Tag Archives: Rajasthani Muslims

Mohammad Ishaq Honoured for Designer Beard Art

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Shahpura, RAJASTHAN :

Mumbai/ Jaipur :

Dr Mohammad Ishaq, a well-known physician from Shahpura in Rajasthan, has been honoured with the Indian Pride Talent Award 2026 for his unique work in beard and moustache art, promotion of local culture, and dedicated social service. The award was presented during a virtual programme organised recently by Jeevan Jagruti Seva Sansthan, Jaipur.

Dr Ishaq, also known as ‘Mr Beard Man’ of Shahpura, is not only recognised for his distinctive designer beard and moustache styles but also for his efforts to take Rajasthani art and culture to national and international platforms. The award, organisers said, was given for his “art, cultural contribution, and service to society”.

The news of the award has created a sense of happiness across Shahpura. Residents, social workers, and youth groups have congratulated Dr Ishaq, calling the honour a matter of pride for the town.

“This award is not just for me, it belongs to Shahpura,” Dr Mohammad Ishaq said. “Whatever I have achieved is because of the love and support of the people.”

Locals say Dr Ishaq’s journey shows how talent rooted in local culture can earn global recognition.

National Fame

Dr Mohammad Ishaq Khan is a medical professional by training, but his identity goes far beyond his clinic. Over the years, his designer beard and moustache styles have become his signature. Through this art form, he has represented Shahpura and Rajasthan across India.

He has won several awards at local, state, and national levels. Recently, he secured first position in a moustache competition held at the internationally known Pushkar Fair, where participants from across the country and abroad took part.

“Pushkar was special,” he said. “Winning there gave me confidence that our traditional styles still have value.”

Dr Ishaq is widely credited as the first person to introduce funky and designer beard styles in India as a separate competitive category.

After his participation, beard and moustache competitions across the country began, including dedicated categories for funky and designer beard styles.

According to organisers of the India Beard Club, this change helped attract new talent and gave a fresh direction to traditional competitions.

“Dr Ishaq changed the way these competitions are seen,” said an organiser associated with the India Beard Club. “He brought creativity and discipline together.”

National Championship

One of the most important achievements in his career came at the India Beard Club National Championship, where around 60 participants from different states competed.

Dr Mohammad Ishaq secured first place in the designer beard category, bringing national attention to Shahpura.

“That moment was unforgettable,” he recalled. “Standing on that stage, I felt I was carrying my city and my culture with me.”

Beyond competitions, Dr Ishaq has worked to promote Rajasthani art, culture, and traditional appearance through his beard and moustache styles.

Last year, he played a small group role in the Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan’s film Laal Kaptaan. Though brief, the appearance was important for him.

“Cinema reaches people everywhere,” he said. “I wanted our Rajasthani look to be seen by a wider audience.”

Shahpura Beard Club

To support young artists and keep traditional art forms alive, Dr Ishaq established the Shahpura Beard Club last year.

The club aims to guide new artists, organise local events, and provide a platform for those interested in beard and moustache art.

“Many young people have talent but no guidance,” he said. “The club is meant to support them and keep our culture alive.”

Members of the club say Dr Ishaq personally mentors newcomers and encourages discipline and respect for tradition.

Alongside his artistic work, Dr Mohammad Ishaq has also been deeply involved in public life. He has served as a municipal councillor in Shahpura for the last ten years.

During this time, he has taken part in health camps, cleanliness drives, and local welfare programmes.

“Service to society is part of my duty,” he said. “Being a doctor and a councillor gives me a chance to help people in different ways.”

Residents say he is easily approachable and regularly attends to public concerns.

Faith, Culture, and Service

Community leaders say Dr Ishaq’s work challenges stereotypes and presents a positive image of Indian Muslims.

“He represents our culture with dignity,” said a local social worker. “His success shows that Muslims are contributing positively in every field.”

Dr Ishaq himself believes culture and service go hand in hand.

“My beard is not just fashion,” he said. “It reflects identity, tradition, and self-respect.”

The Indian Pride Talent Award is given to individuals who have made meaningful contributions in their respective fields while also serving society.

Organisers said Dr Ishaq was chosen for his rare combination of art, cultural promotion, and social commitment.

“He has turned a traditional art into a modern platform,” said a representative of Jeevan Jagruti Seva Sansthan. “At the same time, he remains connected to social work.”

Celebration Across the City

After the announcement, congratulatory messages poured in from across Rajasthan and beyond. Local traders, youth groups, and cultural organisations welcomed the honour.

“Shahpura feels proud today,” said a shopkeeper. “He has taken our city’s name to places we never imagined.”

Dr Mohammad Ishaq says he wants to continue promoting culture and guiding young talent while staying active in social work.

“Awards give encouragement, but the real work continues,” he said. “I want to do more for society and for our culture.”

His journey, supporters say, proves that dedication, creativity, and service can go together.

As Shahpura celebrates its “Mr Beard Man”, Dr Mohammad Ishaq’s story stands as an example of how local identity, when carried with pride and purpose, can earn national and international respect.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India / by Team Clarion / February 11th, 2026

Ultra-runner Sufiya Sufi sets record of Leh-Manali run in 98 hours

Amazing Feats, Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ajmer, RAJASHTAN :

Ullta Runner Sufiya Sufi

New Delhi :

Indian ultra-distance runner Sufiya Sufi, 38, from Ajmer, Rajasthan, has officially received her Guinness World Record certificate for completing the formidable Manali–Leh high-altitude run in 98 hours and 27 minutes, a feat no woman in the world has accomplished before.

