Asma Hussain The Royal Legacy Behind India’s Fashion Icon

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Education, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , ,

Lucknow, UTTAR PRADESH :

Asma Hussain, an iconic name in the Indian fashion industry, is renowned for her remarkable designs and her deep-rooted connection to the royal family of Awadh. As a descendant of Shuja-ud-Daula, a ruler from the 18th century, Asma carries with her a rich legacy that has greatly influenced her work in fashion. Born into a family that has always been associated with culture and heritage, Asma Hussain’s foray into the world of fashion was a natural extension of her upbringing.

Since unveiling her first collection in 1994, Asma Hussain has become a household name in India and across the world, known not only for her royal heritage but also for her impeccable craftsmanship.

She is the founder of the Asma Hussain Institute of Fashion Technology (AIFT), an institution dedicated to imparting high-quality fashion education to young aspiring designers….

Early Life and Inspirations: Shaping a Designer’s Vision

Asma Hussain’s lineage has greatly shaped her journey as a designer. The royal family of Awadh is known for its contributions to art, culture, and history, and Asma has absorbed these influences into her design philosophy. Raised in a family that placed immense value on tradition, culture, and the finer things in life, Asma’s designs reflect a deep understanding of Indian craftsmanship, royal grandeur, and modern aesthetics.

While Asma’s royal connection often takes center stage in media discussions, it is her extraordinary skill and passion for design that truly sets her apart. Asma’s collection is an intersection of history and modernity, reflecting both her ancestry and the needs of the contemporary fashion world. She drew upon royal Indian textiles, ornate embroideries, and rich fabrics such as silk, velvet, and brocade to create collections that exude royalty while maintaining a sense of modern sophistication.

Her collection’s distinctive blend of Eastern and Western elements has helped her carve a unique niche in the fashion industry. Over the years, she has showcased collections that feature traditional styles combined with avant-garde concepts, which have gained the attention of both Indian and international clientele.

From AIFT to Fashion House: A Pioneer in Fashion Education

In addition to her success as a designer, Asma Hussain has contributed to the fashion industry in another significant way. In 1999, she founded the Asma Hussain Institute of Fashion Technology (AIFT) in Uttar Pradesh. The institute is recognized as one of the top fashion design schools in the country, offering comprehensive courses in fashion design, fashion technology, and merchandising.

AIFT was born out of Asma’s vision to provide young, aspiring designers with the skills, tools, and guidance they need to succeed in the competitive fashion world. Asma’s institute is unique because it goes beyond just offering technical knowledge—it teaches creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. The curriculum integrates both traditional and modern techniques of fashion design, which allows students to learn everything from embroidery and fabric manipulation to fashion history and business strategies.

Since its inception, AIFT has produced several successful fashion designers, many of whom have gone on to work for major fashion houses or start their own design labels. Asma’s role as an educator and mentor has become a cornerstone of her legacy, further cementing her influence on the Indian fashion scene.

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Asma Hussain’s Notable Clients and Collaborations

Asma Hussain’s clientele speaks volumes about her versatility and reach. Her designs have been worn by some of the most influential figures in India, including Bollywood legends, politicians, and celebrities. Asma’s ability to create outfits for a diverse group of people—from film stars to political leaders—demonstrates her exceptional skills and understanding of different tastes.

Some of Asma Hussain’s most notable clients include Bollywood actress Saira Banu, known for her timeless elegance, and Shabana Azmi, an award-winning actress and social activist. In addition to Bollywood icons, Asma’s fashion has also attracted attention from politicians, including the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath. The fact that these high-profile figures have chosen Asma’s creations is a testament to her ability to craft outfits that blend traditional beauty with contemporary style.

In 1996, her fashion house was inaugurated by the legendary Bollywood actor Dev Anand, who was known for his style and charisma. Dev Anand’s association with Asma Hussain further solidified her reputation as a designer with a strong sense of elegance and sophistication. Since then, Asma’s creations have graced numerous high-profile events, cementing her position as one of India’s leading fashion designers.

Design Philosophy and Signature Style

Asma Hussain’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in the rich cultural traditions of India, especially those from her home state of Uttar Pradesh. Drawing from the royal aesthetics of Awadh, Asma’s clothing collections often feature ornate embroidery, luxurious fabrics, and rich color palettes. She is known for her use of traditional Indian textiles, such as Banarasi silks, georgette, and velvet, to create elegant yet modern garments.

One of the key elements of Asma’s designs is the intricate work on fabrics, especially hand-embroidered motifs that reflect the grandeur of royal craftsmanship. From sarees to lehengas, and even contemporary Western-style outfits, Asma’s attention to detail and craftsmanship is unparalleled. She is particularly known for her bridal collections, which are often a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, making them perfect for the modern bride who wants to feel regal on her special day.

Her designs are not limited to one particular category or occasion. Whether it is a wedding, a red-carpet event, or a festive occasion, Asma’s clothes can be seen on people from all walks of life. Her ability to create both traditional and contemporary looks has made her a favorite among clients looking for timeless elegance with a modern twist.

The Royal Influence: Awadh’s Rich Cultural Heritage in Every Stitch

The legacy of the royal family of Awadh plays a significant role in Asma Hussain’s designs. As a descendant of Shuja-ud-Daula, a ruler known for his opulence and patronage of arts and culture, Asma’s upbringing was steeped in the cultural richness of the region. The intricate embroidery and regal fabrics used in her creations are reminiscent of the royal courts of Awadh, where intricate craftsmanship was highly valued.

The use of zari work, brocade, and gold thread embroidery in her creations adds an aura of luxury and tradition. Each piece is meticulously crafted to ensure that it embodies the royal aesthetic, while also incorporating contemporary elements that make it relevant in today’s fashion landscape.

The Future of Asma Hussain in the Fashion Industry

Asma Hussain has not only succeeded in her career as a designer but has also played a pivotal role in shaping the future of fashion in India. Through her institute and her dedication to educating young talent, she is creating a legacy that will continue for generations. Asma’s vision for the future of fashion is one that embraces both tradition and innovation, ensuring that Indian fashion continues to evolve while staying grounded in its cultural heritage.

Her influence on the fashion industry is undeniable, and she continues to be a source of inspiration for aspiring designers. Asma Hussain is not just a fashion designer; she is a symbol of how tradition, culture, and modernity can come together to create something truly exceptional.

Asma Hussain’s Legacy in Indian Fashion

Asma Hussain is a name that has become synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and cultural heritage. With her roots deeply entrenched in the royal family of Awadh, Asma has successfully blended her ancestral legacy with her modern fashion sensibility. Her designs reflect the rich cultural heritage of India while catering to the modern woman’s needs, making her one of India’s most respected and successful designers.

