Boys team of Al-Kareem School won the Taluk-level U-17 Throwball Tournament for Boys organised at St. Philomena’s High School recently.
The team defeated Ramakrishna Ashram in the final match.
Members of the team included Mohammed Attaulla (Captain), Farhan Khan (Vice-Captain), Mohammed Junaid, Mohammed Nadeem, Afreed Ahmed Khan, SinnanShariff, Roshan Ali, Mohammed Toufiq, Zaid Ahmed and Zayan Ahmed.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / November 10th, 2025
Volleyball match at Malindi to celebrate the birthday of Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin
New Delhi :
The Dawoodi Bohra community living in Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret, Nakuru, Tanga, Morogoro, and Arusha in East Africa celebrated the birthday of their spiritual leader, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, in a unique and inspiring way.
A grand volleyball tournament was held in the coastal city of Malindi to mark the occasion, uniting community members in an atmosphere of enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and unity.
Held in mid-October at the recently inaugurated Kutubi Sports Complex, the two-day tournament featured teams from various cities across East Africa. Hundreds of community members travelled to Malindi to participate. The event was not just a sporting competition, but a celebration of the community’s energy, cooperation, and positivity.
A Bohra leader gives away the trophy to the Captain of the Winning team
“There is no better way to celebate His Holiness Syedna’s birthday than by embracing one of his key teachings, to be physically active, in our lives,” said community member Huzaifa Hunaid.
Although Malindi has a small Dawoodi Bohra community, hosting the tournament filled the locals with pride and confidence. A local member beamed, “It was a proud moment to see our small team successfully organise such a large-scale event. The enthusiasm and positivity on and off the court reflected the true spirit of the event—building new relationships and strengthening old ones.”
The entire community joined in the sports festival. Locals were also present in large numbers in the audience. One spectator said, “We usually come to watch football, but this volleyball tournament brought a new wave of excitement and joy to the city.”
A match of Volleyball to mark the birthday of Bohra Community’s spiritual leader Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin
The atmosphere at the Qutbi Sports Complex was festive throughout. Community members set up food stalls, serving delicious dishes, and everyone shared in the joy. After the matches, players were seen congratulating each other and exchanging pleasantries—a sight that exemplified brotherhood and affinity.
After the final match, when the winning team’s captain lifted the trophy, the entire arena erupted in applause and chants. Encouraged by the success of this event, the Qutubi Sports Club is now planning to hold a football tournament soon to further this spirit of enthusiasm and unity. The club’s objective is clear: to promote unity, health, and brotherhood through sport among East African communities.
The tournament in Malindi was not only a celebration of Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s birthday but also a reflection of the community’s vibrancy, cooperation, and shared values.
The community feels the event has transformed sport into a bridge of humanity and unity.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Aasha Khosa (edited) / November 06th, 2025
Turning pain into purpose: The son of an auto rickshaw driver, Sahel Hashmi, now a chemistry lecturer and researcher, proves that courage and hard work can defeat adversity
Mumbai :
Life’s challenges may stop many, but those with courage never give up. Sahel Hashmi, known officially as Shahla Hashmi in government records, has proved this through his remarkable journey from injury to international recognition.
Selected to represent India in the upcoming International Para Cricket Tournament in Sri Lanka, Sahel’s story is one of extraordinary willpower, faith, and hard work. Born on 19 September 1996 in Mumbai, Sahel was only nine years old when the devastating floods of 26 July 2005 changed his life forever. During the chaos, an accident left him 45 per cent disabled, affecting his right hand permanently.
Recalling the incident, he said, “I was injured during the floods. My right hand was badly hurt. Two or three operations were done, but the hand never recovered.
“During the surgeries, doctors had to cut all the muscles of my right hand, and skin from my legs and thighs was used for grafting. It was extremely painful. Since childhood, I was right-handed — I used to write and bat with my right hand. But after the injury, I had to learn everything with my left hand. Now I can write with both hands, and my batting style has also changed,” he explained with quiet pride.
Despite his physical challenges, Sahel never let disability define his limits. “I kept playing cricket and continued performing well for my team,” he said. “My family and friends supported me at every step, and their encouragement helped me reach where I am today.”
Sahel’s father drives an auto-rickshaw in Mumbai. As the eldest of three brothers, he has carried his family’s hopes with humility and strength.
A passionate student, Sahel completed his BSc in Chemistry from RJ College, Mumbai, scoring 63.93%, followed by an MSc in Organic Chemistry from Ismail Yusuf College with 63.58% marks.