The record, formally approved by Guinness World Records in 2023, spans nearly 480 kilometres across some of the most treacherous terrain in the Himalayas. The route crosses five high mountain passes, involves a cumulative elevation gain of over 8,500 metres, and exposes runners to freezing temperatures and dangerously low oxygen levels. The challenge is widely regarded as one of the toughest endurance runs on the planet.

Although the achievement was validated in 2023, the physical certificate reached Sufi only in early 2026, following prolonged delays related to international delivery logistics and customs clearance. Once the certificate arrived, her accomplishment drew renewed admiration from the global running community, sponsors, and the wider public. Supporters celebrated the milestone as another defining moment in an already extraordinary athletic journey.

Sufiya Sufi on Manali-Leh run

Sufiya Sufi’s record-setting run on the Manali–Leh route represents a remarkable benchmark in endurance sports. The challenge begins in Manali, a Himalayan hill town in Himachal Pradesh, and winds its way through rugged, unforgiving landscapes before culminating in Leh, Ladakh. Along the way, runners cross legendary high-altitude passes such as Rohtang Pass and Tanglang La, where temperatures often plunge well below zero and oxygen levels drop dramatically.

At such extreme altitudes, even the most experienced athletes struggle to breathe, recover, and maintain pace. Completing this journey on foot in under 100 hours is considered exceptional. By finishing in 98 hours and 27 minutes, Sufi not only met the challenge but surpassed it, becoming the fastest woman ever* to traverse this Himalayan stretch on foot.

Despite the physical run being completed and officially recognised in 2023, the nearly two-year delay in receiving the certificate became a story in itself. Sufi later spoke about the delay publicly, addressing it with humour and gratitude rather than frustration.

In a post on the social media platform *X*, she described her accomplishment as the fastest-ever run from Manali to Leh across all five high passes. She also expressed heartfelt thanks to her sponsors, support crew, and well-wishers who stood by her throughout months of preparation and recovery. Members of the running community and followers on social media responded with admiration, highlighting the sheer brutality of the terrain and the mental toughness required to succeed.

Sufiya Sufi’s journey is as compelling as the record itself. Born in *1987 in Ajmer, she spent nearly 10 years working in the aviation industry. Running initially entered her life as a way to stay fit and break free from the monotony of a demanding job. Over time, what began as a fitness routine evolved into a deep passion for endurance sports, eventually redefining her professional and personal identity.

Her rise as an ultra-runner has been marked by a series of achievements. In 2018, she earned her first Guinness World Record for running the most marathons by a woman in a single calendar year*. This milestone established her as a serious force in long-distance running.

She went on to complete the Kashmir to Kanyakumari run, covering approximately 4,000 kilometres in 87 days, another Guinness-certified feat. Shortly thereafter, she conquered the Golden Quadrilateral, a 6,002-kilometre route linking India’s major highways, in just 110 days, securing yet another world record.

Sufiya Sufi’s journey is as compelling as the record itself. Born in *1987 in Ajmer, she spent nearly 10 years working in the aviation industry. Running initially entered her life as a way to stay fit and break free from the monotony of a demanding job. Over time, what began as a fitness routine evolved into a deep passion for endurance sports, eventually redefining her professional and personal identity.

Her rise as an ultra-runner has been marked by a series of achievements. In 2018, she earned her first Guinness World Record for running the most marathons by a woman in a single calendar year*. This milestone established her as a serious force in long-distance running.

She went on to complete the Kashmir to Kanyakumari run, covering approximately 4,000 kilometres in 87 days, another Guinness-certified feat. Shortly thereafter, she conquered the Golden Quadrilateral, a 6,002-kilometre route linking India’s major highways, in just 110 days, securing yet another world record.

Each of these runs required not only exceptional physical endurance but also rigorous mental conditioning, logistical planning, and resilience. Sufi has often credited her family for their unwavering support, especially her partner, who frequently serves as part of her on-ground support crew.

 She has spoken about the challenges of acclimatising to high altitudes, training in extreme conditions, and preparing her body for prolonged exposure to thin air and severe cold.

Sufi’s expanding list of accomplishments has drawn the attention of corporate partners as well. In October 2024, Hindustan Zinc Limited appointed her as a brand ambassador, reflecting growing corporate confidence in her ability to inspire communities and promote fitness as a sustainable lifestyle choice.

Looking beyond national records, Sufi has set her sights on even larger international goals. According to previous interviews and public statements, she plans to undertake a “Run Around the Globe” expedition, covering tens of thousands of kilometres across multiple continents. She envisions the project not merely as an athletic challenge, but as a global mission promoting *Humanity, Oneness, Peace, and Equality, collectively referred to as HOPE.

Sufiya Sufi’s journey stands as a powerful testament to human resilience, courage, and the transformative power of unwavering determination. Her transition from a stable career in aviation to pushing the limits of endurance in the harshest Himalayan conditions reflects a profound belief in personal growth and self-discovery.

In a world often dominated by narratives of division and despair, her story offers a rare and uplifting reminder of what is possible through perseverance, discipline, and purpose. Her achievements celebrate not only athletic excellence, but also the boundless potential of the human spirit.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Aasha Khosa / February 03rd, 2026

Ilin Fatima Creates History as Ajmer’s First Female Muslim Chartered Accountant

Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ajmer, RAJASTHAN :

New Delhi / Ajmer :

Ilin Fatima, a young Muslim from Ajmer, has made history by becoming the city’s first female Chartered Accountant (CA), marking a milestone for her family and the local Muslim community. Her achievement reflects a blend of strong upbringing, determination, and a steadfast commitment to education.

