NEW DELHI :
Beloved Delhi:
Delhi will remain a city extraordinaire only if dilliwalas continue to respect each other as human beings.
Story teller and founder Delhi Karavan, Asif Khan Dehlvi talks to The Citizen about his love for Delhi, and also his concern for the gradual loss of a lifestyle that was once genteel and friendly.
source: http://www.thecitizen.in / The Citizen / Home> Conversations / by Mehru Jaffer / The Citizen Bureau / September 30th, 2024
Lucknow, UTTAR PRADESH :
Lucknow’s Rehana Begum has honed the art of embroidery to perfection.
Classy work: Rehana Begum Photo: R.Shivaji Rao
Rehana Begum, a Chikankari artist from Lucknow, U.P., unfolds her most prized possession with reverence – a breathtaking piece of embroidery on a soft white muslin. “I crafted this sample 20 years ago and it took four years to complete,” she says with justifiable pride. Created with stitches called ‘Anokhi Chikan,’ the motif embroidered in white thread resembles a round plate with a flower in the centre, surrounded by motifs inspired by Nawab of Awadh Wajid Ali Shah’s turban ornamentation and accessories. One motif is trellised with miniscule perforations while the tracery of delicate stitches that outlines vines and creepers leaves no impression on the reverse of the fabric! “I did not use a frame to stretch the cloth,” she adds, leaving you even more amazed.
It was under the guidance of her father Shiri Hasan Mirza, master embroiderer and recipient of the National award, that Rehana Begum began honing her skills at age of 13. “No tracing of the design, no outlining with pencil. I work entirely freehand. The design forms spontaneously as I proceed. It’s all stored up there,” she says, tapping her head. By age 20, she had mastered the six basic stitches as well as 35 traditional stitches used in chikankari vocabulary. Samples of her work set off ever-widening ripples of admiration.
Recognition came gradually, in stages – radio and TV interviews, exhibitions conducted by craft organisations such as the CCI, the Uttar Pradesh government’s State Award in 1976 and finally, the prestigious Shilp Guru award conferred by the Government of India in 2003.
Globe-trotter
On her fourth trip to Chennai, she declares she is happy with the response from the public and steady sales. Her trips around the globe have taken her to craft expos and workshops in Holland, Germany, Cuba and Dubai. Her study of market trends finds her team of artisans producing kurtas, kurtis, salwar kameez, saris and shirts.
“My family members assist me and are completely involved in this craft. Along with apprentices trained by me, we work from a room in my house in Thakur Ganj, Lucknow. Earlier, the fabric used was pure white Shehzada cotton or Dhaka ki mulmul, and the white thread used for embroidery called katcha dhaaga was procured from Dhaka or Kolkata. Nowadays, we use Anchor embroidery skeins on soft, thin cotton material and Resham thread on silk fabrics.
A deep purple-blue embroidered sari on display showcases all 35 stitches used in chikankari while a pristine white georgette with classic white on white embellishment radiates an ethereal beauty. “It took two years to complete each sari with such detailed workmanship.”
Chaman Suji and Rehana Begum were among the pan-Indian and international artists featured as Living Legends in recognition of their outstanding craftsmanship at Kaivalam, the World Crafts Council summit.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Entertainment> Art / by Lalithaa Krishnan / November 02nd, 2024
Bidar, KARNATAKA / Riyadh, SAUDI ARABIA :
The Indian group intends to expand further in Saudi Arabia, with schools and other educational institutions, into cities like Jeddah, Al Khobar, and Madinah.
(Photo: Shaheen Group)
Jeddah:
Following the footsteps of leading educational institutions from Europe and the United States, India’s Shaheen Group is now preparing to enter the Saudi market. Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global education hub, aligned with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman’s Vision 2030, is rapidly gaining momentum as several prominent academic institutions establish campuses in the Kingdom.
Shaheen Group, based in Karnataka, has achieved impressive results in medical and engineering entrance exams across southern India, known for its strong educational standards.
The group has long been a preferred choice for many NRI students from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, who study in India to bypass domicile norms and improve their chances of securing spots in professional courses such as medicine and engineering. However, the Shaheen Group’s move to Saudi Arabia aims to address this issue by bringing quality education directly to the Kingdom.
The Indian group of educational institutions plans to open a new school in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, offering classes from Kindergarten through to Class 12, alongside integrated coaching for competitive exams such as NEET, JEE, and the CA Foundation.