Her legacy extends beyond her own creations to the many students who have passed through the Asma Hussain Institute of Fashion Technology, taking forward her vision and continuing to innovate in the world of fashion. Asma Hussain’s contribution to Indian fashion is undeniable, and her influence will be felt for years to come.

source: http://www.atlucknow.com / @Lucknow / Home> Lifestyle / by Mohd Badar / November 09th, 2024

Noted poet, social reformer , guide A M Shahbaz remembered

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Martyrs of the Nation,

Shathgund Handwara Village, JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Popular Kashmiri poet and scholar Ali Mohammed Shahbaz was remembered across jammu and Kashmir on his 24th death anniversary. In this connection different functions and events were organized at various places and sites to pay glowing tributes to late literary luminary, who was Martyred  by unidentified gunmen on July 4,1996 at his his native village Shathgund Handwara. 

The major online event was organized by Kashmir Marksz- e -Adab -o -Saqafat chrar-i- Shareef.

The event was presided over by prof Mohd  Zaman  Azurdah. A large number of distinguished scholars, participated in the program and paid rich tributes to him. The speakers highlighted various dimensions of life and contribution of late poet.

The main attraction of the event was first ever Shahbaz memorial award. The award was presented to popular Kashmir folk singer, a house hold name of Kashmir folk singer Manzoor Ahmad Shah.

Dr Aziz Hajini, Convener Northern Regional Board Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi Presented the award to Manzoor Ahmad Shah. Dr Gazanfer Ali, president Kashmir Markaz e adab o Saqafat Chrari Shareef , Gen secretary Anayat Gul and son of late poet, Nazir Qureshi Ibn e Shahbaz were also present on the occasion. 

The prominent poets and writers  paid rich tribute to Late Ali Mohd Shahbaaz which  include Gh Qadir Shaheen, Rahim Rehna, Gh Rasool Josh, Mushtaq Mehram, Producer Radio kashmir, Javed Sofi, Nazim Nazir,  noted journalist and editor of  Brighter Kashmir  Farooq Wani.

Dr Sohan lal Koul, Bashir Bhadarwahi, Prem Nath Prem, Shown at Shafi Masoodi , Javed Rasool 

source: http://www.brighterkashmir.com / Brighter Kashmir / Home / by BK News Service / July 05th, 2020

Book Release : “Understanding Human Rights and Law” by late Dr. Shakeel Samdani

Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 )

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Aligarh :

A virtual book release event was organized for the last book of Late Prof. Shakeel Samdani (Former Dean, Faculty of Law, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh) titled “Understanding Human Rights and Law” which has been published by Satyam Law International Publishers, New Delhi. This book has been jointly edited by Prof. Shakeel Samdani and Abdullah Samdani.

Presiding over this event, Prof. Tariq Mansoor, Vice Chancellor, AMU, Aligarh said that, Prof. Samdani was a good teacher, researcher and above all, a versatile and a very talented public speaker. He remembered his speech when he represented the AMU teachers at Sir Syed Day 2020 and said that he was the only person who gave an extempore speech. He further said that he was surprised to see Prof. Samdani’s popularity after he received so many tributes from people outside Aligarh.

Discussing about the human rights book, Prof. Mansoor said that he has written forward for this book along with Justice K G Balakrishnan, Former Chief Justice of India. He said that we cannot have a civilized society without an educational system and a sound legal system. He said that this book contains 20 well researched articles from academicians, judges, lawyers, researchers and students. He congratulated Late Prof. Samdani and Abdullah Samdani for bringing an edited book on a very important topic.

While delivering his key note speech, Prof. Faizan Mustafa, Vice Chancellor, NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, said that my relationship with Prof. Samdani very close. He shared many old incidents from Prof. Samdani’s life, including his popularity with the students of Aligarh Muslim University. He said that Prof. Samdani was very keen for human rights.

Prof. Mustafa explained in detail about his perception of human rights which has been influenced by the Western perspective. He also discussed in detail about the article on Marxism theory which has been written by Prof. Mohibul Haque in this book. He further stated that, this book can be very useful if we have our commitment towards human rights. At last, he said that he sees a young, talented scholar in Abdullah Samdani who can carry forward the legacy of his father, Prof. Shakeel Samdani.

Speaking in this event, Prof. Md. Zafar Mahfooz Nomani, Dept. of Law, AMU congratulated the family members of Prof. Shakeel Samdani for organizing this event. He said Law Faculty, AMU has lost a gem in the face of Prof. Samdani.

Prof. Nomani quoted from the introduction of this book which was written by Prof. Samdani that “as a teacher it is not only to understand human rights, but to spread awareness among other about human rights”. He said that Prof. Samdani tried his best in his lifetime to spread awareness about the educational mission of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan and with this book he wanted to spread the concept of human rights to others.

Speaking in this event, Dr. Dilshad Ahmad, President of Indian Forum for Education, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia said that Prof. Samdani was a very dynamic person. He always wanted the upliftment of Muslim community. He discussed in detail about how Prof. Samdani motivated the NRI students of Saudi Arabia to pursue legal field as their career in a webinar organized by his forum. He said that whatever Prof. Samdani advised he used to give examples from Quran and Sunnah to support it. Dr. Dilshad also discussed in detail about the important topics which the book Understanding Human Rights and Law have discussed.

Speaking in this event, Prof. Asim Siddiqui, Chairperson, Dept. of English, AMU said that this event was due in the lifetime of Prof. Samdani but due to his unfortunate death this event was delayed. He congratulated the family members of Prof. Samdani for organizing this event. He said that Prof. Samdani was a very cheerful person who was always ready to laugh and he has not seen a dull moment in Prof. Samdani’s lifetime.

Discussing about this book Prof. Siddiqui said that he became aware about various aspects of human rights due to this book. He said that he is a professor of literature, but this book has beautifully explained about human rights and anyone who reads this book can understand the concept of human rights from the legal angle. At last, he said that most of the arguments in quoted in this book have been supported by empirical data.

Speaking in this event, Dr. Aruj Qayum, Senior Paediatrician, Newham University Hospital, London said that COVID has taken one of our most accomplished persons in the form of Prof. Shakeel Samdani. He shared his experience with Prof. Samdani in London and said that, Prof. Samdani was a very big fan of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan and he showed me the place where Sir Syed lived during his visit in London. He further said that Prof. Samdani was an institution in itself. He said that Prof. Samdani has discussed in detail about human rights which are available in Islam.

