Tag Archives: Positive News of Muslims of Mangaluru

Sahill Zaheer awarded Indo Arab Social Icon Award in Saudi Arabia

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), NRI's / PIO's, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA / Al Khobar, SAUDI ARABIA :

Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia:

International host Sahill Zaheer was honoured with the Indo Arab Social Icon Award at an international gathering held in Al Khobar on February 7, where the Saudi Arabia Chapter of SIBEC – SYPA International Business & Entrepreneurs Chamber was officially launched.

SIBEC is a global business and economic collaboration platform that brings together entrepreneurs, investors and professionals to strengthen cross-border partnerships. The Saudi chapter launch was organised in association with Enerfac Solutions.

Enerfac Solutions, led by CEO Nazurudin Ahamed and Director Sivaprakash Umapathy along with its board members and team, describes itself as a company focused on ethical business practices and inclusive growth. The organisation has been supporting entrepreneurs, small and emerging businesses as part of its CSR initiatives, while encouraging partnerships and industry development. Company representatives said its approach centres on responsible business and ensuring that growth benefits the wider community.

Sahill Zaheer, who works as a host and event manager, has earlier been associated with Namma TV as a VJ and with Radio Mirchi 98.3 FM as an RJ. Over the years, he has hosted national and international shows, corporate events and award functions. He has shared stage space with singers such as Sonu Nigam, Udit Narayan and Shreya Ghoshal. He has also anchored events connected to cricket tournaments, including T10 and T20 formats and IPL-related programmes.

Recently, he hosted the Festival of Cricket – Women’s Edition in Al Khobar, described as the first women’s cricket celebration of its kind in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The award was presented in recognition of his contributions as a host and his involvement in international events connecting Indian and Arab audiences.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / February 15th, 2026

English daily ‘News Trail’ launches Mangaluru edition

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

English daily News Trail has launched its Mangaluru edition. The launch function was held on Friday at The Ocean Pearl in the city.

The new edition will cater to readers in coastal and Malenadu regions of Karnataka. The publication is already being brought out from Bengaluru, Qatar and Hubballi.

Among those present at the event were Dr. U.T. Ifthikar Fareed, Chairman, Karnataka State Allied and Healthcare Council; Ivan D’Souza, MLC; Fr Sudeep Paul, Director, Sandesha Foundation; Sister Vishweshwari of Brahmakumari International Centre, Mangaluru; M.A. Gafoor, Chairman, Coastal Development Board; T.M. Shahid Thekkil, Chairman, Minimum Wage Advisory Board; Adoor Ibrahim, former Deputy Commissioner of Mangaluru; S.M. Arshad, Managing Director, Mohtisham Complexes Pvt. Ltd.; and S.M. Rasheed Haji, President, Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

K.M. Siddique, Director, News Trail; Ashraf Ali Basheer Ahmed, Associate Director; M.A. Siraj, Associate Editor; and Aftab H. Kola, Regional Business Head for the Mangaluru edition, were also present.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 14th, 2026

Energia opens Corporate Service Center in Mangaluru, eyes future renewable projects in India

Business & Economy, Karnataka (under research project), NRI's / PIO's, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

Energia on Sunday inaugurated its Corporate Service Center in Mangaluru, marking a step towards strengthening its global corporate operations and expanding its presence in India.

The new office was inaugurated in the presence of U. T. Khader, Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, and NRI Busnessman Dr. Ronald Colaco along with members of Mangaluru’s business and community circles.

The ceremony was led by Shahid Hassan, CEO of Energia, along with Mohin Sheikh, Managing Director, Rajan Mengoth, Operations Director, and Mehboob, Chairman of Energia. Senior officials and team members of the company were also present.

The Mangaluru Corporate Service Center will function as a dedicated support office for Energia’s operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company said the centre will help improve coordination, strengthen back-end support and enhance governance across key corporate functions. It is expected to improve service delivery through structured processes and better operational control.

Energia stated that the new centre will create employment opportunities in Mangaluru, particularly in corporate services and support roles. The company also plans to introduce structured career pathways and skill development programmes for professionals in the region.

While the immediate focus of the centre will be to support overseas operations, Energia said it intends to deepen its long-term engagement in India. The company indicated that it is exploring opportunities in the renewable energy sector in line with India’s expanding clean energy landscape. The Mangaluru office is expected to act as a base for future partnerships and renewable initiatives in the country.

“This Corporate Service Center reflects Energia’s long-term commitment to building strong capability and governance. Mangalore gives us access to high-quality talent, and this office will play a critical role in supporting our Saudi operations while also helping us prepare for future renewable initiatives in India,” said Shahid Hassan, CEO of Energia.

