Imran Pratapgarhi: Poet and Politician

Imran Pratapgarhi (born in 1987) in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, is a renowned poet, social activist, and politician who has made significant contributions to both literature and public service. Known for his evocative poetry and fiery speeches, he seamlessly blends art and activism, making him a prominent voice for the marginalized.

Pratapgarhi rose to fame through his emotionally charged poetry, primarily written in Urdu and Hindi. His verses often reflect themes of social justice, communal harmony, and the struggles of the underprivileged. Imran’s poetic style resonates with the masses, especially the youth, as he fearlessly addresses issues of inequality and discrimination. His poetry recitals at mushairas (poetry gatherings) across India and abroad have earned him widespread recognition and a loyal following.

In addition to his literary achievements, Imran ventured into politics, driven by his commitment to social causes. He is a member of the Indian National Congress and currently serves as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, representing Uttar Pradesh. Imran’s entry into politics marked his transition from being a voice of dissent in literature to actively participating in policymaking. As a politician, he continues to champion the causes of social justice, secularism, and minority rights.

Imran Pratapgarhi’s ability to connect with people through both poetry and politics sets him apart. His works, such as the iconic poem Madad Chahiye during the COVID-19 crisis, highlight his empathetic nature and commitment to societal well-being.

A dynamic blend of poet and politician, Imran Pratapgarhi exemplifies how art can inspire change and politics can amplify the voices of the unheard. His journey reflects the power of words and actions in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society.

Irfan Habib: Historian/ Academic

Irfan Habib (born in 1931) is a distinguished Indian historian renowned for his extensive contributions to the study of medieval Indian history and his expertise in Marxist historiography. Born on August 10, 1931, in Vadodara, Gujarat, he hails from a scholarly family; his father, Mohammad Habib, was a prominent historian, and his mother, Sohaila Habib, was an accomplished academic. Irfan Habib pursued his education at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), where he completed his BA and MA in history. He later earned his DPhil from the University of Oxford, further honing his academic prowess.

Habib’s scholarly work primarily focuses on the economic and social history of medieval India, with a particular emphasis on the Mughal period. His landmark book, The Agrarian System of Mughal India, published in 1963, is considered a seminal work in the field, offering a detailed analysis of the agricultural economy under Mughal rule. He has also authored and edited numerous volumes, including Medieval India: The Study of a Civilization, Essays in Indian History: Towards a Marxist Perception, and the multi-volume People’s History of India series.

A committed Marxist, Habib’s approach to history emphasizes the importance of economic structures, class relations, and the role of material conditions in shaping historical developments. His work has been influential in challenging and reinterpreting established narratives of Indian history, often critiquing colonial and nationalist historiographies.

Beyond his research, Irfan Habib has been a dedicated educator, serving as a professor of history at AMU for many years. He has also been actively involved in various intellectual and cultural debates in India, particularly regarding the secular and pluralistic nature of Indian society.

Irfan Habib’s contributions to historical scholarship have earned him widespread recognition, making him one of India’s most respected historians. His work continues to inspire and influence generations of historians and scholars.

Irfan Razack: Businessman

Irfan Razack (born in 1953) is a prominent Indian businessman and the Chairman and Managing Director of Prestige Group, one of South India’s largest and most successful real estate development companies. Born into a business family in Bengaluru, Razack's journey into the real estate sector began with his deep understanding of the market and a vision to transform the urban landscape of his hometown.

Razack co-founded Prestige Group in 1986, alongside his brothers Rezwan and Noaman Razack. What began as a modest enterprise soon expanded under his leadership into a diversified conglomerate with interests in residential, commercial, retail, and hospitality sectors. Prestige Group's landmark projects, such as UB City, The Forum Mall, and Prestige Shantiniketan, have redefined the skyline of Bengaluru and other major cities in South India, earning the company a reputation for quality, innovation, and excellence.

Irfan Razack’s leadership style is marked by a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, ethical business practices, and a commitment to delivering world-class projects. His ability to anticipate market trends and adapt to the evolving needs of urbanization has been key to Prestige Group’s sustained growth. Under his stewardship, the company has received numerous awards and accolades, including the FIABCI Award for Excellence and the Best Developer in India award from various real estate forums.

Beyond his business acumen, Razack is known for his philanthropic endeavors. He is actively involved in various charitable initiatives, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and community development. His contributions to society have earned him recognition as a responsible corporate leader.

Irfan Razack's vision and entrepreneurial spirit have made him a leading figure in the Indian real estate industry. His legacy is reflected in the transformation of Bengaluru into a modern metropolis, with Prestige Group playing a pivotal role in shaping the city’s growth.

Javed Jamil: Islamic Scholar/ Academic

K.M.Kader Mohiuddin: Politician

K. M. Kader Mohideen, a seasoned politician and educationist from Tamil Nadu, has played a pivotal role in the socio-political landscape of the state. Born in Kadayanallur, Tamil Nadu, Mohideen is known for his unwavering commitment to public service and advocacy for marginalized communities.