In 2021, he cleared the SET (State Eligibility Test) and began teaching as an Assistant Professor at Rizvi College, Bandra, while also lecturing in several other Mumbai colleges. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in Chemistry at Mithibai College, University of Mumbai, with his research focused on “Synthesis of Nanoparticles from Plant Extracts.”
Sahel’s selection for the Sri Lanka Para Cricket Tournament marks a new milestone in his inspiring journey. He will play alongside some of the best para cricketers from across the globe, representing not only India but also the spirit of resilience and determination.
“I still love cricket as much as I did in childhood,” Sahel said. “This opportunity means a lot to me. I want to show that physical challenges can never stop someone who has faith and hard work.”
Sahel’s story serves as a beacon of hope for many who face difficulties in life. His message is simple but powerful: “Difficulties come in life, but those who have courage never stop.”
From surviving one of Mumbai’s worst natural disasters to becoming an international sportsman and scholar, Sahel Hashmi’s journey stands as proof that strength, faith, and family support can turn even pain into purpose.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India / by Team Clarion / October 22nd, 2025
Education Today / Times of India Oct 08, 2025 / 208 Views
In a modest karate training hall inside Nagpada Neighbourhood House NGO in Mumbai, one teenager’s sharp punches and swift footwork command immediate attention. Akku Sarah Shabbir, a 15-year-old karate student and Class 11 commerce student at Maharashtra College, has become a symbol of pride for her community after winning gold medals at both the District Sports Organisation (DSO) competition and the Asia Cup held at Andheri Sports Complex.
Organised by the Asian Shito-Ryu Sports Karate-Do Association, the Asia Cup saw participation from countries like India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Malaysia. Sarah clinched her gold by defeating a tough Sri Lankan opponent—solidifying her status as a rising star in the sport.
A Champion in the Making
Sarah’s achievements have made her a mini-celebrity not just in her karate club, but also in her college and in the Mumbai Central neighbourhood, where she lives with her family. Despite following a traditional lifestyle—wearing a hijab like most girls in her community when outdoors—Sarah is clear-eyed and focused about her sporting ambitions.
“My family, friends, and neighbours are happy I got gold medals in back-to-back competitions,” said Sarah, modest about her success but aware of its growing significance.
Her father, Shabbir Akku, a perfumer by profession, has supported her from the beginning. “We are religious, but I didn’t stop Sarah when she said she wanted to join a karate club,” he said, highlighting a shift in perception among parents in conservative communities.
Breaking Stereotypes and Inspiring Change
Sarah’s achievement has stirred conversations and pride within her community and beyond. Congress MLA Amin Patel, who recently felicitated her, emphasised the broader social impact:
“Muslims are often blamed for not encouraging their daughters to go out and make a career in games and sports. Sarah’s success punctures this stereotype. We will do whatever we can to encourage such budding sporting talents.”
For many community leaders, Sarah’s story is about more than just sport. Asif Farooqui, Congress general secretary and a court member at Aligarh Muslim University and Jamia Millia Islamia, expressed how symbolic her victory is:
“This young girl from Mumbai Central has made us all proud with her achievement in Karate. Her dedication and spirit are truly inspiring. The world is changing fast—our girls see everything happening around them and are becoming more aware, strong, and determined. It’s wonderful to see this new confidence, especially among Muslim girls, who are proving that with opportunity and encouragement, they can shine in every sphere.”
The Coach Behind the Confidence
Sarah’s journey wouldn’t be possible without the guidance of her coach, Salahuddin Khan, who has been instrumental in training hundreds of students—many of them girls—from 25 different schools across the city.
Khan sees Sarah as part of a larger transformation happening in traditionally conservative pockets:
“I train students at 25 schools and the majority of my students are Muslim girls. I see a positive change in the attitude of parents. They are increasingly aware of the benefits of Karate and why girls need to learn it.”
He also credited Shama Taraporewala, the former principal of an Anjuman-I-Islam school, for supporting and encouraging students to take up martial arts and other empowering activities.
Karate as a Tool for Empowerment
For Sarah, karate isn’t just about medals—it’s about self-confidence and safety. “Earlier, I was a bit timid and shy to converse with strangers. Now, I am confident of tackling anyone who tries to misbehave with me,” she shared, showing just how transformative the discipline has been in her life.
Her words reflect a growing realisation among girls and their families about the practical benefits of martial arts, especially in urban settings where issues of safety and harassment are real concerns.
