Tag Archives: Positive News of Muslims of Tamil Nadu

Muslims emerging as important players ahead of Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu; welfare initiatives rolled out

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TAMIL NADU :

Representational photograph

New Delhi :

Ahead of the Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, scheduled for April-May 2026, the Muslim community is emerging as an important player in the poll-bound state, with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin rolling out several welfare initiatives aimed at benefiting them. Stalin has laid emphasis on the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam’s (DMK) historical ties with Muslims.

Muslims in Tamil Nadu constitute approximately 5.86% of the state’s population. Their number in the state was 42 lakh, as per the 2011 Census, and they primarily belong to the Tamil-speaking Labbai, Marakayar, and Rowther communities. With a history dating back to 7th century Arab trade, they are well-integrated, often using Tamil as their native tongue, and exhibit high social, literacy, and economic indicators compared to other regions.

In a powerful message to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre, Stalin has claimed that Tamil Nadu is the “only state which is safe for Muslims” and described the DMK as a fortress that protects the minorities in the state. Because of this, incidents like mob lynching could not rear their head in Tamil Nadu, Stalin said at a function at Kumbakonam recently.

The occasion was the State Mahalla Jamaats Conference organised by Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) near Kumbakonam, in which office-bearers of around 8,000 Jamaats from across the state participated. In his address, Stalin launched a scathing attack on the Central Government, accusing it of using central agencies like the CBI, ED, and IT to intimidate political opponents and the public.

The Chief Minister remarked that he did not need to explain the current situation of the country further, implying a climate of pressure from the Centre. His remarks were indicative of the DMK’s strategy to consolidate minority votes by positioning itself as a primary defender against central interference and communal insecurity.

Stalin accused the Opposition All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) of betraying minority communities to appease central authorities in Delhi. He asserted that only the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance has the strength to defeat the anti-people AIADMK-BJP alliance in the upcoming Assembly elections.

Stalin announced five welfare schemes for Muslims on the occasion, including the establishment of a third Waqf Tribunal at Coimbatore and the increase of pension for Ulema registered with Tamil Nadu Waqf Board from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000, and the family pension from Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 2,500.

Stalin also announced that in the first phase of a scheme, 1,000 Ulema will receive the increased subsidy of Rs. 50,000 for buying two-wheelers. The Ulema play a pivotal role as Islamic scholars in Tamil Nadu’s Muslim societies, acting as guardians and interpreters of religious knowledge and law. They are highly respected for their deep understanding of Islamic theology, Sharia law, and the Hadiths, guiding the Muslim community on matters of faith and practice.

The other announcements included creation of burial grounds in City Corporation areas where there is none, and filling of 10 vacant posts of Urdu language teachers at the government high schools and higher secondary schools. Stalin said the efforts of those who were trying to disturb peace had been in vain, and added that they had formed in their own interest, an alliance of those who are servile by threatening with agencies like ED, CBI and IT.

Pointing at AIADMK’s support to the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019, the Chief Minister said the Leader of Opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, has been continuing his betrayal of Muslims. “But for AIADMK’s support, the CAA Bill would have been defeated in the Rajya Sabha,” he said. He further pointed out that the DMK government had courageously declared the CAA would not be implemented in Tamil Nadu.

Stalin also referred to the DMK’s vote against the Triple Talaq Bill and Waqf Amendment Bill. “If the BJP alliance comes to power in Tamil Nadu, it will ruin the developed state. Only the DMK alliance has the courage and strength to stop it from coming to power,” he declared.

Pointing out that the DMK cadre have started their door-to-door campaign, he urged the IUML cadre, particularly the youth and women, to campaign for those who will protect and enable their growth. IUML chief K.M. Kader Mohideen, who presided over the meeting, said his party and members of Mahalla Jamaats will ensure the continuance of the Dravida model of governance.

The key aspects of Muslims in Tamil Nadu include their cultural fusion, social harmony, and concentration in towns like Kayalpatnam, Kilakkarai, Adirampattinam, and Melapalayam. Chennai also has a notable Muslim population, comprising about 9.45% of the capital city’s total population.

The Tamil Muslims are known for a unique synthesis of Tamil culture and Islamic faith, with strong traditions in trade and education, particularly in coastal towns. The community is primarily Sunni, with diverse, well-integrated, and long-settled, as well as some Dakani-speaking groups. The presence of ancient mosques like the Kilakaraj Jumma Masjid, built in 7th century, highlights early Islamic contact through maritime trade, while Tamil Nadu is often described as a model for communal coexistence because of its peaceful Muslim community.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> Debate / by India Tomorrow Correspondent / February 03rd, 2026

Madrasa Imdadiya in Tamil Nadu Offers Light to Poor and Blind Muslim Students

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Chennai/Ranipet, TAMIL NADU :

Visually-impaired children from deprived Muslim families gain education and dignity at the institution founded by Mohammad Usman in Chennai and Ranipet

Chennai :

In the busy streets of Chennai and surrounding districts, where poverty often limits opportunity, one institution is rewriting the story for visually impaired Muslim children. Madrasa Imdadiya, a semi-residential trust founded by Mohammad Usman, offers education, skills, and dignity to children who might otherwise have spent their lives begging.

