Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi: Islamic scholar, Academic

Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi (born in 1969) is a distinguished Islamic scholar renowned for his deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence, literature, and history. Born into a family rooted in Islamic scholarship, he inherited a rich legacy of learning and spirituality. His early education took place under the tutelage of his father and other eminent scholars, which laid a strong foundation for his future scholarly pursuits.

He pursued advanced studies at the prestigious Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama in Lucknow, where he excelled in various Islamic sciences, including Tafsir (Quranic exegesis), Hadith (Prophetic traditions), Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and Arabic literature. His dedication to learning and his keen intellect earned him the admiration of his teachers and peers alike.

After completing his studies, Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi embarked on a career in teaching and Islamic scholarship. He served as a faculty member at several Islamic institutions, where he contributed significantly to the intellectual and spiritual growth of his students. His eloquence in Arabic and Urdu, coupled with his profound understanding of Islamic teachings, made him a sought-after speaker and teacher.

Throughout his career, Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi has been actively involved in various educational and social initiatives aimed at promoting Islamic values and knowledge. He has authored numerous books and articles on Islamic theology, law, and history, which are widely respected in academic and religious circles.

His contributions to Islamic scholarship and his commitment to the education and spiritual development of the Muslim community have earned him a place of honor among contemporary Islamic scholars. Bilal Abdul Hai Hasni Nadvi continues to inspire and guide the next generation of scholars and students with his wisdom and dedication.

E. Abu Bakar: Islamic Scholar, Community leader

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

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

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

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

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

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

He has been in custody for two years following his arrest on September 22, 2022, under UAPA from his residence in Kozhikode. At the time of his arrest, Abubacker, had no prior criminal record. He has been bedridden since January 2020 due to severe health conditions. He underwent extensive treatment for cancer, including chemotherapy and surgery, which involved the surgical removal of 80% of his abdominal and intestinal area. This has left his digestive system severely compromised. He also suffers from Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, vision loss, and hypertension, further deteriorating his overall health.

Faisal Farooqui: Professional / Enterpreneur

Faisal Farooqui is an iconic entrepreneur in India's technology and digital sectors, celebrated for his innovative ventures and pioneering spirit. With a career spanning over two decades, he has significantly shaped the way consumers access and share opinions on products and services. A trailblazer in the Internet startup ecosystem of India, Farooqui has co-founded two companies and invested in several startups in India, mentoring many entrepreneurs.

Faisal Farooqui holds a degree in Information Systems and Finance from the State University of New York, underpinning his deep understanding of technology and business, at an extensive level. Faisal Farooqui is the founder and CEO of MouthShut.com, launched in 2000. As one of the first social media platforms from India, MouthShut.com became the country's largest website for consumer reviews and ratings of brands and businesses. It has impacted millions, helping consumers and businesses connect through honest feedback.

A sought-after speaker, Farooqui has presented and spoken at over 500 conferences globally, sharing insights on entrepreneurship, wealth creation and digital engagement. He loves to speak about the evolving role of social media in shaping public opinions, privacy, and digital rights. His expertise has been featured in leading media outlets and as a speaker at prestigious institutions like IIM Ahmedabad, IIT Mumbai, American University of Dubai and TEDx.

He authored the bestselling book In the Shadow of a Legend: Dilip Kumar and has won several awards for his ventures, including the Entrepreneur Magazine Top 100 Contemporary Entrepreneur Award.

Beyond entrepreneurship, Farooqui has been instrumental in shaping legal precedents in India's IT landscape. As a lead petitioner, he played a pivotal role in challenging sections of the IT Act, culminating in a landmark Supreme Court decision that declared Section 66A illegal and read down Section 79 of the IT Rules. His efforts have had a profound impact on digital freedoms in the country.

Honoured with numerous awards, including the Dr. APJ Kalam Top Entrepreneur Award by the BJP, the Manthan Award for Best Youth Website and the Gold Trophy at Indian Digital Media Awards, Farooqui's journey epitomizes innovation, resilience, and a commitment to driving positive change through entrepreneurship. He also serves as a visiting professor for the MBA program at Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi.

