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Showing posts from October, 2024

"Rethinking Reform: Sir Syed Ahmed Khan's Lessons for the Current Muslim Experience"

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  October 17 marks the birth anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, a prominent intellectual, educationist, and reformer of the 19th century. His groundbreaking efforts to enhance educational opportunities for Muslims, his progressive approach to promoting modern education, and his establishment of institutions such as the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College (later known as Aligarh Muslim University) represented a significant shift from the traditional mindset of his era. His legacy continues to shape the intellectual and educational progress of the Muslim community in South Asia. The contributions of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) to higher education are unmatched, especially in shaping the intellectual and academic landscape of the Muslim community. AMU not only provided access to modern education but also fostered the emergence of an intellectual elite among Muslims, many of whom went on to become leaders, scholars, and professionals across various fields. While some may argue tha...

Rest and Self-Care: The Importance for Mental Health

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  World Mental Health Day being observed every year on 10th October , is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and promoting efforts to support those affected. First established in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health, the day aims to spark conversations, reduce stigma, and encourage greater understanding and action around mental health challenges globally. This year’s theme for the World Mental Health day is "Mental Health at Work". This is important; for promoting well-being in the workplace, recognizing that mental health is just as important as physical health on the job. It emphasizes the need for employers and organizations to create supportive environments where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health challenges, seeking help when needed, and managing stress. By prioritizing mental health at work, businesses can improve productivity, reduce burnout, and foster a healthier, more inclusive workplace culture for everyone. Just...

Rediscovering Gandhi from Champaran in my childhood

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  Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was a transformative figure in India's freedom struggle, despite many critics of his idea. Gandhi was not only a lawyer but also a social reformer, activist, and prolific writer who engaged with the contemporary political and social questions of his time. He was born on 2nd October 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat, marking the beginning of a life that would leave an enduring mark on the world. My association with Gandhi's story began in my early childhood, as my home district is close to his historic Champaran Satyagraha of 1917. His experiment, where Gandhi took up the cause of indigo farmers, who were suffering under oppressive colonial policies, was the first major act of civil disobedience in India and laid the groundwork for his non-violent resistance. My grandfather often shared stories of Gandhi’s visit to his nearby village. Through his memories, I admired Gandhi's ethics—his commitment to bodily work, cleanliness, truth, and respect for oth...