Official Blog of the Dhaka Nawab Family

Neena Kaiser elected President of Student Body

2006-12-31T13:24:00.001-05:00

Neena Kaiser (gd/o K.M. Kaiser) has been elected President of the student body at University IFM (Institute of Finance & Mgmt) in Geneva, Switzerland.

University IFM is a private school in Switzerland where Neena is studying towards two degrees, a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations.

She hopes to someday follow in the footsteps of her illustrious grandfather, Ambassador K.M. Kaiser. In the meantime, after her graduation she looks forward to working for an international organization such as the United Nations offices in Europe.

Laila Kaiser Hospitalised

2006-12-31T01:04:00.000-05:00

Laila Kaiser (d/o K.M. Kaiser and Mrs. Sayeeda Kaiser) was taken to a Staten Island University Medical Hospital, New York last Thursday, 28 Dec when she apparently experienced trouble breathing. Two weeks ago she underwent a surgery for corroded artery. She is still in the ICU section of the hospital. Please pray for her quick recovery.

To find out more about her well-being, you may contact her son Affan Alam at 718 816 9658 (Home) or 917 340 629 (cell).

100th Anniversary of Muslim League: Tribute to Nawab Sir Salimullah

2006-12-30T10:58:00.000-05:00

Financial Post(30 Dec 2006), Karachi, came out with this special supplement.
A special thanks to the following contributors:
1. Vice Admiral Iqbal F. Quadir
2. Mrs. Shahida Quadir
3. Qudsia Kadri
4. Amr Quadir

92nd Death anniversary of Nawab Khwaja Sir Salimullah will be held on 16 January.

Links to these articles can be found on the homepage.

Eid Mubarak Everyone !

2006-12-30T00:03:00.000-05:00

Eid Mubarak Everyone !
from the DNF Website Team

View the video (courtesy of Sara Hassan) below to raise your spirits !

1. http://www.youtube.com/v/x6nK5cMCpRE
Other similar videos
2. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLQdv2_GdO4
3. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1iTvqFAvN4
4. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QnEL_CrMXM

DNF Winter Weddings in Full Swing

2006-12-25T03:02:00.001-05:00

Pakistan
February 2007 - Bilal (s/o K.M. Talha) is set to wed in Karachi.
Tentative 2007 - Laaj (d/o K.M. Saad) and Kashif (s/o K.M. Akrama) are set to wed soon.

5th January 2007 - Ali (s/o Tasneem and Haroon Askari) is getting married to Mahira (d/o Mr. & Mrs. Hafizur-ur-Rahman Khan). The parents of the groom have invited friends and relations to a Valima Reception on Sunday, 7th January 2007, at D/126 Block-5, Clifton Karachi. Tasneem is the daughter of the late Khwaja Reshad Nasarullah.

December 2006 - Maleeha (d/o K.M. Faisal) was married in Karachi.
24th December 2006 - Syed Ali Tabraiz Bokhari (s/o Romana and Syed Iqbal Hussain Bokhari) married Mehreen (d/o Mr. & Mrs. Tariq Jilani) in Lahore. Valima Reception was on Tuesday 26th December. The mother of the groom, Romana, is the daughter of K. M. Aslam.

Dhaka
25 December 2006 - Morshed Alam Chowdhury (s/o Zafar Bano and gs/o K.M. Ashraf) wedded Afifa (d/o Mohammed Yunus) who hails from Asad Gate, Dhaka. The reception was at Ullas Community Center, Lalmatia Dhaka. Morshed is a Network Administrator and at ICI Ltd., Dhaka. (See Relationship)

10 December 2006 - Romel (s/o Poinal Begum and gs/o S.K. Najmul Hassan) got married in Chittagong. Romel runs his family business the "Dhaka Hotel", near the old Circuit Bulding (Zia Museum). (See Relationship)

New York
17 December 2006 -Mr & Mrs Syed Azizur Rahman's oldest son Syed Sheyum and Rahnuma Ahsan's wedding was held at Adria Hotel(Ramada) in New York. This was attended by almost all the DNF members in the NY, NJ, Connecticut tri-state area. See photos below.

Migration to NY

2006-12-24T22:11:00.000-05:00

K.M. Amer, son of Khwaja Nurul Huq, immigrated to USA on Nov 5th. He had won the DV 2006 and landed in New York as a permanent US resident. His wife, Shahzadi, and son, Ayman, also accompanied him. He is currently working as a Sales Representative for Olympic Winner Sports--a wholesale and retail chain for brand name sneakers, located in Brooklyn NY.

Welcome Amer & family to New York and wish you a successful and prosperous new life. Amer's can be reached at tel: (718) 641-1330 .

http://www1.tribalpages.com/tribe/browse?userid=gupshup1&view=0&pid=928&rand=71300

Photo Courtesy Anas Khwaja

DNF Hajjis !

2006-12-23T00:07:00.000-05:00

We are happy to inform you that the following family members will be performing Hajj this year. May Allah bless them !

Dhaka
1. Khwaja Abdullah Azad (s/o Khwaja Abdul Karim) and his wife.
2. Son-in law of Setaru Mia
3. Aleya Begum (d/o) Zafar Bano (g/d/o) K.M.Ashraf.
4. Sadakat Hussain Jafar (s/o Syed Babar Hussain & Kawsery Begum) 5. K.M.Mohsen (s/o K.M.Ahsanuddin aka Mia Khan & g/so K.M.Azizuddin

New York
6. Syed K. Anjum Hassan (s/o S.K. Borhanuddin)

Baltimore
7. Syed Shamaz Salim (s/o Syed Reaz Salim)
8. Syed Tameed Rab (s/o Shakila and Fazl Rab)
9. Shariq Khan, son of Soghra and Aziz Alam Khan, and his wife Taiyaba

Karachi
10. Wasi Ahmad, his son, Owais, and his wife, Saira.

Bahrain
10. Zahid Zakiuddin and Shaziae

Boston
11. Sumi (d/o Naz begum, ggd/o Nawabzada K.M.Afzal) and her husband Faisal.

Earlier Syed Osama Shahbazi returned to New York after performing Umrah on Dec 7, Thursday.
Please let us who else will be performing Hajj so that we can mention them on this list.

- DNF Website Team

Picture of S.K. Anjum (top), Sumi and Faisal (middle) and Syed Osama Shabazi (Bottom), courtesy Anas Khwaja

Picture of the month

2006-12-20T00:05:00.000-05:00

Quiz: Last Marriage ceremony in Ahsan Manzil

2006-12-12T00:13:00.000-05:00

Do you know when was the last time a grand marriage ceremony was held inside the Ahsan Manzil? Who was the bride and who was the groom? Which year was it? Be the first one to answer correctly and win a 2007 calender. A small clue, there was Rang Khelakeli in big deckchis.
Stay tuned for the answer.

Yasmeen Morshed on resignation of her collegues

2006-12-11T23:46:00.000-05:00

The four advisers who resigned yesterday could have avoided differences through discussion, their colleagues in the Caretaker Government said yesterday.
Four out of the six advisers who attended offices yesterday told The New Nation that the issue of deployment of armed forces was elaborately discussed in the Council of Advisers by the President and Chief Adviser.
Women and Children Affairs Adviser Yasmeen Morshed said she heard of the resignation news in TV channels. She did not think if would create any crisis following the resignation of her four colleagues, she added. In reply to a query, Yasmeen said the President and Chief Adviser elaborately discussed about the deployment of army in the advisory council.

Recap earlier episode: President orders army deployment, Ignores advisers' opposition; all forms of agitation around Bangabhaban banned; 14-party expresses guarded reaction; EC recast move stalled. Adviser Dr Akbar Ali Khan, Hasan Mashhud Chowdhury, CM Shafi Sami and Sultana Kamal sent their resignation letters to the president in the morning.

Nov 1905 :Ahsan Manzil Compound

2006-12-02T01:17:00.000-05:00

This photo was taken by Fitz Kapp in 1905. Honour guard at ease at Ahsan Manzil compound, Dhaka awaiting of Lt. Governor of East Bengal and Assam Sir Bampfylde Fuller.

