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Distinguished poets and writers from the Gulf countries joined the literary bonanza, which was followed by a poetry symposium at the first-ever Gulf Urdu Conference hosted by Bazm-e-Sadaf International (BSI). Prominent among the authors who joined included Dr Sarwat Zahra (Dubai), who also received the BSI New Generation author award for 2019 for her poetry and literary work. Shahid Riaz (Bahrain), Mohamed Tufail Ahmed (Oman), Masood Hassas (Kuwait), Aisha Sheikh Aashi (UAE) and Samia Naz Malik (Sharjah) were the other guests. Adil Muzaffarpuri was meant to join from Saudi Arabia but had some last-minute technical issues. They discussed activities that are being undertaken by various literary forums for the promotion of the Urdu language and literature in their respective countries. The programme started with a welcome speech by BSI Doha Chapter president Dr Nadeem Jilani Danish, who outlined various activities over the last year, which included many online and offline programmes and the Bazme Sadaf Urdu Classes for English medium students. BSI chairman Shahabuddin Ahmad, in his inaugural address, referred to the recent international seminar organised by BSI in Kolkata and Hyderabad to celebrate 200 years of Urdu journalism and various books published by Bazme Sadaf last year. He also announced BSI will soon organise an international literary festival in Doha with participants from more than 20 countries. The inaugural function was presided over by BSI chief patron Hassan Abdul Karim Chougule. Noted businessman Azeem Abbas was the chief guest. Sophia Bukhari and professor Syed Javaid Zaidi were the guests of honour. After the inaugural event, guests were presented with traditional shawls and mementos. Speakers lauded the effort of BSI in organising the event which would prove to be a milestone in the promotion of the Urdu language and literature in the Gulf region. Poet and BSI programme director Ahmad Ashfaq anchored the inaugural session deftly. Two books on the history of Urdu journalism by Safdar Imam Qadri, a poetry collection of Ehya Bhojpuri, a book on the English translation of selected poems of Dr Sarwat Zagra and an album of a collection of Naat by Dr Nadeem Jilani were also released in the inaugural session. A panel discussion on the topic, 'Gulf region: The new Dabistan (School) of Urdu' was conducted by Dr Danish and Ahmad Ashfaq. Participants were asked to enumerate the activities that were being undertaken for the promotion of the Urdu language and literature in their respective countries. The topics debated also included the script of Urdu and the advantages and disadvantages of adapting Devanagari or Roman script, besides the role of translation in increasing the reach of Urdu literature far and wide in the world. The panel discussion was followed by an international poetry symposium conducted by guest poetess from the UAE Ayesha Shaikh Aashi and presided over by Dr Sarwat Zahra. Tahir Jameel, Mansi Sharma, Raquim Azmi, Wasi ul Haq Wasi, Maqsood Anwar Maqsood, Dr Nadeem Jilani Danish, Ahmad Ashfaq, Samia Naz Malik (Sharjah), Masood Hassas (Kuwait), Tufail Ahmad (Oman) and Riyaz Shahid (Bahrain) presented their poems. Dr Danish in his vote of thanks especially mentioned programme co-ordinator Mohamed Irfanullah,vice-president Mohamed Salahuddin, Rafat Jahan and other members of BSI Doha chapter executive team for their efforts in making the programme a success.    