Ashraf Khan, a Tamil teacher in a private college in Chennai, was born blind into a poor family. He recalls his early years at a small madrasa for blind students in Melvisharam, near Ranipet, as life-changing. Today, he earns about ₹50,000 per month. “Education saved my life,” he says.

Usman draws a stark contrast. He has often seen blind children on streets with equally deprived parents. “This is what happens with the poorest Muslims. When parents are blind and poor, the children end up on the streets,” he explains. This inspired him to act.

Founded in 2010, the madrasa now runs centres in Chennai and Ranipet, inspiring similar institutions in Pune, Ahmedabad, Aurangabad, and Kashmir. The Tamil Nadu centre, the largest, covers 5,000 square feet and hosts 50 blind students, including ten girls, with hostel staff managing daily needs.

The madrasa blends religious and formal education, filling gaps left by government institutions. Students study the Qur’an, Hadith, and other religious texts in Braille, alongside school and college instruction via audio tools. Children with other disabilities are also accepted, though Braille education is separate.

Usman stresses self-reliance. “Some parents still take financial help from the trust, but many become self-reliant through their educated children. This is the real success,” he says. Students often pursue higher education, vocational training, or government jobs, with some returning as teachers.

The madrasa also produces copies of Qur’an in Braille, distributed free across India and abroad. Each copy costs about ₹3,500 to print. “All our students become Huffaz and complete Class 12 and degree education,” Usman adds.

Mobina (name changed), a blind and disabled girl who lost her father early, is a shining example. With the madrasa’s support, she now teaches in a government school and earns ₹75,000 per month. “Without this madrasa, I would have remained invisible,” she says.

Challenges remain, especially for girls. Deep social barriers, safety concerns, and marriage prospects keep many girls out of school. Usman says patience is key. “Families do not outright reject education but hesitate. Inclusion is about changing attitudes regarding gender, disability, and value,” he explains.

Disability activists note that blind children in poorer districts often lack access to formal education. Government schools exist only on paper, and families may be unaware of disability certificates, scholarships, or assistive technology. Without early intervention, entire families risk cycles of begging or informal labour.

Madrasa Imdadiya shows how targeted community efforts can break generational poverty and empower blind Muslim children. By providing education, accommodation, and skills, the madrasa transforms lives and reinforces that education is a right, not charity.

“Other communities invest in education, but we do not,” Usman remarks, highlighting a broader challenge within the Muslim community. Yet he takes pride in his students’ successes. With over 500 students across India benefiting from similar madrasas, he dreams of a school for blind children in every district and tuition centre in every village.

“Every story here is regrettable. Happy stories go to cities and private schools; they do not come to my trust’s madrasa,” he admits, underscoring the ongoing need for support for India’s most vulnerable children.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India / by Team Clarion / January 10th, 2026

Malaysia Consul General honours father-son duo for service to humanity

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Kayalpattinam / Chennai, TAMIL NADU :

The father-son duo Kayalpattinam native Shaikh Sadaqathullah (now a resident of Mannady in Chennai), a peace activist, HAM radio operator and blood donor and Shaikh Shamsudeen were honoured by the Malaysia Consul General K Saravana Kumar with a certificate of appreciation during the flag raising ceremony to commemorate the 68th Independence Day celebrations on Aug 31 at Consulate General of Malaysia located at Cenotaph Road in Teynampet neighbourhood, Chennai Metro.

​Service to humanity is a core principle in Islam. It emphasises kindness, compassion, and charity towards all individuals, regardless of their faith, colour, race or background. This principle is well-supported by various references from the Holy Qur’an and Hadith, illustrating the importance of helping others and fostering a harmonious society.

Islam places a high value on the preservation and saving of human life. The Holy Qur’an states, وَمَنْ أَحْيَاهَا فَكَأَنَّمَا أَحْيَا النَّاسَ جَمِيعًا (“And whoever saves a life (gives life to one) – it shall be as if he had saved (given life to) mankind entirely.” – Chapter 5 Verse 32. No doubt, blood donation is an act of kindness, charity, and assistance to others, and is highly rewarded in Islam. It is also a form of relieving others’ distress, which aligns perfectly with Islamic tenets and teachings and is considered a virtuous act in Islam.