Fatima was welcomed with widespread enthusiasm by the Muslim Welfare and Education Committee of Ajmer in Rajasthan, where she was felicitated for her dedication and resilience. Community members gathered to celebrate, expressing pride not only in her personal success but also in what it signifies for Muslim families across Ajmer and the state.

Her father, Abdul Hameed Khan, spoke about the significance of this accomplishment with deep gratitude to Allah. “I have three daughters, and I ensured they were educated according to Shariah law,” he said. “My daughters have succeeded in both religious and worldly knowledge. I urge every parent to prioritise education for their children. Even if you have to eat half a loaf of bread, make sure your children receive quality education.”

He referred to a Hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad) and emphasised the value of knowledge: “Acquire knowledge even if one has to go to China. Education is essential, and people often overlook its importance. My daughter’s success is a reminder of the power and necessity of learning.”

The community’s response has been overwhelming. Leaders and members of various organisations, including Syed Rab Nawaz Jafri, UD Khan, Dr Syed Mansoor Ali, Haji Nafees Ahmed, Advocate Manzoor Ali, Hasan Mohammad, Akram Siddiqui, Farid Hussain, and Aqeel Ahmed of the Ajmer Muslim Welfare and Education Committee have all praised Fatima’s dedication and accomplishment.

A committee spokesperson remarked, “Ilin Fatima’s achievement serves as an inspiration not only to her family but to the entire city. Her commitment to education demonstrates that the progress of daughters is vital for the development of society. When girls are educated, communities prosper, and real success is achieved.”

Ilin Fatima’s historic success is likely to encourage more Muslim families to prioritise education for their daughters, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations. Her journey is a testament to perseverance, faith, and the unwavering support of a family that values both religious and worldly knowledge.

“Her hard work shows that with determination, guidance, and faith, anything is possible,” the committee official added. “She has set an example for all young Muslim girls in Ajmer and beyond.”

As Ilin Fatima steps into her professional career, her story stands as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the transformative power of education within the Muslim community in India.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslim / by Mohammad Bin Ismail / November 10th, 2025

Wasifi family brings Tonk’s calligraphy to the global stage

Arts & Crafts / CraftsPersons (wef. January 14th, 2025), Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Books - Holy Quran, Koran / Translations, Commentaries / by Indian Muslims (wef. February 11th, 2025), Calligraphers of India (wef. Jan 05th, 2025), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Tonk, RAJASTHAN :

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi with his prize winning work

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi, a calligrapher from Tonk, a city in Rajasthan, won the second prize in the International Islamic Calligraphy Competition, organised by the Islamic Art Society in New York, USA.

This recognition comes amid the rise of digital fonts and artificial designs globally.

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi competed with more than 4000 artists from around the world. On this occasion, Qari said his success at an international forum is not sudden. Over the past four years, India’s presence in this competition has been consistent, and the Wasifi family has made it to the top every time.

In 2022, Qari Mutiullah Wasifi received the first prize. A year later, his son Haris Wasifi secured second place. In 2024, Haris won the first prize.

This year, the first prize was bagged by Egypt, the second by India, the third by Pakistan, and the fourth by Turkey. The award includes a certificate, a memento, and a cash prize. However, for the Wasifi family, the real honour is the recognition that comes with representing India.

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi at work

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi’s journey didn’t begin at an art college. His first school was his own home. His late father, Qari Salimullah Wasif Furqani, was a renowned calligrapher, reciter of the Quran, and a scholar. He had a command of Arabic, Persian, and Urdu.

His calligraphy of the Quran was his speciality. As a child, Mutiullah watched his father sit for hours, writing. The sharpness of the pen, the curves of the letters, and the measured amount of ink used were not mere play for him, but a matter of discipline.

For formal education, he enrolled at the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Arabic-Persian Research Institute (APRI) in Tonk. He completed a four-year diploma course, recognised by the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL), Delhi. This is the same institution that has made Tonk a centre for Arabic and Persian studies.

Tonk is generally known for its madrasas, books, and Islamic education. But this city has also witnessed a well-established tradition of calligraphy. During the Nawab era, calligraphers from Iran and Central Asia taught locals the art.

Institutions like Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Arabic Persian Research Institute (APRI) have preserved this legacy. This institution has trained many calligraphers who have made a name for themselves in India and abroad. Qari Mutiullah Wasifi is an important link in this chain.

Wasifi told Awaz-the Voice that for him, calligraphy is not just a means of decoration, but a part of worship. To date, he has handwritten 27 copies of the Holy Quran. Some of these Qurans are written in extremely fine script, while others are adorned with gold and silver.

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi with a competitor

He has also undertaken unique projects, such as writing the entire Quran on a single large sheet of paper. This work requires years of practice and patience. The placement of each letter is crucial, and even a single mistake can ruin the entire work.

One of Qari Mutiullah Wasifi’s lesser-known yet important contributions is related to the preservation of manuscripts — completing the half-done copies of the Holy Quran and rare books in Arabic, Persian, and Urdu. So far, he has completed approximately 500 incomplete Qurans and hundreds of old books.

He has undertaken projects for private collectors, libraries, and research institutions. This effort breathes new life into books that might otherwise have been lost to oblivion.