Interfaith dialogues assume significance at a time when hatred rears its ugly head across the world, noted Indian Islamic scholar Dr Bahaudden Mohamed Nadwi has said. Dr Nadwi is on a visit to Doha where he attended the 14th Doha Conference on Interfaith Dialogue under the theme of ‘Religions and Hate Speech...Scriptures and Practice’. The Vice-Chancellor of Kerala-based Darul Huda Islamic University, Nadwi is a member of International Union for Muslim Scholars. Dr Nadwi, during an interview with Gulf Times, stressed the need for interfaith dialogue between cultures while developing it as an opportunity to address issues and the challenges that prevent peaceful coexistence. “Neither any religion nor ideology, whether it’s oriental or other, advocate violence or hatred at any cost. While it comes to Islam, its teachings are based on the basic principles of the equality of mankind, mutual understanding, co-operation and friendship. Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) life is marked by love and compassion while his covenants outline that all should be treated as humans,” he said noting that Qur’an teachings are all about inclusiveness and the holy book describes itself as ‘an exposition for the people’ without constraining its address to any particular community. “Further, it urges to be just and bridge the gaps as it says “Allah doesn’t forbid you to deal justly and kindly with those who fought not against you on account of religion and did not drive you out of your homes. Verily, Allah loves those who deal with equity.” “Neither nurse mutual hatred, nor jealousy, nor enmity, and become as fellow brothers and servants of God,” the Prophet’s (PBUH) teaching, addresses the entire humankind while urging them to keep the bond of love and mutual respect intact. “Dialogues are essential as they create a better atmosphere of togetherness,” he said. “Islam is for human while Qur’an was revealed for the spiritual and physical elevation of the entire humankind. Humanity is first and the fundamental duty of disseminating the messages of togetherness applies to all Muslim scholars who got the religious obligation of discharging their duties duly.” This is the second time Dr Nadwi has represented India at the Doha Conference on Interfaith Dialogue while highlighting the country’s legacy of upholding harmony. “At the Interfaith Dialogue, I was delighted to represent India’s centuries old initiatives that developed a strong bond of togetherness across India. Numerous heritages and monuments bear witness of a glorious past while telling the beautiful stories of religious harmony in India where people from different faiths live together in the spirit of humanity, diversity and rich heritage of tolerance,” he said. Dr Nadwi praised the efforts by Qatar government to foster peace noting that initiatives like Interfaith Dialogue consolidate the foundations of co-operation among civilisations, cultures and religions for a better future for human society. “It’s an ideal venue of interaction with various issues and topics that urge our attention in the local and global scenes as it’s attended by intellectual and consultative forums of thinkers, religious scholars and academics,” he said, adding that the conferences discussed frameworks for co-operation between religions while stressing the need to serve the humankind regardless of their religion, race, gender or colour. “Also, the conference, in its 14th edition, sought ways to enhance understanding and knowledge of the other to achieve the foundations of global co-existence,” he noted, adding that there is need to spread the idea of interfaith dialogues in order to achieve coexistence, promote understanding and to strengthen links between followers of various religions. Noting that misconceptions about Islam loom large while tarnishing the image of the religion and denigrating its true spirit, Dr Nadwi said that there should be attempts to address this grim scenario while opening the new fronts of dialogues and building bridges.  

    The junior wing of DPS Modern Indian School organised an event 'Ummi – Master Of Multitasking 24x7' in celebration of Mother’s Day recently. The event was presided over by chief guest Rukmani Kanjani, associate member of the school. Principal Asna Nafees, vice principal Shifa Shaikh, headmistresses Sini Menon and Najla Mohd Bukhari, graced the occasion. The theme of the event was Indo–Qatar, and various competitions were conducted for the mothers of the students of nursery to Grade V. The first 25 mothers who registered online for various events were selected for participation on a first-come, first-served basis.    

Noted Doha-based Urdu poet Ateeq Anzar's collection of poems 'Achhe Din Ka Sog' has been released at a ceremony organised by Karwan-e-Urdu Qatar, a literary organisation of the Gulf. The ceremony was held on May 19 at the Grand Qatar Palace Hotel in Doha. The book is an anthology of poems on protests and resistance taking place in today's world. Several literary figures, poets, writers and representatives of different organisations attended the function. Three essayists presented well-written papers on Anzar’s poetry, specially in the light of his latest collection 'Achhe Din Ko Sog', which - loosely translated - means mourning 'good days'. Apart from the poet’s unique diction, piercing vision and different shades of thoughts, the papers presented also talked about the historical reference of the 'protest' poems and its existence in global literature in chronological order. Aziz Nabil, a well-known author and poet of Doha, in his paper evaluated Anzar's poems in detail. He said that these poems are a bright allegory of protest and resistance in this era. Rashid Alam Rashid said: "'Achhe Din Ka Sog' is a good example of resistance poetry in Urdu literature.” Syed Shakeel Ahmed, who discussed the art and personality of Anzar, said: “His poems are a landscape of our era. The poems deal directly with the problems faced by the human.” Azim Abbas, patron of Karwan-e-Urdu Qatar, eminent businessman and social figure; chief guest Hasan Chogle, who is renowned for his educational mission in India and Qatar; and guest of honour and renowned poet Azhar Iqbal from India; released the book. The general secretary of Karwan-e-Urdu, young writer and translator Mohamed Shahid Khan conducted the ceremony, while Syed Shakeel Ahmed conducted the Mushaira which followed the release ceremony. Many friends and participants expressed their love by presenting gifts to Anzar. The Karwan-e-Urdu's liaison secretary Syed Rafi-ud-Din proposed a vote of thanks. Poets who won the hearts of the audience with their works included: Azhar Iqbal, Ateeq Anzar, Aziz Nabeel, Iftekhar Raghib, Ahmad Ashfaque, Asif Shafi, Qaisar Masood, Maqsood Anwar Maqsood, Dr Nadeem Jilani, Syed Shakil Ahmad, Rashid Alam Rashid, Raqim Azmi and Iftekhar Husain Kazim. Anzar, originally from the Indian city of Banaras, has been residing in Qatar for more than three decades.    

    Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF) insurance applications collected under the leadership of various units of Qatar Indian Social Forum (QISF), were handed over at a recent event at Integrated Indian Community Centre. ICBF president Vinod Nair received the applications from QISF president Ayyub Ullal. Welcoming the gathering, QISF general secretary Mohamed Usman said the aim is to get maximum number of members enrolled in the insurance scheme. Vice president Salam Kunnamal explained that the ICBF Beema Life Insurance Scheme for Indian nationals in Qatar with a valid Residency Permit provides coverage of QR100,000, with a premium of QR125 for a two-year term. It also covers permanent or partial disability up to the maximum covered amount depending on the severity. At the event, QISF felicitated Dr Fathima Raeesa on being awarded the “Prapulla S Hegde Memorial Endowment” Gold Medal – for her outstanding performance as “Best Post Graduate Student in MD Radiodiagnosis, from KMC Mangalore, for the year 2021 from Manipal Academy of Higher Education. ICBF president thanked QISF for its support to the insurance scheme and congratulated Dr Raeesa. ICC vice president Subramanya Hebbagelu, handed over a memento from QISF to Dr Raeesa. Her husband, Dr Safwan Ahmad, consultant neurologist and associate professor of Neurology, Father Muller Medical College & Hospital, Mangalore, presented a health awareness session on sleep disorder. Dr Raeesa's parents, Mumtaz Hussain and Ishrath Jahan Khan, elder sister Khadija Roohi, and brother Rehaan Hussain were also present at the function. QISF secretary Usama Ahammed proposed a vote of thanks.

A two-day Malaysian education information event was organised at MES Indian School by TJS Study Steps, Malaysia, in association with MES Off-Campus. Taylors University, Asia Pacific University, SEGI University, University of Cyberjaya and University of Southampton Malaysia participated in the event. The counsellors gave lecture sessions besides providing career guidance for aspiring students and their parents. The event was inaugurated by Malaysian ambassador to Qatar, Zamshari Shaharan, the chief guest. Ahmad Razaly bin Abdul Rahim, consulate of education, Malaysia and Dubai was the guest of honour. Dr Najeeb, officiating president, MES governing board, in his felicitation highlighted the commitment and involvement shown by the school management in academic enhancement especially with regard to the higher studies of students through the MES Off-Campus. Principal Hameeda Kadar urged the students to get enrolled in reputable higher educational institutions. In his inaugural address, the Malaysian ambassador welcomed the students for higher studies in Malaysia as the universities offer quality education that allows candidates to become professionals in the field of their choice. TJS managing director Samiuallah Shaikh welcomed the gathering and co-founder Shaeikh Abrar proposed a vote of thanks. MES Off-Campus administrator Manmadhan Mambally co-ordinated the event. Malaysian embassy counsellor Muhammad Khamaruddin Jasin, was also present.    

Chattogram Samity Qatar (CSQ), a Bangladeshi community forum, conducted its reception, new executive committee inauguration, and Eid reunion recently. The chief guest was ambassador Md Jashim Uddin, and the special guests were Bangladesh embassy minister (labour) Dr Muhammad Mustafizur Rahaman and counsellor (political & economic affairs) Md Mahbur Rahman. CSQ president Rafiqul Islam Bhuiyan (Hela) presided over the event, hosted by Noor Mohammed and Kazi Ashraful Islam, respectively. Since its inception in 2013, CSQ has been engaged in community welfare activities. The ambassador congratulated CSQ for their outstanding contributions and encouraged them, as well as others, to provide a helping hand to those in need. Tributes were paid to the freedom warriors who battled for their homeland in the independence war of 1971. Abu Taleb, Omar Farooq Chowdhury, Mohammad Musa, and Md Abul Hasan Azad were among the award recipients. Md Jashim Uddin, Dr Muhammad Mustafizur Rahaman, and Md Mahbur Rahman were honoured by CSQ. Ambassador Jasim Uddin announced the names of the 121-member executive committee comprising Rafiqul Islam Bhuiyan, Noor Mohammad (Noor), and Ashraful Islam as president, general secretary, and organisational secretary, respectively.    