Chairman of Shaheen Group of Institutions, Dr Abdul Qadeer, announced the ambitious project, likely to begin operations in March 2025, pending the completion of building and accreditation processes. The school will be located in either Malaz or Sulemaniya.
Additionally, the Indian group intends to expand further in Saudi Arabia, with schools and other educational institutions, into cities like Jeddah, Al Khobar, and Madinah.
At an academic event in Riyadh, Dr Abdul Qadeer highlighted that a large number of NRI students from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries enrol in Shaheen Group institutions across Karnataka, Telangana, and other regions of India.
Dr Abdul Qadeer also revealed the new leadership team in Saudi Arabia. Syed Wayez Ahmed has taken on the role of managing director for the group in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
Mohammed Zaki will take on the role of vice president of operations for Saudi Arabia, while Fahad Saleh Al Jurais will serve as the HR and administrative director and Sarah Mohammed Al Sharief will be the director of the Riyadh school.
source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> Middle East / by Irfan Mohammed / November 03rd, 2024
NEW DELHI :
Dr. Mohd. Rehan Raza. Source: social media
New Delhi:
Dr. Mohd. Rehan Raza has been appointed as the full-time Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Delhi Waqf Board, replacing his previous part-time role. This decision comes after Raza was removed from his position as Additional District Magistrate (ADM) in Shahdara, where he faced scrutiny allegedly for submitting false affidavits related to the Eidgah case and for his involvement in the demolition of several mosques and shrines, reports Urdu daily Roznama Inquilab.
The Muslim community in Delhi has long demanded a change in leadership at the Waqf Board, but sources indicate that Raza’s removal from the ADM role has merely transitioned him to the CEO position. Prominent observers of Waqf affairs in Delhi have noted that Raza’s tenure has seen significant losses for Waqf properties, including demolitions at the Mamu Bhaiya shrine and the controversial affidavit regarding the 30,000-square-yard royal Eidgah.
Social activist Muhammad Faizan Dehlvi criticised the current administration, stating that the board, as a self-governing body under the government’s purview, requires urgent restructuring. He highlighted the ongoing issues faced by the board, including the lack of salaries for mosque imams, delays in welfare payments for widows, and late salaries for board employees, while simultaneously noting that substantial fees have been paid to lawyers from the Waqf fund.
Another activist, Nasser Khan, emphasised the inappropriateness of retaining an officer responsible for the destruction of numerous places of worship. He urged Chief Minister Atishi Marlena to replace the CEO and expedite the restructuring of the board to ensure better governance by its chairman and members.
Khan expressed frustration at the lack of action from Delhi’s five assembly members, none of whom have raised concerns about the board’s situation. He called for greater legal and community advocacy to safeguard Waqf properties, stressing that the community must hold its elected leaders accountable for their inaction.
The current state of the Waqf Board raises alarm among community leaders, who fear that the ongoing negligence and poor management may lead to further deterioration of its assets. Activists like Naseem Ahmed have reiterated the need for the Muslim community to actively engage with their leaders to demand improvements and accountability.
The community’s outcry continues as they await a response from the government to address the pressing issues surrounding the Delhi Waqf Board.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / November 03rd, 2024
Srinagar, JAMMU & KASHMIR :
The Urs of Sheikh Noorudin Wali at Chrar-e-Sharif, Budgam, Kashmir
Prof Farooq Fayaz Bhat, author and historian says that since over 80 percent of Kashmiri live in villages and are into agriculture, it’s just right that the Urs of Sheikh Nooruddin Wali, the founder of the Rishi cult (Sufi) and the Patron saint of Kashmir, be celebrated by his teachings which were not for the elitist but the common masses.
He was explaining the phenomenon of Noorudin Noorani’s Urs being celebrated last week, instead of on the date of his passing away. He said this fluctuation in the calendar of the Urs is in tune with the aspirations of people who are done with harvesting and therefore can visit the shrine for Urs.
“Sheikh-ul-Aalam gave religious philosophy based on the holy Quran and the Sunnah, aligned himself with the unlettered masses, and had a simple living in terms of dress and diet”, Farooq Fayaz commented. There was no reference to “Wazwan” or luxurious life with the Sufi saint, added Farooq Fayaz.
On the other hand, the elite and educated class knew two languages, Sanskrit and Persian, while the Sheikh represented the rural majority, who only spoke in their mother tongue. The rural majority would remain busy toiling for more than nine months but had sustenance only for three to four months a year, the historian commented.