Meet the father-son duo Kayalpattinam native Shaikh Sadaqathullah (now a resident of Mannady in Chennai) a peace activist, HAM radio operator and blood donor and Shaikh Shamsudeen who were honoured by the Malaysia Consul General K Saravana Kumar with a certificate of appreciation during the flag raising ceremony to commemorate the 68th Merdeka celebrations on Aug 31 at Consulate General of Malaysia located at Cenotaph Road in Teynampet neighbourhood.

Interestingly, the Almighty has gifted both the father and son with a rare blood group of AB Negative. While Shaikh Sadaqathullah had donated blood 53 times since 1993, starting from saving a patient Narayana for the latter’s heart surgery at Perambur Railway Hospital and his son Shaikh Shamsudeen had saved lives by donating 20 times since 2016. Notably, they were invited by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin to his chamber and appreciated them for their noble gesture.

It may be noted that Shaikh Sadaqathullah received recognition from Tamil Nadu State Branch of Indian Medical Association (IMA) with Dr M S Ashraf award under non-medical category during National Doctor’s Day fete held in Chennai (2022). A proud moment for him as he received the award from Dr J Radhakrishnan, former State Health Secretary and presently chairman and managing director of Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd (formerly TANGEDCO). A commendation certificate and a shield were presented to him on the occasion.

As a peace activist, Shaikh Sadaqathullah played an active role in taking part in communal harmony events held in Chennai city sending a strong message of Mother Teresa – “We can do no great things – only small things with great love. He was closely associated with leading luminaries like Late Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman, founder of United Economic Forum and All India Islamic Foundation, Dr. S.K. Khadri, Founder – Murthuzaviya Educational and Cultural Foundation of South India, Nawab Mohammed Abdul Ali, Prince of Arcot, Founder Secretary-General – Harmony India and L.K.S. Syed Ahmed, Past District Governor – Lions District 324-A1, Managing Partner – L.K.S. Gold House.

To be precise, Shaikh Sadaqathullah makes it a point to attend almost all the communal harmony functions fostering Universal Brotherhood for peaceful coexistence among different faiths. It is a matter of great pride for him to get the recognition from Malaysia Consul General during the nation’s 68th Independence Day.  Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “If one removes a hardship of a Muslim in this life, Allah will relieve a hardship from him on the Day of Judgment”. True to the words of wisdom, Shaikh Sadaqathullah and his son Shaikh Shamsudeen are doing yeomen services to the cause of Mankind.

[The author is former Indian Express and Deccan Chronicle chief]

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards / by M Rafi Ahmed / September 02nd, 2025

Annai Ambulance’s Basith drives hope and dignity for the poor in Rajapalayam

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Rajapalayam (Virudhunagar District), TAMIL NADU :

Raised by a single mother, Basith named his ambulance service ‘Annai’ as a tribute to her relentless care and sacrifices.

Basith named his ambulance service ‘Annai’ as a tribute to his mother for her relentless care and sacrifices Photo | Express

Virudhunagar :

Two years ago, the cries of a newborn filled the corridors of a hospital in Rajapalayam, but it was not a moment of joy. The 40-year-old mother’s cold body lay in front of her helpless grandmother, who clutched the child closely.

This is when Mohamad Basith (28), the proprietor of Annai Ambulance in Rajapalayam, stepped in. He drove them 15 km for a final journey to their home in Chokkanathanputhur, offering dignity and compassion without charging a dime.

Raised by a single mother, Basith named his ambulance service ‘Annai’ as a tribute to her relentless care and sacrifices. “Despite our financial struggles, my mother ensured that my sister and I received a proper education. From our childhood, we knew the value of food, sleep, and basic necessities,” he said.

In one instance, Basith shouldered the responsibility for a young girl raised by a single mother who was a daily wager. The girl was suffering from kidney-related ailments and required treatment in Tirunelveli. With no means to afford frequent hospital visits, the family turned to Basith, who ensured she was taken to the hospital over eight times. These are just two among the many free services that Basith has quietly been providing over the years. The idea of running his own ambulance service, free for the poor, first struck him while working as a driver, where he witnessed the ordeals families endured during crises.

“After completing my degree five years ago, I couldn’t find a job in my field. So, I worked as a private ambulance driver for two years. Seeing people suffer during emergencies moved me deeply, and that’s when I decided to start my own service, making sure to offer it for free to the poor and underprivileged,” he recalled.

Beyond ambulance services, Basith also helps destitute individuals and those facing mental health challenges by admitting them to shelter homes free of cost. At government hospitals, when attendants are unsure about procedures or struggle to arrange essentials like X-rays, he steps in to guide and assist them.

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, he has taken on the responsibility of performing final rites for the abandoned and homeless who pass away on the streets.

