sports, iconic names Sania Mirza and Irfan Pathan continue to inspire younger generations through excellence and public engagement beyond the playing field.
Beyond Rankings
The editors emphasised that the list does not claim to be exhaustive, nor does it measure influence solely through fame, wealth, or official position. Instead, it seeks to capture real-world impact, moral authority, intellectual contribution, and the ability to shape conversations within and outside the community.
The annual list has increasingly become a reference point for understanding evolving leadership patterns among Indian Muslims. By foregrounding both established figures and rising talents, the 2025 edition reflects continuity as well as change, underscoring how Indian Muslims continue to contribute meaningfully to India’s democratic, cultural, and social field.
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim / by Muslim Mirror / January 15th, 2026
Formula 1 Academy-backed Indian racer Atiqa Mir showed scorching speed for her second pole position in as many weeks before picking up a Heat win in Round 2 of the RMC UAE Karting Championship here.
After a pole and podium finish in the Formula 1-backed COTFA series last week, Atiqa switched seamlessly into different equipment to set a blistering pace at the Al Forsan Circuit. She is the first Indian to be supported by Formula 1.
In the Official Practice sessions, Atiqa topped three out of the four sessions and clocked the fastest time of the day in a highly competitive field of international drivers. She was the only female.
Dubai: Indian racer Atiqa Mir during round one of IAME UAE Karting Championship, in Dubai. (PTI Photo)
Atiqa, who turned 11 last week, carried that form into qualifying, clinching pole position in the dying minutes of the session with a sizzling time of 60.686 seconds.
Representing Akcel GP, she led from the front in the Heat race for a deserving victory. She lost the lead briefly on Lap 1 before regaining it soon after and pulling away from the field of 18 drivers.
In the pre-final race, Atiqa suffered a big crash while fighting for the lead on the last lap, injuring her elbow.
Her determination and fighting spirit came to the fore when she drove the final lap with the injury and a broken kart. After making up five places on the opening lap, Atiqa’s kart developed a technical problem, forcing an early retirement.
”What could have been a dominant weekend ended back in the pits. But that is racing, we are racing so close to each other at such high speeds that crashes are bound to happen.
“I got a hard hit on my elbow, and it is bruised quite badly. I wanted to fight and get back to the front in the final, but it wasn’t meant to be as my panel broke and due to that I couldn’t drive,” said Atiqa.
Her father and former Formula Asia Vice Champion Asif Mir said luck was not on her daughter’s side this weekend, but at the same time, he called the collision part of racing.
“A dominant show by her, a slight touch with another kart changed her entire weekend. She deserved a better result, but that is how it goes sometimes in sport. She is driving at a high level week in and week out in different karting championships.
“She has to switch engines, tyres almost every weekend, and she can adjust well,” said Asif.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Sports / by PTI / November 18th, 2025
From the tech labs of Bengaluru to the coffee plantations of Coorg, from the ancient ruins of Hampi to the bustling streets of Mysore, Karnataka exudes energy. This is where India’s IT revolution was born, where classical arts thrive alongside cutting-edge innovations, and where every district tells a story of transformation.
Many Kannadigas have built empires and earned acclaim—but some went further. They didn’t just succeed; they became the Changemakers—individuals who shattered barriers, rewrote destinies, and ignited revolutions that ripple far beyond their own lives. Here are ten personalities of Karnataka whose courage and vision are reshaping the future:
Rifah Taskeen
A 15-year-old firecracker from Mysore started racing at age three in a custom car built by her ex-racer father, Tajuddin. By five, she was driving Mysore to Bengaluru; by seven, she was drifting in school shows and stealing Republic Day parades.
Fighting red tape and disbelief, she stormed past every “too young” barrier to claim seven world records (Golden, Elite, High Range, India, Asia, Worldwide & Wonder Books), mastering bikes, JCBs, cranes, buses, tippers, road rollers, and even flying a plane at eight.
Mysore’s cleanliness ambassador for five years and tuberculosis state warrior for four, she’s also a state-level boxing medalist and karate fighter. She’s drifted for Rahul Gandhi, flown with Sonia Gandhi’s blessings, and left global crowds speechless.