To know more about the Lt. Governor click the link below:
http://www.boi-mela.com/banglapedia/ViewArticle.asp?TopicRef=2053

Yasmeen Morshed's 1st Month as an advisor to the caretaker Govt

2006-12-02T00:43:00.000-05:00

Sun Nov 5 2006 The maiden state reception for Nobel Peace Laureate Prof Mohammad Yunus was held held at the Darbar Hall of the Bangabhaban . Yunus called on the advisers of the caretaker government to set at least one example of ridding a sector of corruption. As per Thikana- a weekly newspaper from NY, Prof Yasmeen Morshed will work on bringing broadband service to all ministry offices at secretariat.
Mon 27 Nov 2006 The election commission in Bangladesh set 21 January 2007 as the date for the next general elections. Advisors Mahbubul Alam, D K Nath and Sultana Kamal admitted to the reporters that they had no idea that election details were announced by the EC. Yasmeen Morshed said she most definitely knew that it was coming. To paraphrase her words “we are in the govt, of course we knew….what we do or don’t know need NOT be shared all the time”.
Wed, 29 Nov 2006 UN Secretary General's Special Envoy Craig Jennes yesterday gave a clarion call to the country's leadership for holding dialogue among political parties to resolve the current impasse and create an atmosphere for free, neutral and peaceful elections. The UN Special Envoy met with BNP Adviser to the Caretaker Prof Yasmeen Morshed.

The following comments were posted in a blog in Yasmeen Morsheds favor.
Nazim Farhan Choudhury I am a Scholastican. I am also the Secretary General of the Scholastica Alumni Assosiation. I’ve known Mrs Yasmeen Murshed since class 5 (last 22 years!) She is not only intellegent but also is broadminded. She is well read, and articulate in the politics, government, and international affairs. Her thoughts on Islam are particularly progressive. Her command over the issues of education and Human resource development is next to none. And most of all she is a patriot.I know she will be impartial and the voice of reason in the CTG. I think she is one of the best choices on that list.
Fariha Says: .Mrs.Yasmeen Murshed, despite her allegiance to BNP is a good choice. And I think they should put her in charge of both Finance and Planning, and the Home Ministry. From experience, i can vouch for her efficiency and effectiveness in minding money matters and ensuring law and order.Before anybody questions her competence, please bear in mind that she single-handedly ( by that I mean without a husband, boyfriend, political background or a whole lot of financial support) created Scholastica (school, etc, ohs..the whole corporate giant) in less than 25 years. If anyone knows how to manage money or people,its her. She is also the most well-spoken, articulate woman i know. And far far far more progressive and liberal than some controversial ‘feminists’ we’ve been arguing over.just sharing some thoughts. Mrs.Murshed, the chairperson of the school I attended, is someone I looked upto all my life. Here’s a chance for the rest of Bangladesh to do the same. She is an amazing leader. in case anybody needs more proof…Mrs. Yasmeen Murshed has two graduate degrees and two post-graduate degrees. Her disciplines where English Literature and Economics.
http://www.drishtipat.org/blog/2006/10/30/any-nominee-for-chief-advisor/

JCC dissapoints the family

2006-12-01T22:44:00.000-05:00

Bangladesh Cricket Association of North America originally established in 1994, arranges the only Bangldeshi premier Cricketing League in the New York City. Abahoni Blue beat Bangladesh YCC by 4 wickets and was declared the Champion of Bangladesh Cricket League’06 played on Saturday 09/16/06 at Kissena Cricket Ground Flushing. The JCC (Jamaica Cricket Club) which is comprised of mostly DNF members disappointed the family by clinching 15th position out of 16 participant teams. Adil sitting first from left (s/o Dilkash Begum & K.M.Siraj) rookie of the year did not rock.
http://bcana.com/

Obituary: Khwaja Ayazur Rahman (Ayaz Bhai)

2006-11-27T11:46:00.000-05:00

Khwaja Ayazur Rahman son of Khwaja Hafizur Rahman of 15A, Ahsanullah Road passed away today, November 27th. Inna Lillahe Wa Inna Lillahe Rajeun.His Namaj-E-Janaza was held at Nawab Bari Jame Masjid after Maghreb prayer. He has been laid to rest at Begumbazar family graveyard.

He is survived by his wife Parul Ayaz, brothers, sisters, son Zartaj, two daughters Rushi and Nosheen & 4 grandchildren. Late Ayazur Rahman was also known as Ayaz bhai/Sir will be remembered as one of a kind who has dedicated his life for the betterment of the people of Nawabbari. May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus.

To offer your condolences, please call:
Dhaka: (8802) 739-5234 (Home)
(8801)716-558846 (Mobile)

New York: (718) 848-3767
Dubai: (9715) 055861978

Arshad Abdullah
Photo: K. Ayazur Rahman by his mother's grave at Begum Bazar just a month ago on 10.26.06 Eid Day(Photo by Anas Khwaja)

DNF Profile: The Young President of Jamaica Muslim Center, New York

2006-11-19T12:03:00.001-05:00

This year an interesting development took place in Jamaica, Queens. The members of Jamaica Muslim Center changed their constitution and elected a young community leader as its President--Khawaja Masood Hassan (Mizan). Mizan works for the Queens District Attorney's Office. He received his Master's in International Law from St. Johns University in New York during the 80s.

He has been with the Jamaica Muslim Center (JMC) from its early days, when it was a basement run mosque. When asked, "How do you feel now about leading the Center?", his reply was simple and humble, "It's a responsibility, and an opportunity to further the cause of the Muslim community in this area and to fulfill the obligations in the path of Allah."

As a student at St. John's, he was very particular about offering his prayers, fasting and the activities at the Center. He was part of JMC and saw it blossom to a large Center. Today the center has two private buildings merged into one and is involved in many Islamic activities. Three years ago, JMC took a bold step forward in starting the Al-Mamoor School. Mizan has the responsibility of running the school. He was chosen to be the the first president of its Executive Committee.

Today the school is running well with pre-K, K and First grades that have a curriculum with emphasis on the study of Arabic, the Holy Quran and Islamic etiquettes and manners. Jamaica Muslim Center has parallely build a Quran Memorization section, where every year students graduate after memorizing the Quran. Besides these, there are weekend Quranic study classes and lessons in Islamic history and the life of Prophet Mohammad.

Mizan commenting on the running of the Center said, "It's to the credit of Jamaica Muslim Community that it has built a pool of dedicated and committed workers for the Center. It's Board of Trustees and the Executive Committee comprises of successful professionals, educationists, engineers, pharmacists, medical doctors, and businessmen. There commitment for Islamic causes and Islamic education is complete."

"To make things go efficiently, this year we have appointed a Program director, so issues and seasonal topics are properly addressed. Imam Shamsi Ali has done his Masters in Islamic studies in Islamabad, and has experience conducting Islamic activities in New York. Before joining JMC, he was Imam at the Indonesian Islamic Center in New York. He is an expert on the study of the Quran and Islamic thought".

Mizan said, "to make JMC activities more vibrant and dynamic, we have started a youth wing and a sisters' wing, where both men and women receive guidance from scholars and Islamic leaders in the community".

"From time to time, we have programs for different Islamic occasions and months. During the month of Ramdhan, we have arrangements for breaking the fast, and we organize Eid-ulFitr and Eid-ul-Adha prayers. This time we had four congregations for the prayers. Nearly eight to ten thousand people offered their Eid prayers. The neighborhood precinct offered us excellent services in regulating the traffic."
"...in working with JMC I feel happy that Muslims from all over New York have done a great job in the cause of Allah and Islamic unity, by building Masjid Al-Mamoor, the Muslim Al-Mamoor school, the Hafiz Madrasa, and seminars/educational meetings for those, who plan to go for Haj/Umra."

"Finally, it is our effort, to promote Islamic Dawah(work). We sincerely want other communities to understand us, so that we can share our values, thoughts, and the message of Islam with them i.e. that God is one and Prophet Mohammad is his Messenger, and we will be judged on the Day of Judgment by our deeds and intentions."

"This year we are on the drive to purchase a building for the Al-Mamoor School. May Allah help us in understanding the truth and treading on the straight path. Amin!"

Mizan is available at the Center during prayers and is available for any queries that you may have.

Official Website of the Jamaica Muslim Center

Obituary: Khwaja Abdul Quadir (Asad Bhai)

2006-11-16T08:35:00.000-05:00

Khwaja Abdul Quadir (Asad) son of Khwaja Abdul Ahad of 33, Ahsanullah Road passed away today, November 16, at 1:30 PM, local time . Inna Lillahe Wa Inna Lillahe Rajeun.

He was being treated at Sumorita Hospital in Dhaka for various complications. His Namaj-E-Janaza was held at Nawab Bari Jame Masjid after Isha prayer. He has been laid to rest at Begumbazar family graveyard.