Basith is not alone in his work. His wife, Anisha Fathima (27), a nurse, supports him with the same compassion. She provides basic medical care and emergency help to the needy, all free of cost.

Looking ahead, Basith hopes to add more ambulances to his service and start a shelter home for underprivileged elders. In a world where compassion often takes a back seat, Basith and his service prove that a single act of kindness can create a ripple of hope for many in their darkest hour.

(Edited by Meghna Murali)

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Good News / by Harini M / edited by Meghna Murali / September 14th, 2025

Renowned Scholar and Educator Dr. V. Abdur Rahim Passes Away

Amazing Feats, Books - Holy Quran, Koran / Translations, Commentaries / by Indian Muslims (wef. February 11th, 2025), Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Vaniyambadi, TAMIL NADU / Madinah, SAUDI ARABIA :

He has written scores of books in Arabic, English and Urdu. One of his unique books is Attibyan which helps in teaching Qur’an to neo-Muslim brothers and sisters.

New Delhi :

Dr. V. Abdur Rahim, world renowned Islamic scholar, multilinguist, author, teacher and translator passed away in the holy city of Madinah on Thursday.

Author of several popular books on teaching Arabic language, Dr. Abdur Rahim was laid to rest in Jannat al Baqi cemetery near the Prophet’s Mosque after Friday noon prayers, reports reaching here said.

Dr. Abdur Rahim has written scores of books in Arabic, English and Urdu. One of his unique books is Attibyan which helps in teaching Qur’an to neo-Muslim brothers and sisters. The scholar was closely associated with Chennai-based Islamic Foundation Trust (IFT) and a majority of his books have been published by it. 

Dr. Abdur Rahim was born in the small town of Vaniyambadi in Tamil Nadu in 1933. After completing his secondary school studies, he joined Presidency College, University of Madras where he majored in English language and literature. He graduated in 1957. In 1964, he joined the prestigious Al-Azhar University in Cairo, from where he completed his M.Phil. and Ph.D. in Arabic philology.

Dr. Abdur Rahim adopted innovative teaching methodologies and pedagogical approaches, which revolutionised the teaching of Arabic. He joined the Islamic University of Madinah in 1969, where he played a pivotal role in the program of teaching Arabic as a foreign language. He also imparted his knowledge at various institutions, including the Islaamic University Omdurman Sudan, Khartoum University Sudan, and Arabic Institutions in Germany, Washington D.C., and British Guyana.

His most significant contribution to Arabic education was the development of the renowned Madinah Arabic Course. This comprehensive series of textbooks and audiovisual materials simplified the complexities of the Arabic language, making it accessible to learners from diverse linguistic backgrounds. His teaching not only facilitated learning but also promoted intercultural dialogue and understanding.

Beyond his teaching endeavors, Dr. Abdur Rahim served as the Director of the translations section at the King Fahad Qur’an Printing Press in Madinah, where he contributed to translating and interpreting the Qur’an into various languages, ensuring its accessibility to people worldwide.

In recognition of his exceptional contributions to Arabic language education, Dr. V Abdur Rahim was honored with the prestigious President of India Award. This recognition celebrated his tireless efforts in promoting Arabic language learning and fostering cultural understanding through linguistic knowledge.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> India / by Team Clarion / October 21st, 2023

Dr M G Anwar Batcha Celebrates 50 Years of Literary Service

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Coimbatore, TAMIL NADU :

THEN AND NOW: Dr M G Anwar Batcha started writing a Thirukkural couplet with its meaning everyday since 1977 on a black board kept at a cycle shop at Coimbatore Gandhi Park. Post retirement, he continues his mission of popularising and promoting Thirukkural among the public.

So goes the inspiring quote of Missile Man of India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam – “Every small step taken with determination leads to great achievements.” Taking a cue from this, a former Tamil teacher Dr M G Anwar Batcha, known as Kural Yogi in the literary circle, celebrated 50 years of his literary journey penning books, writing a couplet with its meaning everyday on a board kept at a cycle shop at Gandhi Park in the heart of Coimbatore city since 1977.

It’s always fascinating to rewind the golden days of teaching, speaking at literary meetings and what not. As a faculty with 25-year service at Chokkampudur SBOA Matriculation Higher Secondary School in Coimbatore city, Thirukkural Batcha, a resident of Kuniyamuthur, took a trip down the memory lane to share his experience about Thirukkural, which is close to his heart.

It may be noted that a special story was featured on him in 2010 in The New Indian Express when S Kamalakannan was a senior photographer and during a routine round across the city found him writing a couplet on a black board. Worth mentioning that he makes it a point to sensitise people through his books and speeches at a plethora of events both inland and abroad. Words cannot express the amount of happiness he has in doing this literary service for over 50 years or so.