People led by CM Omar Abdullah thronging the shrine
He said that October being towards the end of the harvest season of paddy, grains, and fruits, led to free time for over 90 percent of the rural folk. Elaborating on the sociological perspective, Prof Farooq Fayaz said that in the absence of cash, the rural masses had to resort to barter systems and “take asylum in the serene atmosphere of shrines”.
For the unlettered rural society, Sheikh Nooruddin Wali was Alamdaar-e-Kashmir (flag bearer of Kashmir), who would visit the shrines with all their offerings (in kind)”, the author said. The rural masses were “resourceful only in October” and thus, keeping in view the material, physical, and economical aspects has to be kept in mind.
For the past six decades, the practice of celebrating the life of Sheikh Nooruddin Noorani or Sheikh-ul-Aalam (1377 to 1440 AD) at the three-day Urs is being held in October every year, coinciding with the 26th day of the running Islamic month.
The Saint is revered as Alamdar-e-Kashmir, Nund Rishi, and Sheikh Noorudin Noorani. He lived for 63 years between the 10th of Dhul Hijjah 779 and 26 Jumada al-Thani 842 Hijri. He passed away on the 26th day of the month of Ramazan.
The Urs was organized on October 13 last year and October 23 in 2022.
The Urs began with the “Gilafbandi”, a change of sacred cloth on the graves of the saint and his followers on Monday, followed by night-long special prayers on Tuesday. The Urs was celebrated on Wednesday, 26th of Rabi ul Thani and the celebrations concluded with the following Friday prayers.
CM Omar Abdullah praying at the shrine
The Urs was earlier scheduled to be observed on September 30, coinciding with the 26th day of Rabial Awwal, of the Islamic calendar. However, on the recommendations of the J&K Wakf Board, it was rescheduled to be observed a month later on this day to fall in October.
The officials said that scheduling of the annual Urs had been worked out to be held in October, a practice for the past six decades, to avoid any inconvenience to the devotees during harsh winter conditions.
This schedule was adopted during the tenure of the former Prime Minister (as the head of the government was then called in J&K) Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad, who ruled J&K from 1953 to 1964.
On one such occasion, many devotees died due to harsh winter conditions prompting the authorities to devise a pragmatic approach to celebrating the Urs.
An official of the J&K Wakf Board told Awaz The Voice that October had been chosen for its moderate climate when farmers are free from the harvesting of paddy, apples, and other fruits.
Nund Rishi’s shrine, which is thronged by devotees daily, is also known for night-long prayers on Thursdays every week, attended by a larger number of pilgrims from all across the valley. This practice was restricted during Covid 19 period and has been restored over the last couple of years.
Sheikh-ul-Aalam is revered by both Muslims and Hindus for his eternal teachings. “His poetic expressions are universal. His guidance for a pious life is very impressive. His message of harmony and spiritual excellence is relevant everywhere and every time”, Chairperson of J&K Wakf Board Dr Darakhshan Andrabi stated.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Ehsan Fazili, Srinagar / November 02nd, 2024
JHARKHAND :
On the day of Diwali a record was stored in files of medical service. As many as six hundred ailing patients were checked and medical treatment provided by top doctors of the Jharkhand government run hospital RIMS.
Their aim was to pay tributes to the departed soul of a RIMS doctor Dr Siraj Uddin who had died due to COVID-19 this year. All patients were provided free medical service inside Siraj Memorial Hospital in Giridih.
The medical aid was part of free medical camp held to screen people for blood Sugar, Cardiac complications.
All doctors and nurses of Siraj Memorial Hospital included Dr M. S. Ahmad, Dr Ahmad Sharfuddin Dr Syed Azaz Hashmi, Dr Alimuddin, Dr Md Khurshid Ansari, Dr Nayeem Akhtar, Dr Shadab Hassan(MS,Surgery,RIMS) Dr Syed Md Sharique (MS,Surgery,SR,RIMS), Dr Shefa Habib, Dr Md Arif Tauheed, Dr Md Shafique Alam, Dr Md Ragheeb Tauheed, Dr Saquib jamal (MBBS,HS,RIMS), Dr Prerna Nag, Dr Binita Agarwal,Dr Abdul Zafar, Dr Hasnain, Dr Fuzail Akram, Dr Iqbal Hassan, Dr Md Athar Alam, Dr Saddam, Dr Rehan.
Dr M.S.Ahmad said, his hospital is committed to serve the public. “This was our first medical camp after the pandemic patients had complained of rise in blood sugar and BP after recovery from Covid-19.
Through free check-ups, people knew if they needed consultation and treatment. Many were referred to RIMS HOSPITAL Ranchi , Than for further investigation and treatment,” said Sabir Warsi, and chairperson Dr M. K. Uddin.
