Obaidullah Khan Azmi:Politician, Islamic Scholar 

Maulana Obaidullah Khan Azmi is an Indian politician and Islamic scholar and vice president of All India Muslim Personal Law Board. On March 13, 2023, he joined the Janata Dal (Secular). Azmi served as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, from 1990 to 2008. He represented Uttar Pradesh from 1990 to 1996 and Jharkhand from 1996 to 2002, as a member of the Janata Dal. During 1992–1996, he held the position of General Secretary of the Janata Dal and later became its Senior Vice-President. From 2002 to 2008, he represented Madhya Pradesh in the Rajya Sabha as a member of the Indian National Congress.

A founding member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) since its establishment in 1973, Azmi later parted ways to co-found the All India Muslim Personal Law Conference (AIMPLC) with Arshadul Qadri in 1986. However, the AIMPLC was short-lived, and Azmi eventually rejoined AIMPLB as a board member.

Azmi gained national prominence through his fiery speeches opposing the Supreme Court’s judgment in the Shah Bano case. His speeches, recorded and widely distributed as audio cassettes, made him a sought-after orator at anti-Shah Bano case gatherings, particularly in Mumbai. However, his speeches were deemed inflammatory by the Mumbai police, leading to a case being filed against him and his expulsion from the city.

Obaidullah Khan Azmi remains a significant figure in Indian politics and Islamic scholarship, known for his vocal advocacy on issues concerning Muslim personal laws and his active participation in socio-religious discourse.

Omar Abdullah: Politician

Omar Abdullah, born on March 10, 1970, is an influential Indian politician currently serving as the chief minister of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. He was previously the chief minister of the state from 2009 to 2014 and has been the vice president of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference since 2009. Abdullah began his political career in 1998 when he became the youngest member of the Lok Sabha, representing Srinagar until 2009 and also served as the Union Minister of State for External Affairs under Atal Bihari Vajpayee's NDA government.

The son of former chief minister Farooq Abdullah and grandson of Sheikh Abdullah, Omar continued a family legacy in politics. He notably became the 11th chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir on January 5, 2009, leading a coalition government. However, he faced political challenges, including the defeat of his party in the 2002 elections, though they returned to power in 2008. His government aimed to address issues stemming from insurgency and violence in the region.

In 2019, Abdullah was detained in connection with the revocation of Article 370, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its semi-autonomous status, a move he vehemently opposed. Abdullah was released from detention in March 2020. Following his return to politics, he participated in the 2024 elections, where his party, in alliance with the INDIA bloc, secured enough seats for him to be sworn in again as chief minister on October 16, 2024.

Personal life details include his early education in Kashmir and England. Born to a nurse and a politician, Abdullah briefly worked in the private sector before entering politics. He has since taken active roles in various committees and retained significant influence within his party and the region’s political landscape.

P. A. Inamdar: Educationist

P. A. Inamdar (born 945) is a renowned educationist, lawyer, and social reformer whose contributions have significantly shaped the landscape of modern education in India, particularly among the Muslim community. Based in Pune, Maharashtra, Inamdar is best known as the driving force behind the Maharashtra Cosmopolitan Education Society (MCES), under which he has established a network of educational institutions catering to diverse disciplines and promoting inclusive, quality education.

Born in a modest family, Inamdar’s journey is one of resilience and determination. He pursued his legal education and practiced law, but his passion for education led him to focus on creating institutions that empower individuals through knowledge and skill development. His vision was to address the educational and socio-economic challenges faced by marginalized communities and provide opportunities for holistic growth.

Under his leadership, MCES has flourished, with notable institutions such as the Azam Campus in Pune, which is home to over 25 colleges and schools offering courses in engineering, law, management, pharmacy, and more. Azam Campus stands as a beacon of excellence and communal harmony, attracting students from various backgrounds.

Inamdar is also recognized for his pivotal role in the landmark P. A. Inamdar vs. State of Maharashtra case (2005), where the Supreme Court upheld the rights of minority institutions to maintain autonomy in admissions and administration. This judgment reinforced the constitutional protections for minority rights in education.