Among those present at the event were Chairman of State Allied and Health Care Council UT Iftikhar Ali, President of New Jumma Masjid Sharif Whitestone, Chairman of Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industry SM Rasheed Haji, Founder of Team B-Human Asif Deal, Dr Haroon Hussain and others.

Energia is an energy solutions company with operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and a growing presence in other markets. The company provides integrated energy solutions across sectors with a focus on reliability and long-term value creation.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 15th, 2026

Shabana Faizal is the youngest among Indian philanthropists

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA / Kozhikode, KERALA / Dubai, U.A.E :

Shabana Faizal with her husband Faizal Kottikollon

New Delhi :

Mangalore-based Shabana Faizal has emerged as the youngest woman among India’s top 10 philanthropists, according to the EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025.

She has donated ₹40 crore (approximately $1.5 billion) through the Faisal & Shabana Foundation to education, health, and social development.

Shabana Faisal’s journey from being raised in a small town in Mangalore to co-leading a global enterprise is about he hard work and ambition.

Her entrepreneurial journey began in 1995 as a retailer of unique, speciality and luxury products. After leading the company for eight successful years, she decided to team up with her husband, entrepreneur Faizal Kottikollon, and support him in running the world-class foundry, Emirates Techno Casting (ETC).

Shabana took charge of all human resources and administrative processes at ETC, where she created a significant impact in shaping the company’s business success.

In her role as Vice Chairperson of KEF Holdings, she is actively involved in guiding the business’s growth strategy across global markets. Deeply committed to social improvement, Shabana and her husband founded the Faizal & Shabana Foundation in 2007, with the vision of ‘Giving to Create Impact’.

At 53, Shabana’s work has placed her among some of the most influential women in India’s philanthropy world, including Rohini Nilekani, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and Bina Shah.

EdelGive Foundation, in collaboration with Hurun Research Institute, recently released the 12th edition of the EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025.

The list honors India’s most generous individuals and families. Over the past three years, 191 philanthropists have donated a total of ₹10,380 crore, representing an 85% increase in contributions.

The education sector continues to lead as the top donor, receiving ₹4,166 crore from 107 donors.

Shabana is the mother of four children – Sophia, Sara, Zakaria, and Zarina – but continues to play an active role in business and philanthropy. Her work makes her one of India’s most influential female philanthropists, exemplifying how professional leadership and a commitment to giving can combine to create widespread social impact.

The EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025 states that the top 25 donors contributed ₹50,000 crore in just five years, or an average of ₹46 crore per day. Mumbai leads in philanthropy, contributing 28% of total donations, followed by New Delhi and Bengaluru.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home / posted by Aasha Khosa / November 10th, 2025

Three siblings from Bhatkal excel at state-level Karate Championship

Karnataka (under research project), Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bhatkal (Uttara Kannada District) / Mangaluru , KARNATAKA :

PIX

Bhatkal/Mangaluru:

Three siblings from Bhatkal, currently studying in Mangaluru, secured top honours at the State-level Karate Championship held in Moodbidri on September 1, 2025 The event was organised by the Shorin-Ryu Karate Association in association with Swami’s Strength Training and MK Ananthraj College of Physical Education.

Ismail Nameer, a 15-year-old student of Huda Islamia School, Mangaluru, won first place in Kumite (fight). 

His younger brother, Hamdan (11 years), a student of Presidency School, Mangaluru, secured first place in Kumite (Fight) and second place in Kata in the under-11 category.

Their sister, Umme Kulsum, also a student of Presidency School, claimed first place in the Fighting category in the under-8 category.

The siblings are children of Nisar Ahmed Ruknuddin and Nada of Bhatkal, who are presently residing in Mangaluru.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / September 03rd, 2025

Mangaluru: ‘Voice of Blood Donors’ founder Rawoof Bunder passes away

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

Rawoof Bunder (50), founder of Voice of Blood Donors, passed away on Wednesday afternoon at a private hospital in the city following a brief illness.

A resident of Bunder in Mangaluru, Rawoof was known for his social work and his active role in promoting blood donation.

He is survived by his wife, and two children.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / August 20th, 2025

Mysuru’s Bibi Fatima: A Kickboxer’s Journey of Determination

Amazing Feats, Karnataka (under research project), Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mysuru, KARNATAKA :

HIGHLIGHTS

Overcoming a childhood marked by hardship and societal rejection, 20-year-old Bibi Fatima has emerged as a formidable kickboxer, winning multiple accolades at the national and international levels.

Mysuru:

Overcoming a childhood marked by hardship and societal rejection, 20-year-old Bibi Fatima has emerged as a formidable kickboxer, winning multiple accolades at the national and international levels.

Fatima, who has been training in kickboxing for 12 years, has secured 29 gold medals in district, state, and national championships. Despite a hand injury, she recently won two silver medals in an international tournament held in New Delhi.