He is survived by his wife, sister, two sons Nawaz and Zeeshan (Babi), two daughters Shazia (Gullu) and Shaireen (Baby) and 10 grandchildren. K. Abdul Quadir (Asad) is the former President of Moulvi Abdullah Welfare Trust(MAWT) and his contributions in compiling the family genealogy are immense. He will be remembered as an uncompromising leader. The beneficiaries of MAWT are grateful to him for his hard work to safeguard the family’s interest.

He also helped many by allowing them to hold Weddings, Walimas and various other social functions at his grand residence in Nawab Bari. May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus.

To offer your condolences, please call:
Dhaka: (8802) 739-0591 (Home)
(8801) 715-823100 (Mobile)
Dubai: (9714) 288-4057

DNF Website Team
Photo Courtesy: Anas Khwaja

Talab Ka Tom

2006-11-14T23:34:00.000-05:00

Left:Talab Ka Tom InDublin Ireland, Right: Tom is anchored

Assalamu'alaikum.
I would like to know more about the TOMB of talab.
We heard many stories about it when we were young from our parents that it arrived in the talab flying in a very strong hurricane (before the world war as my father use to say) and also that it came in Diwali bla bla etc etc, but really don't know its origin.
Can someone please forward more details about it, will be highly appreciated.

Thanks & Regards,
Subhia Sahal
(Daughter of Khwaja Shakil Ahmed and Shahana Rahman),
Rome, Italy.

Saddam ka Shadi

2006-11-14T23:22:00.000-05:00

The wedding reception of K.M Saddam (son f K.M.Halim and late Hafiza Begum) and Sabrina Aziz Jhumur (d/o Md.Abdul Aziz of Cantonment) was held at Officer’s Club, Baily Road Dhaka on Thursday November 9th. His Walima was held at Ladies Club Eskaton on Monday November 13th. More than 300 family members and friends braved the ongoing “OBORODH” to attend the grand parties. The guests shared the joy and blessed the newlywed.

http://www1.tribalpages.com/tribe/browse?gender=male&userid=gupshup1&view=0&bview=21&pid=663

Quadir Prize: Annual Global Contest to Strengthen Bangladesh

2006-11-10T12:59:00.000-05:00

Hosted by the Center for International Development at Harvard University

Propose an innovative and practical idea that would improve the lives of low- and middle- income people of Bangladesh (everyone except the top-third of the population in terms of annual income). Proposals will be judged by four Harvard University faculty members, in consultation with scholars familiar with Bangladesh.
This global contest is open to any individual in the world. Any compelling essay that establishes a way to improve the lives of low- and middle-income people in Bangladesh is acceptable for submission. The essays will be rated giving equal weights to a) innovative nature of the idea; b) clarity and cogency of argument and writing; c) ease and practicality of implementation; and d) the size of impact.
The author of the winning essay will be awarded the Anwarul Quadir Prize, USD $25,000.

Deadline for submission is December 31, 2006.
http://www.cid.harvard.edu/quadir_prize/index.html

Source: Salma Husain

DV 2008: Jodi Laigga Jai

2006-11-10T02:40:00.000-05:00

US Diversity Visa Program is carried out by the US Government. This program, referred to as the "US Green Card Lottery", provides non-US nationals a way to immigrate to the United States in the easiest and most cost-effective way. Every year the Congress of the USA authorizes issuance of 50 000 immigrant visas for the countries which are considered as "under-represented" (in regards of the immigration volume) in the USA. For application, and the rules please click the heading or the link below.
More Details Here...

Election & Politics

2006-11-10T02:16:00.000-05:00

Photo: Syed G.K.Chowdhury with Congressman Joseph Crowley (7th district NY)- left photo and with Senator John D. Sabini (NY State Senator 13tth Senate district) -right photo.

Midterm Election USA 2006 has just finished on November the 9th.
The Democratic Party is celebrating after being confirmed as the majority party in the US Senate as well as the House of Representatives.
On a side note family members should join mainstream politics -no matter which part of the world they live in. There are many ways to be socially active. Student government in the school years or joining PTA (Parents Teachers Association) as a soccer mom is good start up. Joining Masjid committee, residential co op board, or signing up at http://www.linkedin.com/ as a professional. All ends up with good network and could be used as jumping board to the mainstream politics. Strong and organized political voice is always a good tool to safeguard and advance interest.

1st visit in 10 years

2006-11-08T15:26:00.000-05:00

As salaamu'alaikum warahmatullah!

I just came across this site after a google search, I have to say it very well put together with a nice professional look.

I recently returned home after a week long trip to Dhaka. Its been 10 years since I was last there. My main reason for travel was to visit my grandmother who is in weak health and to give her a chance to meet my wife and kids. Alhamdulillah, that was accomplished.

Alot of things have changed and alot of things have stayed the same. Since I was born in London and have since been living in Saudi Arabia, I haven't actually experienced day-to-day life in Dhaka. It was my first time taking my wife and 2 little kids to see some my family's heritage. Unfortunately, I don't know much about it, but inshaAllah that'll change.

It was very strange visiting the Ahsan Manzil as I really can't remember the surrounding area, but I do remember human traffic and congestion being a major problem. How do the people living there deal with it? I wasn't aware of the depths of history that our family actually holds.

It was a nice experience, it gave me a sense of belonging and rejuvenated my interest in my family heritage and background.

May Allah bless you with health and strong Eemaan.

Wasalaamu'alaikum,
-Abu Omar Nadim Khawja (Taif, Saudi Arabia)

Corruption, TI & The Nawab Estate

2006-11-06T13:02:00.000-05:00

Another good news for Bangladesh and may be for the beneficiaries of the Nawab Estate.
Bangladesh has been ranked 8th this year among the most corrupt countries.
BD was leading the list last five years. This corruption played primary role in plundering the wealth of The Nawab Estates and diffrent Waqf Estates over a number of years.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/6120522.stm

Related Story:
Khas land worth Tk 1,476 cr recovered, 12 December2005
More

In memory of the late Khwaja Ibrahim

2006-11-05T00:22:00.004-05:00

"To Allah we belong, and to Him will be our return"

It is impossible to express the grief that we share with Najma Quader, Hamid Ismail, Saman, Pinky and all members of their respective families, with the passing away of our beloved Ibrahim, in New York, on Saturday 4th November 2006.

May his soul rest in eternal heavenly peace in th company of those Allah loves most. At a time like this we seek Allah's blessings and consolation as we ponder over His message in the Holy Qur'an as He says:

Ya Aiyuhallazina Aamanu-s-Tayeenu Bis-Sabri was-Salaat! Innallaha ma-as-Saabireen

O You who have attained to faith! Seek aid in steadfast patience and prayer: for, behold, God is with those who are patient in adversity.

Walanablu wan-nakum bi shayim Minal khaufi wal jooye wa naqsim Minal amwaali wal Anfusi was-Samaraat. Wa bashshiri-s-Saabireen-al-lazina Iza asaabathum Musibatun; Qaalu Inna Lillahi wa Inna ilaihi Raaj-e-oon. Oolaa-e-ka Alaihim Salawaatum Mir-rabbihim wa Rahmah; wa Oolaa-e-ka hum-ul-muhtadoon.

And most certainly shall We try you by means of danger, and hunger, and loss of worldly goods, of lives and of [labour’s] fruits. But give glad tidings unto those who are patient in adversity – who, when calamity befalls them, say, “Verily, unto God do we belong and, verily, unto Him we shall return”.It is they upon whom their sustainer’s blessing and grace are bestowed, and it is they, they who are on the right path!

As merciful as the Lord Almighty is, He welcomes the souls of the righteous as in verses 27-30 of Surah Al-Fajr (Chapter 89)

Ya aiyyatu hannafsul Mutma’eenna Yarjiee ila Rabbika Raadiatam mardee a Fadkhuli fi Ibaadi wad khuli jannati

[But unto the righteous God will say,] “O thou human being that hast attained to inner peace! Return thou unto thy Lord, well-pleased [and] pleasing [Him]: enter, then, together with My [other true] servants – yea, enter thou my paradise.!”

May his soul rest in eternal heavenly peace, in the company of those Allah loves most.

In-grief

Sayeed and Ayesha Shahabuddin
Karachi - Pakistan
Sunday 5th November 2006

K.M. Ibrahim passes away in New York, Nov 4. Qul info below:

2006-11-02T21:21:00.000-05:00

Ibrahim bhai's Qul will be observed on 7 November

Men: Please come to the Jamaica Muslim Center in Jamica, New York
after Maghrib to observe the Qul.