He served as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, representing Tamil Nadu as part of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML). During his tenure, Mohideen emerged as a prominent voice on issues concerning minority rights, education, and social justice. His articulate debates and reasoned arguments in Parliament earned him respect across political lines.

In addition to his political career, Mohideen has been a steadfast advocate for education, emphasizing its transformative power. As an educationist, he has contributed significantly to the establishment and development of educational institutions that cater to underprivileged sections of society. His vision aligns with the ideals of empowering communities through knowledge and skill development.

Mohideen's leadership within the IUML has been instrumental in steering the party toward addressing grassroots issues. Under his guidance, the IUML has consistently worked for communal harmony, inclusive development, and representation for minorities in policymaking.

A principled leader, Kader Mohideen is admired for his integrity and humility. He remains a source of inspiration for young leaders aspiring to enter politics with a commitment to ethical governance and societal betterment.

Even outside active politics, K. M. Kader Mohideen continues to engage with the community, offering his wisdom and experience to guide future generations. His legacy reflects his dedication to building a just, equitable, and harmonious society.

Kalbe Jawad: Islamic Scholar, Community leader

Maulana Kalbe Jawad (borne in 1956) is a prominent Shia cleric, scholar, and community leader in India, known for his influential role in religious, social, and political spheres. Born on January 15, 1956, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, he comes from a distinguished family of scholars, including his father, Ayatollah Maulana Kalbe Abid, a revered figure in the Shia Muslim community.

Maulana Kalbe Jawad received his early religious education in Lucknow, a city renowned for its rich Islamic heritage, particularly within the Shia community. He furthered his studies in Islamic theology and jurisprudence at the prestigious Hawza Ilmiyya in Qom, Iran, where he deepened his understanding of Shia thought and philosophy. His education and background have made him a key religious authority for Shia Muslims, both in India and abroad.

As the Imam of the Asafi Mosque in Lucknow, Maulana Kalbe Jawad has been a vocal advocate for the rights and welfare of the Shia community. He has led numerous initiatives to promote social justice, education, and healthcare among his followers. His leadership extends beyond religious duties; he has been actively involved in addressing issues like communal harmony, sectarian violence, and the preservation of religious freedom in India.

Maulana Kalbe Jawad is also known for his participation in interfaith dialogues, where he promotes unity among different religious communities. His efforts to foster understanding between Shia and Sunni Muslims have been particularly noteworthy, as he consistently advocates for peace and cooperation within the broader Muslim Ummah.

In addition to his religious and social activism, Maulana Kalbe Jawad has been a strong voice against the persecution of Shia Muslims and other minority groups in India. He has organized and led protests, raising awareness about the challenges faced by his community and advocating for their rights.

Maulana Kalbe Jawad’s influence extends to the global Shia community, where he is respected for his wisdom, leadership, and commitment to justice. His work continues to inspire millions, making him one of the most important religious figures in contemporary India.

Kaleem Siddiqui: Islamic Scholar and Preacher)
Maulana Kaleem Siddiqui (born in 1957) in Phulat village, Muzaffarnagar district, Uttar Pradesh, is an Indian Islamic scholar, preacher, and educationist. A disciple of Muhammad Zakariyya al-Kandhlawi and Abul Hasan Ali Hasani Nadwi, Siddiqui is also associated with the Tablighi Jamaat. He was raised in a family of devout Muslims; his father, Haji Muhammad Amin, was a zamindar and follower of Mahmud Hasan Deobandi. Siddiqui received early education at Faizul Islam Madrasa (now Jamia Imam Waliullah), memorizing portions of the Quran during his schooling. He completed his B.Sc. from Meerut College and was ranked 57th in the All India Pre-Medical Test but chose to pursue Islamic studies at Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama instead of a medical career.

Since the 1980s, Siddiqui has served as the administrator of Jamia Imam Waliullah Islamia in Phulat. He is also the president of the Global Peace Center and Jamia Waliullah Trust. In 2014, Siddiqui remarked on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's shift in rhetoric, describing him as "more mellowed and responsible."
In September 2021, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested Siddiqui, accusing him of leading a large-scale religious conversion network. Authorities alleged that the network, funded by Gulf countries and the UK, was responsible for converting around 500,000 people to Islam. Siddiqui denied the allegations, asserting that he only facilitated legal formalities for willing converts. His arrest drew widespread criticism from the Muslim community, with protests erupting at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and demands for his release by various organizations. However, Hindu nationalist groups praised the arrest as a necessary step against forced conversions.

In April 2023, the Allahabad High Court granted Siddiqui bail after 18 months in custody.On September 10, 2024, a special NIA court convicted him and others, including Umar Gautam, for their involvement in a pan-India illegal conversion network. The following day, an NIA-ATS court sentenced Siddiqui and 11 others to life imprisonment. However his lawyer has announced plans to challenge the verdict, citing weak evidence and legal inconsistencies.

Khalid Saifullah Rahmani: Islamic Scholar, Academic  

Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani (born in 1956) is a prominent Islamic scholar, jurist, and author known for his profound contributions to Islamic jurisprudence and thought. Born on July 15, 1956, in Phulwari Sharif, Bihar, India, Maulana Rahmani hails from a family deeply rooted in Islamic scholarship. He is a descendant of the renowned Sufi saint, Shah Abdur Rahim Raipuri, which significantly influenced his early upbringing and spiritual outlook.