In all smiles, he said, “Life is indeed a journey filled with ups and downs, and how we navigate these fluctuations defines our resilience and character.” And that’s what Saint Thiruvalluvar had said in his 1330 couplets. Elaborating on it further, he remarked, “This ancient Tamil text is a profound testament to the intellectual and cultural achievements of Tamil civilization. Beyond its philosophical depth, the Thirukkural holds immense historical significance as a cornerstone of Tamil literature and a universal guide for human conduct. Shedding more light on it, he said Thirukkural’s focus on equality is evident in its rejection of caste discrimination, a radical stance in an era when hierarchical structures were prevalent.

Crossing a 50-year milestone,  Anwar Batcha no doubt is creating a silent revolution. All credit goes to his mentors Pulavar Rasiannan and Pulavar Arumugam, while studying at City Municipal High School at Variety Hall Road, who groomed him and brought the best out of him to be what he is now. In a step further, they motivated him to enhance his skills in Tamil.

To his credit, Anwar Batcha has awards including Tamil Nadu Government honour, Kural Neri Chelvar, Thirukkural Thoothar, Thirukkural Vendar and Thirukkural Thondar. And he penned a book on Thirukkural with English translation besides a book titled Valluvar Manimozhigal and Valluvaridam Kettathum Kidaithathum. Batcha is quite proficient in Urdu, Hindi, Malayalam and Telugu.

Retired, but not tired to actively involve in literary organisations like Thirukkural Aaivu Kazhagam, Ulaga Kalai Tamil Mandram, Coimbatore World Thirukkural Centre and organiser of Kovai Islamiya Tamil Sangam, Anwar Batcha did his doctorate on ‘Samuga Nokkil Thirukkuralum, Thirukkuranum’. US-based writer of inspirational maxims William Arthur Ward rightly categorised teachers thus: The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires. True to his words, Dr Anwar Batcha has inspired scores of his students who have made their ‘guru’ proud.

[The author is former Indian Express and Deccan Chronicle chief]

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by M Rafi Ahmed / by Radiance News Bureau / August 16th, 2025

Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman: The Man who Died Young

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Kilakarai (Ramanathapuram District) / Chennai, TAMIL NADU :

Death of Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman has not only shocked who knew his mission and lifelong works but also those who have benefited by his devotion and those who took inspirations from him. His untimely death has brought a vacuam in Indian educational scenario and it is almost impossible to be filled up in near future.

Indian Muslim Community has legacy of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the founder of the Aligarh Muslim University before it, Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman has achieved almost that place and has become another inspirational figure.

Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman was born in kilakarai falling under Ramanathapuram district of Tamilnadu state in 1927. Due to his works and philanthropist bent of mind, Dr. Rahman became a well known personality who devoted himself for the upliftment of the economically weaker sections and minorities through their educational empowerment. He did not lagged behind in providing good facilities of health care to the deprived sections of society.

B.S. Abdur Rahman, Vice Chairman of Emirates Trading Agency LLC and Associated Construction and Investments Co. LLC (ETA-ASCON), the Dubai-based $2 billion industrial behemoth, was a multi-faceted personality, much like the diamonds he dealt with when he began in humble business in Sri Lanka, over half a century ago.

Diamond merchant, industrialist, educationist, philanthropist, shipping magnate, generous contributor and enthusiastic participant in many other business and social activities he is a renaissance man whose outlook was Millennial. Meaning, while his values were classical, his thinking was forward looking.

Kilakarai, on the coast of Ramanathapuram district in Tamil Nadu, where Abdur Rahman (fondly known as Sena Aana) was born, is a town made famous in the region by his illustrious ancestor, Vallal Seethakathi.

The forbears of Abdur Rahman migrated to Kilakarai from Arabia in the 12th century. Kilakarai, which means East Coast in Tamil, was a flourishing port to which mearchants from the east and west came. A densely populated area, predominantly by Muslims, it owned its prosperity to them.

From centuries they traded with Sri Lanka (then known as Ceylon), dealing in pealing in pearls, gemstones and conches. Even today, many of them live in Sri Lanka or do business with the island. Abdur Rahman too began his career in Ceylon. Among the pearl traders of Kilakarai was Buhari Aalim. Abdur Rahman was his son.

Aalim was an expert in valuing precious stones and pearls. He would hold a gem between his right thumb and index finger and, looking at it against the sun, study the quality of the watermark within to judge the worth of the precious stone. He would be unfailingly correct.

Watching his father at work, the young Abdur Rahman was soon able to understand the nuances of the trade. This training and experience helped him to become one of the most successful merchants in the diamond trade in due course. When Abdur Rahman first went to Colombo, he was fifteen years old. He had with him just Indian Rupees 149. He worked as an errand boy for diamond merchants, carrying their diamonds and other gems from sellers to buyers and back. He was at the time staying with some traders from Kilakarai and neighbouring villages. They allowed him to stay with them without any payment, but he had, instead, to fetch tea them from a nearby hotel, clean the rooms and perform other menial tasks.

