Tag Archives: Sarfaraz Ahmed

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

August 15, 2025Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 )Adv Gaziuddin, Adv Gaziuddin Research Center, Adv Mahboob Kotimbre, Advocate Sayed Shah Gaziuddin, Asif Mujawar, Book - Shivranche Muslim Sainik - Muslim Soldiers of Shivaji, Book - The Administration of the Deccan During Aurangazeb - Sayed Dawood, Gaziuddin Research Center - Solapur, Imran Inamdar, Indian Muslims, Kaleem Azeem, M I Sheikh, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Muslims of Maharashtra, Muslims of Solapur, Muslims of Solapur - Maharashtra, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslim of Solapur, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive News of Muslims of Maharashtra, Positive Stories of Indian Muslims, Positive Stories of Muslims of India, Prof Mujeeb Khan, Sahil Shaikh, Samiullah Sheikh, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Sayed Dawood, Sayed Iftikhar, Sayed Ismail, Sayed Wayez, Syed Shah Wayezmpositiveone@gmail.com

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

“Tipu Sultan – Patre, Hukum Name aani Itihasache Sadhne” (Tipu Sultan – Letters, Orders and History materials).

September 22, 2019Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Freedom Fighters (under research project), Karnataka (under research project), LeadersAdv. Ghaziuddin Research Centre - Solapur - Maharashtra, Book 'Tipu Sultan - Patre, Book 'Tipu Sultan- Letters, Book on 'Tipu Sultan, Hukum Name aani Itihasache Sadhne', Orders and History Materials', Sarfaraz Ahmed, Syed Shah Wayez, Syed Shah Wayez (aka) Wayez Sayed, Wayez Sayedmpositiveone@gmail.com

Solapur, MAHARASHTRA :

In an attempt to highlight Tipu Sultan’s personality, diplomacy, relationships with other rulers, foreign policies and other facets of his rule, two youths from Solapur city, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Wayez Sayed are bringing out a Marathi book named “Tipu Sultan – Patre, Hukum Name aani Itihasache Sadhne” (Tipu Sultan – Letters, Orders and History materials).

About 415 letters and 10 orders (Hukm name) of Tipu Sultan have been collected by these two youths and translated into Marathi.

The book containing Tipu’s written material is ready for release and will be published by Adv. Gaziuddin Research Center, Solapur, Maharashtra. This research centre has released five books on Tipu Sultan.

Speaking with Twocircles.net, Sarfaraz Ahmed informed that they worked for nearly six years to translate this 300-page book.They had to travel across India to collect these 415 letters written by Tipu which have been preserved in different libraries of the country, he added.

“These letters show that he had very good relations with Maratha Sardars of Maharashtra, Nizam II of Hyderabad and other Indian kings. He also contacted foreign rulers, including Napoleon Bonaparte and British rulers as a part of foreign policy, ” Ahmad added.

Come author Sayed Shah Wayez said they had to work hard to translate these letters because they were written in seven languages since Tipu Sultan used to communicate with other rulers in their mother tongue only.

Renowned activist Ram Punyani, who has written the introduction for this book, lauded the efforts and the hardwork of Sarfaraz and Wayez.

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> Historical Facts> Indian Muslims> Lead Story / by Imran Inamdar, Twocirlces.net / September 22nd, 2019

IAS officers bag excellence award

May 22, 2018Community Involvement / Social Issues, LeadersCollector Sarfaraz Ahmed, Collector Sarfaraz Ahmed-Karimnagar-Telangana, Collector Sarfaraz Ahmed-Telangana, Mohammed Aleem, Mohammed Aleem - Adminstrator - MCH Centre - Karuna Vikata - Telangana, Mohammed Aleem - Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare - Karuna Vakati - Telangana, Mohammed Aleem - IAS, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Sarfaraz Ahmed - IAS, Sarfaraz Ahmed - Karimnagar Collectormpositiveone@gmail.com

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Several civil servants and other officers have been selected for the Telangana Excellence Awards-2018 for excellence in public administration, innovation, instituting flagship programmes, land records updation, IT initiatives in governance, solid waste management etc. in individual capacity or for working in groups.