Inamdar’s efforts extend beyond academia. He actively engages in social initiatives, advocating for gender equality, interfaith harmony, and community development. His dedication to empowering society through education has earned him accolades and respect as a visionary leader and reformer.

P. A. Inamdar’s enduring legacy lies in his belief that education is the most powerful tool for societal transformation and the key to building a progressive, equitable future.

P. Mohamed Ali: A Visionary Businessman and Philanthropist

Dr. P. Mohamed Ali, an accomplished and highly respected businessman from Thalikulam, a village in Thrissur district, Kerala, is renowned for his unwavering commitment to education and philanthropy. His multifaceted contributions span infrastructure development in Oman and India, making him a prominent figure among the Indian expatriate community in the Gulf region. 

A civil engineer by profession, Dr. Mohamed Ali arrived in Oman in 1972 and established Galfar Engineering, which has grown into Oman’s largest private-sector employer. Today, the Galfar Group operates across Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Kuwait, and India, employing over 65,000 people from diverse nationalities. Its ventures encompass civil and industrial construction, oil and gas, roads and bridges, manufacturing, heavy equipment, electrical and instrumentation, water and wastewater management, education, and hospitality. 

Contributions to Education

Dr. Mohamed Ali's initiatives in Oman’s education sector are groundbreaking. He established an Indian School, serving over 3,500 students, and the National University of Science & Technology (NUST), which commenced operations in 2018 by merging three prominent institutions:

Caledonian College of Engineering – A leading engineering institution in the region.

Oman Medical College – Training future medical professionals.

College of Pharmacy – Focused on pharmaceutical education.

Dr. Ali promoted two operator institutes providing on-the-job training for Omani nationals. Collectively, these institutions serve over 10,000 students, exemplifying his dedication to education.

Business Ventures in India

Dr. Mohamed Ali’s business interests in India have flourished in the infrastructure and hospitality sectors. His enterprises include Mfar Constructions in Bengaluru and Mfar Hotels in Kochi, which manage Le Méridien and the International Convention Centre in Kochi, as well as the Westin Hotel in Chennai. His hospitality ventures extend to Azaiba Hotels LLC (Hormuz Grand) in Oman, and two hotels under construction in the Maldives and Sri Lanka.

He is also a founding director of Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) and Infrastructure Kerala Limited (INKEL), both of which were promoted by the Government of Kerala.

Philanthropy and Community Development

Dr. Mohamed Ali's dedication to uplifting his native village is exemplified by the Talikulam Vikas Trust, established in 2005 to provide education, employment, housing, and healthcare to his community. This ambitious initiative was successfully realized in 2010.

The P.M. Foundation, founded by him, supports education among backward communities, while the CSM Central School offers CBSE curriculum education. Dr. Ali also chairs the Social Advancement Foundation of India (SAFI), an institution providing educational opportunities to socially and economically disadvantaged groups. This institution was inaugurated by then Vice President of India, Hamid Ansari, in 2011.

Leadership Roles and Recognitions

Dr. Mohamed Ali has held numerous prestigious positions, including:

Member of the Governing Body of the Council for Promotion of Overseas Employment (Government of India).

Founder Chairman of the Oman Society of Contractors (OSC) and the Oman Petroleum Alliance (OPAL).

Vice Chairman of the Omanization Joint Committee.

His exceptional contributions have earned him global recognition and several prestigious awards, including:

Oman Civil Order Award (2002).

Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (2004).

Honorary Doctor of Science from Glasgow Caledonian University, UK.

Lifetime Achievement Award from the Times Group (2010).

IATO Hall of Fame Award for contributions to hospitality and the Cochin International Airport.

In 2013, Dr. Mohamed Ali was honored by the President of India at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas for his exemplary service to the nation.

Legacy of Vision and Dedication

Dr. P. Mohamed Ali continues to inspire with his visionary leadership, unwavering dedication to education, and impactful contributions to infrastructure and community development. His life’s work stands as a testament to the transformative power of compassion, innovation, and perseverance.

P.V. Abdul Wahab: Politician, Philanthropist

P.V. Abdul Wahab (born 1950) an accomplished entrepreneur and seasoned politician, is a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, representing Kerala. A prominent leader of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), he also serves as the party’s National Treasurer, playing a vital role in strengthening its financial and organizational framework.