Speaking in this event, Adv. Shariq Abbasi, Supreme Court of India, New Delhi said that Prof. Samdani was bestowed with the capacity to do big things in a short span of time. He gave the example of an event in which Former Chief Justice of India addressed the students of AMU, that Prof. Samdani successfully organized this event in a short period of only 12 hours. He said Prof. Samdani had deep and great concern about the human rights throughout the world and this book has reflected his concern. He said that seven important aspects of human rights have been wonderfully covered in this book.

Last speaker, Dr. Shad Ahmad Khan, University of Buraimi, Oman said that he is having very mixed feeling of joy and sadness whenever he looks at this book. He said that he had shared a very special bond with Prof. Samdani from his student life. He said that today’s event is more than a book release ceremony and we can celebrate it as a tribute to Prof. Samdani for his contributions throughout his life.

This event was hosted and moderated by Mr. Abdullah Samdani. Dr. Ayesha Samdani started this event by reciting verses from the Holy Quran and Sarah Samdani welcomed the guests in this book release event. Prof. Mohibul Haque, Dept. of Political Science, AMU, Mrs. Anjum Tasneem, Adv. Shoeb Ali, Mr. Salman, Mr. Hunain Khalid, Mr. Farhan Javed and Mr. Danish Iqbal played a very important role in making this event a great success.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home / by Muslim Mirror Network / December 29th, 2021

He stood for the cause of higher education

Uncategorized

KARNATAKA :

Prof. A.M. Pathan, who headed two central varsities and introduced many new courses, to lay down office as CUK V-C on June 30

Prof A.M. Pathan

Abdul Jaleel Khan M. Pathan, popularly known in academic circles as Prof A.M. Pathan, would be laying down office as Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Karnataka (CUK) on June 30 after completing his illustrious service in the field of higher education in different capacities, including the rare honour of being the Vice-Chancellor of two Central Universities and serving as Vice-Chancellor of Karnatak University, Dharwad, for two consecutive terms.

During his 14 years as the Vice-Chancellor of Karnatak University, Maulana Azad National Urdu University in Hyderabad, and Central University of Karnataka in Gulbarga, Prof. Pathan had set new standards to improve the quality of education and extend the reach of higher education to all sections of society.

A reputed geologist, who specialised in ore geology, he had completed his undergraduation and postgraduation in Karnatak University before doing his Ph.D. in Bangalore University. A bright student throughout his career, he was awarded the Wrangler Dr. D.C. Pavate Award for scoring the highest marks in B.Sc and won the same award in the M.Sc examinations of Karnatak University.

Prof. Pathan strengthened every institution that he led and was sensitive to the social engagement of the institution with its stakeholders. Life Fellow of the Mineralogical Society of India (MSI), he is presently its Vice-President. He had also held the post of President of the Association of Indian Universities by virtue of being the seniormost Vice-Chancellor.

Market-friendly courses

Dr. Pathan, who served as the Vice-Chancellor of Karnatak University for two terms from July 1996 to July 2002, was responsible for improving and strengthening the infrastructure of various departments and providing state-of-the-art laboratories and had introduced several vocational and market-friendly courses such as seed technology, tissue culture, food processing, corporate secretary, international economic and business, and biotechnology.

As the second Vice-Chancellor of the Maulana Azad National Urdu University, a Central University established by an Act of Parliament, he improved the reach and quality of the distance education offered by the University, benefitting more than 1.56 lakh learners in140 study centres in all the States and Union Territoriesof the country. A study centre was also established in Saudi Arabia for the benefit of the expatriate Urdu learners and he initiated steps to establish similar study centres in the U.K. and the U.S.

Prof. Pathan was responsible for introducing CBSE education in Urdu medium in the model schools established by the university in the educationally backward and Urdu-speaking majority areas such as Darbhanga.

He was a member of the site selection committee constituted by the Union Government and the UGC for establishing the Central University in the educationally backward Gulbarga district.

As the first Vice-Chancellor of the CUK, Prof. Pathan introduced many new courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels and was responsible for introducing a unique integrated course for the students coming out of PUC. The Central University of Karnataka also offered PG and Research programmes in English, Kannada, Hindi, Economics, Social Works, Commerce, Applied Geography and Geoinformatics, Psychology, Mathematics, Physics, and MCA, and a diploma in educational counselling.

Prof. Pathan opened the doors of the CUK for girl students hailing from the economically weaker sections by waiving the course fee and hostel fees.

The CUK also offered merit-cum-means scholarship to the extent of 20 per cent of the tuition fees collected in each course and a scholarship of Rs. 5,000 per month in addition to annual contingency of Rs. 12,000 to all the Ph.D. scholars in the University.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Features> Education Plus / by T V Sivanandan / June 25th, 2012

Seminar on ‘The Rights and Duties of Women in Islam’ organized at Aligarh

Uncategorized

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Aligarh :

On the occasion of International Women’s Day a seminar on ‘The Rights and Duties of Women in Islam’ was organised by 3S Classes at Medical Road. Speaking in the seminar as Chief Guest President, Sir Syed Awareness Forum, Prof. Shakeel Samdani of Aligarh Muslim University said that the rights which were given by the Islam to the women about 14 centuries ago are still not available to the non-Muslim ladies. The Prophet of Islam (SAW) has done great favour to the women at large that can never be forgotten by the history. He said that the majority of allegations which are labelled against Islam are relating to women’s rights and it is said that Islam neither gives any rights to women nor liberty but the situation is otherwise. The Islamic Sharia gives complete liberty to women and they are allowed to do every work within the limits of Sharia. Islam gives the equality not similarity. Of course Islam does not permit the so called liberty of the west  which permits nudity, obscenity, selfishness and frailty. 

Replying the criticism of Islam he said that in western countries the rate of divorce and wife beating is the highest but the situation in Muslim countries and Muslim societies is much better. The provision of divorce provided  by Islam is not a ‘Zehmat’ but ‘Rehmat’, if it is exercised in accordance with Quran.  Even in India the dowry related deaths and the petitions relating to divorce are less in Muslims. As far as polygamy is concerned various reports of government of India have revealed that Muslims are less polygamous than non Muslims. In his marvellous  speech Prof. Samdani said that the three women of Islam Hazrat Khadija (RA), Hazrat Fatima (RA) and Hazrat Ayesha Siddiqa (RA) have no parallel in women’s history and these three women have shown a clear cut path of  sacrifice and success which will be remembered till the day of judgement. The life history of Hazrat Ayesha (RA), the beloved wife of Prophet of Islam is full of sacrifice and service for the cause of Islam and after the demise of Prophet of Islam (SAW) she lead the Muslim world intellectually and spiritually for decades.

