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Indian expatriate organisation Qatar Velicham conducted an Iftar meet at CIC Hall in Ain Khalid. Shajudheen Hyder Moppen was the guest speaker. Shafaat Veliancode presided. The meeting started with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an by Hanifa Mullakkad. Jamsheer P K welcomed the gathering and Niaz proposed a vote of thanks.

The scope of worship in Islam is universal, in the literal sense. For the Qur’an tells us that each and every constituent of creation near or far, seen or unseen, animate or inanimate - worships The True and Only God. “Indeed, every being in the heavens and the earth but comes to the All-Merciful as a worshipper.” [Qur’an; 19: 93] It is only human beings, then, that are called upon to voluntarily join in the wonderful symphony of worshipful creation.Islam’s five pillars are the cornerstones upon which we build such an outstanding and worshipful life. But no such establishment of a dignified life of faith on earth, either personally or socially, can take place without one essential pillar that represents the intersection of our professed convictions and our practical lives. Zakaah is that pillar, for it is the primary instrument that Allah has placed at our disposal to spiritually and socially uplift every Muslim and the entirety of our community and thereby to assert a benevolent hand for the commonweal of humanity. Among Zakaah’s most blessed manifestations - and certainly its most widespread - is the obligatory annual giving of the Zakat al-Fitr charity, before the solemnising of Ramadan by Eid prayer.The overarching meaning of ZakaahThe Arabic word ‘Zakaah’ means ‘purity,’ ‘cleansing,’ ‘wholesomeness,’ and ‘integrity’ (in both their physical and moral senses). It means, also, ‘growth’ or ‘increase.’ Understanding these linguistic meanings helps our proper appreciation of what Zakaah is as a financial, or fiduciary rite mandated by Allah. For, indeed, each of these senses finds its native expression in Zakaah’s correct function in our lives and in our local communities and societies. It is known also by the term Sadaqatul-Fitr, or the Sincere, or Righteous Charity of Fast Breaking, because it testifies to one’s sincerity to Allah and his or her righteousness in seeking to comply with Allah’s legislation, or Sanctioned Laws and legislations.Zakaah’s primary goal is not that of simple “charity.” Allah has instituted other mechanisms for this purpose. Rather, Zakaah is much farther seeing and reaching. Its objective is to secure the psycho-spiritual well-being of every single Muslim as an individual servant of Allah, and to safeguard the socio-moral welfare of the entire Muslim nation.The reason that the objectives of Zakaah are so profound and sweeping is that its principle is so universally sound and materially decisive. Zakaah is the incumbent giving of wealth, in all its material manifestations, from all those who have it (and this is its comprehensive aspect) to all those whose need gives them a right to a minimally dignifying sum from it - and this is its deeper significance. For it means that Allah has chosen to invest the wealth of some of us, for lawful increase, with others among us as a trust that must be conveyed to its rightful beneficiaries, if our own holdings are to remain pure and our societies are to have integrity.What is, indeed, so profound about this is that it underscores to humanity that all of its wealth, in fact, is disbursed to it on loan from Allah, who, as the Creator, is the sole Owner of life and all that the living possess. Allah has revealed this pillar of faith to every believing community in history. But He has expanded it into an inclusive, highly systematised institution enjoined upon all who would follow Islam.The sum of Zakat al-FitrOriginally, the stated amount of Zakat al-Fitr was a Saa’ of dates, or barley, or wheat. A Saa’ was a “goblet,” or drinking utensil, at the time of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam. There have been periodic inquiries by Muslim scholars (like the well-known investigation by Abu Yoosuf, the great Hanafi scholar) to determine updated weight-and-measure equivalents to that of the of Saa’ at the time of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam. There is some minimal discrepancy, or difference, in determining this weight based upon the conversion of quantities of varying items (dates and wheat, for example) into a unified measure. Thus a Saa’ is now estimated to be equal to anywhere from 2.176 to 2.25 kilograms, or just under 5 lbs.There is, however, an opinion in the Hanafi school of jurisprudence with regard to determining the correct amount of Zakat al-Fitr that specifies a half a Saa’ of harvested wheat grain or its flour, but one full Saa’ for items such as barley, dates, and raisins. However, this was based on the availability, or scarcity, of these items at the time this opinion emerged. Hence, the price of the staple items by which Zakat al-Fitr is determined must be reconsidered in contemporary circumstances to the advantage of the Zakat-Fitr recipients.The classical Maaliki, Shaafi’ee and Hanbali positions on the type of Zakat al-Fitr offering discusses payment only in terms of weights and measures of provisions, or foodstuffs. It is the Hanafi opinion, however, that holds sway in this matter, which states that Muslims may give the price of Zakat al-Fitr, originally determined for grains and dates, in contemporary currency equivalents. They argue this position on the basis of a higher good or more practicable benefit, saying that money enables the needy person to buy what he or she deems to be most desirable or necessary on the day of Eid. They point out that a person may, for example, not be in need of a provision of corn, or the like, but rather in want of clothing, or meat, etc.Who is liable for the Zakat al-Fitr paymentAs we have noted previously, every Muslim is liable for the payment of Zakat al-Fitr, provided food exists for one, and one’s dependents, for Eid eve and the following day. Knowing now what a Saa’ is, in terms of its contemporary weight equivalents, we can be more exact in defining who is liable to make the Zakat al-Fitr payment. Every Muslim, whether rich or poor, who possesses (or has stored on his behalf) grains, or similar foodstuffs - or the monetary means of achieving the like of this - sufficient for one’s sustenance, and that of one’s dependents for a full night and day, must give Zakat al-Fitr.This sum is due not per household, but per person. The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “Give Zakat al-Fitr on behalf of [all your] dependents” [Al-Bayhaqi], for he indicated that Zakat al-Fitr would purify the wealth of the rich and be the cause of Allah giving more to the poor than what they have given. Thus whoever meets the feeding requirements for his or her family must pay the Zakat al-Fitr payment for each and every household member.The Shaafi’ee and the Hanbali schools of jurisprudence state that a Muslim should give the Zakat al-Fitr payment on behalf of him - or herself and on behalf of every single person under his or her care—including one’s wife; children (even if they are older but still dependent, or ineligible to make the payment according to Zakat al-Fitr requirements); parents (if they are poor or dependent); and any others who are established dependents of the household (such as foster children, orphans, and the like).Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/

