Tag Archives: Positive Stories of Indian Muslims

How a research centre in Solapur is trying to remind Indians of their common, secular history

Solapur, MAHARASHTRA :

In recent times, the country’s past has become an extremely polarising point for its citizens. Many people have been brainwashed to believe that the advent of Islam in India and the subsequent period of Muslim rule across major parts of India was a period of dark ages.

However, it is also no secret that many scholars have convincingly argued otherwise, and now a Solapur-based Research Centre is doing the same. Named after pioneering activist Advocate Sayed Shah Gaziuddin, the centre is publishing books in Marathi and Urdu languages to help people understand and value the secular fabric of the nation.

The inspiration for this works comes from the life and works of Advocate Sayed Shah Gaziuddin, who strongly believed in social binding and communal harmony and always wanted Muslims to be aware of the social conditions of India.

Through his Urdu books, he introduced life and work of many social reformers, including Jyoti Ba Phule, Shahu Maharaj, Dr. B.r Ambedkar and Chhatrapati Shivaji. Dr. Ambedkar Hayat aur Karname ( Life and work of Dr Ambedkar) and Urdu translation of Govind Pansare’s Marathi Book “Shivaji Kon Hota” ( Who was Shivaji) are masterpieces of his literary work.

After Adv. Gaziuddin passed away in January 2014 at the age of 79, some of his like-minded friends decided to establish a research centre to continue his vision and mission. In January 2015, the centre came into existence and started extending its literary services. Taking a cue from the works of Gaziuddin, his friends also started working on similar projects.

Sarfaraz Ahmed’s Marathi book on Tipu Sultan became popular in a very short time, with the book selling over 10,000 copies in a year. The fourth edition of the book is now ready to hit the market. Apart from a book on Tipu Sultan, Ahmed has also written Marathi books on Haider Ali, scholars of Medieval India.

Also, Prem Hanvate’s “ Shivranche Muslim Sainik” ( Muslim soldiers of Shivaji ) was translated into Urdu by Sayed Wayez, the English book of Sayed Dawood “The Administration of the Deccan during Aurangzeb” has been translated into Urdu by Sayed Ismail.

In total, ten books have been published till now and work on some more books are in full swing, with ten young people also volunteering with the centre.

Talking about the centre, Vice president of the centre Ram Gaikwad said, “Late Adv. Gaziuddin was a dedicated progressive activist he has done a superlative job of bringing out the real history of social reformers of the majority community. His History research helps us in spreading brotherhood among Marathas and Muslims.

For the last ten years, I am also a part of his historical research panel and fortunately got an opportunity to continue this social work under his name.”

According to founder member and young historian Sarfaraz Ahmed identity of each and every community is based on its iconic personalities and social character is based on its history. “We carry out publication work by collecting donations from members. All the members from across Maharashtra are volunteers and they are all the under 30.

I must thank Sayed Ismail (Osmanabad) Sahil Shaikh (Sangli) Asif Mujawar (Latur), Kaleem Azeem (Pune) Prof. Mujeeb Kazi (Ambajogai) our President Samiullah Sheikh, Secretary Adv. Mahboob Kotimbre, Vice President Ram Gaikwad, Sayed Shah Wayez and our advisors B.G Kolse Patil, Shrimant Kokate, Sayed Iftikhar and M.I sheikh for their contributions.”

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> Indian Muslim> Lead Story / by Imran Inamdar, TwoCircles.net / August 13th, 2018

The Muslim changemakers of Maharashtra

MAHARASHTRA :

Muslim changemakers of Maharashtra

New Delhi :

Awaz-The Voice, through its ‘The Changemakers’ series, has introduced readers to inspiring figures from Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Jammu & Kashmir.

Starting July 6, we will feature ten remarkable changemakers from Maharashtra.

These individuals not only embody the state’s vibrant and progressive legacy but are also shaping a future that is tolerant, equitable, harmonious, and inclusive.

Working quietly away from the limelight, their impactful contributions are being brought to the public through Awaz-The Voice. Here’s a glimpse into their inspiring journeys.

Dr. Farah Anwar Husain Shaikh

Dr. Farah Anwar Husain Shaikh leads the Mis Farah Charitable Foundation in Pune’s Dapodi, delivering health, education, and disaster relief to communities. Her bold advocacy for Muslim women’s right to pray in mosques challenges deep-rooted traditions, earning her a doctorate in social work and women’s empowerment. Her story is that of the struggle for equality, Farah’s tireless efforts are transforming lives and reshaping Pune’s social landscape, making her a beacon of grassroots change.

