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
When Ibrahim Saeed breathed his last in the quiet hours between May 26 and 27, 2007, it was not merely the passing of a leader – it was the end of an era. For the people of Karnataka, particularly those in the fold of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH), his death marked the departure of a towering moral force, a bridge-builder, and a man whose words carried the weight of wisdom and the warmth of sincerity.
Ibrahim Saeed(L) with Maulana Sirajul Hasan, then Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Hind
As a former President of JIH Karnataka, Ibrahim Saeed was not just a man of designation – he was a man of deep dedication. He led with humility, served with sincerity, and above all, connected with people at the human level. His leadership was rooted not in authority, but in affection.
A Childhood of Values, A Youth of Vision Born in coastal Karnataka, Ibrahim Saeed grew up in an environment where religious grounding and intellectual openness walked hand in hand. From an early age, he was drawn to the Qur’an, not merely as scripture to be recited, but as a message to be understood and shared. This foundational attitude remained the hallmark of his life-long da’wah journey.
His eloquence in Kannada and Urdu, coupled with a rare sensitivity to social realities, made him a powerful communicator. He spoke not to impress, but to illuminate. For young Muslims and for non-Muslim listeners alike, he offered Islam not as an ideology to be defended, but as a path of truth, mercy, and justice.
A Da’ee Who Belonged to All Perhaps the most defining feature of Ibrahim Saeed’s personality was his deep affection for all people, regardless of faith or background. His relationship with non-Muslim brothers and sisters was truly extraordinary. Whether it was participating in interfaith programmes, comforting victims of injustice, or simply walking the narrow streets of Mangalore or Udupi, greeting people with a smile – he was universally loved and respected.
He was never one to see da’wah as monologue. To him, it was dialogue – rooted in respect, empathy, and sincerity. His tone was always soft, yet his message never diluted. Non-Muslim intellectuals and activists often remarked on how deeply they admired his character, and how Islam seemed more beautiful when explained by Ibrahim Saeed.
His inclusive vision of Islam was most evident in the way he reached out to Dalit communities across Karnataka. He would often visit Dalit colonies, organising interactions with men and women in their own neighbourhoods. On one such occasion, a woman asked him plainly, “You are a Muslim. Why do you come to our colony and conduct programmes?” He replied with characteristic humility, “Dalits are the most marginalised communities in India, and Islam teaches that every human being is equal. I want to convey that you and I are the same – no discrimination, no untouchability.”
This brief yet profound exchange summed up the essence of his mission: to live and preach the Qur’anic message of human dignity, social justice, and equality.
Leading Without Holding On During his tenure as President of JIH Karnataka, Ibrahim Saeed steered the organisation with clarity of purpose and a focus on grassroots empowerment. He built bridges across regions, across communities, and across hearts. His vision was long-term: develop not only structures but people – individuals with integrity, faith, and commitment to social transformation.
What set him apart was his ability to let go. Even as his health declined due to terminal cancer, he made it a point to travel to Bangalore to formally hand over his responsibilities to his successor. It was a gesture that reflected his humility and organisational discipline. He believed in nazam or system, not in personality cults.
Courage in the Shadow of Death When the diagnosis of Stage IV lung cancer came, he did not flinch. His calm reply – “Alhamdulillah” – shocked even the doctors. He rejected aggressive treatments, choosing instead to accept Allah’s decree and live his remaining days with dignity and devotion.
Despite his declining health, he continued to write, meet people, and offer guidance. He even addressed national-level meetings, delivered Qur’anic lectures in towns like Uppinangady, and met with activists who sought his counsel. His final I’tikaf – spent in the Kutchi Memon Masjid – fulfilled a long-held yearning and marked a full spiritual circle.
His close friends recall that even in moments of physical weakness, his humour remained intact. His conversations were never heavy with sorrow. They were light with grace.