‘Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, reported: “When the last 10 days of Ramadan came, the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, would stay up all night, wake his family and gird his loins”. [Al-Bukhari & Muslim].In the book of Imam Muslim the narration read: “He strove hard and girded his loins”. Imam Ibn Hajar, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “His staying all night was in worship and acts of obedience, and the reason he woke his family was for them to pray the optional night prayers, and girding his loins referred to him abstaining from sleeping with his wives” ‘Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, reported: “The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, used to strive hard (in worship) during the last 10 days of Ramadan in a way that he did not strive at any other times.” [Muslim]Zaynab Bint Umm Salamah, may Allah be pleased with her, reported: “Whenever the last 10 nights of Ramadan came, the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, would not leave any member of his family who could physically pray the night prayers but would wake them up.” [At-Tirmithi]The Way of the Prophet in I’tikaaf‘Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, reported: “The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, used to do I’tikaaf(residing in the mosque with the intention of worship) during the last 10 days of Ramadanuntil he passed away, then his wives did I’tikaaf after him”Ibn ‘Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, reported: “The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, used to do I’tikaaf during the last 10 days of Ramadan” [Al-Bukhari & Muslim]‘Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, reported: “When the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, wanted to do I’tikaaf, he would pray Fajr, then enter the place where he was to do I’tikaaf” [Al-Bukhari & Muslims]Once the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, wanted to do I’tikaaf in the last 10 nights of Ramadan, so he commanded a small tent be placed for him in the mosque. Zaynab, may Allah be pleased with her, also commanded a tent be placed for her for I’tikaaf, and after that other wives of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, commanded likewise. After he, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, prayed the Fajr prayer he noticed the tents and commanded his tent to be removed and did not resume I’tikaaf the remaining part of Ramadan, and instead he went into I’tikaaf in the first 10 nights of the month of Shawwaal. This proves that he, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, had a special isolated area away from the people for I’tikaaf that was enough only for him.Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported: “The Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, used to perform I’tikaaf every year in the month of Ramadan for 10 days, and when it was the year of his death, he stayed in I’tikaaf for 20 days”. [Al-Bukhari]Ibn ‘Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “Seek Laylatul-Qadr (i.e. the Night of Decree) in the last 10 days of Ramadan” [Al-Bukhari]Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “The Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, did I’tikaaf during the first 10 days of Ramadan, then he did I’tikaaf during the middle 10 days in a Turkish tent [a circular structure] in which a mat was placed. He said: “So he, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, took the mat in his hand and put it at the side of the tent, then he raised his head to speak to the people, so they came closer to him. He, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “I did I’tikaaf during the first 10 days, seeking this night, then I did I’tikaaf during the middle 10 days. Then someone came to me and told me that it is in the last 10 days, so whoever among you wants to do I’tikaaf, let him do so.” So the people did I’tikaaf with him. He, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “I was shown an odd-numbered night, in the morning of which I was prostrating in mud and water”. Then in the morning of the 21st, he, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, got up to pray the Fajr prayer and it was raining; the roof of the mosque leaked, and there was mud and water. He, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, came out when he had finished praying, and there was mud and water on his forehead and nose. That was the morning of the 21st, one of the last 10 days. [Muslim]Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “Whoever stays up praying during Laylatul-Qadr (i.e. in prayer) out of faith and in the hope of Allah’s reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven.” [Al-Bukhari & Muslim]‘Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, reported: “When the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, was in I’tikaaf, he inclined his head towards me and I combed his hair whilst I was on my menses inside my room (i.e. which overlooked the mosque), and he did not enter the house except for a need (i.e. relieving himself).” [Al-Bukhari & Muslim] He, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, would walk his wives back home if any of them visited him in the mosque during I’tikaaf.Al-Husayn Ibn Ali, may Allah be pleased with him, reported: “Safiyyah the wife of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, came and visited him during his I’tikaaf in the mosque during the last 10 days of Ramadan. She spoke with him for a while, then she stood up to go home. The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, stood up with her to walk her back, then when she reached the door of the mosque, by the door of Umm Salamah, two men of the Ansaar passed by and greeted the Prophet,sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, and rapidly moved away. The Prophet said to them: “Wait, this is Safiyyah bint Huyay.” They said: “SubhaanAllah, O Messenger of Allah!” They felt distressed (that he thought they might think something bad). The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “The devil is as close to a man as his blood.” In another report: “The devil flows through the veins of a man like blood. I was afraid that the devil might cast some evil ideas into your hearts.”[Al-Bukhari & Muslim]Ibn al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Whenever the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, was in I’tikaaf, a mat would be placed for him and a bed, and if he went out to use the bathroom, he would not talk to anyone, and his I’tikaaf area was small, unlike what some ignorant people do by making their area fit 10 people so that they can receive visitors. This is contrary to the manner of the Prophet’s I’tikaaf”.Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/

A recent study by scientists from the Dutch University of Amsterdam found that human memory could fade even seconds after certain events.According to the first author of the research from the University of Amsterdam Dr. Marte Otten, even at the shortest term, our memory might not be fully reliable, even after one and a half seconds, two seconds, three seconds then we start filling in based on our expectations.Otten and colleagues mention that previous research has shown that when people are presented with a rotated or mirror-image letter, they more so report seeing the letter in its correct position, which is a remark that was neglected by participants who mistook the presentation, while Otten recalls that it is likely to be because of memory.For further verification, the researchers conducted four experiments, initially examining participants to ensure that they were able to complete basic visual memory tasks before displaying them with a six or eight-letter circuit, one or two of which were mirrored image forms. For seconds, participants were presented with a second circle of letters that they were asked to ignore as a form of distraction, then asked to identify a particular form among a series of options that existed in the first circuit, and researchers assessed the participants' confidence in their answers to the choice. The results of 23 participants who reported high confidence in their answers revealed that the most common error was to choose the inverse form of the target form.The research group explained this phenomenon that the errors were driven by participants' knowledge of the alphabetical and hence their expectations, and that the high confidence in which participants reported their answers also excluded the possibility that the results might be a mere speculation for participants.