“More such free camps for the poor are needed. Moneyed people should come forward and hold such camps across the Ghorthamba city, according to Dr M. S. Akhtar.
The spokesperson of the Siraj Memorial Hospital said, “This is was this year’s biggest medical camp which included tests for diabetes and, cardiac even cancer. There was a doctor for consultation in” EYE” and “ENT”treatment too. The purpose was to detect the after-effects of Rural Poor Patients. It was also held to remove hesitancy among some people about getting vaccinated for child .”
source: http://www.jharkhandstatenews.com / Jharkhand State News / Home> Top Stories / by admin (headline edited) / November 05th, 2021
Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH:
Aligarh :
Very few people have the distinction of excelling in the field of literature, besides being an equally excellent scientist or technocrat, and this is the quality that distinguishes Dr Arif Ansari from his peers, who has earned name as an accomplished translator, while at the same time being an excellent engineer.
Dr Ansari, an alumnus of the Zakir Husain College of Engineering and Technology who graduated from AMU in 1984, was today felicitated at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Aligarh Muslim University for his outstanding contributions in the field of Mobile Communication and Wireless Technologies and for his translations of Urdu books into English.
In his presidential remarks, Prof. M. Salim Beg, Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, said that it is a moment of great pride for the Faculty of Engineering that one our distinguished alumni is among us who we can take pride on for several counts.
Prof Beg said that in addition to his work in translations, Dr Ansari has contributed immensely in the field of Telecommunication in general, and Mobile Communication in particular. He took a PhD degree from Southern Illinois University in 1993, after completing B.Sc. Electrical from AMU in 1984 and MS Electrical Engineering from Southern Illinois University in 1987.
He said that Dr Ansari, after starting his career in 1984, has served in various senior positions including as the Principal Technology Advisor, PDV Wireless, Chief Technology Officer, Reverb Inc., Practice Lead, InCode Consulting, Director, Network Design, Mobile Satellite Ventures, Hybrid Terrestrial Satellite Mobile Communications System, Senior Manager, Nextel Communications, Principal Engineer, Lockheed Martin Global Telecommunications and Design/Senior/Principal Engineer, LCC International.
Earlier, welcoming the guests, Prof M.M. Sufiyan Beg, Principal, ZHCET said that dr Ansari’s translation of Anis Ashfaq’s novel Khwab Sarab (winner of 2022 Sahitya Akademi award in Urdu) and Kaali Maati of Ali Amjad have received acclaim from the academic world.
His other translations include “Transience of Life” Vol I and II by Ghaus Ansari; “What Days They Were” by Qazi Jalil Abbasi; “A Branch of the Sapling of Sorrow” by Ali Amjad; “The Khilafat Movement” by Qazi Mohammad Adeel Abbasi; and “The Complete Lectures of Sir Syed” Vol. I-III.
Dr Ansari, who is visiting his alma mater after 30 years, reminisced about his days on campus as a student and fondly remembered two of his teachers, Prof Muslim Taj and Prof Tariq Aziz, for their excellent teaching and shaping his career. He also presented a copy of all his publications to the Engineering College library.
source: http://www.amu.ac.in / Aligarh Muslim University – AMU / Home / by Public Relations Office (headline edited) / October 28th, 2024
Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :
Aligarh :
Prof Qazi Ehsan Ali, Department of Anaesthesiology, J.N. Medical College, and Principal, Paramedical College, Aligarh Muslim University, has been honoured with prestigious State Oration Award and Medal from the Indian Society of Anaesthesiologists (ISA), Central Zone, at the 1st International Conference on Innovation and Technology in Anaesthesiology and Critical Care and the 15th Annual Conference of the Central Zone, ISA, hosted by the Department of Anaesthesiology, MLB Medical College Jhansi, and the ISA Jhansi City Branch at Orchha Palace Hotel, Orchha, Madhya Pradesh.
The award was given to him in recognition of his academic achievements and his services in advancing anaesthesiology.
As part of the recognition, Prof Qazi was invited to deliver a 60-minute oration on “Past, Present and Future of Airway Management.” He shared insights into ancient carvings on early airway techniques and modern advancements, and highlighted the objective use of 3D technology, artificial intelligence, and robotic systems in airway management, while proposing his hypothesis for managing challenging airways using a nasal-route for laryngeal mask insertion.