Fatima’s journey is a testament to perseverance. Her father abandoned the family two decades ago due to the absence of a male heir. Left destitute, Fatima’s mother attempted to end her life, but the family was taken in by Akram Pasha, a transgender beggar in Mysuru. Pasha adopted Fatima and supported her education and training, earning a living through alms to sustain the family.

Currently pursuing her secondary education, Fatima dreams of representing India in the Olympics. However, financial constraints hinder her aspirations. She hopes to open a kickboxing training centre to support herself and provide for Pasha, who continues to pay rent for both their accommodations.

Recognising her achievements, members of the M. Friends Charitable Trust from Mangaluru, led by Rashid Vitla, visited her home to extend financial assistance and encouragement. Social organisations and sports enthusiasts have been urged to come forward and support Fatima in achieving her dreams.

source: http://www.thehansindia.com / Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka> Bengaluru / by Rasheed Vitla / Hans News Service / March 12th, 2025

IPS Officer Abdul Ahad Promoted to SSP

Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Moodbidri (Dakshina Kannada), KARNATAKA :

Bengaluru:

Senior IPS officer Abdul Ahad has been promoted to the grade of Senior Superintendent of Police (Selection Grade) with effect from January 1, 2025. He will continue serving in his current role as Director of Security and Vigilance at the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) until further orders.

This promotion places Ahad in Level 13 of the IPS Pay Matrix as per the IPS (Pay) Rules, 2016, reflecting his distinguished service in the force.

Ahad, who hails from Moodbidri in Dakshin Kannada district, has held several important positions throughout his career. Before his appointment to BMTC, he was serving as the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for Bengaluru’s Crime Branch (CCB). In September last year, he took over the role of Director for BMTC’s Security and Vigilance wing.

The senior officer’s tenure includes noteworthy stints as the DCP of Bengaluru’s Whitefield division, SP at the Coastal Security Police, SP of Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Bengaluru, SP of Economic Offences Wing at CID, and Commandant at KSRP.

Ahad’s extensive experience in tackling economic crimes, corruption cases, and city crime has been instrumental in his rise through the ranks, marking another milestone in his illustrious career with this promotion.

Ahad is the younger brother of Abdus Salam Puttige, founder of popular Kannada daily Vartha Bharati, published from Bengaluru, Mangaluru and Shivamogga simultaneously. Fluent in Kannada, Urdu and Beary language, Ahad completed memorising the Quran from a local Madrasa in Karkala town at young age.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Mohammed Atherulla Shariff / January 01st, 2025

Hamd Foods expands footprint with fourth outlet in Udupi’s Kaup

Business & Economy, Karnataka (under research project), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Udupi:

Hamd Foods, a rising name in the natural food products sector, inaugurated its fourth exclusive outlet in Kaup on Thursday, reinforcing its commitment to the brand’s vision, ‘Healthy Food, Healthy Life.’ The launch was spearheaded by Founder Shahida A, Co-founder Mariyam Shahira, and Branch Manager Khairunnisa.

Following the success of its earlier outlets in Falnir, Krishnapura, and Thokkottu, the Kaup branch marks a significant step in the company’s expansion journey. With over 150 natural food and personal care products on offer, the outlet provides customers with options ranging from spice blends, stone-ground pastes, and frozen snacks to flour varieties and skincare items, all free from artificial colours and chemical preservatives.

“In today’s fast-paced world, many people struggle to find time to prepare healthy meals. Through this outlet, we aim to make wholesome, ready-to-use natural products easily accessible to everyone,” said Shahida A, addressing the gathering.

The launch event was attended by several prominent women including Reshma Thota, Prameela Jatanna, Alia Sayyed, and Nilofer Parveen, who expressed their appreciation for the brand’s consistent growth.

“Your consistency and hard work over the past seven years has led you to launch your fourth store today,” noted Reshma Thota. “For working women like us, Hamd’s products are a real support. In a market full of choices, it’s rare to find ones that are both hygienic and chemical-free — Hamd is a brand we truly trust.”

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / July 13th, 2025

Dr. Mustafa Basthikodi appointed to VTU Academic Senate

Education, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Image credit: SCEM website

Mangaluru:

Dr. Mustafa Basthikodi, Professor and Head of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management (SCEM), Mangaluru, has been appointed as a Member of the 9th Academic Senate of Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU), Belagavi.

The appointment was officially notified through the Karnataka Governor’s Secretariat Notification (No. GS 06 TUM 2025) dated June 25, 2025, under Section 22 of the VTU Act, 1994. The announcement was made by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of VTU.

The Academic Senate is the highest academic body of the university and plays a key role in shaping academic policies and strategies. Dr. Basthikodi’s appointment is considered a recognition of his work in the field of technical education and research.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / June 26th, 2025