Self-funded, unstoppable, and dreaming of IAS wings after SSLC, Rifah doesn’t just break records; she rewrites what “impossible” means. Age is just a number.
Mushtaq Ahmed
A Bengaluru-born visionary landed in Dubai when it was still sand dunes and a dream. For 41 years as head of Dubai Police photography (until 2018), the retired 1st Warrant Officer framed an entire nation’s rise—capturing the Burj Khalifa’s skeleton, the Kaaba from a crane, Sheikh Mohammed’s 1979 wedding, and sacred Medina in rare reverence.
From helicopter shots above a bridgeless Dubai to standing beside Sheikh Zayed and global icons like Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammed Rafi, the 79-year-old chronicler turned fleeting moments into eternity. Honoured, hugged, and kissed on the forehead by Dubai Police upon retirement, Mushtaq’s lens didn’t just document history—it built it. His quiet mantra: “The best shot is yet to come.”
Tazaiyun Oomer
Tazaiyun Oomer was 13 when she fought through a crowd in Parliament House and got Indira Gandhi’s autograph, an electric moment that taught her leadership has no gender.
From a Kutchi Memon girl helping in her father’s textile shop, she grew into Bengaluru’s quiet revolution. In 1999, she founded Humane Touch Trust: 100+ corrective surgeries for disabled children, Al-Azhar School, 1,750 dignified mass weddings, 2,000+ Muslim women turned entrepreneurs, and yearly scholarships lifting nearly 300 girls into tech careers.
Recipient of the Sulthan Nari Shakti and Karnataka’s Rising Beyond the Ceiling awards, she proved compassion can shatter centuries-old barriers. Where tradition once whispered “a woman’s place,” Tazaiyun built schools, businesses, and futures. Her mantra: “Change begins the moment you decide to act.”
Mohammed Ali Khalid
Mohammed Ali Khalid, India’s Bronze Wolf Award recipient —the highest global honour in Scouting—has lived the Scout promise for over four decades with breathtaking sacrifice and impact.
Mohammed Ali Khalid stands as one of India’s most influential Scout leaders, a visionary whose four decades of service have shaped millions of young lives. From volunteering at the 1980s National Jamboree to becoming Additional Chief National Commissioner of Bharat Scouts and Guides, he has built global partnerships, led landmark events like the 2017 National Jamboree and the 2022 International Cultural Jamboree, and strengthened Scouting across the Asia-Pacific Region. A strategic thinker behind Vision 2013 and a respected global diplomat, Khalid’s selfless leadership, mentorship, and bridge-building continue to inspire generations—earning him the Bronze Wolf and global admiration.
Architect of Vision 2013 for Asia-Pacific, broker of WOSM’s global fee consensus, founder of SAANSO, and mentor to countless young leaders, Khalid turned India into Scouting’s most connected powerhouse. At 70, he still pushes for 20% membership growth and 50% youth representation worldwide.
Rahmath Tarikere
Rahmath Tarikere, born in 1959 in Tarikere’s syncretic lanes, grew up where Hindus and Muslims shared the same street and stories. The 1992 Babri demolition jolted him into action: he left pure literary criticism to unearth Karnataka’s living pluralistic traditions—Sufi saints, Nathpanthis, Shakta poets, and folk Moharram rituals that united communities for centuries.
Author of 30 books—including four Karnataka Sahitya Academy winners and the 2010 Kendra Sahitya Akademi winner Kattiyanchina Daari—he returned the national award in 2015 protesting intolerance and the murder of M.M. Kalburgi. A humble professor who insists “I am not a changemaker,” Tarikere quietly weaves pluralism into Karnataka’s soul, proving unity is not uniformity but a vibrant mosaic of differences.
Khudsiya Nazeer
Khudsiya Nazeer, the “Iron Lady of India,” was born 1987 in Bangarpet and lost her wrestler father at two. Raised in a conservative Muslim family amid depression and mockery, she turned pain into power.