Managing Director of 3S Classes, Imran Khan said that Islam has given all the rights to the women but there is a limit of those rights. Islam has accorded the best status to  motherhood and in this way enhanced the status of women which has no parallel in the history.   

Mrs. Anjum Tasneem of Uday Singh Jain Girls College threw light on the history of women’s day and said that on this day  seminars, symposiums, conferences and processions are organized but the desired results are not achieved. Women are still being oppressed and harassed. While citing various reports she said that the laws are not balanced and the freedom which has been given to the women are immoral, unethical, unreasonable and un Islamic. That’s why instead of relieving them from hardship, their problems are increasing day by day. She advised the audience to turn towards the Islamic laws and lead their lives accordingly. 

Mohd. Usama of Madarsa Arabia Tameer-e-Millat, Aligarh said that if the Muslim women want peace and dignity in their lives they should lead their lives in accordance with Sharia. They should also create an Islamic environment within the family.

Other speakers of the seminar included, Suhaib Salahuddin Siddiqui, Mohsin Jamal and Furqan Ahmad. The program was a great success in the sense that a large number of non Muslim ladies and teachers attended the program. In this program a book on ‘ Indo Islamic Culture’ authored by Imran Khan was released by the Chief Guest and other dignitaries.

The seminar was attended among others by Gaurav Sharma, Swati Yadav, Monika Singh, Poornima Singh, Ayesha Samdani, Hilal Asghar, Uzma Almas, Abu Khuzaima, Asma Alisher, Huda Khan Nadim Ahmed, Abdullah Samdani etc.

source: http://www.milligazette.com / The MIlli Gazette Online / Home> Community News / March 10th, 2015

Dr. Hussaini founder chancellor of Khaja Bandanawaz University conferred with “Mohsin-E-Millat Award”

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kalaburagi, KARNATAKA :

Mohsin E Millat Award being presented to Dr. Syed Shah Khusro Hussaini by Prof. Shakeel Samdani

Aligarh :  

Dr. Syed Shah Khusro Hussaini, Founder and Chancellor, Khaja Bandanawaz University was conferred with  “Mohsin-E-Millat Award” by Sir Syed Awareness Forum (SAF) during a function which was attended by many prominent personalities from the field of education at  University Polytechnic Auditorium, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).

During the occasion  a seminar on “Modern Education and Muslims” was also organised by the Forum.

Addressing the seminar  Dr. Syed Shah Khusro Hussaini said that education is necessary for Muslims throughout the world. He said that, Islam is a modern religion and if the principles of Islam are followed honestly, then everyone can achieve success in their lives. He further said that he is the admirer of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan and he is trying his best to carry forward the mission of Sir Syed by establishing a university. He appealed to the Muslims to focus on education as it is the key to success. In the last he said that division on the basis of school of thought is causing harm to the Muslims. It should be avoided by them.

Presiding over the seminar, Prof. Mohd. Hanif Beg, Pro Vice Chancellor, AMU said that in today’s world it is very important to discuss on the issues of education. He congratulated the SAF for organizing the seminar on modern education. He further said that Sir Syed has always given importance to modern education. At the end he requested the students to work hard for civil services and judicial examinations.

Prof. M H Beg, PVC, AMU delivering Speech sitting IPS Abdul Hamid, Dr. Khusro Hussaini, Prof. Shakeel Samdani, Prof. Pathan and others

Guest of Honor, Mr. Abdul Hamid, IPS and Registrar, AMU said that today Muslims are lagging behind in the field of modern education. Sachar Committee report has confirmed that the educational status of Muslims in India is lower than Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. He said that higher education is the only solution of this problem. He requested the students of AMU to focus on their education and keep themselves away from unnecessary activities. At the last he congratulated Prof. Shakeel Samdani, President SAF for organizing a wonderful seminar on a very important topic.

President of the forum, Prof. Shakeel Samdani, while delivering his speech, said that Muslims have dominated the world in the field of education, science, literature, etc for about 600 years and this was only possible because they focused more on education and research. He congratulated the South India for carrying forward the mission of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan. South Indian Muslims have established much more education institutions as compared to Muslims of North India. He further said that Dr. Khusro Hussaini has established 24 educational institutions and the most important among them is the Khaja Banda Nawaz University. He said that the work of Dr. Hussaini is appreciable as he has helped the poor sections of the society by establishing educational institutions. At the last he said that it is the pleasure of SAF that Dr. Hussaini has accepted the Mohsin-E-Millat Award.

Principal of Abdullah College, Prof. Naima Gulrez said that North India is lagging behind in establishing educational institutions as compared to South India. She gave the example of Parsis that although they are numerically less in population but they are one of the most prosperous community in the country. It is because they are educationally advanced and they focus very much over modern education. She expressed her sorrow about the condition of Muslim women in the society.

Vice Chancellor of Khaja Banda Nawaz University, Prof. Abdul Jaleel Khan Pathan congratulated SAF for conferring ‘Mohsin-E-Millat Award’ on Dr. Hussaini. He said that it is the need of hour to carry forward the mission of Sir Syed and to provide quality education to Muslims.

Dr. Mohib Ul Haque, said that the time has come for Muslims to focus on modern education if they want to succeed. He congratulated Prof. Shakeel Samdani and SAF for their contribution in establishing Tipu Sultan Block at AMU.

Anjum Tabassum Lashkri (Karnataka) and Mr. Tariq Hussain, AMU were felicitated with “SAF Excellence Award”. Ayesha Samdani conducted the seminar and Mansoor Ilahi proposed the vote of thanks. Sarah Samdani also spoke on this occasion. Poetess Rehana Shaheen recited a Nazm on Sir Syed.

Wajahat Jilani welcomed the guests and Aman highlighted the objectives of the Forum.

On this ocassion, Mr. Syed Ali Hussaini, Pro Chancellor of Khaja Banda Nawaz University, Mr. Haider Pasha Qadri, Sajjada Nasheen, Dr. Moinuddin, Superintendent, KBN Medical College, Gulbarga, and Maulana Syed Abdur Rasheed were present.