KG-1 classes for the academic year 2023-24 started in a cheerful atmosphere at Noble Indian Kindergarten. Principal Shibu Abdul Rasheed, head of section Asma Roshan and teachers welcomed the newcomers at a special programme on the first day.

Tulu Koota Qatar organised a spectacular Tulu Jaatre – 2023 event attended by an audience of more than 3,000. Coastal Karnataka special pili vesha/pili nalike (tiger dance), popular folk dance Yakshagana, Baila dance-The dance of Nativity, Jaatre dance and a dance competition won by Kerala Women’s Initiative Qatar were among the highlights. President Kiran Anand welcomed the gathering. Ravi Katapadi, a distinguished social worker from Tulunaad, was the special guest of honour. Past president and patron M Ravi Shetty was felicitated for being bestowed with the Karnataka Rajyothsava Award-2022. Saiheel Rai was the compere.

Fosa Qatar, the alumni association of the Farook College in Kerala, will hold various programmes to mark the college’s platinum jubilee. In this connection, an online summit named Fosa Legends Roots was attended by alumni from across the world. Several dignitaries including Kerala Minister of Public Works and Tourism P A Mohamed Riyas spoke. Organising committee chairman Mashood V C presided. Fosa Qatar general secretary Bakkar Ajmal and president Askar Rahman were present.

Malarvadi Children's Organisation - Rayyan zone conducted various competitions in connection with the holy month of Ramadan for children up to 13 years of age. The conclusion was marked with an Iftar for the participants along with differently-abled children as special guests. Raya Abdul Rasheed, Fellah C K, Musna Bassam, Sayan Sajid and Aswa Fathima won first places, Fellah C K, Atif Sayan, Raya Abdul Rasheed, Ihsan Ajmal, Atif and Ihsan bagged the second positions and Mohamed Ihsan Sameer, Raneem Shameer, Ishan, Aswa Fathima and Suhan Nadeer, the third positions. Malarvadi office-bearers Sajeena, Shabana, Zainaba, Binsi, Sunila, Faseela, Kamarunnisa, Shirin, Muhsina and Abdul Jaleel distributed gifts to the special guests.

Indian Institute of Quantity Surveyors-Qatar (IIQS-Qatar) held its third Continuing Professional Development (CPD) event on the ‘Importance of Cost Management for Quantity Surveyors/Project Controllers’.Rahul Washikar welcomed the gathering. President Kiran Kumar Podakanti introduced the speaker, Govindaraju Kandipalli, the CEO and managing partner of Coreinfo Consultancy and a highly qualified professional with FCA certification. The president was joined by general secretary Sunil Kamalaksha in presenting a memento to the speaker. Managing committee’s adviser Sudheer Edamana proposed a vote of thanks.

Doha Art Lovers Association (Dala), a group of Indian expat art enthusiasts, recently organised an Iftar meet. The activities included a mentalism show by Jayan Orma, an advisory board member, and a music performance by Saleem Pavaratty. President Abdul Azeez welcomed the gathering. Treasurer Shyam Mohan spoke. Shameena proposed a vote of thanks.

The RIT Alumni Association Qatar (Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology- Government Engineering College, Kottayam) hosted an Iftar meet up for members, families and friends. Chairman Sheffin Shahab welcomed the gathering. Treasurer Rishad Payyapatha and general secretary Mohamed Hashir spoke about the importance of the occasion. Noted Sociology scholar Dr Mohamed Madappalli, the guest speaker, shared his insights and experiences about the significance of community engagement and the role of human life in shaping the future of society.

Nadapuram Polima Facebook Group Qatar chapter hosted an Iftar gathering at Doha's Rawdat Al Khail Park. About 100 members attended. Jafar Jathiyeri presided, P A Thalayai, Jafar Thayyil, Zubair Cherumoth, Majeed Nadapuram, Ubaid Nadapuram, Shamsu Vanimel, Latheef Vanimel and Abdul Nasar offered felicitations. Group administrator Hashim Abdulla welcomed the gathering and Moidhu Thundiyil proposed a vote of thanks.

The debaters of DPS-Modern Indian School won recognition and appreciation in the Hong Kong Debate Championship held via the Zoom platform recently. Among the 40-plus teams from high schools and universities, DPS-MIS team Red Mahogany with Krish Nagrani and Drishti Tibrewal qualified for High School Grand Final whereas Team Blue Oak with Surya Kauthik and Nikkil Dcruz bagged the sixth position in the qualifying round. The international tournament, conducted in British Parliamentary style, gave a wide exposure to the participants, and honed their persuasive and argumentative skills.