Wasifi’s art is not limited to paper. He has done calligraphy on cloth, leather, wood, metal, grains of rice, lentils, marble, hair, and even inside bottles. This art is not only a test of manual dexterity but also of concentration and balance.

Wasifi participated in the international calligraphy competition organised by the Islamic institution “Irtika” in Istanbul, Turkey, in 2022. This institution organises a prestigious global calligraphy competition every two years, in which renowned calligraphers from around the world participate.

In 2023, he also participated in the international calligraphy competition organised by Fujairah Company in Dubai (UAE). This competition is known for its distinguished jury and global participation.

Wasifi says that if workshops, exhibitions, and competitions are considered together, his participation in national and international events, both within and outside India, totals approximately 30.

Wasifi thinks it’s not his achievement, but a means of showcasing the Indian calligraphy tradition at the international level.

According to him, such platforms provide artists with opportunities to learn, test themselves, and connect with calligraphers from around the world. He has also received several honours at the national level.

He has also participated in international exhibitions and workshops in places like Bengaluru, Udaipur, Aligarh, Diggi Palace in Jaipur, and the Lalit Kala Akademi in Delhi.

In the Wasifi family, this art has been passed down from one generation to the next. Qari’s eldest son, Haris Wasifi, is an internationally acclaimed calligrapher. The second son, Abbas Wasifi, is a Hafiz and Qari (one who has memorised the entire Quran and recites it with proper pronunciation) and is pursuing his education at Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow.

The daughter, Sidra Wasifi, is an Alima (a female religious scholar) and teaches calligraphy to young girls. This family is not only preserving art but also discipline and heritage.

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi has established ‘Bazm-e-Wasif‘ in memory of his father. His dream is to create a special library and museum of calligraphy in Tonk, where his and his father’s manuscripts can be safely preserved. He says that despite the lack of resources, his resolve remains unwavering. His goal is to ensure that this calligraphic heritage of Tonk reaches future generations.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Farhan Israeli, Tonk (Rajasthan) / January 29th, 2026

I received my wages for hard work of decades: Ghafruddin on Padma Shri

Amazing Feats, Arts & Crafts / CraftsPersons (wef. January 14th, 2025), Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri Award (since January 01st, 2024), , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Alwar, RAJASTHAN :

Gafaruddin Jogi Mewati

My joy is like that of a labourer who goes to work in the morning and receives his wages the same evening,” said Ghafruddin Jogi Mewati, a traditional singer, who has been selected for this year’s Padam Shri award by the government of India.  

Ghaffaruddin, 68, has showcased his art for more than half a century, from the rugged lanes of Mewat to the seven seas. As soon as the announcement of the coveted award poured in, Ghafruddin, a resident of Alwar, was overwhelmed with emotion.

Memories of him wandering barefoot through the villages of Mewat, playing the bhapang (A traditional string instrument) and begging for flour, flashed in his mind. Today, he feels that he has received the wages for all that hard work he did to keep a traditional art form alive.

He feels the Padam Shri is not just an honour for an individual, but for the centuries-old Mewati culture, the legacy of the Jogi community, and the rhythm of the bhapang, which is on the verge of extinction.

The Mewat region, which straddles the borders of Haryana and Rajasthan, possesses a unique identity as a syncretic culture.

Here, the Jogi community, who are Muslims, has, for generations, sung episodes from the Mahabharata and other folk tales.

#WATCH | Folk artist Gafruddin Mewati Jogi, awarded the Padma Shri in the field of art, said the honour marks the culmination of a lifelong struggle.


He recalled learning and preserving the art by travelling with his father, passing it on to others, and continuing the… pic.twitter.com/xiYDWTOqSQ— DD News (@DDNewslive) January 26, 2026

Ghafruddin is one of the strongest exponents of this tradition. He says, “Stay connected to your language, culture, and folk art; that is our true identity.” For him, this honour is a debt he owes to the soil of Mewat, which nurtured him during his days of struggle.

Born in Kaithwara village in the Deeg district of Rajasthan, Ghafruddin’s childhood was no less dramatic than a film script. His father, the late Budh Singh Jogi, was an accomplished artist. At the tender age of four, when children usually play with toys, his father placed a ‘bhapang’ in Ghaffaruddin’s hands.

The Bhapang, which resembles a small drum but has a single string, is considered an evolved form of Lord Shiva’s damru (a small hourglass-shaped drum). Playing it requires an extraordinary coordination of abdominal muscles, fingers, and vocal rhythm.

As a child, he learned by travelling from village to village with his father, sitting in village squares, and listening to folk tales.

They had to beg for grain and flour in villages to support the family. Those were difficult days, but the rhythm of the Bhapang never let him lose hope.

The most significant aspect of Gafruddin Jogi’s art is his rendition of the Mahabharata. Remarkably, a Muslim artist sings the epic of Lord Krishna and the Pandavas with such devotion and purity that the listener is completely captivated. Alwar and the surrounding areas are historically linked to ‘Viratnagar,’ where the Pandavas spent their period of exile.

When Gaffaruddin narrates these folk tales in the Mewati dialect, history comes alive. His art has proven that music and culture know no religious boundaries.

The year1992 marked a major turning point in his life. He travelled abroad and performed for the first time. There has been no looking back since then.

He carried the sound of Bhapang to over 60 countries, including England, Australia, Canada, France, and Dubai. When he played Mewati folk tunes at an event celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s birthday in London, even the foreign audience was captivated by the magical rhythm.