Faisal lives with his family in Mumbai, India.

Faizan Mustafa:  Academic / Legal Expert

Faizan Mustafa is a prominent academic and legal scholar, renowned for his extensive contributions to legal education and scholarship. He has served as the Vice-Chancellor of NALSAR University of Law in Hyderabad and was the founding Vice-Chancellor of the National Law University Odisha (NLUO). Currently, he holds the position of Vice-Chancellor at Chanakya National Law University in Patna. Additionally, he is a member of the board of directors for T-Hub, a technology incubator.

Mustafa's educational background includes a degree in History and Law from Aligarh Muslim University, where he also earned his LL.M with distinction. He has a doctorate in Copyright Law and a diploma from the International Institute of Human Rights in International and Comparative Human Rights Law.

In his career, Mustafa has made significant strides as a legal educator and researcher. Before his role at NALSAR, he was the founding VC of NLUO and a former director at KIIT School of Law. He is a prolific author, having published numerous books and scholarly articles, and is noted for exploring novel areas such as HIV law. His scholarship includes contributions that have influenced judicial decisions, as evidenced by his article on religious freedom being cited in the Supreme Court's Sabarimala judgment in 2018.

Beyond academia, Mustafa engages with a broader audience through his YouTube channel, the Legal Awareness Web Series, where he discusses contemporary legal issues in simple language. He is a recurring legal expert on NDTV and writes columns for major publications like The Indian Express and The Hindu. His accolades include the Renne Cassin Gold Medal in 1999 and the SAARC Best Law Teacher Award in 2014, reflecting his esteemed status in the legal community.

Advocate Feroze Ahmad Ansari: Community Leader/ Advocate

Feroze Ahmad Ansari (born in 1962) is a distinguished advocate at the Supreme Court of India and a prominent socio-political leader. He currently serves as the National President of the All India Momin Conference, the All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat (AIMMM).

Hailing from a family with a strong legal background, Ansari is the son of the late M. Bashirul Haque, an eminent advocate in Dhanbad. He was mentored by Prof. M. Sallahuddin Ansari, a former Member of Parliament. After completing his schooling at De Nobili School, Dhanbad, he pursued a B.Sc. and later earned an M.A. from Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), where he was a Gold Medalist. He obtained an LL.B. from the Campus Law Centre, University of Delhi, along with law certifications from the Indian Law Institute.

Since enrolling with the Delhi State Bar Council in 1991, Ansari has been practicing at the Supreme Court, specializing in constitutional, service, labor, civil, and criminal law, as well as arbitration and public interest litigation (PIL). He is a life member of several prestigious legal and social organizations, including the Bar Association of India, the Indian Law Institute, and the Indian Islamic Cultural Centre.

Beyond his legal career, Ansari is deeply engaged in community service. As AIMC President, he has spearheaded initiatives in education and employment. He also played a crucial role in submissions to the Justice Ranganath Mishra Commission and the Sachar Committee, advocating for the rights of Indian Muslims.

Honored with the Jawahar Nehru Award, National Peace Award (2019), and Mahatma Gandhi Excellence Award (2020), Ansari continues to be a key voice in legal advocacy and community reform, both nationally and internationally.

Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi: Islamic Scholar, Educationist

Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi ((born in 1950) is a renowned Indian Islamic scholar, educationist, and former rector of Darul Uloom Deoband, one of the most prestigious Islamic seminaries in the world. Born in 1950 in the village of Vastan, Gujarat, Vastanvi has dedicated his life to the promotion of Islamic education and the upliftment of the Muslim community.

Vastanvi pursued his early education at local madrassas before joining the Darul Uloom Deoband, where he excelled in Islamic studies, earning recognition for his deep understanding of Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), Hadith (Prophetic traditions), and Tafsir (Quranic exegesis). After completing his studies, he returned to Gujarat, where he became a prominent figure in the field of Islamic education.