Indomitable faith in God as well as the grit to fight against adversities has made 63-year-old Indian Abdulla Kattukandi, a quadriplegic for the last 30 years due to an accident, a living example of hope and positivity.“I consider the accident as a gift of God and that has made me what I am today. I was not even a good reader during my earlier life, but started reading after the accident and wrote five books. I am travelling a lot despite my handicap. I thank God for all the blessings in my life,” a joyful Abdulla told Gulf Times.On a private visit to Qatar, Abdulla recollected the accident. “After a short stint in Bahrain for two years, I was doing a small scale business of dried coconut in Kozhikode, Kerala. On May 21, 1993, I was returning home after a business-related visit when a giant tree fell on my vehicle. When I came back to my senses, I did not feel any sensation below my neck and doctors had no hope of me pulling through as my spinal cord was severed.”Abdulla along with his wife Ruqya — the pillar of strength behind his present cheerful life and who accompanies him just like his shadow — is in Qatar to visit his sons who are residents of the country. An alumnus of Farook College, Kozhikode, Abdulla was recently honoured by the old students association of the college in Qatar.His elder son Shaeer Abdulla is an engineer with beIN Sports while his second son Shajir Abdulla, is a dentist. His daughter Ameena Najmal is settled in Kerala.Abdulla remembered that it was a tight rope walk between life and death in the very early days after the accident. “A long struggle and battle followed the accident where I trod a thin line between life and death. For several days, nobody believed that I would survive and even if I did, I would be in a vegetative state. But God’s grace and the strong support from my wife and some intimate friends made me pull through and get back to life.”After the treatment, through regular physiotherapy, things started looking better for Abdulla and he embarked on his second stint of life.“I started reading books and thought of writing something. It took me days to practise writing and even for writing a single letter, it took me minutes. But slowly, I got used to the situation and started penning my first book, Athijivinathinte Pusthakam (The book of survival),” he recalled.Abdulla’s doctors and physiotherapists were surprised to see him writing and encouraged with motivational words.“Later by using mobile phone for typing, it became easier for me and so far I have published five books. My book Prathyashayude Gopuram (The tower of hope) was released at the Sharjah Book Fair and translated to English and Arabic.” Abdulla, who also shares motivational thoughts through his social media platforms, has extensively travelled across India and visited several Gulf countries. The wheelchair-bound individual even hiked the highest peak of a Kerala hill station named Vagamon, which is 1,100m above sea level.“Abdullakka has been a great source of inspiration for me. Whenever, I faced difficulties in my business and life, I recollect the struggle and the challenges he had undergone all these years and immediately I get charged up to start anew,” said Doha-based entrepreneur Shumaiz.Abdulla says his life has been a motivation for several people as they found his books encouraging and his life, a model to be emulated.“A school teacher who got into a bike accident near my place, had to amputate her leg and decided to discontinue her work. After reading my book, she came to meet me and decided to continue her job and presently she is leading a happy life. A couple whose two children were suffering from mental health issues were motivated to face the challenges as they came to know my life example. I am really happy that I am able to motivate many people and lead a happy life,” added Abdulla.

Chaliyar Doha, a Keralite expatriate collective, hosted an Iftar party attended by representatives of various Indian community organisations. President Zameel Abdul Wahid Chaliyam presided at the function which saw the honouring of winners of a drawing competition held on the occasion of World Water Day and a quiz.Indian Cultural Centre president A P Manikantan, Indian Community Benevolent Forum president Shanavas Bava, Shoukathali T A J and V C Mashhood distributed the prizes. Chaliyar Doha general secretary C T Siddique Cheruvadi, secretary Abi Chunkathara and treasurer Jabir Beypore were present.

Qatar has made significant investments in its education system, resulting in a world-class education system that attracts students and researchers from around the world.The country has several prestigious universities, research institutions and schools that offer a diverse range of programmes and opportunities for students to excel in their fields. With initiatives like 'Campus & Student Life in Qatar,' Qatar is well-positioned to showcase its education system's excellence to the world.Vahid Suljic, a former student in Qatar, has created a powerful online platform that has become a source of pride for students in the country. Recognising the need for a vibrant online community, Vahid embarked on a mission to create such a platform, which led to the birth of @Students_Qatar on Instagram and 'Campus & Student Life in Qatar' on Facebook. Today, these platforms have more than 102,000 followers and are growing on a daily basis, sharing stories and achievements by students from across Qatar.As a former student himself, Vahid knew exactly what the community needed to provide students with a central resource detailing student life in Qatar. With contributions from students themselves, the community has flourished into what Vahid describes as "a rich well of information." Students now feel proud to be a part of this platform, which has saved them time and provided them with all the details they need in one place.The platform covers various aspects of student life in Qatar, from graduation season in May to promoting the countless achievements of the student community. It offers resources and support for students to excel and find motivation through the achievements of others.Beyond its immediate community, Vahid believes that his platforms' reach extends beyond Qatar's borders. He sees it as an opportunity to showcase the positive and groundbreaking developments happening in Qatar and contribute to the global conversation on world-class research and progress in the country.In summary, Vahid's initiative to create a powerful online platform has become a valuable resource for students in Qatar, offering a safe space for them to connect, share stories and achievements, and find motivation through each other. The platform is rapidly growing and empowering students to excel in their academic pursuits.

MES Indian School commenced its new academic year 2023-24 on April 2. Children were enthusiastic about meeting their friends, new teachers, and class teachers. Prior to the reopening, a week-long Capacity Building Programme was conducted as a part of the preparatory activity for teachers. Various segments and topics concerned with academics were presented by the school officials. Principal Dr Hameeda Kadar briefed the teachers on their increased responsibilities during the new academic session and the latest reforms and modifications introduced by the Central Board of Secondary Education in the curriculum.