Paigambar Shaikh

Rationalist Paigambar Shaikh is redefining tradition with his “Economic Qurbani” initiative from Pune, transforming the Eid al-Adha sacrifice into a force for community growth. By channeling resources into education, microfinance, and health camps, he blends faith with practicality. He is inspired by the Satyashodhak movement. His innovative approach fosters sustainable development and communal harmony in Maharashtra’s far-flung areas, marking him as a visionary changemaker.

Marziya Shanu Pathan

Marziya Shanu Pathan, 24, is an activist. From leading a march for Malala Yusufzai at age 12 to organizing the vibrant Mumbra-Kausa Children’s Festival, she champions women and youth in her township. Her blend of fiery activism and community initiatives is uplifting Mumbra, proving her dedication to a brighter, more inclusive future.

Hazrat Ali Sonikar and Munir Shikalkar

In Sangli’s agricultural heartland, Hazrat Ali Sonikar and Munir Shikalkar are empowering the Muslim community through grassroots activism. Hazrat rallies youth with awareness campaigns and workshops, while Munir bridges gaps with local authorities to secure resources. Their collaborative manifesto, amplifying education and employment, is reshaping the future of the community, showcasing the power of local action.

Sakib Gore

In Badlapur, Maharashtra, Sakib Gore is lighting up lives through his ‘Vision Friend Sakib Gore’ initiative, driven by his grandmother’s struggle with blindness. With a belief that glasses are more than a fashion statement—they’re a lifeline to sight—he’s brought eye exams to 2.6 million people, distributed 1.7 million free spectacles, and facilitated 63,000 free cataract surgeries. His ‘Devabhau’ glasses, priced at just 33 rupees, earned him global acclaim and the ‘System Leader Award’ at a World Summit in Kathmandu. Reinvesting every profit into free glasses for the poor, Sakib’s mission is simple but profound: to lift the visually impaired out of darkness, one pair of eyes at a time.

Sarfaraz Ahamad

Solapur’s Sarfaraz Ahamad, a 41-year-old historian, brings Maharashtra’s Deccan heritage to life through his eight books. His books include the acclaimed Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan, and The Sultanate-e-Khudadaad. As a founder member of the Ghaziuddin Research Center which promotes objective historical research. His writings in Marathi, Hindi, Urdu, and English captivate readers. Sarfaraz’s work is reviving cultural pride and inspiring a new generation of scholars.

Sabah Khan

Sabah Khan’s NGO Parcham based in Mumbara, empowers girls through football, challenging norms and building confidence among them. Khan, 50, fosters gender equality and religious harmony, securing a dedicated football field and launching the Savitri-Fatima Foundation to support education and economic growth. Sabah’s transformative work offers Mumbra’s youth a vibrant path to self-discovery.

Afroz Shah

Mumbai’s Afroz Shah, a 42-year-old lawyer, turned Versova Beach into the site of the world’s largest clean-up, removing 20 million kilograms of trash. Afroz Shah Foundation now tackles rivers and waste culture, earning him the UN’s ‘Champion of the Earth’ title. From slums to schools, his “dates with the ocean” inspire thousands, proving one man’s grit can spark a movement.

Dr. Sabiha Inamdar

In Nashik, 43-year-old Dr. Sabiha Inamdar, an intimacy and relationship coach, is breaking taboos around sexual wellness. She creates safe spaces for women and couples to discuss intimacy and emotions openly. What makes Dr. Sabiha’s work important is her commitment to normalizing healthy conversations around sex, emotions, and interpersonal connection—especially for women. Her workshops shift mindsets, fostering healthier relationships and emotional well-being across Maharashtra.

Hussain Mansuri

Mumbai’s Hussain Mansuri, a 40-year-old philanthropist with 7.8 million Instagram followers, spreads compassion across the city’s streets. From feeding street kids to caring for stray animals, his quiet acts of kindness, rooted in Islamic values, touch countless lives. Whether delivering meals near Tata Hospital or comforting the grieving,

Hussain’s selfless mission ripples far beyond Mumbai.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> The Changemakers / posted by Aasha Khosa, ATV / July 05th, 2025

Khalid Jamil becomes Indian men’s football team coach on two-year contract

PUNJAB / KUWAIT / Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

After confirming his appointment a few days back, AIFF has announced that Khalid Jamil has signed a full-time two-year contract to be the Indian football team coach.

The AIFF has announced that Khalid Jamil will be a full-time coach for the Indian men’s football team. Image: AIFF

Former midfielder Khalid Jamil has signed a full-time two-year contract to be the new Indian men’s football team coach, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed on Wednesday. Jamil, who was Jamshedpur FC’s coach in the Indian Super League (ISL), was picked as the top candidate by the AIFF Executive Committee on 1 August , but both parties were yet to agree on terms.