Born on July 1, 1951, in Malappuram, Kerala, Abdul Wahab grew up in a family with strong values of education and community service. He embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in the Gulf, establishing successful ventures in real estate, manufacturing, and hospitality. His business acumen earned him respect as a visionary leader in both India and the Middle East.

Abdul Wahab’s foray into politics was marked by his unwavering commitment to socio-economic development and communal harmony. As a Rajya Sabha MP, he has been vocal on issues concerning minority rights, education, and the upliftment of marginalized communities. His insightful contributions during parliamentary debates reflect his deep understanding of India's socio-political landscape and his dedication to fostering inclusive growth.

Apart from his political and business pursuits, Abdul Wahab is a noted philanthropist. Through various charitable initiatives, he has contributed significantly to healthcare, education, and disaster relief efforts in Kerala and beyond. His efforts in promoting quality education for underprivileged children and advancing skill development programs are widely recognized.

A strong advocate for communal harmony and democratic values, P.V. Abdul Wahab embodies the ethos of the Indian Union Muslim League, which emphasizes secularism and justice. With his blend of political acumen, social responsibility, and business expertise, he continues to inspire trust and respect among his constituents and colleagues, making him a distinguished figure in Indian public life.

Rakibul Hussain: Politician

Rakibul Hussain (born in 1964) is a prominent Indian politician and a seasoned leader with a dynamic political career spanning decades. Currently serving as the Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha from Dhubri, Assam, his victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, defeating AIUDF chief Maulana Badruddin Ajmal by a staggering margin of 10,12,476 votes, stands as a testament to his widespread appeal and political acumen.

A postgraduate in Political Science from Aligarh Muslim University, Hussain's academic foundation has greatly shaped his political perspective. He began his political journey with the Indian National Congress, representing the Samaguri constituency in the Assam Legislative Assembly since 2001. His consistent electoral success highlights his deep connection with his constituents.

Hussain held several significant ministerial portfolios in the Tarun Gogoi-led government in Assam, showcasing his versatility. Between 2002 and 2016, he served as Minister of State and later as Cabinet Minister for Home, Political Affairs, Forest and Environment, Panchayat and Rural Development, Tourism, Information and Public Relations, and other key departments. His contributions during this period were pivotal in driving development initiatives, enhancing environmental policies, and improving rural governance.

From 2021 to 2024, Hussain served as the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly, where he played a critical role in articulating the opposition's stand on crucial state issues.

Beyond politics, Hussain has been actively involved in sports administration. He served as General Secretary of the Assam Olympic Association and became the President of the All India Carrom Federation in 2015, promoting sports development in the region.

Rakibul Hussain's political journey is marked by dedication, effective governance, and a commitment to public service, making him a key figure in Assam's political landscape.

Rana Ayyub: Journalist

Rana Ayyub (born in 1984) is an award-winning investigative journalist, author, and global advocate for press freedom. Known for her fearless reporting and unflinching commitment to uncovering the truth, Ayyub has carved a niche in the world of journalism as one of India’s most prominent and controversial voices.

Born and raised in Mumbai, Ayyub studied at Sophia College and began her career in journalism with leading Indian publications. Her investigative work gained international recognition with the publication of her book, Gujarat Files: Anatomy of a Cover-Up (2016), a self-published exposé based on an eight-month undercover investigation into the 2002 Gujarat riots and their aftermath. The book, a landmark in Indian journalism, shed light on alleged complicity by powerful political figures, earning her both acclaim and threats.

Ayyub’s incisive reporting extends beyond Gujarat. She has written extensively on issues of human rights, religious polarization, and governmental accountability. Her articles have appeared in prominent global outlets such as The Washington Post, The New York Times, and Time Magazine, where she continues to highlight issues of social justice and marginalization.

Her fearless approach has often made her a target of online abuse, legal challenges, and intimidation. Despite these challenges, she remains undeterred, advocating for press freedom and amplifying marginalized voices. Ayyub’s contributions have been recognized globally; she was honored with the McGill Medal for Journalistic Courage in 2020 and listed among Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2022.