Allah Almighty Says (what means): “And when you have completed the prayer, remember Allah standing, sitting, or [lying] on your sides. But when you become secure, re-establish [regular] prayer. Indeed, prayer has been decreed upon the believers a decree of specified times.” [Qur’an 4:103]For forty consecutive years, Sa’eed ibn al-Musayyib, may Allah have mercy upon him, was to be found in the mosque before the Athaan (call to prayer) was made. ‘Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, became unconscious after he was stabbed, and according to Al-Miswar ibn Makhramah, may Allah have mercy upon him, it was said: “Nothing would wake him up except the call to prayer, if he is still alive.” So people said to him: “The prayer has finished, O Chief of the Believers!” He therefore awoke and said: “The prayer! I swear by Allah that there is no share of Islam for whoever abandons the prayer.” He then performed the prayer while his wound was bleeding.After Ar-Rabee’ ibn Khaytham, may Allah have mercy upon him, became partially paralysed, he would go to the mosque helped by two men. He was told: “O Abu Yazeed! You have been given permission to pray at home.” He replied: “You have said the truth, but I heard the caller say: ‘Hayya ‘ala al-falah’ (rush to success), and so I thought that whoever hears this call should answer it, even by crawling.”‘Uday ibn Haatim, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “Every time the time for prayer arrives, it finds me eager and ready to perform it (i.e. in the state of ablution).”Abu Bakr ibn ‘Abdullah al-Muzani, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Who is like you, O son of Aadam? Whenever you desire, you use water and make ablution, go to the place of worship and thus enter the presence of your Lord (i.e. start praying) without a translator or barrier between you and Him!”Abu Rajaa’ al-’Ataaridi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said on his deathbed: “I am not grieved by leaving anything behind, except that I used to bow down on my face five times a day before my Lord, the Exalted and most Honoured.”Abul-’Aaliyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “I would travel for days to meet a man and the first thing I would note about him would be his prayer. If he was one who established the prayer perfectly and on time, I would stay with him and hear the knowledge he had to impart. If I found him to be careless concerning the prayer, I would leave him and say to myself that for things other than the prayer, he would be even more careless.”When ‘Ali ibn al-Husayn, may Allah have mercy upon him, would perform ablution, the colour of his face would change. His family asked him why this would always happen and he would reply: “Do you know before Whom I am about to stand (in prayer)?”Yazeed Ibn ‘Abdullaah, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked: “Should we make a roof for our mosque?” He replied: “Purify your hearts and your mosque (in its current state) will suffice you.”‘Uday ibn Haatim, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “Ever since I became a Muslim, I always made sure to have ablution when the Athaan is called.”‘Ubayd Ibn Ja’far, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “I never saw my uncle Bishr ibn Mansoor miss the first Takbeer (which commences the congregational prayer in the mosque), and whenever any person stood up in our mosque to ask people for help, he would always give him something.”Ibn Sam’ah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “For 40 years, I only missed the first Takbeer once, and that was when my mother died. If you know of a man’s disinterest in being present in the mosque for the first Takbeer, then wash your hands of him (i.e. know that there is no good in him).”Sufyaan ibn ‘Uyaynah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Honouring the prayer includes arriving before the Iqaamah (the call that establishes the prayer) is called.”Maymoon ibn Mahraan, may Allah have mercy upon him, was once delayed from coming to the mosque on time. When he did eventually arrive, he was told that the people had already concluded the prayer: “We all belong to Allah and to Him shall be our return! I value the congregational prayer more than being made governor of Iraq,” he lamented.Yoonus Ibn ‘Abdullaah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “What is the matter with me? If I lose a mere chicken I feel concerned, but when I miss a prayer in congregation it does not grieve me!”‘Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, once said while standing on the pulpit: “A man may have white hair in Islam (i.e. reach old age while being Muslim), but has not yet completed even a single prayer for Allah the Exalted!” He was asked: “Why is that?” He replied: “Because he does not perfect the prayer’s required Khushoo’ (solemness) and fails to be attentive to Allah with his heart.”Hammaad ibn Salamah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “I have never stood up for prayer without imagining that the Hellfire is before my eyes.”Mu’aath ibn Jabal, may Allah be pleased with him, advised his son saying: “My son! Pray the prayer of he who is just about to leave this world, and imagine that you may never be able to pray again. Know that the believer dies between two good deeds: one that he has just performed, and the other that he intended to perform next.”Bakr al-Muzani, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “If you want your prayer to be of benefit to you then say to yourself prior to it that you may not have the chance to perform another prayer.’”Shubrumah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “We once accompanied Qarz al-Harithi on a journey; whenever we would camp down in an area, he would scan it with his eyes and when he found a good piece of land that he liked, he would go to it and pray there until it was time for us to leave.”Al-Qaasim ibn Muhammad, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Whenever I went out in the morning, I would visit (my aunt) ‘Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, and greet her. One day, I found her performing the Al-Dhuha prayer (two unit of supererogatory prayer performs in between sunrise and forenoon) while crying and invoking Allah by reciting one verse from the Qur’an repeatedly. The verse was (which means): “So Allah conferred favour upon us and protected us from the punishment of the Scorching Fire.” [Qur’an 52:27] I stood there until I felt weary, then I left and went to the marketplace, telling myself that I would return to her when I finish. Later, when I did return to her, I found her still standing in prayer, reciting the same verse, and crying and invoking Allah.’”Maymoon ibn Hayyan, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “I never saw Muslim ibn Yasar turn his head while praying, whether the prayer was short or long. Once, a part of the mosque collapsed while he was praying in the mosque and the noise caused people who were as far away as the market to be terrified, but he felt no fear whatsoever and continued praying without even moving his head.” He also said: “I accompanied ‘Ataa’ ibn Rabah for 18 years. When he became old and weak, he would stand in prayer and read close to two hundred verses from Chapter Al-Baqarah while standing so firmly that no part of him would move.”Abu Bakr ibn ‘Ayyash, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “If you saw Habeeb ibn Abu Thabit while in prostration, you would think that he was dead due to its extended length.”‘Ali Ibn al-Fudhayl, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “I saw Ath-Thawri go into prostration while praying, and I performed Tawaaf (circumambulation) around the House (i.e., the Ka’aba) seven times before he raised his head from prostration.”