In 1981, Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi founded the Jamia Islamia Ishaatul Uloom in Akkalkuwa, Maharashtra, which has grown into a major educational institution under his leadership. The institution offers a blend of traditional Islamic education and modern subjects, providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for both religious and secular pursuits. Vastanvi’s vision for integrating modern education with Islamic teachings has made him a pioneer in the field.

In 2011, Vastanvi was appointed as the rector of Darul Uloom Deoband, a position that placed him at the helm of one of the most influential Islamic institutions in the world. However, his tenure was short-lived due to controversies surrounding his views on the socio-political conditions of Muslims in India, leading to his resignation.

Despite the controversies, Vastanvi has remained a respected figure in the Indian Muslim community. His contributions to education and his efforts to promote a progressive vision for Islamic learning continue to be acknowledged and admired. Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi’s legacy is one of dedication to the intellectual and social advancement of the Muslim community in India.

Gulfisha Fatima: Activist

Currently lodged in Tihar Jail, Gulfisha Fatima is a young activist and student leader who gained prominence for her role in the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in India. Born and raised in Seelampur, Delhi, Gulfisha was pursuing her studies when she became actively involved in the anti-CAA movement, which was sparked by concerns that the legislation discriminated against Muslims and threatened the secular fabric of the country.

Gulfisha emerged as a key organizer and voice in the peaceful protests, particularly in North East Delhi. She was known for her articulate speeches and her commitment to raising awareness about the implications of the CAA and the National Register of Citizens (NRC). Her activism was driven by a deep sense of justice and a desire to protect the rights of marginalized communities in India.

In April 2020, Gulfisha Fatima was arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with the violence that erupted in North East Delhi in February 2020. The Delhi Police accused her of being part of a larger conspiracy to incite communal violence, charges that Gulfisha and her supporters have vehemently denied. Her arrest sparked outrage among human rights activists and civil society, who view her detention as part of a broader crackdown on dissent.

Gulfisha’s imprisonment has drawn attention to the challenges faced by activists in India, particularly those from minority communities. Despite being behind bars, she has remained a symbol of resistance and courage for many. Her case continues to be a focal point in discussions about civil liberties, freedom of speech, and the treatment of political dissenters in India.

Gulfisha Fatima's story is one of resilience in the face of adversity, and she continues to inspire others to stand up for justice and equality, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Hamid Ansari: Politician, Diplomat and  Scholar

Mohammad Hamid Ansari (born in 1937) is a distinguished diplomat, academic, and politician who served as the 12th Vice President of India from 2007 to 2017. His illustrious career spans over five decades, encompassing diplomacy, academia, and public service.

Ansari began his education in Kolkata and completed his postgraduate studies in Political Science from Aligarh Muslim University. He joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1961, marking the start of a long and accomplished diplomatic career. Ansari served in critical roles, including as India’s ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan, Iran, and Saudi Arabia. His tenure as Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations further solidified his reputation as a skilled diplomat and statesman.

In academia, Ansari served as Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University, where he worked to modernize the institution and bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary education. Later, he became the Chairperson of the National Commission for Minorities, advocating for minority rights and inclusive development in India.

Ansari’s election as Vice President in 2007 was a testament to his commitment to democratic values and constitutional governance. As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, he was known for his impartiality and emphasis on decorum in parliamentary proceedings. He was re-elected for a second term in 2012, becoming one of the few Vice Presidents to serve two consecutive terms.

A prolific writer and speaker, Ansari has authored books and essays on topics ranging from international relations to constitutional values and social justice. His book, Dare I Question?, reflects his insights on governance and democracy.

Hamid Ansari’s legacy is defined by his diplomatic finesse, commitment to constitutional principles, and advocacy for pluralism and secularism, making him one of India’s most respected public figures.