Women: Please come to Saman's house after Maghrib at
178-10 Wexford Terrace, Apt. #6W Jamaica, New York
to observe the Qul

K.M. Ibrahim the son of Khan Bahadur K.M. Ismail, passed away today, November 4, in New York at the age of 77.

His Namaz-E Janaza was held on Sunday 10am (EST) at Jamaica Muslim Cenrer, NY.

He was married to Apu, daughter of Nawab Habibullah and Nawab Begum Ayesha. He leaves behind two loving daughters Saman and Pinky, needless to mention his loving grandchildren. Both Saman and Pinky were by his side when he passed away.

Ibrahim bhai, as family members have always referred to him had been suffering from lung cancer and other complications for some time. His wife Apu passed away 12 years ago.

Ibrahim bhai will always be remembered as a kind-hearted, modest and compassionate man who led a full life.
May Allah grant Ibrahim bhai a place in heaven and give Saman and Pinky the courage and patience to deal with this irrepairable loss.

To offer your condolences:
Saman 1 (718) 544-3937 (Home)
1 (917) 640-2280 (Mobile)
E-mail: sammyjoe37@hotmail.com

Pinky 1 (917) 385-4547 (Mobile)
E-mail: ahamid1968@yahoo.com

Najma Quader (Sister) 1 (949) 857-8055 (California)
Hamid Ismail (Brother) (44207) 622-2912 (London)

- DNF Website Team
http://www.nawabbari.com/

Great Sopooh Mia of Nawabbari

2006-11-02T14:51:00.000-05:00

Great Sopooh Mia of Nawabbari

“True believers believe in a common humanity and richness of its diversity”

Here is a story of a great nawabbarian worth remembering. While he was not as famous as Nawab Khawja Sir Salimullah or Khawja Nazimuddin. But he remained my hero on his own right since I was about 9 years old along with my childhood friends like K. Hyder Reza (Hola) Mister (later Pir Sahib) Ozair, Shafi Ali 9now in England) and few others as his most obedient and devoted young disciples.

I still haven’t slightest clue, as to, what was his real name. I only remember him and used to call him as Sopooh Mumma. His friends from Deen Brothers called him Sopooh Bhai, elder ladies around chaman refer to him simply, as Sopooh. I think, some called him Sopooh Pehelwan too. Whatever he was, he was one in a million.

Make no bone about it, our Sopooh or Sopuh Mummah was the strongest man of Chaman area within nawabbari. Everyone was kind of scare of him. Particularly, man like Khawja Badir Bohm and Khawja Kamel. I even remember once he was chasing Nawabzada Khawja Tofail and his brother Khawja creamroll Asef from chamman area to baraf kall area with a bamboo strip talwar in his hand and yelling loudly.

With extra-ordinary talent and personal discipline, always full of life, energy and soul, yet simple! He worked full time over at Deen Brothers as stock clerk ( was one of the finest Asil Rooster (fighting Cock) Breeder and used to organize cock fights around various maihellah’s (neighborhood) of old Dhaka. Our Sopuh Mummah was also a great artist, (drawing his colorful cocks (roosters) with colored pencils and he himself framed them and than hanged them over the grave of his shahid fighting Asil Rooster (Murgas), as they died from injuries suffered during cock fight. We even used to offer janaza prayer for his fighting Murgas, behind Sopuh Mumma as Imam, his chicken kabarstan was located behind Khawja Kumruddin Mia’s back windows). He was also an exercise teacher for the kids of Chaman ( he used to call excersize “KASRAT” during wee hours in the morning) A devoted chess player and the most juicy story teller at night, while he sat half sleepy on Talab ka main ghat until very late at night.

Among the most interesting story of Sopooh Mumma was how one can convert “ 5 legged (Makras) spiders from Assam into pure 24 carat gold” by using controlled tempreture during cooking, and how he once spied on one Bolbay-dada (the JINNor Ghost) as the JINN picked him up from the Talab kenar ka main ghat and drop him on the top of the roof of Khawja Noor Mohammad sahib’s roof and once Noor Mohammad Sahibs son Chatgaiyan saw him on the roof. He ran away after dropping his lungis and jump on the Talab.

I remember seeing the great Sopuh Mummah after fajar prayer in his Lungi only and he first tought us how to tie and convert the lungi into Lingoti (or Kaachha) before starting “KASRAT”. Well, all of us wore shorts (half pants) and we had no need to tie our lungi except for a fellow name Goli (Nephew of K. Abdul Rahim, Injection Doctor of Khoti). Than we used to run behind Sopuh Mummah around Chamman to K. Najmu Mias gate and back. Than we waited there for MUTTHA WALLAH (bitter Lassi Walla) to arrive. Sopooh Mummah would buy us cold Mauttha and he would buy some raw butter to feed for his Asil chicken and Asil Murg’s mixed with flour and fish eggs. He used to call it secret "GUNDA" that one pir sahib from Bagdad gave him (how to make it and we are not to tell anybody about it)

By 7.30 a.m. it was all over and Sopooh Mummah would shower, put on his long clean shirt (he only had two ) a loose Pajama and his rubber shows to go to work. During late afternoon some chess players would come for a game of chess with the great Sopooh Bhai, followed by training of his fighting roosters. We were so lucky he would sometime let us hold his fighting roosters.

He used to make all kind of face including scaring ones to show us that he can can be a Jinn too.

So long our Sopooh Mummah. Rest in peace

By Iftekhar Hassan
Respectfully Submitted

Lion Roars Allah

2006-11-02T14:05:00.000-05:00

Assalamu – a laikum,

This little video clip has nothing to do with DNF, however I thought it was interesting enough to share with every one.
It’s a clip about 5 minutes long showing a lion that roars Allah. Wait till you’ve reached about 2/3 rds of the video. When the lion reaches the other side of the cage listen carefully.
http://www.qarxis.com/lionroar

Do you think its real or did someone fiddle around with the sound.

Thanks

Yasmin Murshed appointed Adviser

2006-10-31T14:19:00.000-05:00

Yasmin Murshed, daughter of Khwaja Zakiuddin was sworn in as Adviser in the Interim Cabinet in Bangladesh. Adviser Yasmin Morshed was given the Ministries of Women and Children Affairs, Primary and Mass Education and Social Welfare Ministries.

The rank of an Adviser in the Interim Cabinet is equivalent to that of a Minister in an elected government.

Yasmin Murshed founded Scholastica in the early 80's and made it into one of the best educational institutions in Bangladesh. Most of her students have made it to Ivy League schools in the US.

Yasmin Murshed, you make us all proud as a daughter of the Dhaka Nawab Family. More...

Source: Mohd Talha

reminder

2006-10-30T13:42:00.000-05:00

La Ilaha Illallahu Muhammadur Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam), There is No one worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam) is His messenger.

Purpose of this La Ilaha Illallahu is, Allah is the ONLY Creator and everything and everyone except Him are His creation. Creation cannot do anything without His permission and He can do anything and everything without help of creation.

Purpose of Muhammadur Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam) is, success in this world (before death) and Akhirat (life after death) is only in following the Orders of Allah according to the way shown by Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam.

Recent Pictures of the Ahsan Manzil Palace

2006-10-30T13:32:00.000-05:00

Watch the slide show here:
Click Here!

Family Eid Milan in Karachi

2006-10-28T15:48:00.000-04:00

Thank God, by His grace and mercy, over one hundred and fifty relations, living in Karachi, including children, were kind and gracious to attend the Family Eid Milan held on Thursday 26th October 2006, the day following Eid-ul-Fitr, So many of them had come from far away places, and, it was due to all them that made the occasion a great success.

However, all of us, without any exception, owe a great debt of gratitude to KHWAJA ARSHAD, SHAHNAZ, TUBA, ATYAB and NIDA for doing what they did to make it all happen. Regardless of the fact that our relations are not in the habit of making registrations in spite of such request over a month in advance, Arshad, left no stones unturned whenever he was home from duty – flying for PIA – telephoning as many persons he could to get their registrations and making sure that no one that he knew about was left out. Shahnaz, Nida and Tuba helping with wrapping prizes for the “Lucky Dip” and gifts for the children for which they went shopping. We are indebted to Monty Mashooqullah who, as always, in addition to providing various items, also makes a handsome contribution. We also thank Amir Adnan for his contribution, and Wasi Ahmad and Khwaja Arshad for their share in meeting expenses for the function.