A Funeral Like No Other When the end came, the grief was personal and collective. People poured in from every district of Karnataka. The Janazah at Central Juma Masjid in Mangalore drew an unprecedented crowd – cutting across class, creed, and political affiliations. Senior leaders like H.D. Kumaraswamy, Mallikarjun Kharge, Jaffer Sharif, and Roshan Baig came to pay their respects. Rahman Khan embraced his son and said what many felt in their hearts: “We’ve lost a rare gem.”
A Legacy of Light Today, Ibrahim Saeed lives on – not only through his family and writings, but through the countless people he inspired. He lives in the students who remember his compassionate words. He lives in the non-Muslim neighbours who saw Islam’s beauty through his actions. He lives in the members of JIH Karnataka who still consider him a moral guide and fatherly mentor.
In a time when voices grow louder but less sincere, when leadership is often reduced to branding and bravado, the life of Ibrahim Saeed stands as a timeless example of principled activism, prophetic wisdom, and universal compassion.
His passing left a void that perhaps no one can fill – but his legacy lights the path for those who dare to walk it.
[With input from Mohammed Markada and Ameen Hassan]
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Pride of the Nation> Personality / by Mohammed Talha Siddi Bapa / May 30th, 2025
The excellence awards ceremony and annual meet – 2025 of the Muslim Educational Institutions Federation (MEIF) of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, held at Barakah International School, Adyar Mangaluru, on May 22.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mohan Alva, chairman of Alva’s Education Foundation, Moodbidri, said, “Education institutions should not be limited to one community. Education institutions should not be confined to the community that founded them. Instead, schools should reflect a “mini-India” that transcends barriers of religion, caste, and ethnicity. Everyone should have access to education. An atmosphere must be created where all are included. Just as India is home to various castes, religions, languages, and ethnicities, schools too should represent this diversity and become a mini-India. Schools should be a reflection of society, imparting education that builds communities rather than dividing them”
Praising the achievements of MEIF, Dr Mohan Alva also promised assistance in providing scouts and guides training to students in MEIF schools.
MEIF honorary president Umar T K delivered a keynote address, and MEIF president Moosabbi P Bary presided over the event.
A booklet detailing the federation’s annual programmes for 2024-25 was unveiled by Y Abdulla Javed, director of Yenepoya Group.
President of the Baraka Group of Institutions Ashraf Bajpe and Unni Haji, , along with Bahrain Sinan Zakariya, were honored during the ceremony.
National trainer Rajendra Bhat also shared his thoughts.
The event also included a felicitation ceremony honoring students who achieved outstanding results in PUC and SSLC examinations.
Outstanding SSLC performers from MEIF schools who were felicitated include Sumaiyya Nuha (619), Dakshin S Salian (618), Nidha Khadeeja Noor (617).
PUC toppers honored include Prithvi Acharya (585), Ayesha (584), Ayesha Shamran (584), Farahath M A (591), Maheen Fathima (590), Ayesha Falak (563), Aleemath Sayida (556), and Nafia T N (556).
From MEIF SSLC Kodagu – Fizah V (618), MEIF SSLC Chikkamagaluru – Taheen Fathima (597), and Karnataka SSLC state topper Shagufta Anjum from Sirsi (625) were also felicitated with mementos and cash awards.
Vice president of the Presidency Group of Institutions Suhail Ahmed and president of the Manipal HPR Group of Institutions Hariprasad Rai, were present as chief guests and extended their best wishes.
MEIF East Zone vice president Mustafa Sullia welcomed the gathering. General secretary Riyaz Ahmed K B and secretary Mohammad Sharik announced the names of the award-winning students. Farvez Ali delivered the vote of thanks, and lecturer Abdul Razak Anantadi compered the event.
MEIF Kodagu chapter president K A Shadli, Chikkamagaluru chapter president Zameer Ahmed, vice president Shabih Ahmed Qazi, and treasurer Nisar Fakir Mohammad were also present on the occasion.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld / Home> Karnataka / by DaijiWorld Media Network – Udupi (TP) / May 23rd, 2025
Senior journalist, storyteller, and news editor of Vartha Bharati, B.M. Basheer, will release his new book titled Agnipath on Saturday, May 10, at a special event to be held in Mangaluru.