    South Kanara Muslim Welfare Association, a forum of Indian expatriates from the southern part of Karnataka state, elected Abdul Razak Puttur as new president for 2022-24 at the 29th annual general body meeting. Other officer-bearers are: Abdul Kasim Udupi, Mohammed Shareef (vice presidents), Mohammed Imran Bantwal (general secretary), Ismail M N (joint secretary), Abdul Nasir Ullal (treasurer), Afzal Jameel (joint treasurer), Shameer Mahin, Mansoor, Sathar, Imthiaz and Imran (event secretaries). The new committee also selected Abdul Majeed Moodbidre, Firoz Kundapura, Ibrahim Beary, Abdul Majeed Haleyangadi, Abdulla Monu, and Ismail Jokatte as advisor committee members. Nasir Manjeshwar, Suhaib Ahmed, Rizwan Ahmed, Abdul Hameed Haleyangadi, Abdul Khader Hanan, Rasheed Kakkinje, Ameer Hamza, Adam, Saleem Ullal, Ilyas Beary, Abbu Jokatte, Abdul Rasheed, Abdul Khader Jeelani were elected event co-ordinators. The meeting started with the recitation of Holy Qur'an by Shazil Jameel. Outgoing president Abdul Majeed presided over the function and briefed members about the committee’s activities during 2020 and 2021. Kasim Udupi welcomed the gathering, Nasir Ullal and Sathar Montepadav submitted the annual report and financial report, respectively. Puttur proposed a vote of thanks.    

MES Indian School won the championship in a tug-of-war competition organised by the Qatar Indian Association at Al Rayyan Private School recently. In a competition that witnessed participation from various schools and sports organisations, the MES Team (junior boys) lifted the winner’s trophy while Team B won the runners-up trophy. In the junior girls’ category, MES won the winner’s trophy to clinch the championship. Principal Hameeda Kadar congratulated the team for their outstanding performance in the event.    

On occasion of India's National Technology Day, DPS MIS faculty, Priti Modi attended a webinar on theme 'Integrated approach in Science & Technology for Sustainable Future', organised by Science India Forum-Qatar. The guest speakers were Dr Jalati Kesari Nayak (scientific officer, department of atomic energy) and Archana Yadav (assistant professor-, Amity Institute of Nuclear Science & Technology, Noida). The guest of honour was Sachin Shankapal (first secretary- education and culture, embassy of India, Qatar). Dr Nayak gave an insight of India’s achievements in the field of atomic and nuclear energy. Yadav explained how nuclear science can be a viable solution for sustainable future development. Every presentation was followed by Q/A session in which the guest speakers gave their views for better understanding of the topic.    

Indian expatriate forum Karnataka Sangha Qatar organised its annual blood donation and medical camp at the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) premises. The event was held in association with ICC, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Al Abeer Medical Center. Indian ambassador Dr Deepak Mittal, the chief guest, highlighted the significance of blood donation and hailed KSQ for organising the event which will help Indians and other residents in Qatar. In a break from the tradition of presenting a bouquet to the chief guest, a donation was made towards the workers insurance scheme of the Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF). KSQ president Mahesh Gowda thanked past presidents for starting the blood donation campaign 15 years ago as part of annual calendar, and also all volunteer donors for making the event a success and Al Abeer Medical Center for their support. Cardiologist Dr Preetam highlighted the benefits of donating blood. The donors included other nationalities too. Appreciation certificates and KSQ memorabilia were issued as token of appreciation to all donors. HMC's chief communications officer Ali Abdullah al-Khater issued a certificate of appreciation to KSQ in appreciation for organising blood donation campaigns. ICC president P N Baburajan, vice president Subramanya Hebbagelu, ICBF president Vinod Nair, Dr Nityanand from Al Abeer Medical Center, KSQ advisory committee members V S Mannangi, Arun Kumar and H K Madhu and presidents and committee members of affiliated Karnataka community organisations based in Doha were also present.    

 Indian Cultural Centre's (ICC) Student Forum celebrated Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti recently with a 'Love and Wisdom' theme. The event was streamed live on Facebook and YouTube. ICC vice-president Subramanya Hebbagelu delivered the opening remarks. Indian Community Benevolent Forum president Vinod Nair was the chief guest and Indian Business and Professionals Forum president Jaffer Sadik the guest of honour. Shripritika Durairaj anchored the event. Anam Durwesh welcomed the gathering and Nikki D'Cruz proposed a vote of thanks. ICC officials Kamla Thakur, Biswajit Banerji, Sanjay Patil, and other ICC Committee members were present.    