They include Commercial Taxes Commissioner V. Anil Kumar and Principal Resident Commissioner of Telangana Bhavan at New Delhi G. Asok Kumar, Nalgonda Collector Gaurav Uppal, Buddhaprakash Jyothi, Adilabad Collector D. Divya and Adilabad DMHO Rajeev Raj, GHMC Commissioner B. Janardhan Reddy, Mancherial Collector R.V. Karnan and HMWSSB MD M. Dana Kishore, Suryapet Collector K. Surendra Mohan, Karimnagar Collector Sarfaraz Ahmed, DMHO Rajesham and Mohammed Aleem, Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare Karuna Vakati, Jagtial Collector A. Sharath, RDO Ganta Narender and Medipally Tahsildar N. Venkatesh and Peddapalli Collector Alagu Varshini, Asifabad Collector Prashanth J. Patil, Sircilla Collector D. Krishna Bhaskar.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> States> Telangana / by Special Correspondent / Hyderabad – May 19th, 2018

Tribute to Tabla Maestro Brings Stalwarts to Bengaluru

February 28, 2016Arts, Culture & EntertainmentAmeer Qawwal, Begum Akhtar, Roshan Ara Begum, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shaik Dawood Khan, Shaik Hashim, Tabla Nawaz Ustad Shaik Dawood Trust, Thirakna of Hyderabad, Ustad Abdul Haleem Jaffer Khan, Ustad Abdul Kareem Khan, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, Ustad Alladra Khan, Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, Ustad Chote Khan, Ustad Fayyaz Khan, Ustad Jahangir Khan, Ustad Khasim Saheb, Ustad Mahboob Khan Mirajkar, Ustad Mohammed Khan, Ustad Shabbir Nisar, Ustad Shahid Parvez, Ustad Shaik Dawood Khan, Ustad Vilayat Khanmpositiveone@gmail.com

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Bengaluru :

A musical evening on February 27 marks the birth centenary of one the world’s most renowned tabla players – Ustad Shaik Dawood Khan.

This event, at the Palace Grounds, is organised by the Tabla Nawaz Ustad Shaik Dawood Trust.

Shaik Dawood Khan (1916-1992) is regarded as one of the greatest tabla maestros of his time, and was the torch bearer of the Farrukhabad, Ajrada, Lucknow, Punjab and Delhi styles.

As part of the centenary celebrations, the trust has organised concerts across the country. In December 2015, a two-day festival took place in Hyderabad. A second season began in Hyderabad on January 7 and 8, 2016.

The Bengaluru event is the third in the series.

Varied Journey

Ustad Shaik Dawood Khan is known as the ‘Thirakwa of Hyderabad’. Between 1926 and 1990, he accompanied hundreds of vocalists and instrumentalists, with equal respect and admiration, irrespective of their age or rank.

Shaik Dawood Khan was born on December 16, 1916. He was attracted to music from a very tender age, and his father Shaik Hashim took him to his neighbour Ameer Qawwal (a performing artist) from whom Shaik Dawood gained knowledge in singing and playing the tabla.

When he was nine, he became a formal disciple of Ustad Khasim Saheb of Sholapur, who had attained fame in the region as a tabla accompanist. During eight years under him, Shaik Dawood Khan emerged as a musician in his own right. Subsequently, he learnt from Ustad Alladia Khan, a Hyderabadi tabla nawaz, as also from Ustad Mohmmed Khan, Ustad Chote Khan and Ustad Jahangir Khan.

At the age of 46, when the whole music world was at his feet, Shaik Dawood Khan had the humility to become a disciple of Ustad Mahboob Khan Mirajkar.

Shaik Dawood Khan had accompanied almost all the greats of his time – Ustad Abdul Kareem Khan, Ustad Fayyaz Khan, Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, Ustad Vilayat Khan, Ustad Abdul Haleem Jaffer Khan, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, Pandit Ravi Shankar and illustrious women vocalists such as Roshan Ara Begum, Girija Devi, Begum Akhtar, and Gangubai Hangal. In fact, Shaik Dawood had the unique distinction of having accompanied four generations of artistes.

Decorations

Shaik Dawood Khan was honoured with the Hindu-Muslim Unity Front Award in 1975. In February 1992, he was presented the Sangeet Natak Akademy Award. He was a star attraction on Deccan Radio run by the Nizam, which subsequently became All India Radio, Hyderabad.

At Palace Grounds

The musical evening on Saturday begins with a tabla homage by Sarfaraz Ahmed, grandson of Ustad Shaik Dawood, followed by a tabla ensemble featuring Ustad Shabbir Nisar (son of the ustad) and Abhman Kaushal (USA), Uday Kumar, Mihir Kallianpur and Roopak Kallurkar.

This will be followed by vocal music by Vidushi Arati Ankalikar-Tikekar. The grand finale is a sitar session with Ustad Shahid Parvez accompanied on the tabla by Pandit Anindo Chatterjee.

5.30 pm, Palace Grounds, Gate 4. Entry free.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Cities> Bengaluru / by Express News Service / February 27th, 2016