“I am both deeply proud and immensely privileged to have been entrusted with the responsibility of leading our national team,” Jamil said in an AIFF media release on Wednesday. “Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to train Indian players, and I’ve grown to understand their strengths and weaknesses intimately.

“These insights will be fundamental to everything we do as we prepare for the CAFA Nations Cup and the upcoming crucial Asian Cup Qualifiers against Singapore.”

Jamil to start tenure with CAFA Nations Cup

Jamil was picked by the AIFF ahead of India coach Stephen Constantine and Slovakian tactician Stefan Tarkovic. He will be the first Indian to coach the men’s national team after Savio Medeira in 2012.

The first training camp for the Indian football team under Jamil will start on 15 August at the Dravid-Padukone Centre for Sports Excellence in Bengaluru. The list of probables is expected to be announced soon.

Jamil’s first assignment as India coach will be the CAFA Nations Cup, where India are set to face hosts Tajikistan (August 29), IR Iran (September 1) and Afghanistan (September 4) in Group B.

In the October FIFA Window, India are scheduled to play AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers against Singapore (October 9 and 14).

Jamil’s coaching and playing career

While he doesn’t have the experience of coaching a national team, the 48-year-old has had an extensive management career at the club level, coaching Jamshedpur FC, NorthEast United FC, Aizawl FC, East Bengal FC, Mohun Bagan AC and Mumbai FC. With Aizawl FC, he won a historic I-League title in 2016-17.

He also helped Jamshedpur reach the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 final and the semi-finals of the ISL play-offs 2024-25.

As a player, he played 15 times for India, after making his debut in the 1997 SAFF Championship in Nepal, which the Blue Tigers won.

In his club career, Jamil won the National Football League, two Federation Cups and two IFA Shields with Mahindra United.

He also played for Air India and Mumbai FC. In the Santosh Trophy, Jamil represented Maharashtra, with whom he won the title in 1999.

source: http://www.firstpost.com / FirstPost. / Home / by FP Sports Desk / August 13th, 2025

AMU Scholar to Receive Kerala State Literary Honour

Valanchery Munnakkal (Malappuram District), KERALA /Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Dr Munawar Hanih, an ICSSR post-doctoral researcher under the mentorship of Professor T.N. Satheesan, Dean, Faculty of Arts, Aligarh Muslim University, has been selected for the 2023 Mahakavi Moinkutty Vaidyar Mappila Kala Akademi Literary Award

Aligarh:

Dr Munawar Hanih, an ICSSR post-doctoral researcher under the mentorship of Professor T.N. Satheesan, Dean, Faculty of Arts, Aligarh Muslim University, has been selected for the 2023 Mahakavi Moinkutty Vaidyar Mappila Kala Akademi Literary Award, instituted by the Mahakavi Moinkutty Vaidyar Smarakam under the Department of Culture, Government of Kerala.

He is being honoured for his scholarly work Malayala Sufi Kavitha, a significant contribution to the study of Mappila literature and arts.

The award will be presented at a ceremony in September 2025.

Dr Hanih holds an MA and PhD in Malayalam from AMU’s Department of Modern Indian Languages and has served as Assistant Professor of Malayalam at Sir Syed College, Taliparamba, Kerala.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards / by Radiance News Bureau / August 14th, 2025

‘Muslim community must strive for educational and social progress’: Maulana Syed Tanveer Hashmi

Udupi, KARNATAKA :

Udupi : 

“There is growing concern among communal forces regarding the progress of the Muslim community, and this has led to them being increasingly targeted,” said Maulana Syed Tanveer Hashmi, a member of the Karnataka State Waqf Board and All India Muslim Personal Law Board. He stressed that the community must intensify its efforts towards educational and overall development, especially encouraging the youth to aspire for civil services.

He was addressing a seminar titled “Current scenario and our responsibilities” organised by the Udupi District Muslim Federation at the mini auditorium of the Udupi Town Hall on Tuesday.

Maulana Hashmi highlighted the need to integrate Islamic values deeply into daily life to reform the challenges prevailing in society. “The community must actively engage in social service, extend help to the underprivileged, and foster harmonious relationships with people of other religions. During festivals, we must invite our non-Muslim brothers and share the joy of the celebration with them,” he said.

He further emphasised that Muslims should fully practice religious values and instil Islamic principles within their families, including children, women, and men. Education must be prioritized, with awareness cultivated within the community to promote academic growth.