About 800 Indian expatriates attended a community reception organised by Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) recently in honour of the visiting Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs V Muraleedharan. The event was hosted at ICC in association with other apex bodies - Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), Indian Business and Professionals Council (IBPC) and Indian Sports Centre (ISC). The reception was attended by Indian Ministry of External Affairs joint secretary Vipul, External Affairs director Chandru, Indian ambassador to Qatar Dr Deepak Mittal, Indian embassy first secretary Xavier Dhanraj and other officials. ICC president P N Baburajan welcomed Muraleedharan. ICBF president Vinod Nair, ISC president Dr Mohan Thomas, IBPC president Jafer Sadik and managing committee officials of various associated organisations under all the four apex bodies, community leaders and members from all walks of life attended the reception. Special arrangements including an air-conditioned shamiyana with a LED screen were provided for the comfortable seating of the people. About 60 associated organisations felicitated Murleedharan in the traditional ways of their region. A golden pearl memento was handed over by the presidents of all the apex bodies to the minister. Various dances depicting the cultural diversity of India were presented on the occasion. ICC vice-president Subramanya Hebbagelu, general secretary Krishna Kumar, managing committee members Sudhir Gupta, Arshad Ali, Shweta Koshti, Sajeev Satysheelan, Mohan Kumar, Kamal Thakur and Afzal along with members from the ICC Youth Forum and ICC Students Forum co-ordinated the event.    

Olive International School (OIS) celebrated Nurses Day on May 12, the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. The occasion acknowledges and celebrates the commitment and bravery of nurses around the world. The school nurses were honoured by the students.    

Indian socio-cultural organisation Qatar Tamizhar Sangam (QTS), conducted Talent Hunt 2022 recently at the Indian Cultural Centre. Competitions were held for members’ children in categories such as classical carnatic, cinematic singing, Bharatanatyam, cinematic dance, instrumental music, standup comedy and magic show. More than 50 children in three age groups showcased their talents. Prizes and certificates for winners and certificates for all participants was given by QTS officials. More information on QTS is available on Whatsapp number 33521857 or from the website http://qatartamizharsangam.org    

The tiny tots of Rajagiri Public School celebrated Mother’s Day with a special assembly in the school auditorium. The day witnessed the presence and participation of mothers of students of Grades 1-3. A duet dance of mothers and children, ramp walk and a video presentation were the highlights. Academic director Dr Prasanth Palakkapilly urged the children to remember and pray for the kids who have lost their mothers.     

Karnataka Sangha Qatar (KSQ) felicitated visiting Indian Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs V Muraleedharan at a community reception organised by the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC). KSQ president Mahesh Gowda, advisory committee members V S Mannagangi, Deepak Shetty, management committee members and former vice-president and current vice-president of ICC Subramanaya Hebbagelu were present.     

The Centre for Indian Community (CIC) Rayyan zone recently conducted a Holy Qur'an recitation contest. Competitions were held separately for men and women. The winners in the female category were: Ajeesha Jabid, Sameeha Abdussamad (both first place), Nasiha M P (second), Fayisa Afsal (third). The male category winners were: Muhammad Najaf (first), Abdul Wahad (second), Shamil Abdul Rasheed, Nasar Madathil, Naser M (all third place). Consolation prizes: Female - Jameela Kottankodan, Ruksana, Shabna Nisham, Selma Puthan Purayil, Sumayya Rafeeq. Male - Muhammad Afsal, Syed Ismayil Munafer, Muhammad Jihad.    

Karnataka Sangha Qatar’s (KSQ) newly-elected management committee for 2022-23 met Indian ambassador Dr Deepak Mittal at the embassy. President Mahesh Gowda introduced his team and gave a brief overview of KSQ's objectives and achievements since its formation in 1999 and upcoming events. A KSQ statement explained that the ambassador lauded the forum's contribution to the Indian community in general, the active partnership with the Indian Cultural Centre and other affiliated organisations from Karnataka. He commended KSQ for its participation in the Passage to India, Azadi ki Amruth Mahotsav, and invited the forum to take part in the upcoming 50th year celebration of India-Qatar partnership in 2023.    

Qatar resident Shameer Valiyaveettil was elected CEO of youth organisation Focus International's first global committee, a statement said. Two other Qatar residents - Askar Rahman and Thajudheen Mullaveedan are directors of events and marketing, respectively. Founded in Qatar in 2005, the forum is now active in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, India, Oman and the UAE.