Sayyid Ibraheem Khaleel Al Bukhari: Islamic Scholar

Sayyid Ibraheem Khaleel Al Bukhari, born in 1964 in Kadalundi, Kerala, is a distinguished Sunni Islamic scholar and influential community leader. Hailing from a lineage of scholars that traces its origins to Uzbekistan, he was raised in a family steeped in religious education. His primary education was imparted by his father, Sayyid Ahmed Bukhari, a respected spiritual guide in the region. Bukhari later pursued higher education in Islamic theology, graduating with second rank from Baqiyat Salihat Arabic College in Tamil Nadu.

In 1997, Bukhari founded Ma'din Academy in Malappuram, which has since grown into a significant educational institution serving over 22,000 students across 28 campuses. Under his leadership, Ma'din Academy has flourished, offering a wide range of programs from primary education to postgraduate studies, with a focus on both Islamic and contemporary education. His global influence is also reflected in his extensive travels and lectures on educational and social issues.

Bukhari holds several key leadership roles, including serving as the Joint Secretary of Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama and General Secretary of Kerala Muslim Jamaat, an umbrella organization representing various Muslim groups in Kerala. He is also a member of the Muslim 500, a recognition of the most influential Muslims worldwide, and manages the international journal Armonia, which promotes pluralism and holistic education.

He has been a prominent representative at global forums, including the G20 Interfaith Forum, and led India's delegation to the Vatican for interfaith dialogues. Notable achievements include organizing the annual Ramadan Peace Conference and initiating the Knowledge Hunt, a program that exposes scholars to diverse cultural and religious destinations worldwide. Bukhari’s work in interfaith dialogue and education continues to have a profound impact both in India and internationally.

Imran Abbas Shaikh: Architect

Imran Abbas Shaikh (born in 1982) is a visionary architect based in Pune, Maharashtra, is a leading figure in the Indian architectural landscape. His work seamlessly blends modern design with cultural heritage, resulting in a portfolio that spans innovative urban projects and iconic cultural landmarks. Renowned for his distinctive approach, Imran has particularly redefined the design of mosques, incorporating facilities such as hospitals, museums, libraries, and community kitchens into these sacred spaces. His commitment to integrating functionality with tradition has set new standards in architecture and earned him widespread acclaim.

Imran’s journey from his roots in Pune to becoming a prominent architect is a testament to his dedication and creativity. His architectural firm, Cubix Architects, reflects his deep connection to his hometown, where his talents were nurtured. His passion for architecture was greatly influenced by his father, who instilled in him the belief that architecture is not just about creating structures but about crafting a future that brings positive change. This guidance became the driving force behind Imran’s relentless pursuit of excellence.

Imran’s educational journey began in Pune, where he demonstrated a keen interest in art and innovation from a young age. He honed his architectural skills at Bharati Vidyapeeth, consistently excelling throughout his studies. Beyond his formal education, Imran has made significant contributions as a guest lecturer, sharing his expertise with students and inspiring the next generation of architects.

One of his notable works is the ‘Muhammad Bin Abdullah Mosque’ in Dhannipur, Ayodhya, which is under construction. This mosque, spanning 4,500 square meters, will feature a hospital, community kitchen, library, and research center, and will be the first mosque in India with five minarets, symbolizing the five pillars of Islam.

Along with his architectural achievements, Imran is deeply committed to social causes through his nonprofit organization, the Human Embrace Foundation, which provides education to children from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. Imran Abbas Shaikh’s work exemplifies innovation, compassion, and a commitment to community empowerment, making him a role model for aspiring architects and youth alike.

Some of architect Imran’s finest works include:

1-KAUSAR BAUGH MASJID – PUNE, MAHARASHTRA

2-ISLAMIC SPIRITUAL CENTRE OF MAULANA SAJJAD NOMANI – NERAL, MAHARASHTRA

3-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – PHALTAN, MAHARASHTRA

4-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – NEPAL

5-MASJID MUHAMMAD BIN ABDULLAH INDO ISLIMIC CULTURAL – BABRI MASJID, UP AYODHYA

5-ISLAMIC SCHOOL AND INSTITUTIONAL CAMPUS – BANGLADESH