For the past few years Family Eid Milans have been held, through their kindness and courtesy, at the Karachi home of Aliya and Nabil Tebawi for which we will, for ever remain grateful. We thank Murad and Baneen Mashooqullah, who live there, for making their lawn available to us for this purpose.

It was a warm day in Karachi, but there was a light breeze which, along with the pedestal fans so thoughtfully arranged by the catering contractor, was of great help as the guests started arriving, greeting each other and making themselves comfortable under the Shamiana. As announced earlier, between 1.45 and 2 p.m. Khwaja Arshad announced that lunch was being served and, as soon as most of the guests had helped themselves with the delicious food and proceeded to doing justice to it, he asked the eldest member present, MUSA BHAI (Mr. A. M. S. Ahmad, husband of the late Bilquis) to choose a lucky number – each guest, except children under 12 was given a token with a lucky number - from the bag carried over to him by Atyab Arshad. The prize for the first number drawn was presented by Tuba to Begum Kaniz Wajid Khan, a very old friend of the family, and coincidentally, a very close friend of Musa Bhai and Biquis since 1947. They were together in Rajshahi where Mr. Wajid Khan was posted as Controller of Civil Supplies and Musa Bhai was the Superintendent of Police (S.P.). Thereafter, Atyab went round asking different persons, old and young, to pick a number, with Arshad calling out the number and Tuba handing over a prize to the lucky winner.

We were glad to welcome, from far away Canada, Nishat and Aziz Kashani, from Bangladesh, Binoo Zakiuddin and Hushmat Husain from Rawalpindi. There was another coincidence – a meeting of two persons after many, many years – as Nishat Kashani, then a nine-year old girl, remembered having met Mrs. Kaniz Wajid Khan in Murshidabad, where her father, the late Khwaja Bahauddin, was posted as an officer in Civil Supplies. It is possible that among those present, there were others who met one another for the first time, or after many years.

We sincerely hope that, by the grace and mercy of the Lord Almighty, we are given the opportunity to have such a grand re-union year after year, and members of the family are earnestly requested to please make it a point to visit the Dhaka Nawab Family Website – www.nawabbari.com - regularly, and in particular at the beginning of the month of Ramadan for information about Eid Milan. In any case those wishing to attend should not wait to be reminded, and may kindly get in touch with Khwaja Arshad or Shahnaz Arshad (Tel: 021- 584-1835) around the 20th Ramadan and register the number of persons in their respective parties. This will be necessary as the publication of the DNF Newsletter will cease after December 2006.

Khwaja Sayeed Shahabuddin
Karachi - Pakistan
Saturday 28th October 2006

Tree of Nawab Family

2006-10-28T06:24:00.000-04:00

Hi DNF team,
Thanks for this website. This is really inspirable work. we the people of bangladesh can come to know about nawab families of Dhaka. I feel proud when I came to know about Nawab Ahsanullah, Sir Salimullah and their contribution for this country.

Do you have the Tree of Nawab family members form the First Generation of Nawab to Current Generation? From where we can get this?

Thanks in Advance.

Latif Mirza
Dhanmondhi, Dhaka

pray for him he is my loving DADA

2006-10-26T01:58:00.000-04:00

KHAWJA ABDUL QUADIR (ASAD) 33 SIR AHASANULLAH ROAD NAWAB BARI NAWAB BARI DHAKA 1100 IS REALLY IN NEED OF YOURS PRAYERS HE JUST SHIFTED IN ICU LAST NIGHT IN SHOMORITA HOSPITAL .AND WE ARE ALL PRAYING FOR HIS QUICK RECOVERY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AND WE EXPECT ALL YOUR PRAYERS .AND I HAVE NOTHING MORE TO SAY PLEASE PRAY.

The message above was posted on DNF Gupshup last night:

Khawja Abdul Quadir, Asad bhai, is a former President of Moulvi Abdullah Welfare Trust. His wife is better known to family members as Shahnaz apa and his sisters are Zeban apa and Salma apa.

Please pray to Allah that Asad bhai gets well soon.
To check on his welfare, you may call the numbers below:

Dhaka: (8802) 739-0591 (Home)
(8801) 715823100 (Mobile)

Dubai: (9714) 288-4057

- DNF Website Team

Addressed to Mr. Sayeed Shahabuddin

2006-10-25T11:01:00.000-04:00

As an honorable elder member of the DNF, I shall most respectfully request your kind self to write few words regarding following DNF historic issues, that may be of most informative to the new generation of DNF childrens.

(1) What are the real differences between Nain sharers and Proja Party

(2) Why another Khawjas are call Proja Party (mostly lived around gol talab)

(3) What role did honorable Khawja Nazimuddin played to settle dispute between Nain Shares and Proja Party

(4) Why there exist two kabarstan in begumbazar?

(5) Is it true that honorable Khawja Nazimuddin publicly acknowledged before justice (in court) that "indeed injustice was done to the Proja Party by the Nain Sharers"Since you write well, please do write in detail. I understand this may be an emotional issue for some. However, like myself, many would like to know detail from both sides. This is important one must know all the detail from all sides to conclude an unbias opion.

Respectfully Submitted
Iftekhar Hassan

Forgive and Forget

2006-10-24T12:53:00.000-04:00

Over the years, there have been internal strifes between the children of Khwaja Alimullah, the patriarch of the present day Dhaka Nawab Family.

Let's pray to Allah to forgive those who caused those differences between brothers and their offsprings.

Let's pray to Allah to bless those who suffered.

Let's pray to Allah to forgive those who were proud and acted in the interest of a few instead of all of the children of Khwaja Alimullah.

Let's all pray for forgiveness to Allah, since as human beings we are infallible.

This website is about family unity. We all know why there are two graveyards in Begum bazar.
Is it all worth debating it after all these years ?

Certainly not.

It is very very hard to forgive. But a great person is one who forgets and forgives for Allah.
If we forgive, Allah will forgive us.

- DNF Website Team

But what this Hilal Saying?

2006-10-22T22:52:00.000-04:00

http://www.hilal-sighting.com/

Eid in North America-MONDAY?

2006-10-22T22:47:00.000-04:00

Fiqh Council of North America and ISNA declared that Eid-al-Fitr is on Monday, October 23.
Click, For details of Fiqh Council's decision and other supporting articles

EID MUBARAK

2006-10-22T11:42:00.000-04:00

To relations and friends around the world

EID MUBARAK

GREETINGS, BLESSINGS AND BEST WISHES FOR EID-UL-FITR

MAY THE GRACE AND MERCY OF ALLAH SUBHAANAHU WA TA’ALA BE UPON YOU AND ALL MEMBERS OF YOUR FAMILY, WITH HEALTH, EVERY HAPPINESS,, SUCCESS AND ALL THAT IS BEST IN THIS WORLD AND IN THE HEREAFTER.

LET US ALSO REMEMBER ALL OUR NEAR AND DEAR ONES WHO HAVE RETURNED TO THEIR HEAVENLY HOMES AND PRAY: MAY THEIR SOULS REST IN ETERNAL HEAVENLY PEACE IN THE COMPANY OF THOSE ALLAH LOVES MOST.

SAYEED AND AYESHA
SHAHABUDDIN

Karachi: Saturday 21st October 2006

========================================

Looking ahead
To begin with I would like to express my deep sense of gratitude to all those who have been so kind and gracious to write or telephone me after reading the editorial of the October Newsletter entitled: "Time to bid farewell". I am deeply touched and overwhelmed with the messages I have received. However, it is time now for us to look ahead to the Dhaka Nawab Family Website, set up by the DNF Website team, which could now be used to keep the family united and in touch with one another. I shall be happy to receive messages by the end of each month, compile and post them in the "Gupshup" section of the website once every month beginning with Saturday 6th January 2007. It will be like the Newsletter section: "About ourselves – from around the world." After me, or, if for any reason I am not available, your messages should be sent direct to Belal Hassan whose e-mail address may kindly be noted as follows: belalhassan1@yahoo.com

God willing,we are likely to be out of Karachi for about two weeks from Wednesday 8th November 2006. Therefore, the last date for receiving materials for the last issue (December 2006) will be 25th November 2006.

Khwaja Sayeed Shahabuddin
Saturday 21st October 2006
Karachi - Pakistan

eid mubarak to u all dnf

2006-10-20T09:44:00.000-04:00

i got some rare pic of nawab family member and wanted to hand over it to some responsible person so plz contact me shortly.