Seminar was made a great success with the tireless work and efforts of Adv. Shoeb Ali, General Secretary, SAF, Dr. Haider Ali, Abdullah Samdani, Mohd. Muthair, Hunain Khalid, Danish Iqbal, Sarim Ali, Hamza Noman Masood, Saad Asad, Pawan Varshney, Himanshu Singh, Ajay Singh, Hamda, Kashif Sultan, Ayesha Farheen, Razia Chauhan, Talat Anjum, Rubia, Fauzia, Faiz, Adeel Shervani, etc.

Many prominent figures who attended the program include  Prof. Tariq Chattari, Chairman, Dept. of Urdu, Prof. Humayun Murad, Dr. Iqbal Siddiqui, Prof. Zafar M. Nomani, Prof. Kamil, Prof. Khalid Azam, Prof. Ashar Ansari, Prof. Mujeeb Ansari, Prof. K. Khalil Ahmad, Prof. Shakeel Ahmed, Dr. Nazar Abbas, Dr. Ayesha Munira, Dr. Raihan Akhtar, Dr. Rahat Abrar, Dr. Masood Anwar (Shahjahanpur), Dr. Yameen Ansari (Delhi), Syed Ikram Ul Haq (Hapur), Dr. Raghib, Dr Wasim Ali, Mohd Nasir, Dr. Kalimullah, Dr. Rahmat Ullah, Dr. Qaiser Ansari, Dr. Obaid Iqbal Asim, Dr. Iqbal Hadi, Dr. Naseem Ahmad Khan, Dr. Ali Nawaz Zaidi, Dr. Zafar Ahmad, Dr. Mohsin Khan, Adv. Khan Wajahatullah, Rabab Khan, Dr Zeba Azmat, Dr  Tabassum Chaudhary, Huzaifa Amir, Secretary, AMUSU, Khalid Masood, Ex President, AMUSU, Raas Masood Khan, Court Member and a large number of students were also present in the seminar.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Exclusive Reports> Indian Muslims / by Muslim Mirror Networks / December 10th, 2018

Collective efforts lead to the betterment of the nation: Farooq Siddiqui

Uncategorized, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

UTTAR PRADESH :

Lucknow :

The Uttar Pradesh Chapter of the Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP) organized an ceremony at Hotel Arif Castle for the recipients of the 4th National Awards for Social Excellence and the 8th National Awards for Excellence in Education from Uttar Pradesh.

Among special guests were senior gastro surgeon Dr. Waliullah Siddiqui from Apollo Hospital and Mirza Mubeen Baig from Gautam Budh Nagar. Distinguished educationist and career counsellor Dr. Amrita Das was to attend as the chief guest but could not participate due to health issues, so former senior bureaucrat Zahra Chatterjee filled the role.

The programme began with a recitation from the Holy Quran by Maulana Muhammad Rehan Qasmi.

The welcome address was delivered by AMP’s Zonal Head for Central Zone, Syed Shoaib. AMP’s State Head, Shaheen Islam, introduced the audience to AMP’s objectives and activities, mentioning that this non-governmental, non-political, and non-profit organization was founded in 2007. Over the years, AMP has been engaged in educational, social, economic, and developmental activities aimed at empowering marginalized communities.

Guest of honour Mirza Mubeen Baig emphasized that working for NGOs is becoming increasingly challenging, and only those organizations that serve selflessly and with sincerity will succeed. He stressed the need for collaboration among serious NGOs to benefit from each other’s experiences.

Dr. Waliullah Siddiqui congratulated the awardees for their contributions to education and social services, highlighting that the responsibility for educating and nurturing children lies with both parents and teachers. In today’s changing times, this responsibility has grown even more significant. He shared personal lessons from his life, crediting his parents for playing a central role in his achievements.

Speaking as the chief guest, retired IAS officer Zahra Chatterjee praised AMP’s work and said that every individual’s contribution is crucial for the nation’s development. She stressed the need to reach out to the last individual to ensure educational awareness and economic stability.

Farooq Siddiqui, Head of AMP’s National Coordination Team, addressed the audience, stating that these awards aim to encourage individuals and organizations committed to transforming the nation through their selfless services. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts and mutual cooperation, noting that the welfare of the country and nation lies in unity and partnership.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Mohammad Mohiuddin, Chapter Head of AMP Lucknow, and the event was hosted by Dr. Sumbul Shakeel.

The recipients of the National Awards for Social Excellence included the Best NGO awardees:

Tauheedul Muslimeen Trust, Institute of Social Harmony and Upliftment.

Among the Change Maker Awardees were:

Professor Dr. Nuzhat Hussain from Lucknow, Dr. Mohammad Mubashir, Sabiha Ahmed, Balbir Singh Maan, Dr. Kaleem Ahmed Khan from Kanpur, Dr. Saba Yunus, Shahid Kamran Khan, Sagheer Khaksar from Balrampur, Dr. Saleem Mohammad Khan and Naseem Ahmed Khan from Aligarh, and Ramesh Chandra Srivastava from Ayodhya.

The recipients of the National Awards for Excellence in Education included:

Professor Mirza Mohammad Sufiyan Baig, Professor Naseem Ahmed Khan, Ausaf Azeem Kirmani from Aligarh, Mohammad Shahid Khan, Dr. Mohammad Shamim, Samiullah Ansari from Kanpur, Chitra Maheshwari from Lucknow, Dr. Roohi, and Maulana Mohammad Rehan Qasmi.

Lifetime Achievement Awardees included senior teacher Sheila Lawrence from Lucknow and Jamaluddin Khan from Kanpur.

A large number of attendees were present at the event, including Dr. Anis Ansari (former IAS), Mohammad Khalid Ashu, Mujtaba Khan, Najm-ul-Hasan Rizvi Najmi, Dr. Uzma Mubashir, Syed Abrar, Rizwan Ansari, Mohammad Zeeshan, Mohammad Imran, Javed Akbar Khan Lodi, Shahenshah Ansari, Fahad Mahmood, Ayesha Mahmood, Alma Siddiqui, Ayesha Alvi, Zaheer Baig, and Aqib Rauf.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> Education / by India Tomorrow / September 03rd, 2024

‘Mini Brazil of India’ Was Once Infamous for Illegal Liquor: How One Man Transformed a Village

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Sports, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bicharpur Village (Shahdol District), MADHYA PRADESH :

Once known for illegal liquor, Bicharpur village in Madhya Pradesh is now a football hub, producing around 45 national players.

Learn how coach Raees Ahmed’s efforts kickstarted this transformation.

Almost a decade ago, Bicharpur — a village in the tribal-dominated Shahdol district of Madhya Pradesh — was notorious for its rampant production of illicit liquor and narcotics. The primary source of income for many families was the production of liquor from the locally available mahua fruit.