Post-Caesarean, she deadlifted 300 kg to set a world record (2022), then stormed the global stage: three golds at Asia Pacific Masters 2023 (South Korea), silver in Athens, golds in Commonwealth (Australia) and Germany. The first Indian Muslim woman to win international weightlifting medals, she lifts drug-free while working full-time at KSRTC.
From burqa-clad walks guarded by police to Harvard’s stage, Khudsiya proves motherhood multiplies strength. Her mantra: educate, play sport, write your own destiny. This Iron Lady doesn’t just break records; she shatters every ceiling for women.
Fouzia Tarannum
Fouzia Tarannum, 2015-batch IAS (AIR 31), cracked UPSC on her first attempt from Bengaluru’s public libraries—no coaching, pure grit. From IRS gold-medallist to Karnataka cadre, she turned arid Kalaburagi into a national millet powerhouse with “Kalaburagi Rotti,” empowered thousands of SHG women, lifted districts to top SSLC ranks, revived gram panchayat libraries, and delivered India’s cleanest electoral rolls—earning the President’s Best Electoral Practices Award in 2025.
At 36, this quiet DC faced Islamophobic slurs yet answered only with work. Unfazed, empathetic, and fiercely people-centric, Fouzia proves bureaucracy can have a heart and a steel spine. She doesn’t shout change—she builds it, one roti, one vote, one woman at a time.
Zafer Mohiuddin
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Zafer Mohiuddin, Raichur’s radio-struck boy who once ghostwrote love letters in school, turned a bus-ride compliment from R. Nagesh into a lifetime on stage. He quit UPSC and Air Force postings to found Kathputaliyaan Theatre Group (1988), wielding puppets and plays as weapons against taboo.
From translating Girish Karnad’s Tipu Sultan ke Khwaab (Theatre Olympics 2018) to shattering Urdu myths with Zaban Mili Hai Magar, his raw, Amitabh-like voice has roared in ten languages, narrated Swaraj Namah, and defended Urdu’s secular soul alongside Karnad.
In November 2025, Karnataka crowned him with the Rajyotsava Award—its highest honour—for four decades pulling society’s strings toward truth and harmony. The puppet master still refuses to cut his own.
Moulana Dr. Mohamed Maqsood Imran Rashadi
Moulana Dr. Mohamed Maqsood Imran Rashadi, Principal and Chief Imam of Bengaluru’s iconic Jamia Masjid, memorised the Quran in 18 months, earned a PhD in Urdu literature, and turned a struggling madrasa into a 100%-pass powerhouse for 400 underprivileged students.
From quietly removing provocative meat thrown to spark riots to defusing the 2025 “I Love Mohammed” banner crisis with one calm sermon, he prevents violence before it begins. He negotiates fair loudspeaker rules across faiths, hosts Hindu swamis for iftar, and, after the Pahalgam terror attack, thundered “Terror has no religion—we love Hindustan.”
A scholar who preaches in Tehran, meets Saudi royals, and still walks the KR Market uniting traders, Moulana Maqsood proves that unity is built by deeds, not banners. Bengaluru’s heartbeat of harmony beats in his voice.
Syed Nawaz Miftahi
Syed Nawaz Miftahi, fully sighted yet forever changed by the tear-filled Quranic recitations of blind children in Mumbai in 2011, vowed to become their light.
He mastered Braille, invented the “broken-rice touch” technique to awaken ageing fingers, and turned Sultan Shah Markaz, Madrasa-e-Noor (70 students), and daily phone classes into sanctuaries where the visually impaired recite flawless tajweed and complete multiple khatms every Ramazan.
From Hyderabad to Kashmir, his model now trains teachers who were once his students. In November 2025, he launched Umang Foundations—a residential beacon run by seven blind trustees and one fearless young sighted woman—where every visually impaired soul, of any faith, learns Quran, computers, and independence.
Nawaz doesn’t give sight; he proves the heart’s vision is brighter.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> The Changemakers of Karnataka / by ATV / posted by Aasha Khosa / November 22nd, 2025