He has earlier received several honours, including S. Radhakrishnan Distinguished Professor and Researcher Award by Niti Aayog and the Center for Professional Advancement in 2023 and the National Academy of Indian Scientist Award for specialized training at AIIMS, New Delhi.
source: http://www.amu.ac.in / Aligarh Muslim University – AMU / Home / by Public Relations Office (headline edited) / October 30th, 2024
NEW DELHI :
New Delhi:
Since its founding in 2019, the Women Education and Empowerment Trust (TWEET) has empowered 8,257 women and now aims to reach 50,000 more in the next three years. TWEET also announced plans to host a National Women NGOs Conclave in April 2025 to foster capacity building, collaboration, and effective resource utilisation.
At a press conference held here Sunday, TWEET’s Chairperson, Rahamathunnissa A. shared the organisation’s vision to promote social and economic empowerment of women, enabling them to lead dignified lives with equal participation in society. She emphasised TWEET’s mission to support women in need, tackle the root causes of women’s issues, and offer comprehensive support through multifaceted initiatives.
A five-year progress report was also presented, with highlights of the programmes and areas where women have benefited under TWEET’s initiatives.
Educational Empowerment:
TWEET believes that education is the foundation of empowerment. The organisation offers merit-based scholarships for girls to pursue higher education at prestigious institutions domestically and abroad. The one-year campaign “Freedom from Illiteracy” from August 2022 to July 2023 mobilised educated women to teach non-literate women nationwide, extending literacy to underserved communities.
Economic Empowerment:
To promote economic independence, TWEET supports small business ventures such as boutiques, tiffin services, and cosmetic shops, as well as home-based businesses like detergent units.
TWEET’s support has empowered many women to become self-sufficient, enabling them to start sustainable businesses. Moreover, training sessions equip women with skills to establish their own start-ups, creating additional income for their families.
Emotional and Financial Support to Widows:
Recognising the challenges faced by women who have lost their spouses, TWEET provides counselling and financial support, ensuring they can live dignified lives.
Mahila Help Desk
This initiative empowers women by raising awareness about various government welfare schemes and guiding them to access these benefits. This programme helps women achieve financial stability by utilising government support for their livelihoods, paving the way toward a dignified and self-sufficient life.
Life Skills and Safety Programmes:
Collaborating with Special Police Unit for Women and Children, Delhi Police, TWEET conducted self-defence training programmes for girls and women. Through sensitisation initiatives, TWEET raises awareness about women’s rights and social issues, including domestic violence, empowering women to advocate for themselves and their communities.
TWEET provides internship opportunities for female students from diverse disciplines and has also established a hostel to support both students and working women.
The press meet was also addressed by TWEET General Secretary Shaista Rafat, and Treasurer Dr. Sharnas Muthu.
TWEET also announced the unanimous election of the following trustees as office-bearers for the next three-year term.
Chairperson: Rahamathunnissa A, an educationist, writer, and trainer
Vice Chairperson: Zeba Zaferali Baig, a social worker and counselling expert
General Secretary: Shaista Rafat, an expert in grassroots development
Secretary: Rajeena Beegum, an educationist and social worker
Treasurer: Dr. Sharnas Muthu, specializing in psycho-social and legal support
The extended team includes Khalida Parveen, a social worker; Dr. Jueria Reemi, a healthcare specialist, and Fakhira Atheeqe, a social entrepreneur working with women and children with special needs.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / October 27th, 2024
Mysuru:
Experience gained in theatre teaches more than Ph.D which leads one to the path of righteousness and for actors it is important to be humble as arrogance will lead to their down fall, said senior theatre actor Julekha Begum, in city yesterday.
She was speaking at the monthly interaction programme Maatina Mane, organised by Rangayana at Bhoomigeetha. “An artiste must live the character on stage withstanding hunger and struggle. It is also important to note that artistes do not belong to any caste, creed or religion. They will have to face problems that come in their way and every house must have an artiste,” said Julekha Begum remembering her struggling days when she faced difficulties to provide education to her children.
Speaking on the occasion, Rangayana Director Satish Tiptur said that arts, which are on the verge of extinction and stories that are stored in the minds of artistes should be a part of the syllabus.
“The interaction programme has been organised to identify and recognise the real stakeholders of art and to bring out various art forms that have been neglected over the past decades,” he said.
Earlier, the programme was inaugurated by playwright Kotiganahalli Ramaiah.
Writer Abdul Rashid coordinated the event. Department of Kannada and Culture Joint Director V.N. Mallikarjun and Rangayana Deputy Director M.D. Sudarshan were present.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / October 27th, 2024