When the call on his mobile came, he initially thought someone was playing a prank on him, but when the news was confirmed, he was emotional. He dedicated the award to the Mewat region and the Jogi community.

#WATCH | Alwar, Rajasthan: On being conferred with the Padma Shri 2026 in the field of art, folk artist Gafruddin Mewati Jogi says, “I am very happy that the struggle of my life has finally yielded results, and I have received this recognition… For seven years, I went from… pic.twitter.com/66UQBRb4W5

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2026

Today, the eighth generation of his family is carrying on this art form. His son, Dr Shahrukh Khan Mewati Jogi, has not only learned music but also earned a PhD on the culture of Mewat. While many traditional art forms are fading away, Ghaffaruddin’s family is keeping this flame alive.

Ghafruddin Jogi Mewati wants to open a school for folk arts. He wants the government to provide him with land where he can teach the new generation the art of playing the Bhapang, Mewati folk singing, and their traditional stories.

He says that if the younger generation does not stay connected to its roots, we will lose our identity. He says receiving the Padma Shri is not the destination for him, but the beginning of a journey that he wants to continue until his last breath.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Younus Ali, Alwar / January 28th, 2026

Burned but brave: Conductor Rafiq Khan’s heroic act saves lives in Rajasthan bus tragedy

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Thaiyat Village, RAJASTHAN :

Twenty passengers burnt alive, 16 critically injured in Jaisalmer-Jodhpur bus fire Tuesday.

A devastating tragedy unfolded on the Jaisalmer–Jodhpur highway on Tuesday evening when a private air-conditioned sleeper bus carrying nearly 50 passengers went up in flames near Thaiyat village in Rajasthan.

Amid the panic, bus conductor Rafiq Khan displayed extraordinary bravery. Positioned near the back when the smoke appeared, he rushed forward to open the main gate and allow passengers to flee. As he moved toward the front, the ceiling burst into flames and an explosion knocked him down.

Despite sustaining severe burns, Khan crawled through the aisle, managed to unlatch the door, and helped several passengers escape before collapsing. He is now battling for his life at Dr. S. N. Medical College in Jodhpur, where doctors say he has suffered extensive burn injuries.

The fire, which is believed to have started from the rear of the vehicle, spread rapidly, trapping dozens inside. At least 21 people have been confirmed dead, while several others sustained critical burns and remain hospitalized.

According to preliminary reports, the incident occurred shortly after the bus left Jaisalmer for Jodhpur. Passengers noticed smoke rising from the back, prompting the driver to stop on the roadside. However, before most could react, a sudden blast shook the bus and flames engulfed the upper berths. Survivors described chaotic scenes as people screamed for help, some breaking windows in a desperate attempt to escape. The situation was worsened by the fact that the bus had only one functional exit door, which became jammed as the fire spread, leaving passengers trapped inside.

Medical officials confirmed that fifteen injured passengers were brought from Jaisalmer late Tuesday night. Five of them, including Khan, are on ventilator support with burns exceeding 70 percent of their bodies. The remaining have burns between 40 and 50 percent. Identification of the deceased has been difficult due to the extent of the burns, and DNA testing is being carried out to help families claim the bodies. Ten bodies have been kept at the S. N. Medical College mortuary, while others are at AIIMS Jodhpur.

Eyewitnesses and local residents who rushed to the scene recalled horrific visuals of the burning bus and passengers trapped inside. One survivor, Peer Mohammad, managed to smash a window to rescue his wife, sister-in-law, and a child but lost two of his young children who were asleep on the upper berth. “I could see them burning, but the flames were too strong. I tried to go back, but I couldn’t,” he said, breaking down.

Officials suspect that an electrical short-circuit in the air-conditioning system may have triggered the fire, though a detailed forensic and mechanical investigation is underway. The bus owner, driver, and the vehicle body-builder have been detained for questioning, while a technical team from the Central Institute of Road Transport (Pune) has been called to examine possible safety lapses. Authorities are also probing whether the bus had been illegally modified and if its emergency exits met regulatory standards.

The Rajasthan government has announced financial compensation for the victims’ families and injured passengers, but the relief policy has already drawn criticism over the cap imposed on payments to households that lost multiple members. District Collector Pratap Singh stated that a helpline has been set up for the families and that DNA matching and identification will be expedited.

As the state mourns one of its worst transport tragedies in recent years, questions are being raised about the enforcement of passenger safety rules, particularly in private buses converted into AC sleepers. Critics say the incident highlights the urgent need for mandatory fire-safety mechanisms, functional emergency exits, and stricter monitoring of vehicle modifications.

In the midst of this overwhelming loss, the courage of conductor Rafiq Khan stands out.  A man who risked his own life so others could live. His selfless act amid the chaos has earned him praise across the state and beyond, a rare moment of humanity in an otherwise grim tragedy that exposed fatal gaps in India’s passenger transport safety system.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Positive Story / by Muslim Mirror Network / October 18th, 2025

The Changemakers: 10 stars of Rajasthan who have made society proud

Amazing Feats, Arts & Crafts / CraftsPersons (wef. January 14th, 2025), Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri Award (since January 01st, 2024), Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Leaders, Science & Technology, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

RAJASTHAN :

Changemakers of Rajasthan

Jaipur :

Rajasthan is known for its sandy deserts, historical monuments, especially forts, vibrant culture, and above all, its brave people, some of whom are inspiring others and changing society for the better. Under our series ‘The Changemakers’, Awaz-The Voice, brings you ten such personalities of Rajasthan, who have done extraordinary and pioneering work. Batool Begum: A living legacy of musical heritage.