Beyond her journalism, Rana Ayyub uses her platform to address systemic injustices and champion the rights of the oppressed. Her work exemplifies the power of journalism as a tool for accountability, truth, and change. In an era of rising authoritarianism, Ayyub’s voice stands as a testament to courage and integrity.

Rashid Shaz: Islamic Scholar, Intellectual and Academic

Rashid Shaz (born 1963) is a distinguished Indian Islamic scholar, author, and professor at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), known for his profound contributions to Islamic philosophy, interfaith dialogue, and contemporary Muslim thought. As an ISESCO Ambassador for Dialogue among Civilizations, he has dedicated his career to fostering mutual understanding and addressing the challenges faced by the global Muslim community.

Shaaz’s literary works reflect his innovative approach to Islamic scholarship, focusing on the revival of Muslim intellectual traditions and the intersection of faith and modernity. His acclaimed books, including Idrak Zawal-e-Ummat, Lastam Pokh, Kitabul Urooj, and Manifesto of United Islam, delve into the challenges and prospects of Islamic civilization in a rapidly changing world. His pivotal 2008 document, Calling for a New Dialogue between Islam and Christianity, released in Monaco, underscores his commitment to interfaith harmony.

In 1992, during the Oslo Peace Accord discussions, Shaaz embarked on a peace mission to London and Washington, advocating for Muslim sentiments on Jerusalem. Two years later, he launched the Milli Times International, a weekly newspaper from New Delhi, which ran until 2001, providing a platform for critical issues affecting Muslims globally.

Shaaz’s activism extends to bridging intellectual gaps. His work on shibh-Ahle-Kitab builds on the legacies of Al-Bairuni and Shahrastani, motivating enlightened Abrahamic intellectuals through platforms like FutureIslam.com.

Beyond his global engagements, Professor Shaz has remained a vocal critic of social injustices, including his condemnation of Aligarh’s silence on lynching incidents in India. He advocates for reform within the Muslim world, urging introspection and the revival of the progressive ethos of early Islamic civilization.

A mentor, thought leader, and reformist, Rashid Shaz’s legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to knowledge, justice, and the harmonious coexistence of humanity.

Muhammad Saad Kandhlawi: Religious Leader/Spiritual Leader

Muhammad Saad Kandhlawi ((born 1965) is an Indian Muslim preacher, leading the Nizamuddin Markaz faction of the Tablighi Jamaat, a global Islamic revival movement. He is the great-grandson of Muhammad Ilyas Kandhlawi, the founder of the Tablighi Jamaat, and the grandson of former leader Muhammad Yusuf Kandhlawi. Saad Kandhlawi was born in Kandhla, Shamli District, Uttar Pradesh, and completed his Islamic studies (Dars-e-Nizami) at Madrasa Kashiful Uloom, Nizamuddin Markaz, in Delhi in 1987.

After the death of Tablighi Jamaat’s former chief, Inamul Hasan Kandhlawi, a shura (council) was formed to elect a new leader. Though the council failed to appoint a single leader, Muhammad Saad Kandhlawi eventually emerged as the head of the movement, particularly after the passing of the other shura members. He was officially recognized as the leader of the Tablighi Jamaat during the All India Jod and the Tongi Ijtema in 2017.

Despite his leadership, Saad Kandhlawi's tenure has not been without controversy. Some of his statements have prompted fatwas from Deobandi scholars. South African scholar Mufti Ebrahim Desai issued a fatwa against him, as did India’s Darul Uloom Deoband, raising concerns about his leadership. Zaid Mazahiri of Nadwatul Ulama also penned treatises on the internal disputes within the Tablighi Jamaat. However, British scholar Yusuf Motala defended Kandhlawi.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Saad faced further scrutiny when a religious event organized at the Nizamuddin Markaz resulted in a COVID-19 outbreak. This led to an FIR against him. In 2021, the Delhi High Court ordered the police to open his house following its closure.

Saad was also criticized when media reports exposed his ownership of a luxurious farmhouse, contrasting with the simple lifestyle he promotes to his followers. Despite these revelations, his family defended him, stating he rarely visited the property.