“In this village, every house has been making kachhi shat (mahua liquor) for generations. They did not consider it wrong or illegal since it was deeply ingrained in their culture for a long time. Even children, regardless of their ages, were involved in this work. In fact, the villagers, including children, consumed liquor regularly; it was like their everyday tea and the medicine for any disease,” Raees Ahmed tells The Better India.

However, today the village has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a hub for the rising stars of football . It has produced around 45 state and national-level football players — including Sanya Kunde, Rajni Singh, Laxmi Sahis, Anil Singh Gond, and Hanuman Singh.

Because every household in the village has a football player, it has come to be known as the ‘Mini Brazil’ of Madhya Pradesh. The journey of Bicharpur village from its miserable state to ‘Mini Brazil’ was orchestrated by former footballer and coach Raees Ahmed.

An unlikely football hub

Raees says that the Shahdol division has been a football hub for nearly three generations. The tribal children grew up playing football but without any formal training. Raaes, who has been playing football since the age of 10, was one of them.

“We used to learn football by seeing players in tournaments. But we did not have any formal training or guidance in the sport,” says the 53-year-old who grew up following Diego Armando Maradona — a professional football player from Argentina.

Earlier, the tribal children grew up playing football but without any formal training.

When Raees was in Class 8, he recalls, he played in the ‘under 19’ category at the national level. He went on to play football professionally at the national level seven times during his career. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in 1995, he secured a job as a sports teacher at a higher secondary school in Shahdol.

Then in 1997, he took formal training from the National Institute of Sports (NIS) in Kolkata. “To be a player and to be a coach are two different things. Since I was a national-level player, I thought I was an expert, but I was under the wrong impression. There [at NIS], I realised I had very limited knowledge. I realised if I had known these professional techniques, I could have played at the international level,” he says.

Coming back home, Raees went back to his old job. A couple of years later in 2001, he visited the nondescript village of Bicharpur, roughly three kilometres from his workplace.

“I saw many children in this village playing football. They had the fitness of an athlete but lacked training and techniques. They did not know how to pass the football and when to hit the ball to score a goal. After speaking to them, I realised that they did not know much about the outside world, and suddenly, I remembered my childhood!” he adds.

That day, Raees decided to be the support he desired when he was a child.

Where there’s a will…

Every evening, post his office hours, Raees would set out for the village on his bicycle. He started training children in the age group of 8–12 years. But there was no formal set up for the ground and tribal children lacked basic amenities like shoes and jerseys. “Initially, I would dedicate half of my salary to arrange basics for them,” he says.

Raees says, Shahdol divisional commissioner Rajeev Sharma established at least 1,200 clubs in all villages across the Shahdol division.

Seeing a good response from the children, the coach also encouraged them to quit the mahua work if they wanted to seriously dedicate themselves to building a career in sports. “These children helped their families quit nasha khori (alcoholism) and switch to other works like labour jobs,” he informs.

Raees adds that by 2003, these children started playing in the ‘under 14’ category at the state and national level, and by 2004, girls also started participating in the sport. So far, the coach has trained at least 1,500 children, and of these, 45 have made it to the state and national level competitions.

One of his students, Laxmi Sahees, has been playing football since she was 12. She would tag along with her brothers to the football ground after school. She tells The Better India, “Initially, we went out of curiosity and for fun, but soon, we became so interested that we would rush to the ground for daily practice after finishing all household work.”

She continues, “Raees Sir told us about the tournaments for the women’s team. And within a year, in 2007, I participated in the national level competition and was selected in the first round. We competed with Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and UP and reached the quarter-finals.”

“Football has given me an opportunity to learn about the outside world. If I had not been into football, I guess I would have been married off at an early age and had a few kids like my elder sisters,” adds the 27-year-old who, so far, has played at nine national level competitions.

Raees and his students with Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Currently, Laxmi coaches 40 students from Bicharpur and nearby villages. In the recent Khelo MP Youth Games 2023, her students bagged gold.

Laxmi’s coach sir is extremely proud of her and her students. “It is a matter of extreme pride to be able to compete and be a state champion coming from a small village,” remarks Raees.

Over the years, Raees says, Shahdol divisional commissioner Rajeev Sharma also recognised the talent in Bicharpur and established at least 1,200 clubs in all villages across the Shahdol division. “Today, 80 to 85 football tournaments are organised in the division every year. By 2022, there had been a noticeable improvement in the local people’s quality of life. They now enjoy facilities like electricity, a professional ground, and an open gym. Additionally, the government provides a dedicated budget for the sport in the area,” he adds.

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted the budding footballing talent of Bicharpur on Mann Ki Baat. “Just imagine — a tribal area, which was known for illicit liquor and was infamous for drug addiction, has now become the ‘football nursery’ of the country. That is why it is said, ‘Where there is a will, there is a way’. There is no dearth of talent in our country, but there is certainly a need to find and nurture them,” said the PM.

Raees still coaches students in the division, and now he’s joined by national players from Bicharpur who are mentoring new talent in the Shahdol division. For him, the village’s transformative journey has been emotionally inspiring.

“Whenever I watch my students on TV, competing against other skilled players, I feel nervous throughout the match. When our students win, it is not just their victory but also a win for me as their coach. It brings happy tears to my eyes. Now, my students are also training other children, and the happiness cannot be expressed in words. Over the past few years, the entire village’s atmosphere has transformed. We hope to produce many more national players from the entire Shahdol division,” says Raees.

Edited by Pranita Bhat; All photos: Raees Ahmed.

source: http://www.thebetterindia.com / The Better India / Home> English> Stories> Football> Rural India / by Shivani Gupta / October 09th, 2023

Mustafa Kamal Sherwani (1952–2025): The Man and His Magnificence — One of the Foursome in the Babri Masjid Conundrum

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Etah District / Lucknow, UTTAR PRADESH :

Mustafa Kamal Sherwani

Mustafa Kamal Sherwani, was Doctor in Law (LLD), a senior Law faculty in Shia Post Graduate Degree College, Lucknow, belonged to Lucknow in all its totality. He was the Principal of the institution too. He had in himself all. Ingrained in Muslim historical legacy, feudal ancestry grounded to the masses, Muslimness never brooding to exclusiveness and a diehard human rights campaigner-all to the hilt. He passed away to heavenly abode on March 3, 2025, leaving a void, which would never be filled, in a community otherwise resigned to the fate in this present political squall.