A lesser person perhaps would have thrown in the towel. But Abdur Rahman was made of sterner stuff. Before long, he used his persuasive skills to obtain gemstones from another merchant and began trading in them. In time he became a successful gem trader. The base that Abdur Rahman built in Ceylon was to help him in all his future activities.

He began visiting Belgium, then as now, a centre of the gem trade, the USA, South America and set up business in Penang, Malaysia, Chennai, Kolkata (then Calcutta), and then in Hong Kong. It was in Hong Kong that his business flourished. Incidentally, Abdur Rahman was the first person from Kilakarai to go to Hong Kong.

In Hong Kong he launched the Precious Trading Company in 1954. Later, his very special brainchild, the Amana Group of Hong Kong, was established. It was under its banner that the multinational company ETA-ASCON came into existence.

He was a firm believer in education and took upon himself the task of educationally empower the poor and the deprived. He established a wide network of educational institutions. In 1967, he founded Seethakathi Trust and in 1979, All India Islamic Foundation to achieve his target of serving the community and nation. He founded twelve educational institutions including an Engineering University, a woman’s college, an Arabic College two boys schools, 3 girls schools, a woman Nursing college, a Teacher Training College, B.Ed College for woman and 2 hospitals beside orphanages in rural and urban areas. His biggest achievement was founding a 60 bed Yousuf Zulaikha hospital at Kilakrai and a 150 bed Crescent hospital at Madurai. He did not lagged behind in providing comfort of life to most deprived orphanages and founded Al Momin orphanages for boys and girls at Ottapidram, Tanjore, Kilakarai and Thiruvithancode of Tamilnadu.

Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman was farsighted man and knew the importance of administration. He was well aware that to uplift community, it is very necessary that Muslim youths join Indian Administrative Services and so he established Crescent IAS and Carriers Guidance Academy in 1994 beside an Islamic Studies & Cultural Centre at Chennai.

His social works span to wide area. Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman founded B.S. Abdur Rahman Zakat Fund Foundation in 2007 which provides educational grants for students. Through this foundation, B.S. Abdur Rahmand has maintained magniticence of Zakat which may be called a pillar of Islam and which is an instrument for survival of poor Muslims. He 1017 Self Help Group (SHG) which became beneficial to 17093 deprived and helpless women. He also founded and managed various other trusts like Yousuf Zulaikha (1993) Chennai for education, health care and women empowerment. United Economic Forum in 1994 and Seethakathi NGO in 2002.

He also establish new milestones in business field.

He was founder Chairman of Dubai based ETA – Ascon – Star Group and was treated a renowned Indian entrepreneur in UAE. It may be known that the group has a turn over US$ 5.5 billion and employs 50,000 people. With his visionary zeal and entrepreneurial spirit.

B.S. Abdur Rahman has been the guiding force behind many companies in India, among which the most important is the Buhari Group the Indian Multinational. The prominent companies and establishments under Buhari Group include East Coast Construction Ltd. (ECCI) 50 years in the field of construction, Coal & Oil and many other automobile dealership companies.

In recognition of his services he received many awards also.

The Aligarh Muslim University Students Union conferred him life membership while Sathyabama University awarded Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his contribution to Women Education.

In fact Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman had became an inspirational force to young generation during his own life time. There are very few people who climb the ladder of success and remember the down trodden sections of the society or do anything meaningful for them.

Whatever Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman has done for the manginalised and deprived sections of society will be always not only remembered but will also be documented in social and educational history of India. The best tribute to Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman will be to follow the path shown by him not only in business but other fields also.

-Dr. Jasim Mohammad / Author is Editor of The Aligarh Movement monthly

source: http://www.hastakshep.com / Hastakshep.com / Home> Uncategorized / by Dr Jasim Mohammad / March 29th, 2019

Maruthanayagam, alias Yusuf Khan, who equalled Clive and Hyder Ali in warfare

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Panniyur (Ramanathapuram District) / Madurai, TAMIL NADU :

He was a servant of the British East India Company and the Nawab of the Arcot before turning against them.

He started his military career as Yusuf Khan, a Muslim convert, and fought in the early wars between the English and the French for the possession of southern India. It was through a conspiracy that the British captured him.

A surprise engagement: Kamal Haasan, director and actor of the film Marudhanayagam, explains a point to Queen Elizabeth on the sets on October 16, 1997. The Queen launched the shooting. | Photo Credit: THE HINDU ARCHIVES

Many were surprised when the visiting Queen Elizabeth launched actor Kamal Haasan’s dream film, Marudhanayagam, in 1997. It was a time when there was a demand for an apology for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. But Maruthanayagam was a servant of the British East India Company and the Nawab of the Arcot before turning against them. It is a misnomer to call him Maruthanayagam as he built his military career as Yusuf Khan, a Muslim convert.