Maulana Rahmani pursued his Islamic education at Darul Uloom Deoband, one of the most prestigious Islamic seminaries in the world. There, he excelled in his studies, specializing in Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) and Arabic literature. His intellectual rigor and deep understanding of Islamic law soon distinguished him as a scholar of repute.

Throughout his career, Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani has held several key positions in the Islamic scholarly community. He is the General Secretary of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), an influential body that addresses issues related to Muslim personal laws in India. In this role, he has been at the forefront of advocating for the protection of Muslim personal law and has played a critical role in engaging with contemporary legal and social challenges facing the Muslim community in India.

Maulana Rahmani is also the founder and rector of Al-Mahad Al-Ali Al-Islami, a higher Islamic educational institution that aims to produce scholars equipped to address modern challenges within an Islamic framework. He has authored numerous books and articles on a wide range of topics, including Islamic jurisprudence, social issues, and contemporary challenges faced by Muslims.

His writings, lectures, and legal opinions (fatwas) are highly regarded for their clarity, depth, and relevance to modern contexts. Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani continues to be a guiding light for scholars, students, and the Muslim community at large, contributing to the preservation and development of Islamic thought in the contemporary world.

Khalil-ur-Rahman Sajjad Nomani: Islamic Scholar, Academic and Preacher  

Maulana Khalil-ur-Rahman Sajjad Nomani (born in 1955) is a highly respected Islamic scholar, author, and speaker known for his extensive contributions to Islamic education and thought. Born into a scholarly family in 1955 in Lucknow, India, he is the son of the renowned Islamic scholar Maulana Manzoor Nomani. This lineage of scholarship deeply influenced Maulana Sajjad Nomani, who has become a leading figure in the Indian and global Muslim community.

Maulana Sajjad Nomani received his early education at Nadwatul Ulama in Lucknow, one of India’s most esteemed Islamic seminaries, where he studied under some of the most prominent scholars of the time. He later pursued higher Islamic studies at Darul Uloom Deoband and then traveled to Medina, Saudi Arabia, to further his knowledge. His education is marked by a strong foundation in traditional Islamic sciences, combined with an understanding of contemporary issues, which has made his scholarship particularly relevant.

He is best known for his efforts in promoting Islamic education, unity among Muslims, and his advocacy for the rights of Muslims in India. Maulana Sajjad Nomani has been actively involved with the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), where he serves as a spokesperson, addressing issues related to Muslim personal law and the preservation of Islamic identity in the face of modern challenges.

A prolific author, Maulana Sajjad Nomani has written numerous books and articles on a variety of topics, including Islamic jurisprudence, spirituality, and social issues. His works are widely read and respected for their clarity, depth, and practical relevance. He is also a sought-after speaker, known for his eloquence and ability to connect with audiences across different backgrounds.

Maulana Sajjad Nomani is deeply committed to the educational and spiritual upliftment of the Muslim community. He regularly delivers lectures and conducts workshops across India and internationally, focusing on youth empowerment, interfaith dialogue, and the importance of maintaining a strong Islamic identity in the modern world.

Through his tireless efforts, Maulana Khalil-ur-Rahman Sajjad Nomani has become a guiding force in contemporary Islamic thought, advocating for unity, justice, and the spiritual development of Muslims. His work continues to inspire and guide the Muslim community in navigating the complexities of the modern world while staying true to their faith.

M H Jawahirullah: Politician/ Activist

M. H. Jawahirullah (born in 1959) is a prominent Indian politician and sitting MLA of Tamil Nadu Assembly representing Papanasam constituency. He is a social activist and the founding president of the Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK), a political party based in Tamil Nadu. Born in Udangudi village in Thoothukundi district , Jawahirullah has dedicated his life to advocating for the rights and welfare of marginalized communities, particularly the Muslim minority in the state.

Jawahirullah's early education was rooted in both traditional Islamic studies and modern academics. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Economics and later completed his Master's in the same field, followed by a Ph.D. in Islamic Studies. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his later work in social activism and politics.

In 2009, Jawahirullah founded the Manithaneya Makkal Katchi, a party focused on the socio-economic upliftment of the marginalized and underrepresented sections of society. Under his leadership, MMK has played a significant role in Tamil Nadu politics, often aligning with major political alliances to advocate for the rights of Muslims and other minorities.

Jawahirullah's political career is marked by his tenure as a Member of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, representing the Ramanathapuram constituency from 2011 to 2016. During his time in the assembly, he was known for his outspoken views on issues such as social justice, communal harmony, and the rights of minorities. His legislative efforts often focused on education, healthcare, and employment opportunities for the underprivileged.

Beyond politics, Jawahirullah is actively involved in various social welfare initiatives. He has been a vocal advocate for communal harmony and has worked tirelessly to bridge the gap between different religious and social groups in Tamil Nadu.

M. H. Jawahirullah continues to be a significant figure in Tamil Nadu's political landscape, championing the cause of justice, equality, and empowerment for all.