‘Uthmaan ibn Abi Dahrash, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “I never performed a prayer without invoking Allah afterwards to forgive me for falling into shortcomings in the way I performed it.”Mu’aawiyah ibn Murrah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “I lived among 70 of the companions of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention) and had they lived among you today, they would not recognise any of your acts except the Athaan!” He also said: “If a man from our predecessors was resurrected among you today, the only thing he would recognise would be your Qiblah (prayer direction).”When Haatim al-Asamm, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked about his prayer, he replied: “When the time for prayer draws near, I perform a perfect ablution, go to where I will pray and sit there until I am fully cognisant of what I am about to do. Then, I stand up and pray, imagining that the Ka’aba is in front of my eyes, Paradise to my right, Hell to my left and the Angel of Death behind me. I imagine that it is the last prayer I will ever perform; I stand up in hope of Allah, His Paradise and His rewards, and in fear of Allah’s torment in the Hellfire. I then say the Takbeer (Allahu Akbar – Allah is the Greatest) while having full attention. I recite the Qur’an calmly, bow humbly, prostrate with humility and attentiveness and then sit on my left leg, with my left foot laid on the floor and the right foot raised up - all the while praying with sincerity. Afterwards, I have no certainty about whether that prayer was accepted from me or not.”One of our pious predecessors said: “O son of Aadam! You need your share of this life, but your need of the Hereafter is far greater. If you take care of your share of this life then you will lose your share of the Hereafter, and you will very soon lose your share of this life, too. But if you take care of your share of the Hereafter then you will also win your full share of this life with ease.”Talq ibn Habeeb, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Allah’s rights are greater than the slave’s capacity and ability to fulfil them. Therefore, reach every morning in a state of repentance and every night also in a state of repentance.”Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/Enter the gate of repentanceIt was reported that repentance has a gate whose width is like the distance between East and West [according to another report: its width is like the distance travelled in 70 years]. It will not be closed until the sun rises from the West. (Reported by al-Tabaraani).Listen to the call of Allah: “O My slaves, you err night and day, but I forgive all sins, so ask Me for forgiveness and I will forgive you.” (Reported by Muslim). So why not seek forgiveness?Allah stretches forth His hand at night to forgive those who have done wrong during the day, and He stretches forth His hand by day to forgive those who have done wrong during the night. Allah loves our apologies and pleas, so why not turn to Him?How beautiful to Allah are the words of the one who repents: “O Allah, I ask You by Your power and by my own shame to have mercy on me. I ask You by Your strength and my own weakness, by Your self-sufficiency and my own dependence. To You I submit my lying, sinful forelock. You have many slaves besides me, but I have no Master except You. I have no refuge or escape from You except with You. I beseech you in the manner of a poor and destitute man, I pray to you with the prayer of one who is humble, I call upon you with the supplication of one who is blind and afraid. This is a plea from one whose head is humbled before You, whose nose is in the dust, whose eyes are filled with tears and whose heart has submitted to You.”It was reported that one of the righteous people was passing through the street when he saw an open door out of which came a boy who was crying and weeping, followed by his mother who was pushing him out. She shut the door in his face, and went back inside. The boy went a short distance away, and stood there, thinking, but he could find no other refuge than the house from which he had been expelled and no one else who would care for him as his mother would. Broken-hearted, he went back, and found the door still locked. So he lay down on the doorstep and went to sleep, with the tear marks still streaking his face. A little while later, his mother came out. When she saw him in this state, she could not help herself. She embraced him, kissed him and started to weep, saying: “O my son, where did you go? Who would care for you except me? Didn’t I tell you not to disobey me and not to make me punish you, when Allah has made me merciful and caring towards you?” Then she picked him up and went back inside.But the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam - peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) told us: “Allah is more compassionate towards His slaves than this mother towards her child.” (Reported by Muslim).There is no comparison between a mother’s compassion and the Mercy of Allah, which encompasses everything. Allah rejoices when His slave repents to Him, and we can never despair of goodness from a Lord who is rejoices.You should know that sincere repentance brings contrition and humility before Allah, and the pleading of the one who repents is dearly beloved to the Lord of the Worlds.The believing slave still remembers his sin, and is filled with sorrow and regret. He follows his error with so many acts of obedience and goodness that Shaytaan may even say, “Would that I had never led him into this sin in the first place!” Thus some of those who repent may become better after repenting than they ever were before.Allah will never forsake His slave who turns to Him in repentance.Imagine a boy living with his father, who gives him the best food and drink, dresses him in the finest clothes, gives him the best possible upbringing, and gives him money to spend. He takes care of all the boy’s interests. But one day his father sends him on an errand, and an enemy comes and captures the boy, ties him up and carries him off to enemy territory. Now the way he is treated is the opposite of the kind treatment his father gave him. Whenever he remembers his father’s kindness, his heart is filled with anguish and grief because of the blessings that he has lost. It so happens that while he is still a prisoner of the enemy, and about to be executed by them, he suddenly turns towards his father’s home, and he sees his father standing nearby. He runs to him and throws himself into his arms, crying “O my father, O my father! Look what has happened to your son!” with tears streaming down his cheeks. He clings tightly to his father even though the enemy runs after him to snatch him back, and catches up with him.Do you think the father will give the boy back to the enemy and abandon him? What then do you think of One Who is more merciful towards His slaves than any father or mother towards a child? How do you think Allah will respond when a slave flees from his enemies and throws himself at His door, rolling in the dust and weeping, saying “O Lord, have mercy upon the one who has no one to show him mercy except You, no supporter except You, no place of refuge except You, no helper except You, one who is poor and in need of You, one who beseeches You. You are his place of refuge, You are his Source of protection. There is no escape or refuge from You except with You...”?Let us move on, then, to good and righteous deeds, to the company of righteous people, to avoiding deviation after having been guided aright. May Allah be with you.[From Shaykh Saalih al-Munajjid’s book I Want To Repent, But...!!]Virtues of voluntary night prayerQiyaam (voluntary night prayer) is one of the best acts of worship that bring one closer to Allah The Almighty. It is highly recommended at all times of the year, and even more so in the holy month of Ramadan. The texts of the Qur’an and Sunnah (Prophetic tradition) urge Muslims to perform it and they state its unique status and great reward from Allah The Almighty.Allah The Almighty praises the people of faith with certain characteristics and deeds, one of the most noble of these deeds is their night prayer. Allah The Almighty Says (what means): {Only those believe in Our verses who, when they are reminded by them, fall down in prostration and exalt [Allah] with praise of their Lord, and they are not arrogant. They arise from [their] beds; they supplicate their Lord in fear and aspiration, and from what We have provided them, they spend And no soul knows what has been hidden for them of comfort for eyes as reward for what they used to do} [Qur’an 32:15-17]Allah The Almighty describes His faithful slaves Saying (what means): {And those who spend [part of] the night to their Lord prostrating and standing [in prayer]} [Qur’an 25:64] He describes the righteous people as the ones who pray at night and seek His forgiveness before dawn; He Says (what means): {Indeed, the righteous will be among gardens and springs Accepting what their Lord has given them. Indeed, they were before that doers of good. They used to sleep but little of the night, And in the hours before dawn they would ask forgiveness} [Qur’an 51:15-18]The night prayer plays a significant role in making one’s faith firm and helping one bear the burden of calling to Allah The Almighty. Allah The Almighty ordered His Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, to adhere to it Saying (what means): {O you who wraps himself [in clothing] Arise [to pray] the night, except for a little - half of it - or subtract from it a little. Or add to it, and recite the Qur’an with measured recitation. Indeed, We will cast upon you a heavy word. Indeed, the hours of the night are more effective for concurrence [of heart and tongue] and more suitable for words.