“Muhamed Yusuf — better known in his time as Yusuf Khan — was by far the ablest of the Indian soldiers who fought in the early wars between the English and the French for the possession of Southern India,” writes S.C. Hill, author of Yusuf Khan: The Rebel Commandant. Hill, an Indian Educational Service officer, was in charge of the records of the Government of India. Published in 1914, the book draws heavily on the Madras Records, the Orme Collection of Manuscripts in the India Office, The French and Dutch Archives, the Tamil poem, The War of the Khan Sahib, and documents at the British Museum.

A man of genius

“Yusuf Khan was, in fact, of the same type as Haidar Ali [Hyder Ali] — one of those men of genius who naturally comes to the front in times of great social and political unrest. Had he been left without outside interference to settle scores with his quarrel with his native suzerain, like Haidar Ali with the Raja of Mysore, there is absolutely no doubt that he would have succeeded in establishing his independence,” writes Hill. Historians depended on the memoirs of Ponnusami Tevan, manager of the Ramnad Zamindari, to trace the background of Maruthanayagam Pillai. The title, Pillai, became part of his name as he was born in the Vellala caste at Paniyur in Ramanathapuram district.

In his youth, he was wild and disobedient to his parents, and ran away to Pondicherry and served under a European for three years and a half. Then, he was dismissed for theft. According to the French account, his ears were cut off as a punishment. Hill, however, dismissed the accusation as groundless, saying it was never mentioned until after the death of Yusuf Khan and then only by those who, if not actually hostile, were certainly biased against him.

After leaving Pondicherry, he joined the army of the King of Thanjavur and subsequently Nawab Muhammed Ali of Arcot. According to another account, he joined another European, Brunton, after his dismissal. Brunton had him instructed in several languages. He entered the services of the British by joining a company of sepoys which he had raised himself in Nellore, under Robert Clive, shortly before the Battle of Kaveripakkam.

According to British officer Major-General Stringer Lawrence, Yusuf Khan was “brave and resolute but cool and sensible in action — in short, he is a born soldier and better of his colour I never saw in the country.”

Freed from trammels

It is not clear why he chose to become a Muslim, and Hill has a theory. Maruthanayagam Pillai wanted to avoid what befell Aryanatha Mudali, the great general of the 16th Century and founder of the Poligar (Palayakar) system in Madurai. J.H. Nelson, the author of The Madura Country Manual, says Aryanatha Mudali, despite being a great warrior and administrator, was dissuaded by his family from becoming the king because he was a Vellala. “For Yusuf Khan then to rise to the position to which he attained, it was necessary for him to be freed from whatever trammels might be imposed upon him by his religion. This was effected by conversion — voluntarily or by force is unknown — to Muhammadanism,” writes Hill. But the Nawab objected to the elevation of Yusuf Khan, though to a Muhammadan, the “lowly birth” was “no hindrance to his success”.

Appointed Governor

Yusuf Khan, however, was appointed a Governor by the British. He ensured peace in the provinces of Madurai and Tirunelveli, which belonged to the Nawab, but had been placed by him under the control of the Madras Council.

“The name of this hero, for such he was, occurs almost as often in the pages of the English historian (Robert Orme) as that of Lawrence of Clive,” Sir John Malcolm writes about Yusuf Khan, who later rebelled against the Nawab and declared his alliance to the French. This led to a war between Yusuf Khan and an alliance of the British and the Nawab, and the seizure of Madurai. The British captured Yusuf Khan through a conspiracy and one of the participants in the conspiracy was Srinivasa Rao, his diwan and chief adviser.

The British officer Marchand, who went with the conspirators, says he was seized in his darbar. But the Dutch account says the capture occurred in a private room. Bishop Caldwell, quoting a native account, says he was arrested at his prayers by Moossoo Marsan and his Hindu diwan Srinivasa Rao “He begged them to kill him there and then rather than deliver him to the Nawab. He was carried under guard to Marchand’s quarters,” says Hill.

On October 15, 1764, the Nawab wrote to Madras that the “Rebel was hung at five o’clock in the evening, which struck terror into the hearts of our enemies”. His body was dismembered. The head was sent to Tiruchi, the limbs were sent to Thanjavur, Palayamkottai, and Travancore. The trunk was buried at Sammatipuram, where the Khan Sahib’s ‘pallivasal’ still stands.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Tamil Nadu> In Focus / by B. Kolappan / August 09th, 2024

Tamil Nadu govt honours IUML chief Kader Mohideen with ‘Distinguished Tamilian’ award

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Thirunallar (Pudukottai District), TAMIL NADU :

The MK Stalin-led Tamil Nadu government has honoured Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) national president K.M. Kader Mohideen with this year’s Thagaisal Thamizhar Award (Distinguished Tamilian Award).