Looking Ahead
With gold medals already to her name and community support backing her, Sarah’s future looks promising—not just as an athlete, but as a role model for young girls across India. Her journey from a shy teenager to an Asia Cup champion is a story of resilience, cultural balance, and empowerment through sport. As more girls like Sarah step onto the mat and into the limelight, they are not just winning matches—they are shattering outdated narratives, proving that faith, tradition, and ambition can coexist, and that every girl deserves the chance to dream—and fight—for her future.
The 18-year-old girl, who memorised the Qur’an alongside her studies, has won ten medals, including two golds, making her community proud
Mumbai :
In the crowded locality of Madanpura, where dreams often battle circumstances, a young Muslim girl has emerged as a symbol of grit and grace. Hafiza Louiza Khan Ziauddin, a student of Maharashtra College, has made her community proud by winning the silver medal in the Under-18 category at the Asian Open Karate Championship held recently at Andheri Sports Complex, Mumbai.
Louiza, who has memorised the noble Qur’an, secured second position in the continental tournament. The first prize went to a participant from Sri Lanka, but Louiza’s performance, marked by determination and skill, drew applause from coaches and spectators alike.
“I thank Allah for this success,” Louiza told Clarion India with a modest smile. “It was my mother’s wish that I memorise the Qur’an, and I completed my Hifz in 2019. Along with that, I wanted to learn self-defence to become strong and confident.’
Louiza’s journey began during her school days at Anjuman Islam Begum Sharifa Kalsekar English High School, Byculla. When her school arranged a visit to Budkonn Foundation’s karate class in Nagpada, she was deeply inspired by a demonstration by coach Khan Salahuddin. “His words about discipline and self-defence stayed with me,” she recalled. “That day I decided to learn karate seriously.”
Since then, there has been no looking back. From interschool and district competitions to state and national levels, Louiza has collected ten medals, including two golds. She has also completed a karate referee course, for which she is now preparing for the final examination.
“Louiza is one of the most disciplined and focused students I have ever trained,” said coach Khan Salahuddin, who runs the Budkonn Foundation karate classes. “She proves that with faith, discipline, and hard work, nothing is impossible for our girls.”
Her mother, visibly proud, expressed her joy with moist eyes. “When my daughter decided to memorise the Qur’an, I prayed she should also gain strength to protect herself and inspire others. Today, she has done both.”
Louiza’s success carries deep meaning for the Muslim community, often stereotyped and overlooked in sports achievements. Her story breaks barriers and challenges social norms that limit girls’ participation in martial arts.
Now, with her eyes set on the World Karate Championship, Louiza continues her training with greater passion. “I want to represent India at the international level and show that Muslim girls can excel in every field,” she said firmly.
In a society where religious education and modern learning are often seen as opposites, Louiza’s example bridges the gap. She stands as a living reminder that faith and ambition can coexist beautifully — and that the strength of a Muslim woman lies not only in her devotion but also in her courage.
“Every girl should learn self-defence,” Louiza added. “It gives you confidence, and it teaches you patience, respect, and balance — just like Islam does.”
Her journey from Madanpura’s by-lanes to an Asian championship podium is more than a story of medals; it’s a story of belief — in herself, in her religion, and in the boundless power of perseverance.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslim / by Team Clarion / October 13th, 2025
Abdullah Patel Junior College student from Mumbra in Thane defeating his rival within seconds and inspiring Muslim youth to balance education, faith, and excellence in sports
Thane :
In a proud moment for the Muslim community in Mumbra in Maharashtra’s Thane District, Muhammad Ehtesham Nadeem Khan Qadri, a Class 12 (Commerce) student at Abdullah Patel Junior College, clinched the gold medal in the recent Maharashtra State Karate and Kickboxing Championship. The young athlete’s swift knockout victory in the final round brought immense joy and honour to his institution, family, and neighbourhood.
The championship, organised under The Legends of Martial Arts Association of India, took place at the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Thane Municipal Corporation Stadium in MM Valley, Mumbra Kausa. The event drew wide participation from schools and colleges across Maharashtra, with students competing in different age groups ranging from 12 to 17 years.
In addition to Ehtesham, 18 other participants were awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals in various categories, but it was his quick and decisive win that captured the crowd’s attention.
Speaking to reporters, the young champion shared his joy and gratitude. “This is not the first time I have won a medal in a sports competition,” Ehtesham said modestly. “Between 2014 and 2019, I received training in karate and kickboxing, and my training continues to this day. Earlier, I had also won a silver medal in the inter-school competitions at the Sign Dharavi Sports Complex.”