Here Is A Poetry For All DNF Members To Read

2006-10-16T12:51:00.000-04:00

From: Iftekhar Hassan

Also Share this with your Childrens, This will inspire them to be a better human being

This poetry was suppose to be written by Mother Teresa of Kolkatta

ANYWAY….by Mother Teresa

People are often unreasonable, illogical and self-centered;Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some genuine enemies;Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and sincere, people may deceive you;Be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight;Build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous;Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, will often be forgotten tomorrow;Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;Give the world your best anyway.
You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God;It was never between you and them anyway.

Respectfully Submitted

Iftekhar Hassan

Jaya-Faisal: Heart to Heart

2006-10-15T20:32:00.000-04:00

6 October 2006 - One of the leading TV models of Bangladesh, Faisal comes from the Nawab Family of Dhaka. Jaya, a popular TV model and a talented actress, comes from a typical conservative middle class family and this is their love story...

Read Complete Story

Humble reminder for donation for Begum Bazar family graveyard

2006-10-15T14:53:00.000-04:00

There’s no better time than the holy month of Ramadan to remember our beloved deceased family members. Let us contribute graciously for the family graveyard.

The graveyard is being maintained by present motawalli of Rasul Baksh Wakf Estate - K.M.Halim. This is also mentioned on the home page of this website. Please refer to Committees of the Estate box, sub section Begum Bazar Graveyard.

If you would like to send cash immediately please contact Mr. K.M. Halim at (8802) 811-5984. The banking info is as following
Islami Bank Bangladesh Ltd, Islampur Branch, Account No.4983-1.

Please contact the following for donation In North America:
Canada: K.Osman Ahmed 416 828 6666
US:
Anas Khwaja 718 606 9487
Saniya Sajed 917 622 6993
S.K.Belal Hassan 718 459 1464
K Arshad Abdullah 6469329020

I hope family members in Karachi ,Dubai or London can appoint a senior member of the family for collection and remittance during their respective Eid Milan.

May Allah accept your Karz E Hasana.
Anas Khwaja

Death in Ramadan

2006-10-15T14:04:00.000-04:00

Mr. Sakhawat of Begumbazar died of heart attack on October 2nd.
Inna lillahe waa inna ilaihe rajeun.
He was married to Tahera Begum (d/o Moulvi Hafizullah a.k.a Moulvi Saab) of the Dhaka Nawab Family.
He left behind two sons Faisal and Raju and a daughter Shampa.
May Allah bless him Jannatul Firdaus.

Friday The 13th

2006-10-15T13:48:00.000-04:00

Friday 13th October is a day of great significance in the history of Bangladesh. I am sure each and every person in Pakistan will join me in conveying our heartiest congratulations to Dr. Muhammad Yunus Khan, members of his family and the people of Bangladesh. May God bless him with health and the strenght to keep up his work in serving humanity.
On a lighter note, a combination of the day of the week "Friday", and the number "13" is dreaded by highly supersticious people, specially in western countries. They think "Friday the thirteenth" spells doom, and hotels and apartment buildings do not have a "13th Floor". Number 13 is supersticiously associated with the "last supper" of Jesus Christ, upon whom be peace. An expression which is very common, even among Muslims who, instead of saying "thank God" or "Alhamdulillah" would say "touch wood" - touching the wooden part of a furniture or their own head - without realising that, the "wood" they are referring to is the "wooden cross" reverred by the Christians.
Khwaja Sayeed Shahabuddin
Karachi, Pakistan
Saturday 14th October 2006

Umrah & Hajj

2006-10-15T13:38:00.000-04:00

Syed Osama Shahbazi (s/o Syed Maboob Hussain Shahbazi) left NY for Jeddah on Sunday Oct 8th. He is going to perform Umrah before flying to Bangladesh.

Also Syed Shamaz Salim (s/o Syed Reaz Salim) will be out of Maryland (16th Dec to 4th January) to perform Hajj. May Allah accept their Umarah and Hajj.

Engagement in Maryland

2006-10-15T12:32:00.000-04:00

Syed Farees Salim (s/o Syed Aziz Salim and Yasmeen Salim) of Paribagh got engaged with Liala Fisher (d/o Ken Fisher) of Fairfax Virginia. Laila Fisher is marketing analyst at SAIC.
Farees hails from Paribagh, Dhaka and currently settled in Rockville Maryland. He is the manager at Furnight Club in Maryland.

Let's wish them happy and prosperous relationship.

Proud day for all Muslims: Microloan Pioneer Dr. Yunus Wins Nobel Peace Prize

2006-10-13T10:20:00.000-04:00

OSLO, Norway (AP) -- Bangladeshi economist Muhammad Yunus and the Grameen Bank he founded won the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday for their pioneering use of tiny, seemingly insignificant loans -- microcredit -- to lift millions out of poverty.

Read Complete Story

Check it out!

Dhaka Wanderers 1950s

2006-10-12T11:44:00.000-04:00

Hope you all will be able to identify who is who in the photo...

This photo is of the Dhaka Wanderers Cricket team who were league champions of East pakistan for 11 consecutive years. I was able to identify my father (Khwaja Masood Nasarullah) who is the third from right at the back...

and I remember my father talking about Ather Chachu in the pic.

- Khwaja Anas Nasarullah

Obituary: Khwaja Abdul Halim

2006-10-07T12:23:00.000-04:00

Khwaja Abdul Halim breathed his last at Dhaka Medical Hospital 10:30am on Oct 6 Saturday, at the age of 85. Inna lillahe wa inna ilayhe rajeun. After his namaz-e-janaza at Nawab Bari Jame Masjid he was buried at the Begum Bazaar family graveyard.

He was the son of Khwaja Abdul Gafoor and husband of Mahe Jabeen Begum (d/o Nawabzada K.M.Afzal and g/d/o Nawab K. Yusuf Jaan).
Khwaja Abdul Halim was born in the Dhaka Nawab Family on 21st June 1921.
He did his Masters in Persian from Dhaka University in 1942 and stood First Class First.
He joined the erstwhile East Pakistan Civil Service. He worked as a Magistrate in Moulvibazar, Sylhet. He also served in Chuadanga as an ASDO (Additional Sub-Divisional Officer) and in Pabna as a SDO (Sub-Divisional Officer).
After the independence of Bangladesh, he was placed as a Section Officer in the Ministry of Commerce. Subsequently, he was also promoted to the level of Deputy-Secretary of the Local Govt & Rural Development Ministry.
In 1973, he was ADC of Dinajpur and also held the charge of Deputy Commissioner there.
In 1976, he joined Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) as Secretary and served there until his retirement in 1979.
During the rule of President Ziaur Rahman, he was called back from retirement and was assigned Special Magistrate of Joydevpur.
He was a good hockey player and played for Dhaka University. He also worked for East Pakistan Radio. He will be remembered in Nawabbari for his annual grand “Urs” in honor of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti at his residence.
Khwaja Abdul Halim is survived by his wife, five sons as Zahed, Rasehd, Sajed, Hamed and Khaled and three daughters as Nanno, Mehwar and Farhat (Apu).
To offer your condolences, please contact:

K.M.Sajed: Dhaka (8802) 739-1060
Farhat Jabeen (Apu): New York (718) 699- 1620
K.M. Rashed : Stockholm 4646127997

Sailing down memory lane

2006-10-07T05:10:00.000-04:00

SAILING DOWN MEMORY LANE

(Once upon a time, though very briefly, I had been a sailor)

Reading about the first telephone reminds me about the telephone numbers and I wonder how many of us remember the numbers of family telephones? As far as I can remember they were: Ahsan Manzil - 65; Dilkusha (Paltan) - 53; River View (K.M. Ismail) - 109 and our home (Bait-ul-Amn) - 13. The telephone in Ahsan Manzil was at the "Ghanta Pahra" near the poritco at the main entrance of the building.

As we entered Ahsan Manzil from Islampur Road,through the main gate - with Naubat Khana above it - we passed Mansur Castle and the Mosque on the right and the "Hauz" place for "Wazu" on the left. Beyond that were the stables where horses were kept. In front of the main building was the "Bara Chakkar", the playing field where a game of hockey would be on every afternoon and the wall along the road filled with spectators. Right in front of "Ghanta Pahra" a few chairs were laid on for senior members of the family, including Nawab Habibullah to watch the games. The "Ghanta Pahra" used to be manned by at least one Durwan 24 hours a day and the oerson on duty would sound the gong (Ghanti) every hour on the hour. This could be heard far enough - including the "Gol" talab - for the inmates to check the time. As you walked past the main entrance of the building and turned right around the corner, on the left was the "Chota Chakkar" meant for youngsters. The steps down the rear of the building led to a massive garden with well kept lawns where garden parties, wedding receptions etc. were held and how we use to look forward to the lovely cakes, pastries and ice cream served by the famous "PINCHU'. As you went out of the eastern gate, next to it was "River View" the home of Mr. K. M. Ismail.