He represented the post-Babri Masjid demolition genre and hit the political windscreen as a flag bearer of All India Muslim Forum in 1993, he assiduously pursued the agenda to sensitize Muslim political consciousness, and definitely succeeded to carve a special niche for Muslim space in Lucknow, the citadel of communal cauldron, during the high days of Kalyan Singh, Ram Prakash Gutpa, Rajnath Singh, all Bhartiya Janta Party Chief Ministers and Prime Minister AB Vajpayee.

His able mentorship made Muslims not recede into a cocoon but instead there was hardly a month, which passed, and Lucknow did not witness AIMF protests, on streets, many times opposite Vidhan Sabha. In fact, MK Sherwani, political credibility, is what made it all, as even when there were no mobile phones, MK Sherwani, could mobilize around 100 AIMF workers and supporters in one hour.

I too had interactions with him on many sundry afternoons. Despite political one-upmanship, when he was betrayed by his friends and colleagues, which also is a hallmark of Muslim polity, he never betrayed a sign of acrimony but instead was always with his trademark infectious smile. Yet, surely, the dent was inside. He never would divulge the name of those who passed AIMF meetings information to local intelligence sleuths and onto the political establishment those days. He however was very skeptical to the politicization of Muslim clergy, and would argue, that Hindu religious leaders perpetuate the Hindu political leadership, but instead, Muslim religious personnel kill their own political voices, of course, in exchange for the worldly charms.

His stint as a former Vice Chancellor of Zanzibar University and Department Head of Law and Shariah at the same university, never dimmed the belonging he had for his first love. AIMF. He would tell me that even before he would have tea there, he would log on to all Hindi/Urdu and English newspapers with dateline Lucknow to keep a tab on events back home, and issue statements on it. He made a stint to Finland, for his landmark 75 lecture series, on India’s cultural heritage and diversity. A great feat unto itself.

He was an old Aligarh Muslim University alumina and was once accused of sedition. He had to pass through a 15 years ordeal, which he would transform in a form of a book Secular Horror which is available on Amazon. I had done its review long back. The torment started after he had published an article ‘Secularism vis-à-vis Hindu chauvinism’ in Radiance Viewsweekly, the mouthpiece of Jamaat-e Islami Hind. His treatise Iblees ( Satan) and the Mullas was his uneasy exhortation as to how Muslim political aspirations have been killed at the altar of Muslim clergy machinations. A leaf he took from Allama Iqbal from whom he was greatly influenced. His ceaseless efforts in the form of I am a Citizen of the World, dedicated to Hindu-Muslim unity, Tribute to Hazrat Imam Husain, are still available on his facebook page.

His legal acumen made him a constant figure at the Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court. He made into a perfect stature who would hog the courts with petitions to safeguard Muslims rights.

He would unequivocally apprise Muslim masses, through his speeches on streets and seminars, as to how assembly seats in UP with sizeable Muslim presence, have been categorized as reserved for Scheduled Caste/Tribes! In stark violation of the Representation of the People Act, 1950.

He was sharp-as-a-tack, who would always dither into narratives with warmth and wit, much always to the laughter and lighting of the mood during his speeches. Masses would start to chuckle on his disarmingly simple eloquence which made even ordinary look like an art. He made everything relevant. His would allure everyone with comfortable ease to make ordinary become extra ordinary. He was in constant search for a tonal alchemy where there was to be a moral entity, and where, justice would ultimately be served (read to Muslims).

There is no denying the fact that he, along with the likes of Saleem Peerzada and Zafaryab Jilani, Muhammed Azam Khan, was a preserve of a tortured genius with traumatic back stories. Hashimpura, Malina, Bhagalpur, Meerut, Babri Masjid riots etc.

He was always by the side of Zafaryab Jilani, on every Babri Masjid demolition anniversary ( December 6, 1992), emphatically on the probe, that the possibility of order be restored. But, then, last but not the least, he belonged to an era where even the best of minds are ordained ( sic) for cynicism and fatalism! Yet he, as were his friends, did not choose escapism. Zafaryab Jilan was the convener of Babri Masjid Action Committee and Saleem Peerzada had founded of Parcham Party of India.

He was a friend of friends. Today he is no more, so are Zafaryab Jilani and Saleem Peerzada. They made a great camaraderie. A coterie which had thronged the Vidhan Sabha street, against the then BJP supported UP CM Mayawati, when she had refused to issue a fresh notification to Central Bureau of Investigation, to restart the case against LK Advani, the then main accused of Babri Masjid demolition, after he was exonerated by the CBI court in 2003, which of course he is now. It is ironic that today, after 40 years; a grandiose Rama Temple has come on the site of demolished Babri Masjid. But, no one demolished it?

Today three of them are not there. Death may be permanent but certainly not defining. The passage of time is however never irrelevant as strive for justice cannot be dampened. The zest for it always feels possible. The mark of hope can never be condescended. MK Sherwani is survived by his wife, two daughters and two sons, Zafaryab Jilani by his wife, a daughter and two sons, Saleem Peerzada did not marry. Three of them were LLM. Muhammed Azam Khan until his first year, before he was arrested during ‘emergency’. Saleem Peerzada was a civil engineer. All the four were from AMU. MK Sherwani will be remembered long time for his LLD thesis Quran and Modern Jurisprudence and it is here yours truly also played a role. I had taken the copy to the publisher to get it published.

Muhammed Azam Khan is right now undergoing a tortuous survival in jail. When will the discontent end? Their lives of struggle will always be the yardstick to give a whiff of element even in the event of hoping against hope.

****

The writer is a former UP State Information Commissioner.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Obituary / by Haider Abbas / August 29th, 202

Raffat Begum: How a begum’s emergence from the harem changed the lives of Rampur’s women

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Royal Families, PreIndependence -Descendants (wef. Jan 02nd,2022), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Rampur, UTTAR PRADESH :

Raffat Begum was a gifted poet and wrote with the pen name ‘Asmat’ and took advice from Azhar Inayati, a renowned poet of Rampur. She also wrote several barsaati folk songs celebrating monsoons as did Nawab Raza.

The names of brides have vanished from wedding cards in Rampur. So, we are cordially invited to the wedding of ‘Arif Khan, S/o Samiullah Khan to the daughter (no name) of Wahidullah Khan’. Even the names of women are concealed from vocalization by disrespectful male lips. The nameless miasma enveloping our girls is a recent trend in Muslim etiquette of this erstwhile princely state. It negates the ninety year journey the women of the city have traversed–all the tiny and large steps of emerging out of the zenanas, educating themselves and finding a voice. Maybe the unnamed daughter getting married was educated at one of the local women’s colleges established by the erstwhile Nawabs and has ambitions that involve a becoming.