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin will present the award to Mohideen during the Independence Day celebrations on August 15.

The award carries a cash prize of ₹10 lakh and a citation.

An official release stated that Mohideen was honoured with the award following a meeting of the selection committee chaired by the Chief Minister at the State Secretariat on Friday.

According to the release, Mohideen has dedicated his entire life to the cause of social harmony and has demonstrated a deep understanding of Indian politics.

Born on January 5, 1940, in Thirunallar, Pudukottai district, to Mohamed Hanif and Kasimibibi, Mohideen served as a Member of Parliament from 2004 to 2009 and has authored numerous books.

During his student days, he was inspired by the late leader Quaid-e-Millath Muhammed Ismail and joined the Indian Union Muslim League in 1956. Since then, he has held various key positions in the party, including student wing organiser, youth wing organiser, secretary for educational and cultural affairs, organisational secretary, general secretary, and is currently the State president of IUML in Tamil Nadu as well as the party’s national president.

“Our #DravidianModel government is proud to announce this year’s #தகைசால்_தமிழர் award to Professor Kader Mohideen, a thinker who has dedicated himself to social harmony since the time of the venerable Quaid-e-Millath – the National President of the Indian Union Muslim League – and who has guided hundreds of students to graduation!” Stalin wrote in Tamil.

Since the institution of this award, previous recipients have included CPM leader R. Sankaraiah (2022), centenarian CPI leader R. Nallakannu (2022), Dravidar Kazhagam president K. Veeramani (2023), and former TNCC president Kumari Ananthan (2024).

source: http://www.maktoobmedia.com / Maktoob Media / Home> India> South India / by Maktoob Staff / July 05th, 2025

Sustainability is a way of life, says Dr Samiullah Khan

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Chennai, TAMIL NADU / Dubai, U.A.E :

Dr. Samiullah Khan

Sustainability is no longer a choice—it’s a way of life. This is an exciting field to explore. With AI, blockchain, IOT and other advanced technologies, we have the tools to build a truly sustainable future, stated by Dr. Samiullah Khan, one of the most influential voices in the UAE’s sustainability movement and Chief Sustainability Officer at Fakhruddin Holdings Dubai. Talking to Gulf Today, he said, “As the world intensifies efforts to combat climate change, sustainability has become more than just a buzzword – it’s a global imperative.”

Dr Khan also known as Dr Sam is a key figure in sustainability summits and discussions, often the first to evaluate innovative sustainability solutions that promise a greener future. For many, sustainability is a practice. For him, it’s second nature – ingrained since childhood in Chennai, India. “Wasting even a grain of rice was unacceptable in our home. Extra food was either shared with those in need or fed to cows, whose dung was used as manure in our garden,” he recalled.

These early lessons shaped his understanding of sustainability and the circular economy. His passion for technology and the environment led him to prestigious institutions such as Anna University, Cambridge University, MIT, Delft and Harvard.

His career began with Tata Motors, where he became among the youngest engineer to lead international operations into Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia and growing Tata’s market share to an impressive 96 per cent in the school bus sector.

After an illustrious 17 years with Tata and five years at SRM University, Sam found his true calling in 2015 as CEO of World Islands, He introduced air-to-water technology, harnessing humidity in the deserts of Dubai to generate clean drinking water, using Solar power – an innovation that gained significant traction in the desert landscape.

Recognised among the 100 Iconic Indians by the Indian Embassy in the UAE, Dr Sam soon became a leading advocate for sustainability, collaborating with individuals, private sector and government, notably with Marwan Bin Jassim Al Sarkal and playing a pivotal role in the “Dubai Can” initiative under the vision of Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum in initiatives to eliminate plastic bottles in Dubai.

As a Championing Green Innovation post COVID, Dr Khan focused on air quality, energy conservation, water purity, food security, waste management and circular economy.

Under his leadership, Smart Air Handling Units (S.A.H.U.) are being introduced to improve indoor air quality and reduce energy consumption by up to 40% compared to traditional HVAC systems.

The other initiatives included a centralised, organic mineral-enriched hydrogenated, Ionised, Alkaline drinking water system is being developed for healthier hydration as well as a radiant-cooled greenhouse café with hydroponics is being explored to boost UAE’s food security and comprehensive waste management and recycling systems, including composting, are being implemented.

source: http://www.gulftoday.ae / Gulf Today / Home> News / by Jamil Khan, Senior Reporter / June 17th, 2025