Batool Begum: Woman who took traditional music to the world

One name that resonates in the streets of Jaipur is that of Batool Begum. Born in Kerap village of Nagaur district, Rajasthan, this extraordinary singer is a living legacy of Indian classical music. Batool developed a deep passion for music in her childhood. Despite facing social and economic challenges, she continued her singing.

Her melodious voice and her passion for music not only earned her recognition as an artist but also proved that talent can break all barriers. Her art is a source of inspiration for her community and the entire Rajasthan.

Abdul Salam Johar: A lac bangle maker who received global recognition

The vibrant spirit of India’s Pink City, Jaipur, doesn’t only emanate from its colours and people but also from the traditional handicrafts that are made and sold here. Bangles worth lakhs are made in these streets, which are a symbol of the traditional beauty and hard work of thousands of its people.

Abdul Salam Johar is one such artist who not only preserved the traditional art of the State but also brought about a social change in a major way. Coming from the Manihar community, Johar was born in a family with little means, but his dreams were extraordinary. Seeing the struggles of his grandfather Hafiz Mohammad Ismail and parents Haji Abdul Aziz and Hajjan Qamar Jahan, he made hard work, dedication, and social service the main mantra of his life.

He began his journey from his ancestral shop ‘Indian Kangan and Colour Store’ located in Tripolia Bazaar of Jaipur, and today his wares are being sold under brands ‘Johar Design’, ‘Johar King’ and ‘Indian Crafts’ in the global markets. He is not only a successful entrepreneur, but also a social reformer who took his community and traditional art to new heights.

Abdul Latif ‘Arco’: A confluence of business and social service

Abdul Latif, who lives in Chini ki Burj in the capital Jaipur, and is known as ‘Arko’ in Rajasthan, is one such special personality. Born in a small village of Chomu in 1946, Abdul Latif’s father, Rahmatullah, and mother, Hafijan, taught him hard work, honesty, and the passion to help people, which became the basis of his life.

His company, Abdul Razzaq & Company (ARCO), is today a big name for social service along with electric motors, fans, and coolers. Apart from this, his hotel, ARCO Palace, is a symbol of his hard work and foresight. Abdul Latif’s story is not just of a businessman, but of a person who chose to work as a changemaker by combining his business and social responsibilities.

Qazi Nishat Hussain: A new voice breaking stereotypes

The voice rising from a small office located in the narrow streets of Johri Bazaar in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is today inspiring society to change. This voice is of Nishat Hussain, Rajasthan’s first Muslim female Qazi, social worker, and a strong advocate of the rights of Muslim women.

Her life journey is an example of courage, struggle, and change, which not only made thousands of women aware but also gave them a new direction to live.

Born in Sitabari Mohalla of Karauli district, Nishat’s childhood was spent in an environment of communal harmony. His family was the only Muslim family in the neighbourhood. There were three temples in front of her house. She says, “We did not know who was a Hindu and who was a Muslim.” In a backward area like Karauli, where girls’ education was not given importance, Nishat created history. She became the first Muslim girl in the district to pass the tenth standard, that too as the only Muslim student among 1200 girls. Today, she has become a torchbearer of the rights of Muslim women.

Captain Mirza Mohtasim Baig and Ruby Khan: An Inspiring couple in social service

An inspirational couple, Captain Mirza Mohtasim Baig and his wife Ruby Khan, hail from Jaipur. Captain Mirza is the first Muslim pilot of Rajasthan and has been operating national and international flights for the last 25 years. At the same time, his wife Ruby is an active social worker and politician.

Both believe that if one wants to bring change in society, then he has to take the initiative. Together, they had organised medical camps, documentation camps, free ration distribution, and offered financial help to families in the marriage of their daughters. The couple is an epitome of change brought about by spirited people.

Dr. Arif Khan: The village scientist who created history

Thirty-four years ago, a child was born in the small village of Masani in the Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan. Today, he is Dr. Arif Khan, a scientist who has brought laurels to India. In his village, most of the people toiled in the fields. His father, Advocate Farid Khan, wanted his son to become a doctor. His mother and grandfather also had the same dream. But there were few schools in Masani, and the path to making dreams come true was difficult. Still, Arif had a passion to do something extraordinary in his life.

With his hard work and dedication, he became a bio-scientist and brought glory to his family and village. His research on milk and food products brought a wave of change. His story proves that if the intentions are strong, then even a boy from a small village can become a scientist and make the country feel proud.

Mainuna Nargis: First Shia Muslim woman in art conservation

In a vast country like India, art conservation is important since it not only preserves history but also connects future generations to our heritage.  Mainuna Nargis, the country’s first and so far the only Shia Muslim woman art conservator, does the same work. Born in Bahjoi, a small town in Moradabad district of Uttar Pradesh, Maimuna’s childhood was ordinary, but her dreams were extraordinary. Rajasthan has now become Mainuna’s second home.

Her father, a Policeman in UP, always encouraged her. After studying Fine Arts from Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), she did a diploma in Museology, which became the most decisive turning point in her life. Maimuna’s story is not just of professional success, but a story of passion, struggle, and self-confidence, which revived the broken pieces of history.