} [Qur’an 73:1-6]There are many Hadiths (narrations) that show the virtues of the voluntary night prayer and that it is the habit of the righteous people of all nations. The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “Adhere to the night prayer, for it was the habit of righteous people before you, a means of seeking closeness to your Lord, an expiation for sins, and a deterrent against committing sins.” [Al-Haakim]It is the best prayer after the obligatory prayer; in an authentic Hadith the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “The best prayer after the prescribed prayers is praying in the middle of the night.” [Muslim] He, , also said: “The closest a person gets to his Lord is in the middle of the night, so try to be one of those who remember Allah at that hour.” [At-Tirmithi]One of the greatest causes of having one’s supplication answered is praying at night; ‘Amr ibn ‘Anbasah As-Sulami, may Allah be pleased with him, said, “I asked the Messenger of Allah in which part of the night is one’s supplication more likely to be accepted? He replied: ‘In the last part of the night, so pray as much as you like, for the prayer is witnessed and recorded (by the angels) till you offer the dawn prayer.” [Abu Daawood] And also Jaabir, may Allah be pleased with him, said that he heard the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, saying: “There is an hour during the night in which no Muslim individual will ask Allah for good in this world and the next without His giving it to him; and that applies to every night.” [Muslim]The night prayer is one of the means of entering Paradise and attaining its high grades; Abu Maalik al-Ash‘ari, may Allah be pleased with him, said: The Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “There are chambers in Paradise, its outside can be seen from its inside, and vice versa, Allah prepared them for those who speak tenderly, feed others, fast continuously, and pray at night while people are sleeping.” [Ahmad]Dear reader, be sure to perform the night prayer on a daily basis, even if it is little so as not to be one of the heedless; the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “Whoever observes the night prayer even with the length of reciting ten verses he will not be recorded as heedless.” [Abu Daawood] Be sure to pray Taraweeh (voluntary night prayer) during this holy month, and do not leave until the Imaam leaves so as to receive the reward of praying the whole night; the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “Whoever prays the night prayer with the Imam until he finishes the prayer, will receive the reward of praying the whole night.” [At-Tirmithi]May Allah The Almighty accept our prayer and fasting, and help us to obey Him at all times.Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/How to improve your relationship with the Qur’anIt is recommended for every believing man and woman to recite the Book of Allah, the Noble Qur’an, often, with due contemplation and understanding. This may be done by using a copy of the Qur’an or from one’s memory. Allah - the Most High – Says (what means): “[This is] a blessed Book (the Qur’an) which We have revealed to you, (O Muhammad, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam), that they might reflect upon its verses and that those of understanding would be reminded.” [Qur’an 38:29]Are you one of those people who rarely touch the Qur’an? Or do you read it daily, but don’t find it is having the impact on you that it should? Whatever the case may be, these are some simple tips that can help you connect with the Qur’an.1. Before you touch it, check your heartThe key to really benefiting from the Qur’an is to check your heart first, before you even touch Allah’s Book. Ask yourself, honestly, why you are reading it. Is it to just get some information and to let it drift away from you later? Remember that the Prophet Muhammad, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, was described by his noble wife, ‘Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, as a “walking Qur’an”: in other words, he didn’t just read and recite the Qur’an, he lived it.2. Before you touch it, do your Wudhoo’ (ablution)Doing your Wudhoo’ is good physical and mental preparation to remind you that you are not reading just another book. You are about to interact with Allah, the Most Exalted, so being clean should be a priority when communicating with Him.3. Start with reading only five minutes everydayToo often, we think that we should read the Noble Qur’an for at least one whole hour. If you are not in the habit of reading regularly, this is too much. Start off with just five minutes daily. If you took care of step one, Insha Allah (Allah willing), you will notice that those five minutes will become 10, then half an hour, then an hour, and maybe even more!4. Make sure that you understand what you have readFive minutes of reading the Qur’an in Arabic is good, but you need to understand what you are reading. If you are not Arabic, or you don’t understand the Arabic language, then make sure you have a good translation of the Qur’an in the language you understand best. Always try to read the translation of what you have read that day.Regarding those who neglect the Glorious Qur’an by not reading or not understanding it, Allah Almighty Says (what means):”And the Messenger has said, “O my Lord, indeed my people have taken this Qur’an as [a thing] abandoned.” [Qur’an: 25: 30]Allah Almighty informs us about His Prophet and Messenger, Muhammad, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, that he said: “My Lord my people have abandoned - acting or listening - to the Qur’an” and that is because the idol-worshippers did not pay attention nor listen to the Qur’an, as Allah Says (what means): “And those who disbelieve say, “Do not listen to this Qur’an and speak noisily during [the recitation of] it that perhaps you will overcome.” [Qur’an 41:26]5. Remember that the Qur’an is far more interactive than a CDIn an age of “interactive” CD-ROMs and computer programs, a number of people think books are passive and boring. But the Qur’an is not like that. Remember that when you read the Glorious Qur’an, you are interacting with Almighty Allah. He Almighty is talking to you, so pay attention.6. Do not just read, you have to listen tooThere are now many audio cassettes and CDs of the Qur’an, a number of them with translations as well. This is great to put on your car’s CD or stereo as you drive to and from work. Use this in addition to your daily Qur’an reading, not as a replacement for it.7. Make Du’aa’ (supplication).Ask Allah, the Most Exalted, to guide you when you read the Qur’an. Your aim is to sincerely, for the love of Allah, interact with Him by reading, understanding and applying His blessed words. Making Du’aa’ to Allah for help and guidance will be your best tool for doing this.When you are making Du’aa’, you have a direct connection with Allah Almighty. So when you are saying your Du’aa’, you shouldn’t be distracted, but instead you should be fully attentive. The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “Make Du’aa’ and be assured of it being answered, and know that Allah, the Exalted, does not answer a Du’aa’ from a careless heart which is not concentrating.” [At-Tirmithi]Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/