Cautioning against objectionable behaviour on social media, he urged the youth to be responsible and avoid provocative posts. “We must stay away from the hateful narratives of ‘Godi Media’, communal provocations, and toxic online environments,” he stated.

Sulaiman Khan Sahib from Bengaluru, assistant general secretary of the All India Milli Council and Karnataka co-coordinator of the “Save Waqf, Save Constitution” movement, also addressed the gathering.

The event was presided over by Udupi District Muslim Federation president Muhammad Wawla. During the seminar, a book titled ‘Dharmadharma’ authored by federation member and writer Mustaq Hennabail was released.

The stage was graced by senior vice president Rafiq Kundapur, vice presidents Shabhi Qazi, Fareed Sheikh, and Fayyaz Byndur. The programme began with a recitation from the Holy Quran by Udupi Jamia Masjid Imam Maulana Rasheed Umri.

The event was welcomed by Maulana Zamir Ahmad Rashadi. Former district president M P Modinabba delivered the introductory address.

General secretary Ismail Hussain Katapady extended the vote of thanks, while Yaseen Kodibengre compered the event.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld.com / Home> Karnataka / by Daijiworld Media News Network – Udupi / July 29th, 2025

E. Abu Bakar: Islamic Scholar, Community leader

KERALA :

E. Abu Bakar (born in 1952) is a significant figure in the socio-political landscape of India, particularly known for his role as a leader in the banned Popular Front of India (PFI). He is also a founder member of All India Muslim Personal Law Board,

Born and raised in Kerala, Abu Bakar became actively involved in social and political activism early in his life, driven by a deep sense of commitment to the rights and empowerment of marginalized communities, especially Muslims.

Abu Bakar’s leadership in PFI has been marked by his efforts to address issues related to social justice, communal harmony, and the upliftment of the downtrodden. Under his guidance, PFI has focused on various initiatives aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of underprivileged communities. These initiatives include educational programs, legal aid, and awareness campaigns about constitutional rights and social justice.

A charismatic and articulate leader, E. Abu Bakar has been vocal about the challenges faced by Muslims in India, advocating for their rights in a democratic framework. He has been actively involved in organizing campaigns and movements that highlight issues of discrimination, police brutality, and state excesses. His approach often emphasizes the need for community unity and strategic action to address these challenges.

However, Abu Bakar’s leadership has also been contentious. PFI has faced criticism and legal scrutiny over its activities, with allegations of involvement in extremist activities and incitement of violence. Despite these controversies, Abu Bakar has maintained that PFI is committed to lawful activism and peaceful advocacy for the rights of marginalized groups.

Throughout his career, E. Abu Bakar has remained a polarizing figure, admired by many for his unwavering commitment to social justice, while also facing criticism from those who view his methods as provocative.

He has been in custody for two years following his arrest on September 22, 2022, under UAPA from his residence in Kozhikode.

At the time of his arrest, Abubacker, had no prior criminal recordHe has been bedridden since January 2020 due to severe health conditions. He underwent extensive treatment for cancer, including chemotherapy and surgery, which involved the surgical removal of 80% of his abdominal and intestinal area. This has left his digestive system severely compromised. He also suffers from Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, vision loss, and hypertension, further deteriorating his overall health.

source: http://www.the100indianmuslims.com / The100 Indian Muslims / Home / 2024

‘Karnataka Kala Ratna Award’ presented to Radiulla Khan

Mysuru, KARNATAKA :

Radiulla Khan, Organising Secretary of Mysuru District Kannada Sahitya Parishat, being presented with ‘Karnataka Kala Ratna’ State Award during the workshop on ‘Labour Rights’ organised by Karmikara Hakkugala Seva Samiti at Rotary Hall on JLB Road in city recently.

The award was presented to Radiulla Khan in recognition for his works in multilingual films especially in Kannada language as a junior artiste.

M.S. Naveen, Chief Legal Aid Guardian, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), V. Vinay Kumar from Employees State Insurance Corporation, industrialists and social workers M. Lalita Rao, Shubh Krupesh, V. Ramamurthy and Prashanth P. Aask, Actor-director Mahesh K.H. Belur, journalist Kasthurichandru and others were present.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Photo News (headline edited) / July 26th, 2025

Jamaat-e-Islami Women’s Unit Felicitates Booker Prize Winner Deepa Basti in Madikeri

Madikeri (Kodagu District), KARNATAKA :

Madikeri:

The Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Women’s Unit honored acclaimed writer and Booker Prize winner Deepa Basti at her residence in Madikeri on Tuesday, recognizing her remarkable contribution to literature.