Yoga Guru Naeem Khan: Global journey from music to yoga

The life journey of Yoga Guru Naeem Khan, who rose from the streets of Jodhpur, the cultural capital of Rajasthan, to spread his spiritual aura on international platforms, is a unique example. He rose from a common man to a global yoga guru and presented yoga as a universal energy beyond religion, culture, and boundaries.

Naeem Khan was born in a family where music was in every breath. His grandfather, Ustad Umardin Khan, was the court musician of the Jodhpur royal family, while his maternal uncle was Padma Bhushan-awarded Sarod player Ustad Sultan Khan. However, with changing times, that traditional flame of music started to fade. Naeem and his brother got involved in business, but yoga gave Naeem a new direction, and he took it to a global platform.

Syed Anwar Shah: A man who introduced girls to education

Thirty years ago, a dream was born in a small room in Jaipur, which has today become the light of education for thousands of girls. This is the story of Syed Anwar Shah, whom people fondly call Master Anwar Shah. He not only dreamt of his daughter’s education, but also made it a means of progress for the daughters of society.

Today his educational institution, Al-Jamia-tul Alia, is spreading the message of knowledge and Islamic ethics not only in Jaipur, but also in the whole of India and abroad. After completing his M.A. in Public Administration from Rajasthan University in 1980, he dedicated his entire life to the welfare of society and the service of education. In 1995, when his daughter Alia was born, he decided to set up an institution for the education of girls, which would impart both worldly and divine teachings.

Today, his effort has become a boon for thousands of families.

Padma Shri Shakir Ali: Patron of Miniature Painting

It’s no exaggeration to say that Jaipur is the art capital of Rajasthan. And in the field of miniature painting, the name of Syed Shakir Ali comes to the fore spontaneously. This genre of painting is an identity of the state of Rajasthan. 

Padma Shri awardee Syed Shakir Ali is not only a great practitioner of this art, but he is also the guardian of that heritage, which is an integral part of the cultural identity of Rajasthan. Born in 1956 in Jalesar village of Uttar Pradesh, Shakir Ali’s family soon settled in Jaipur, where his art got a new direction. 

Today, he has given recognition to this traditional art of Rajasthan not only in India but also on international platforms.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> The Changemakers / by Aasha Khosa, ATV / September 14th, 2025

Mohammad Raza Khan to Represent India in Youth Basketball Championship in Maldives

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Shahpura (Jaipur District) , RAJASTHAN :

A Muslim youth from Shahpura, Rajasthan, earns place in Indian youth basketball squad for South Asian Championship, inspiring local community and proving that dedication overcomes all challenges

New Delhi :

In a proud moment for both Rajasthan and the Muslim community, Mohammad Raza Khan, a young basketball player from Shahpura town, has been selected to represent India in the Youth Basketball Championship. His achievement has filled his family and local community with joy and hope.

Mohammad Raza Khan will participate in the South Asian Basketball Championship scheduled to take place in the Maldives on une 11. His selection to the Indian youth basketball team highlights not only his talent but also the determination and hard work that have brought him this far.

Raza Khan has been training hard at the Indian team’s camp in Indore, where he impressed coaches and selectors with his skills and discipline. “Raza showed remarkable focus and commitment during the training sessions,” said one of the coaches at the camp. “His talent is clear, and he deserves this opportunity to shine for India.”

News of Raza Khan’s selection was met with great happiness in Shahpura. Local residents, relatives, and sports fans gathered at his home to congratulate his father, Shabbir Hussain Khan. “We are very proud of Raza. His success is a shining example for all young people in our community,” said a neighbour. The atmosphere in Shahpura has been full of celebration and encouragement.

Mohammad Raza Khan comes from a humble middle-class family. Despite limited resources, his dedication, discipline, and passion for basketball have been unwavering. His journey serves as a strong reminder that with hard work and determination, barriers can be overcome.

Raza Khan’s achievement is also a proud moment for the Jaisalmer Academy, from where he hails. He is the ninth player from this academy to earn a place on the Indian basketball team, which speaks volumes about the academy’s contribution to nurturing young talent.

“The selection of Mohammad Raza Khan is a moment of great pride for Rajasthan and especially for the Muslim community,” said a local sports official. “His success shows that talent and commitment are found everywhere, regardless of background or economic condition.”

Residents of Shahpura are confident that Raza will not only represent India with distinction but also bring home a gold medal from the championship. “We all believe that Raza will make the country proud,” said a sports enthusiast in the town. “He is determined and ready to give his best on the international stage.”

Mohammad Raza Khan’s rise to the national team sends a strong message about the potential of young Indian Muslims in sports and other fields. It challenges negative stereotypes and shines a light on the hard work and talents often overlooked in smaller towns and communities.

This young athlete’s story encourages many others to follow their dreams, showing that with persistence, even those from modest beginnings can reach national and international levels of success.

Mohammad Raza Khan prepares to take part in the South Asian Basketball Championship, the hopes and prayers of Shahpura and Rajasthan go with him. His journey is a symbol of courage, dedication, and the bright future that awaits India’s youth when given equal opportunity.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslims / by Mohammed Bin Ismail / June 05th, 2025

Sahabzada Shaukat Ali Khan is Now No More

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Leaders, Museums, Libraries (wef. April 16th, 2022), Royal Families, PreIndependence -Descendants (wef. Jan 02nd,2022), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Tonk, RAJASHTAN :

Tonk, Rajasthan :

Shaukat Ali Khan, who received the “International Hero in Literature Award” from Cambridge University and was awarded the President’s Award, is now no more. He breathed his last on Saturday night during treatment in Jaipur. He was 87.