The book release programme is being jointly organised by Kavita Prakashan, Mysore, and the Kannada Department of St Aloysius Deemed University. It will take place at 3:30 pm at the Sahodaya Auditorium of the university campus near Bavutagudde.
The book Agnipath, published by Kavita Prakashan Mysore, will be released by noted thinker and columnist Shivasundar.
Senior writer Vasudeva Belle will introduce the work to the audience.
The event will be presided over by renowned author Chandrakala Nandavar. St Aloysius Deemed University Vice Chancellor Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis and Ganesh Amingad from Kavita Prakashan are expected to attend the function, as per the official announcement.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / May 08th, 2025
The two-day ‘Beary’s Festival 2025’ was inaugurated by Skill Development Corporation President Kantha Nayak at the Karavali Utsava ground by the Karnataka Bearys Social and Cultural Forum on Saturday.
The festival includes a job fest which has attracted more than national and international 100 companies and more than 5,000 job applicants. Educational and career counseling sessions, medical check-up and blood donation camps, business meets, food fests, competitions, discussions on various issues, sessions for the benefit of youth and cultural events are also organized as a part of the festival.
Kantha Nayak, who addressed the gathering, called upon unemployed people to make the best use of the job fair as it would also make the organizers’ efforts worthwhile and advised the candidates who fail to get job not to be disappointed. She explained that it was important for candidates to hone their skills, along with gaining education, as it helps in job-hunting.
Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan lauded the efforts of the organizers for holding the festival aiming for communal harmony.
Pastor of Bejai Church Rev. Fr. Norman D’Souza spoke on the occasion and wished well for the festival.
Entrepreneur and TK Group member Umar TK was honoured with the ‘Motivational Award’.
Retired Superintendent of Police and Chairperson of the Organizing Committee GA Bava made the inaugural address. Moulana SB Mohamman Darimi offered dua for the programme. UT Farzana welcomed the gathering and Rafique Master was the Master of Ceremony.
State Cashew Development Board President Mamatha Gatti, NRI Forum Vice-president Dr. Arati Krishna, Presidency Group of Institutions Bengaluru Vice-chairman Suhail Ahmed, Presidency Group of Institutions Director Kausar Nisar Ahmed, Entrepreneurs Mustafa Bharat, Zakaria Jokatte, Sharief Whitestone, UT Ifthikar and UT Zulfikar Ali, SCDCC Bank Chairman Dr MN Rajendra Kumar, Nasir Luckystar, Musabba Beary, Mustafa Sullia, KM Aboobakar Siddiq, Sheik Irfani, Congress leaders KK Shahul Hamid, Padmaraj R and Pradeep D’Souza and Iqbal Parliya were among those who attended the inaugural event.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / April 19th, 2025
The inauguration of BRITFORT Academy’s Mangalore branch, in collaboration with Ace Foundation, was held on 18th April at the Kankanady Gate Building, Kankanady Bypass Road. The event marked a significant milestone in expanding quality English language education and study abroad services in the coastal region.
BRITFORT Academy is widely recognised for its excellence in Spoken English and Communicative English courses, along with its expert coaching for international English language exams such as IELTS, OET, and PTE. With a growing network of centers across India, BRITFORT continues to empower students with global opportunities through language proficiency and academic support.
The ceremony was formally inaugurated by Noushad, CEO of BRITFORT Academy, who delivered an inspiring keynote address. He shared the remarkable growth of the academy, noting that over 25,000 students have been successfully trained through their programs. The Mangalore branch represents the 16th center in their journey of expansion and the fourth in Karnataka, reinforcing their commitment to making quality education accessible across regions.
Abubacker, President of Ace Foundation, presided over the function and emphasized the importance of collaborations that empower youth through quality education and skill-building initiatives.