During the felicitation, members of the unit encouraged Basti to focus on promoting human values through her work, highlighting the powerful role of literature in bringing about societal change.

Responding to their thoughts, Basti acknowledged that the literary field holds immense potential to influence social transformation and stressed the importance of sustained efforts in that direction.

The program was attended by Kodagu District Women’s Unit President Muheena Abubakkar, Madikeri President Waheeda Shaukat, and members Bibi Fatima, Maryam Mafeeda, and Tahira.

Also present were District President C.H. Apsar, Madikeri Local President G.H. Mohammed Hanif, members Mohammad Mustafa, and journalist Abdullah, all of whom extended their congratulations and best wishes to Basti for her future endeavors.

source: http://www.thehindustangazette.com / The Hindustan Gazette / Home> News> National> Karnataka / by The Hindustan Gazette / July 12th, 2025

Rafeeka elected Malappuram District Panchayat president

Malappuram, KERALA :

She calls upon council and the people for concerted efforts to take district forward

IUML Malappuram district president Sayed Sadikali Shihab Thangal offering sweets to newly elected District Panchayat President M.K. Rafeeka in Malappuram on Wednesday.

Indian Union Muslim League (IUML)’s M.K. Rafeeka was elected president of the Malappuram District Panchayat here on Wednesday. IUML’s Ismail Moothedam was elected vice president.

Ms. Rafeeka became President by winning 26 of the 32 votes. She defeated Left Democratic Front (LDF)’s Arifa Nasar, who got five votes. One vote was declared invalid.

Congress’s N.A. Kareem proposed Ms. Rafeeka for the president’s post, and P. Manaf backed her. Ms. Rafeeka represents Anakkayam division of the District Panchayat.

Ismail Moothedam was elected Vice President by winning 27 votes against LDF’s A.K. Subair. K.T. Ajmal proposed Mr. Moothedam’s name and P.K.C. Abdurahman seconded it. Mr. Moothedam represents Chokad division of the District Panchayat.

District Collector K. Gopalakrishnan administered the oath of office to Ms. Rafeeka.

IUML district president Sayed Sadikali Shihab Thangal; Sayed Basheerali Shihab Thangal; IUML district general secretary U.A. Latheef; P. Ubaidullah, MLA; former District Panchayat presidents K.P. Mariyumma, Arimbra Mohammed, Suhara Mampad and A.P. Unnikrishnan; senior IUML leaders Umer Arakkal, Salim Kuruvambalam, Kurukkoli Moideen, Noushad Mannisseri, and Congress leaders V.A. Kareem and K. Mohandas addressed a meeting that followed the oath taking ceremony. A commerce postgraduate, Ms. Rafeeka said that she would look upon the responsible position with due respect.

She called upon the entire council and the people for concerted efforts to take the district forward in comprehensive development.

Former president of Pulamanthol grama panchayat, Ms. Rafeeka was elected from Anakkayam division with 11,449 votes majority. She was instrumental in winning many accolades for Pulamanthol grama panchayat between 2010 and 2015. In 2011, the panchayat won the State Swaraj Trophy, the Central Vayo Sreshta Samman, and Gaurav Grama Sabha award. In 2013, she won a Central award for panchayat empowerment. In 2014, Pulamanthol won Rajiv Gandhi Best Grama Panchayat award.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Kerala / by Staff Reporter / December 30th, 2020

Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Rebuilds House for Poor Family in Kodagu with Donor Support

Kodagu, KARNATAKA :

Kodagu:

In Marapala, under the Thitimathi Gram Panchayat of Kodagu district, a dilapidated house belonging to a poor family—damaged over the years due to heavy rains—has been rebuilt into a beautiful new home. The initiative was undertaken by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Kodagu District’s Baitu Zakat unit, with generous support from donors and the Sadrimane team.

In a simple ceremony held on the evening of Wednesday, July 23, the newly built house was inaugurated, and the keys were handed over by JI Abdussalam, Convenor of the Mysore Zone.

The event was graced by Gram Panchayat President Mrs. Ponnu, Vice President Mrs. Shyamala, members JI Afroz, local cleric Maulana Kamaruddin Ahsani, Baitu Zakat supervisor, and businessman JI Ahmed Balele, JIH Kodagu District Convenor JI C.H. Afsar Madikeri, District Secretary P.K. Abdurrahman Virajpet, Gonikoppa Circle Convenor JI Tanvir Ahmed, and JIH Siddapur Local President JI M.K. Ashraf, who played a key role in overseeing the construction.

source: http://www.thehindustangazette.com / The Hindustan Gazette / Home> News> Latest News / by The Hindustan Gazette / July 24th, 2025