Ehtesham’s journey reflects not only talent but also remarkable discipline and perseverance. Over the years, he has balanced his passion for sports with academic commitments and religious devotion.
“Along with contemporary education, I am also pursuing religious studies,” he said. “I have memorised several Surahs (chapters) of the Qur’an. While I prioritise my modern education, it is my dream to win medals at the national and international levels in karate and kickboxing.”
His teachers and mentors describe him as a disciplined and humble student who embodies both the spirit of learning and the determination to excel. One of his instructors remarked, “Ehtesham’s victory is not just a personal achievement but a source of inspiration for Muslim youth in Mumbra who want to succeed in both education and sports.”
Besides martial arts, Ehtesham has also shown excellence in football, cricket, and kabaddi, earning several medals and recognition as the best player in multiple tournaments. So far, he has won around eight medals in various school and college-level competitions.
His father, Nadeem Khan, expressed immense pride in his son’s accomplishment. “We are grateful to Allah for Ehtesham’s success,” he said. “Our family has always encouraged him to study and pursue sports with equal dedication. His achievements prove that with faith and hard work, Muslim students can shine in every field.”
Community leaders also praised Ehtesham for bringing honour to Mumbra. Social worker Abdul Hameed Shaikh said, “Such achievements by young Muslims send a positive message. They show that with the right guidance and perseverance, our youth can represent India at international levels.”
As Ehtesham continues his rigorous training, his eyes are set on greater goals, to represent Maharashtra and eventually India in international martial arts championships.
For now, the young Mumbra champion stands as a proud example of determination, humility, and faith, a symbol of how the new generation of Indian Muslims continues to rise through education, discipline, and devotion.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslim / by Team Clarion / October 15th, 2025
Seventeen-year-old Rehan Mohammed from Mangaluru has been selected to represent Karnataka in the forthcoming Vinoo Mankad Trophy 2025-26 organised by the BCCI, scheduled to be held in Dehradun.
A resident of Thumbay, Valavoor, Rehan has distinguished himself as a proficient wicketkeeper-batsman in age-group cricket.
Representing Cambridge Cricket Club (CC) in the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) Under-19 First Division League, he scored five consecutive half-centuries, demonstrating remarkable consistency and composure. His performance in the KSCA Under-19 Inter-Zonal Tournament, where he scored a century, further underlined his technical skill and maturity at the crease.
Rehan is presently pursuing his second year of PUC in Science stream at St. Joseph’s Pre-University College (SJPUC), Bengaluru. An alumnus of St. Joseph’s Boys High School (SJBHS), he trains under the supervision of coaches at the Karnataka Institute of Cricket (KIOC), where he continues to refine his abilities as both a reliable wicketkeeper and an aggressive top-order batsman.
He is the son of Haris Mohammed and Tabassum, who originally hail from Mangaluru and have since relocated to Bengaluru to support his cricketing pursuits.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / October 06th, 2025
The rope skipping medal winner from Mumbai chooses clinical psychology over foreign degrees, returning home with determination to serve India through education and awareness
Mumbai :
Ten years after making headlines as a rope skipping champion in Dubai, Mumbai’s Zia Maulvi has returned to India, carrying not just medals but also a mission. At 24, she has chosen to dedicate her life to mental health awareness and service in her own country.
Zia first rose to fame in 2015 when, as a 14-year-old studying in the eighth grade, she represented Maharashtra at the World Inter-School Rope Skipping Championship in Dubai. There, she secured second place and brought home a silver medal. For two years after that, she competed at the national level and collected dozens of gold and silver medals before shifting her focus towards academics.
After scoring 78% in her SSC examinations, Zia pursued her education at Mumbai’s Sophia College, where she chose psychology as her special subject. Her interest in the field deepened over time, eventually guiding her towards international study. In 2023, she left for Canada to join Sir Sandford Fleming College of Applied Arts and Technology, where she successfully completed a two-year diploma in Mental Health and Addiction.
Despite opportunities abroad, Zia decided to return to India in April 2025. Explaining her decision, she told Clarion India: “There is not much awareness about psychology and mental health in India. There are also few psychologists, while I wish to serve the people of my country. My mission will be to try to overcome the growing trend of psychological stress and suicide.”
Currently, Zia is pursuing her Masters in Clinical Psychology at Indira Gandhi National Open University, Delhi. For her, studying in India means staying closer to the real issues faced by Indian society. “The studies in Canada matched the conditions of people there. But my people face different challenges. That is why I chose to study here, where I can directly connect with the needs of my country,” she said.