In those days the family used to enter four teams to play hockey in the Dacca Hockey League and various other tournaments. The senior most was the Bachelors , followed by Nawab XI, Atiqullah XI and one more, I forget the name.

The Bachelors had the distiction of reaching the semi-finals of the Beighton Cup (the Blue Riband of Indian hockey) in Calcutta, I think, in 1917. More as I remember, God willing. So much for today. May the Lord Almighty, with your prayers and blessings, grant me the opportunity of continuing to write regularly.
Khwaja Sayeed Shahabuddinn
Karachi, Pakistan
Saturday 7th October 2006

Time to bid farewell

2006-10-07T04:06:00.000-04:00

TIME TO BID FAREWELL
There is a well known saying that: "All good things must come to an end", and it is with utmost regret that members of the Dhaka Nawab Family, subscribers and all others, who read with interest, are informed that, the time has come for the Dhaka Nawab Famly Newsletter to bid farewell in this "sixteenth" year of its publication.
It is difficult for me to explain, why, on waking up from sleep in the morning of Sunday 10th September, a thought flashed across my mind that, the time has come for me to start making plans to retire from this "labour of love" which has sustained me for over fifteen years, keeping me occupied, and giving me so much pleasure in keeping in touch with members of the family around the world.

However, the fact is that I too am beginning to feel the strain as I get along in years, and the position now is such that, if God so wills, and grants me the opportunity to cease publication of the Newsletter in my life time, it can very easily be done with the December issue, at the end of the year 2006. Unless, of course, someone else volunteers to take on the responsibility to continue publication, in which case, as long as I am around, by Allah’s grace and mercy, I shall help and guide the person to the best of my ability.

The position of our account at present is such that the Advisory Committee will not be faced with the problem of distributing excess funds to various charities that had been agreed to some years ago, and be left in a mess, if the publication of the Newsletter came to an end abruptly, on my passing away, a fact which we must all accept and submit ourselves to the will and plan of the Lord Almighty, in Whose hands is the final decision – how, when and where?
I am grateful to the Members of the Newsletter Advisory Committee for their help, support and the implicit trust with which they let me use my own initiative and do whatever was needed to bring out this publication month after month for over fifteen years. By the way, I made a mistake by giving the impression in the editorial – in verse – of the July 2006 Newsletter that it was the Sixteenth anniversary, whereas, it was the FIFTEENTH. The error is regretted.
However, by the grace of God, all is not lost as members of the family can continue sharing news about themselves with others around the world even after the closing of the Newsletter on 31st December 2006.
Thanks to Belal Hassan, Anas, Saniya and Arshad, in New York, we now have the Dhaka Nawab Family Website – www.nawabbari.com - where all the news and views can be posted in the Gupshup section on a daily basis without their intervention. It is a free for all, but they do read everything that is posted to make sure nothing is offensive. This can be done by going to the "Gupshup" section in the website. You will see the "Create a Discussion" link on the right side. Click on the "Create a Discussion" link. It will open a box where you can type a news item and publish it instantly.
Finally I wish to thank each and everyone of you for your kind consideration, help and cooperation over the past fifteen years, without which there could have been no Newsletter; specially those who have been kind and gracious to keep contributing items of news, articles etc. May the grace and mercy of the Lord Almighty and His blessings be upon you all forever and ever, with health, every happiness and all that is best in this world and in the hereafter.
Khwaja Sayeed Shahabuddin
Karachi, Pakistan
Saturday 7th October 2006

Hi5 group

2006-10-07T01:58:00.000-04:00

hey all... I'v opened a group on hi5 for the family people... and ur all invited to join!... Search for The Dhaka Nawabs or go to http://www.hi5.com/friend/group/displayGroupFront.do?groupId=1360311...

thnx!
Khwaja Anas Nasarullah

Picture of the month

2006-10-07T00:08:00.000-04:00

Pink Palace set to look pretty again

2006-10-03T00:21:00.000-04:00

Century-old Ahsan Manzil, the majestic building once known as Pink Palace, is undergoing renovation after 13 years of its opening in 1992. After the renovation at a cost of Tk 13 crore, visitors will be able to see the building at night as floodlights will be installed under the renovation project. Photo Syed Zakir Hossain

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History tidbit: In the month of September

2006-09-30T22:20:00.000-04:00

A telephone line was erected in Ahsan Manzil on 28 Sptember 1883.
The first call was made to Calcutta.

New E-Book on Digital Library

2006-09-30T21:58:00.000-04:00

The following book has been added on the Digital Library section of the Home Page. You can also click the news heading above to download the book. Due to the size it could take few miniutes to download the entire file. But its worth waiting. Enjoy the book.

Neme: A short note on Ahsan Manzil Museum and Nawabs of Dhaka
Author: Dr Mohd Alamgir Pages:55 File Type: PDF (searchable) File Size: 20.21 MB

Click here !!!

Thank you Sayeed Shahabuddin!

2006-09-30T17:20:00.000-04:00

Our grateful thanks to Sayeed Bhaijan for the many years of commitment and dedication in the publication of the Dacca Nawab Family Newsletter.

Each one of us in the family are indebted to him for the love and devotion with which he organized the Newsletter. He did it single-handedly and with a sense of duty which few of us can ever perform. Most of all, he created an awareness amongst us of our roots and the realization that we belong to a family whose ancestors are immortalized in the history of the subcontinent.

Thank you, Sayeed Bhaijan for the many issues of the DNF Newsletter. May Allah bless you and yours!
The absence of the Newsletter will be felt less thanks to the excellent website created by an enthusiastic group of family members to whom we are grateful. Good luck to you all in your endeavors.

Sharmin (Nooruddin) Malik
New Jersey, USA

Well Done Bhola Bhai: Bachelors Runners Up

2006-09-29T22:59:00.000-04:00

Here is another good reason to be puffed up as a member of Dhaka Nawab Family. The family team in yellow and black surprised even the staunchest critic securing 2nd spot in the Dhaka 1st div hockey league. Here is the chronicle:
Picture on the left: Wari vs Bachelors at Moulana Bhasani Stadium

Bachelors makes it to Super 4 : Sunday September 17 2006
Wari Club, Farashganj Sporting Club, Bachelors Sporting Club and Dhaka Wanderers Club confirmed their place in the title-deciding super-four league which is likely to begin on Wednesday.

Bachelors shock leaders Wari :Wednesday September 27 Title aspirants Wari Club conceded a 1-4 defeat to Bachelors Sporting Club in the opening super-four match of the Green Delta Insurance Metropolis First Division HockeyLeague at the Maulana Bhasani National Hockey Stadium yesterday. It was the second successive defeat for league leaders Wari after conceding a 0-1 loss to Dhaka Wanderers Club in the closing first phase match. Despite the day's defeat, Wari dominated the table with a clear margin, having secured 24 points from 10 matches. Bachelors improved their position with 20 points from ten outings. Imran struck twice while Zami and Razib added one each for Bachelors. Raju netted a consolation goal for Wari.

Bachelors Div I hockey Runner Up :Friday September 29 2006
Wari Club became the Green Delta Insurance First Division Hockey League champions with one match to spare when they edged Farashganj Sporting Club 1-0 at the Maulana Bhasani National Hockey Stadium yesterday. The triumph guaranteed Wari Club's return to the Premier League next season. After 11 games, Wari pushed their collection to 27 points. In the day's other match, Bachelors Sporting Club outplayed Dhaka Wanderers 4-1 to move to second place with 23 points. Where was Khan Babu?

Family Eid Milan Karachi, Pakistan

2006-09-29T13:33:00.000-04:00

Family Eid Milan 2006 in Karachi

Attention of all members of the Dhaka Nawab Family, wherever they may be, is drawn once again to the announcement, that, God willing, as in previous years, the EID MILAN will be held on the First Day after Eid-ul-Fitr, which is likely to be, God Willing, on 24th or 25th October 2006. The news may kindly be conveyed, by word of mouth, to members of the Family, specially in Karachi, who are not subscribers of the DNF Newsletter.