Born on 11 July 1936 in the family of Sahabzada Idris Ali Khan of Tonk, Shaukat Ali Khan is a distinguished personality of the Amiriya family. He was the first Director of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Arabic-Persian Research Institute (APRI).

Sahabzada Shaukat Ali Khan participated in the International Sufism Seminar organized by India in Afghanistan.

In view of this, the then President Giani Zail Singh himself considered him worthy of being honored with the National Award.

Shaukat Ali Khan also received an award in a seminar organized by UNESCO.

Apart from being a writer, historian, translator, and poet, he possessed many salient features rarely found in the world of literature.

Shaukat Ali Khan with APRI team

The APRI, which has its own identity in the country and the world, is also the result of the hard work and dedication of Shaukat Ali Khan.

Shaukat Ali Khan with President of India Giani Zail Singh at APRI, Tonk

In 1986, then President Giani Zail Singh visited the APRI. At that time, he wrote, “I am happy that such a director and such an organization exists in Rajasthan, due to which Rajasthan is known in the Arabic-Persian world. This happens very rarely. The idea is that someone should establish a path for the simultaneous progress and development of both the languages. I am extremely proud that a single person has created a platform for the progress of the Arabic and Persian languages and made it popular in the world. For this, its director Shaukat Saheb should definitely get the National Award, which he deserves.”

The life of Shaukat Ali had many forms and colors. With his efforts, he not only converted a nursery into an institute but also brought glory to Tonk. The APRI is proof of his pioneering efforts and wisdom. As long as the APRI continues to exist, the name of Shaukat Ali Khan will be there.

Shaukat Ali Khan was initially appointed Nigran of Nawab Mohammad Ali Khan’s library. He collected about 50,000 Makhtutats and wrote about 60 books in different languages – two books in Arabic, 10 in Persian and about 45 in English.

He had been carrying out research and writing work for about 40 years. He was a scholar of Arabic, Persian, English, Hindi and Urdu languages. He has also served as a member of many national and international government organizations.

Shaukat Saheb, who presented papers at national and international conferences and seminars, also edited and translated 6000 manuscripts, and published about 300 articles in more than 100 journals in English and Urdu. There is a long list of honors received by him at the national and international levels as well as at the state level. After retirement, he was living his life as a Sufi saint.

People across the country, including Mujeeb Azad, Director of Tonk Arabic Persian Research Institute; Sahibzada Mohammad Ahmed Bhayyu Bhai, Chairman of Royal Family Tonk; Retired Research Officer Anwarunnisa Nadira, State General Secretary of Human Relief Society, Tehreek-e-Urdu Rajasthan Advocate Akhtar Khan Akela, Cricket Coach Imtiaz Ali Neelu, have expressed grief over his demise, calling it an irreparable loss for the Arabic-Persian Research Institute, Tonk residents, and the Tonk Royal Family.

Condolence Letter by Sachin Pilot, MLA of Tonk

Sachin Pilot, MLA of Tonk has also sent a condolence message.

Chaudhary Akbar Qasmi, national convenor of Sanjhi Virasat Manch, has written that Sahabzada Shaukat Ali Khan was a descendant of Tonk Nawab and was one of the great intellectuals of Rajasthan. No one can deny his important role in establishing a big library (Arabic Persian Research Institute) in Tonk City and in raising it from the ground to great heights. As long as he was able to walk, he stood before writers and research scholars as a bright lamp of hope.

He was indeed a man of knowledge and grace.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Markers of Excellence> Obituary / by Raheem Khan / December 12th, 2023

Poet Rais Faizi Honoured with Hadouti Gaurav Samman

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Kota, RAJASHTAN :

Baran District :

Poet Rais Faizi has been honoured with the prestigious Hadouti Gaurav Samman for his exceptional contributions to poetry. The award was presented at Hadouti Gaurav Samman 2024 ceremony, organised by New Kota International Society at Shiv Jyoti Convent School auditorium in Kota’s Srinathpuram locality.

Programme coordinator K.K. Sharma Kamal and society president Anju Sharma highlighted that the event recognised 101 outstanding individuals across various fields, including social service, animal welfare, philanthropy, and academic excellence. Honourees were presented with shawls, beaded necklaces, and commemorative mementos.

The ceremony’s chief guest was Additional Divisional Commissioner Mamta Tiwari, accompanied by Additional District Collector Anil Kumar Singhal, BJP city district president Rakesh Jain, and other distinguished guests. Nearly a dozen individuals from Baran district were among those honoured at the event.

Rais Faizi’s recognition as a distinguished poet brought joy to his community. Former Baran Haj Committee chairman Haji Liaqat Ali Mev, Anjuman president Majid Salim, former Waqf Committee chairman Sajid Salim, District Congress Committee vice president Zakir Mansoori, minority district president Shahid Kundi, Madrasa Committee deputy chairman Shahid Iqbal Bhatti, and other notable figures, including Sheikh Bahadur, Junaid Ansari, Bobby Rain, and bank manager Alsar Khan Bhatti, expressed their heartfelt congratulations.

The Hadouti Gaurav Samman is a prominent regional award, recognising individuals, who have made significant contributions to the Hadouti region, encompassing Kota, Baran, Bundi, and Jhalawar districts in Rajasthan. This year’s event celebrated the region’s cultural heritage and achievements of its talented individuals.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home>Pride of the Nation> Awards> Latest News / by Raheem Khan, Radiance News Bureau / January 06th, 2025