Alongside her academic journey, Zia has also excelled in martial arts. She has earned a black belt in karate, completed an instructor’s course, and qualified as a judge under the Karate India Organisation.
Zia’s journey from being a sports star to becoming a mental health advocate reflects not only her determination but also her deep sense of responsibility towards society. Those who once applauded her rope skipping feats now watch with pride as she dedicates her life to addressing psychological stress, depression, and the rising cases of suicide among young people in India.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslims / by Team Clarion / September 11th, 2025
Shoaib Khan of the Gaya district of Bihar, has been selected in the development team of Dubai Capitals, the associate team of IPL franchise Delhi Capitals.
Shoaib comes from Kothi village of Imamganj, a Naxal-affected area of Bihar. In his village, even basic facilities of education and sports were nearly missing, and, therefore, this is a dream come true for him.
Shoaib’s father, Adeeb Khan alias Jugnu Khan, is a farmer and social worker. Despite being from a Naxalite-affected and backward area, he always gave priority to education in his family.
A law graduate, Adeeb Khan, left no stone unturned in providing a good education to his children. In those days, there were no good schools in the village, so he got Shoaib admitted to Gyan Bharti School in Gaya city.
Shoaib with his team
From here, Shoaib’s passion for cricket deepened. Initially, his parents were apprehensive about his sports career, but they reconciled after seeing their son’s determination.
Shoaib’s elder brother, Altamash Khan, who works in District Disaster Management under the United Nations Development Programme, said that after playing at the school level, Shoaib also participated in district and state-level tournaments.
He joined Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi, where he continued playing cricket while pursuing his graduation. Soon, he was selected for the university team and participated in charity matches and university development tournaments with many big players from the country.
Shoaib was disappointed after not being picked for the Bihar Ranji team. At one point, he had even decided to quit cricket.
It was when he stumbled upon the news that there was a vacancy in cricket in Dubai. Shoaib immediately started preparing to go there, and his father supported him. Soon, he was sending money to his parents. Gradually, Shoaib started playing in many clubs of Dubai and Sharjah and made his mark as a professional cricketer.
Shoaib’s hard work paid off, and now he has a contract with the Dubai International team. Due to his consistently excellent performance in club cricket, he has also started getting money for playing matches.
The Dubai cricket pitch has given a new flight to Shoaib’s dreams. He has also been honoured by the Emirates Cricket Board for his excellent fielding. Last year, he also received the Player of the Match and Best Fielder of the Tournament awards.
Shoaib performed brilliantly in his first match for Dubai Capitals in the ILT20 Development League. He played a blistering innings of 35 runs with the help of 3 sixes and 1 four in his first innings, giving his team a thrilling victory by 5 runs.
This performance not only gave the team its first win, but Shoaib also became the second-highest run scorer for his team. It is really unbelievable for a player from the Naxal-affected Kothi village to perform so well in the glittering T20 league of Dubai. When the news of his performance reached the village, there was an atmosphere of celebration there.
Shoaib Khan
Shoaib’s brother, Altamash Khan, said that if Shoaib performs well in the ILT20 Development League, he may be considered for the Emirates Cricket Board’s (ECB) auction for the International ILT20 2026 season.
Recalling his hard time, Jugnu Khan says that farming had also become difficult due to the fear of Naxalites. Despite this, he sent his children to schools in Gayaji.
He says when Shoaib was studying in a private school in Gaya, following his passion for cricket was not easy. During school holidays, Jugunu used to take him daily on a motorcycle to Gandhi Maidan in Gayaji, 100 km away, where he practiced.
All arrangements were made for Shoaib’s practice during his studies till matriculation. Later, the family got a pitch prepared on their farm in the village, where Shoaib used to practice regularly.
Shoaib started playing cricket at the age of 6. According to his father, this hobby was deep in him since childhood. At the age of 12, Shoaib established ‘Kothi Club’ in his village, Kothi, so that the children of the village could also enjoy cricket. He also got the ground prepared himself.
Father Jugunu Khan says, “There is a different passion for cricket in India, but the number of players is so high that it is very difficult to make a place in the national team from a backward village.”
This story of Shoaib Khan is not only about the success of a player, but it is also the story of the struggle of a family, the sacrifice of a father, and the big dreams of a small village.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Sports / by Naushad Akhtar, Gaya (Bihar) / September 08th, 2025