The event was further graced by Dr. R.G. D’Souza, Dean of the Engineering Department at Yenepoya University, who attended as the Chief Guest. B.S. Mohd. Basheer, President of Jamiyyatul Falah (Mangalore Corporation Unit), and Anwar Sadath, Managing Director of Hana Beverages Pvt. Ltd., were the Guests of Honour. All dignitaries expressed their appreciation for the initiative and their confidence in the academy’s positive impact on the region’s youth.
Nazeer Ahmed, Director of Ace IAS Academy, welcomed the gathering and highlighted the significance of enhancing language skills for academic and professional growth. The program concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Imthiaz Khateeb, Secretary of Ace Foundation, expressing gratitude to all guests and participants for their support. The event was compered by Rafik Master.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / April 2Oth, 2025
Developed by KMC Mangalore team led by Dr. Haroon, Dr. Sameena, Dr. Chiranjith
Mangalore:
A patent application for a groundbreaking medical device, Device for Monitoring Gynaecological Disorders, has been officially published, marking a significant achievement for the team of doctors and student inventors from Kasturba Medical College (KMC) Mangalore.
The device is designed to enhance early detection and diagnosis of gynaecological disorders. It incorporates a flexible probe, a rotational brush for effective sampling, and an enzyme-coated detection system, improving precision and efficiency in clinical examinations.
The innovation is credited to Dr. Haroon H, Dr. Sameena H, and Dr. Chiranjit Ghosh from MIT, along with student inventors Krisha Janaswamy, Shashank Sanjay, Adithya Harikrishnan Namboothiri, and Shubham Bhusari.
The official Twitter handle of KMC Mangalore also recognized the accomplishment, congratulating the team for their work in medical innovation.
Dr. Haroon is son of M. Hussain and late Akhila Begum from Arehalli village in Hassan while Dr. Sameena Haroon is daughter of KA Sadiq and Maimoona.
At just nine, Ilaf Abdul Qadir made history by achieving a Guinness World Record for nonstop kata in karate. His remarkable feat took place at the WKMA Open Karate Championship 2025, in Chennai on February 8, where he performed a 30-minute uninterrupted kata, showcasing endurance, discipline, and skill.
A third-grade student at Presidency School, Mangaluru, Qadir proved age is no barrier to excellence. His relentless training earned him both a world record and a gold medal in Kumite. He is the youngest contestant from Dakshina Kannada to compete, setting a benchmark for young athletes.
Born to Mohammed Musthafa and Asiya Juveria, Qadir’s success stems from rigorous training and commitment. He hones his skills under trainers Nadeem and Zakiya Yasmeen from the SHORIN RYU KARATE ASSOCIATION, Moodbidri. Their mentorship and his determination shaped him into an exceptional athlete.
Expressing gratitude, Qadir credited his coaches, parents, and school. “It was tough, but I wanted to push myself and prove hard work makes anything possible,” he said. His record-setting performance demanded stamina, precision, and mental strength, which he displayed effortlessly.
Qadir’s success brings pride to his family and inspires young martial artists. His journey proves determination, discipline, and guidance turn dreams into reality. Aspiring to compete internationally, he aims to bring more laurels to India.
With his name in the Guinness World Records, Ilaf Abdul Qadir stands as an inspiration for young athletes, proving that hard work leads to greatness.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / February 16th, 2025
The Indian Nawayath Forum (INF) has appointed its new office bearers for the term 2025-2028, with Aftab Kola assuming the role of President. Hashim Mohtesham (Barni) and Fayyaz Mohtesham have been named as the first and second Vice Presidents, respectively.
Adil Nagarmat has been entrusted with the responsibilities of General Secretary, while Gufran Lanka will serve as Secretary. The forum’s financial management will be overseen by Treasurer Ummer Khalifa, and Faizan Lanka has been designated as the Internal Auditor.
The Indian Nawayath Forum, a prominent organization working for the upliftment and welfare of the society, plays a crucial role in social, educational, and cultural initiatives. With a strong commitment to community development, the newly appointed team aims to carry forward the organization’s objectives and address various issues concerning the Nawayath people.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / February 10th, 2025