MES Indian School commenced its new academic year 2023-24 on April 2. Children were enthusiastic about meeting their friends, new teachers, and class teachers. Prior to the reopening, a week-long Capacity Building Programme was conducted as a part of the preparatory activity for teachers. Various segments and topics concerned with academics were presented by the school officials. Principal Dr Hameeda Kadar briefed the teachers on their increased responsibilities during the new academic session and the latest reforms and modifications introduced by the Central Board of Secondary Education in the curriculum.

The Next Generation (TNG) School, established in 2009, recently hosted the Graduation Ceremony of the students of Year 11 and Year 13 (Class of 2022) in the presence of a number of community leaders and civil society members.Addressing the graduating class, principal Ailia Rizvi, congratulated the parents, students, and teachers, and commended the students on their national and international achievements despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. She encouraged students to be kind and compassionate as they step into the world and prove how brilliance and humanity can seamlessly co-exist.Guest of honour Shahid Khan, senior vice president , CDM Smith, congratulated the students on their achievement and motivated them to dream big and make decisions to turn their dreams into a reality. He encouraged the students to remain curious, stay committed, hold themselves accountable and lead the life that they dream of.TNG Al Wakra Secondary Campus headmistress Rusna Raiz, addressed the Class of 2022 and said: “The past years have been challenging for us all, but what has deeply touched and impressed me in the last few years was that even in those uncertain times, you remained committed and were able to achieve so much. Your ability to adapt and find opportunities to grow is highly commendable. Dear students, you have brought so much glory to our school, awards from various MUN’s, the awards from the British Council’s -Your World Competition, and the Cambridge Outstanding Learner Awards are just a few in the list.”In recognition of the accomplishments of the graduating class, several awards were announced.Guest of honour Omar al-Neima, deputy undersecretary for Private Education Affairs, Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Qatar, and Waleed Ullah Khan, community welfare attaché, Pakistan embassy, presented the graduation certificates. The Valedictorian Awards for Commerce and Science stream were awarded to Meerub Muhammad Ilyas, Zainab Ladha, and Adbur Rehman bin Asad.Winning students of the Regional Award for the Your World Competition organised by the British Council were awarded certificates and shields for their achievement. Students who secured the highest marks in their IGCSE Examinations were awarded with the Cambridge Outstanding Learner Awards in appreciation of their achievement.Valedictorians of the Class of 2022 gave their parting speeches.Meerub Muhammad Ilyas, Valedictorian of the Science stream of Year 13, addressed the students in her speech and said: “As we take our next steps in life, let us remember the lessons that we’ve learned and the experiences that have shaped us. Let us carry the values of hard work, perseverance, and kindness that have been instilled in us. Let us embrace our individuality and become future leaders.”British Council’s business development head Zoheb Khawaja recognised and commended the winners of the Country and the Regional Winners of the British Council’s flagship activity, the Your World Competition.Among 576 videos from 327 schools participating across 26 countries, TNG students’ video submission following the theme: ‘Urban Living: Sustainable Cities and Communities’, won the Regional Award in the Mena region. They received a certificate of appreciation from the British Council.Addressing the graduating class, TNG director Riyaz Ahmed Bakali, encouraged the students to become the innovative leaders of tomorrow who can change the world. He inspired students to answer the unanswered questions, bring innovative solutions to the problems faced by the world to make it a better place to live in.In her closing remarks, TNG CEO Shagufta Bakali, appreciated the hard work and the accomplishment of the students and the teachers. She encouraged students to make the best of the opportunities presented to them and said: “It is easy to remain in one’s comfort zone, but the best lessons in life are learnt by reaching out and extending yourself. Do not hesitate, believe in yourself, and you can conquer the world.”A special award was also presented to Radisson Blu for their constant support to the school.