The emancipative journey of Rampur women began with the decision of a queen – Raffat Zamani Begum, wife of Nawab Raza Ali Khan– to leave the confines of the harem and become something more than a name. Nawab Raza (1930-1947), an enlightened ruler fully supported his wife in her decision and was possibly influenced by her in his very western and ‘modern’ outlook.  As the princesses and female members of the royal family followed Begum Raffat, there was a filtered down liberation among the women and girls of upper classes, and over the years a snowball effect that touched the lives of the of all classes of Rampur women.

Raffat Begum was the daughter of Sir Abdus Samad Khan, Prime Minister of Rampur under the colonial rule, an impeccable gentleman who traced his antecedents from the Najibabad royal family.  She was married to the crown prince, Raza Ali Khan, when she was five and he was six years old. The little bride sat on her grandmother’s lap, her heavy nath supported by her grandmother’s palm as the nikah ceremony was performed. The young daughter in law was granted all the paraphernalia of the future queen while still living with her father and had to attend court on special occasions. At a time when brides were given a new name and a title, her name was changed from Askari Begum to Raffat Zamani Begum.

When Raffat was thirteen, her father in law, Nawab Hamid Ali Khan (1894-1930) demanded that the rukhsati (going away ceremony) be performed. Raffat’s father insisted that they wait at least till the groom had completed his education. Raffat Begum wrote, and is quoted in her sister Jahanara Begum’s memoir, that the relations between the two gentlemen became strained. Finally, Nawab Hamid walked on foot from his Khas Bagh palace to the bride’s house, ‘Rosaville’, and the ceremony which usually took days was performed in a few hours; Raffat Begum left her paternal home amidst  songs extolling the valiant Rohilla Nawabs and martyrs of ancient battles.

The teenage couple began their married life often separated by the political intricacies and rules of the harem. Oral history says that they were not allowed to live together for seven years and Raffat Begum was declared infertile after her first son was born. Raza was forced to take a second wife by his father and stepmother. The women of Raffat Begum’s family did not practice strict purda. Her mother was the daughter of the regent of Rampur, General Azamuddin Khan (1888-1891) who had earned the ire of the maulvis of the time for his ‘kristaan’ viewpoint and his championing of female education. Some say he was murdered because of his radical outlook. It is therefore unsurprising that the educated Raffat Begum rejected the claustrophobic harem life she had endured for the first ten years of her married life as soon as Nawab Raza came to power. The couple showed a proclivity towards the ‘modern’ and western lifestyle in all areas and Raffat Begum became a major mover in the drastic transformation of the Rampur durbar, the zenana and Rampur culture. Though not documented in written histories, the influence of Raffat Begum on the dress, cuisine and court etiquettes finds testimony in oral history.

We get a vivid description of the Begum in her stepdaughter , Mehrunnisa Begum’s memoir, ‘An Extraordinary Life.’

Home tutored in English, Persian and Urdu, Raffat Begum entertained distinguished guests at royal banquets and sat for official pictures­­––the first pictures of women from the royal family. She wore latest western dresses, make up and was a chain smoker –– a ‘modern’ thing to do. In fact, she encouraged her children to smoke as it was considered fashionable. However, some women continued to live in the royal zenana ––more out of lack of choice and under confidence–– but there was no constraint on their movement. Given that Nawab Raza’s predecessor, Nawab Hamid confined his women to a sequestered life behind the laal purda, this was the beginning of a drastic change in the thought process and lifestyle of elite Rampur women.

The young princesses were sent to a boarding school after being brought up by British nannies in a strictly regimented nursery. Emulating the new trend, the elite landowning families and those associated with the court started educating their sons and daughters at boarding schools. So, my mother and her siblings were sent to La Martinere in the 1950s. The 1960’s saw Rampur’s first female doctors, teachers, writers and lawyers ––aspirational models for young girls studying in government colleges now housed in the old palaces and zenanas of yore. Nawab Raza gave a lot of emphasis to education particularly female education and the girls from ordinary families were now sent to girls’ schools in the city after initial misgivings. Covered rickshaws and thelas (carts) transported the burqa clad young ladies to schools. My mother became a doctor in 1967 and the women of my family practiced a flexi-veil where they would cover their heads, sit in curtained cars in Rampur and don sarees and bellbottoms outside of Rampur.

Raffat Begum was a gifted poet and wrote with the pen name ‘Asmat’ and took advice from Azhar Inayati, a renowned poet of Rampur. She also wrote several barsaati folk songs celebrating monsoons as did Nawab Raza. Some of her poetry was published.

Begum Noor Bano, her daughter in law and ex-Member of Parliament, recalls the after-dinner dastan sessions with the children and grandchildren gathered around their beloved ‘Mummy’.  The dastans were later written down by a scribe.

Mapara Begum, a court singer, says she would give importance to the lowliest person and welcome everyone with warmth. Which is why she was fondly called Raaj Maata, the queen mother of Rampur.

A few years after Nawab Raza’s death in 1966, Raffat Begum moved back to her father’s place, Rosaville, with her retinue of servants. It was an empty house. Her parents had passed away and her brothers and sisters had left in pursuit of their lives and careers. Life had come a full circle. She passed away at Rosaville in 1986 – an elegant begum, spirited and dignified till the end. Her plaintive lines are still echo on the lips of old timers:

“Aisey beemaar ki dava kya hai,jo batata nahi hua kya hai;

Kaun suntan hai is zamaney mein, kis se kahiye iltija kya hai.”

How can a person who cannot describe her ailment find a cure?

Even if I could find words for my pleas, would my entreaties find listeners.

Receiving yet another invite to the marriage of an anonymous daughter, I tried to remember the names of the wives of acquaintances and distant relatives. I came up with Naeem mamu ki biwi, Munney sahib ki ammi etc. etc. We are all guilty of using the blanket term bhabhi or khala to address the married women of various ages; we are introduced as wives, mothers and granddaughters. I used to laugh at the old style of explaining connections––‘Munney mian ki beti Shaddan Khan ke ghar mein hai’, indicating that Munney mian’s nameless daughter is married to Shaddan Khan. We have accepted an anonymous existence here and it is only logical that our girls get shrouded in namelessness on their wedding day.

Tarana Husain Khan is a writer and researcher based in Rampur. Her historical fiction ‘The Begum and the Dastan’ has been recently published by Tranquebar. The views expressed are the author’s own.

source: http://www.shethepeople.com / SheThePeople / Home> Books / by Tarana Husain Khan / March 02nd, 2021