The venue will be E/8 – 1, 4th Gizri Street, Phase IV, Defence Housing Authority - same venue as in earlier years, through the kind courtesy of Aliya and Nabil Tebawi and by kind permission of Murad and Baneen Mashooqullah, who live there.

Members of the Family wishing to attend are requested to contribute Rs.150/- per couple, i.e. Rs.75/- per head. And all CHILDREN, above twelve years, irrespective of age, but unmarried, Rs.50/- per head. It would be appreciated if those wishing to attend, register the number of persons attending, with Khawaja Arshad (584-1835 or 0300-224-3436), at the latest, by Sunday 15th October 2006. Those who wish may also inform Khwaja Sayeed Shahabuddin by telephone (92-21)567-4639 or 0300-292-1903 or sayeed@cyber.net.pk Lunch will be served between 1.45 and 2 p.m.

Any member wishing to make additional contribution either in cash or in kind – gifts for children, prizes for the Lucky Draw etc. – may kindly get in touch with Khwaja Arshad or Shahnaz Arshad (Tel: 021-584-1835).

Overseas members visiting Karachi for Eid are most welcome to join and meet the family in Karachi. Those wishing to attend please register name and number of persons attending by e-mail to sayeed@cyber.net.pk

Since you have already read the editorial, you know that the publication of the Newsletter will cease after December 2006. Therefore, this is the last time that announcement about the EID MILAN is being communicated through this source. God willing, next year, whoever arranges the Eid Milan may kindly post the notice in the Gupshup section of the Family website www,nawabbari.com. Members will please visit this website regularly to get news about the family and in September 2007, God willing, to get news and details about the Eid Milan.

Khwaja Sayeed Shahabuddin
Karachi, Pakistan. 29th September 2006

Family Eid Milan, New York, USA

2006-09-28T23:16:00.000-04:00

Inshallah Eid Milan Party will be held in New York on first immediate Saturday after the Eid. Venue would be announced soon. Each interested party must contribute by making a nawabbarian dish for atleast 10-15 people. So in essence it would be a one dish party.
An Indian Band will be arranged along with fun activities for the children. We need to know the headcount by end of next Wednesday.
We will annouce the organizer's name soon. Stay tuned!

Arshad
(646) 932 9020

Turning muslim in Texas

2006-09-26T21:25:00.000-04:00

Sell Talab

2006-09-25T14:47:00.000-04:00

Hello-
First of all please forgive me for starting such a controversial topic, but it is absolutely my opinion and I will have no financial gain if the Talab is sold.
We all love nawabbari and will be forever. But with the changes of time, we need to make some drastic measure for our own future. We had enjoyed the past glory and we need to be prepared for the future generation.
From my opinion Talab should be sold. First of all most of us dont live there any longer and by next decade none of us will be living next to the gol talab. We still visit nawabbari, but the frequency is becoming less and less due to the traffic and change in society.
If someone from our family whom we all can trust from the education, honesty and ofcourse some good contacts with the tycoons/ Real Estate Developers, can be assigned to do the transaction and have a very transparent book-keeping, I think all of the DNF will be very much benefited. As a matter of fact, the cost-benefit analysis will greatly favor the benefit of selling it rather than keeping as it is.
Again, the whole idea is based on the fact that the person who will be responsible for this is trust worthy. Who will not take a single penny from this transaction other than the consulting or the effort fees.
From my thinking, this property is worth over 100 crore. We can create a new Nawabbari (smaller version) some where away from dhaka city ..say savar....and have a better quality of life with 1/3 amount of that proceed. Or something like that. We can distribute rest of the money among the members. Also, we can give the DNF member with that money the option to buy flat at that place with say 50% less than the market price.

Tell me what do you think. Please note, someone will take the initiative to sell the talab and keep the proceed. We will be simply "onlookers" who will once again be deceived by some cronies. It is a serious matter. We should get rid of it before Ali Mia's Pookur becomes Haji Salim's Pookur and then Haji Salim Plaza!

Where is Cricket History created by Nawab Bari?

2006-09-24T14:08:00.000-04:00

It is deeply unfair to the great players like Athar chachu, Munni uncle etc created by DNF who are deeply buried in the history of Bangladesh cricket. they don't have any significient what so ever which is totally unjustified. DNF has placed the game of cricket in Bangladesh and see what happened.... we r been rubbed off from the board. cricket is also a game that DNF took and they also given the name 'Dhaka wonderers'.

so, if u could, do something to proud our ancestors. if i could , i would definitly arrange and develope a cricket team and show what DNF can do in order to bring out pride for my family. but i can't single handedly.

Ramadan Mubarak

2006-09-24T01:51:00.000-04:00

To all members of the Dhaka Nawab Family

May the blessings of the Holy month be upon all of us by the grace and mercy of the Lord Almighty. May we learn to have patience, tolerate one another and be disciplined in whatever we do. It seems we witness this blessed month year after year but there is no apparent change in our lives - our actions and behaviour - as we do not seem to learn any lesson from the month-long fasting.

While it may hopefully be different this year, in the past no change has ever taken place during the blessed month as one observes the traffic on the roads of Karachi. Indiscipline and complete lack of respect for the rule of law continues, as is our habit, and no conscious effort is made to realise the reason why we are fasting? May God forgive me for saying so, but, for such people who do not follow the rule of law, become impatient and intolerant in their behaviour and thus, in actual fact it is like going hungry during the day without any useful purpose.

This is the very first time that I am using the facility of the Family Website, and would like to take the opportunity of congratulating Belal, Anas, Saniya and Arshad for the excellent work they have done to put the Dhaka Nawab Family on the Website. May God bless them and grant them further success in everything they do.

May God bless us all with His grace and mercy, guiding and helping us in everything we think, say or do. With prayers and blessings for all,

Khwaja Sayeed Shahabuddin, Karachi, Pakistan
Saturday 23rd September 2006

Prime Minister Khaleda Zia attends high level political meeting at Ahsan Manzil Palace grounds

2006-09-24T01:46:00.000-04:00

On June 26, 2006 Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia held a high level political meeting at the Ahsan Manzil Palace grounds. The meeting was organised by the cloth traders of Islampur in old Dhaka marking the 25th anniversary of martyrdom of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.

The meeting was attended by many high level government officials including Begum Shamsunnahar Khawja Ahsanullah (MP), Sadeq Hossain Khoka (Mayor of Dhaka)M. Shamsul Islam (Information Minister), Mirza Abbas(Housing and Public Works Minister), Aman Ullah Aman (State Minister for Labour and Employment) and Mizanur Rahman Sinha (State Minister for Health),

Read Complete Story !!!

(Appeal to all DNF members: If there is an event at Ahsan Manzil grounds, please send us details immediately.)

The Ahsan Manzil on the cover of Textile Industry Magazine

2006-09-24T01:23:00.000-04:00

The Ahsan Manzil made it to the cover of Textile World Asia's January/February 2006 issue, which featured a cover story on Bangladesh's textile industry.

Click Here!!!

Textile World Asia is a new publication featuring textile news and information published in English and simplified Chinese - serving readers throughout China, Japan, India, Turkey, Pakistan and more.

Go Bachelors Go!

2006-09-21T01:36:00.000-04:00

The Senior Division Hockey League started on August 23 at the Maulana Bhasani National Stadium, Dhaka Bangladesh. The first phase matches of the 10-team league (including Bachelors Sporting Club) is being held on a single league basis. Bachlelor’s is a hockey team founded and run by the Dhaka Nawab Family members. The team had been participating in all major local hockey tournaments since 1907. Here is the summary of current year games as it unfolds:

Bachelors beat Combined -8/29/2006- Bachelors Sporting Club (SC) piled up their second consecutive victory in the Green Delta Insurance Metropolis First Division Hockey League outplaying Combined Sporting Club 4-0 goals at the Moulana Bhashani National Hockey Stadium in the city Monday, reports UNB.Bachelors SC, which made a good start beating Shishu Kishore Shangha 2-0 in the first match Monday dominated the first half leading by 1-0 goal.Azam, Sabab, Roman and Javed scored one goal apiece for the winners.Azam opened the floodgates for Bachelors SC in the 33rd minute by a field goal (1-0) while Sabab doubled the margin in the 37the minute also by a field goal (2-0).Roman scored the third goal in the 40th minute converting a penalty corner (3-0) while Javed sealed the fate of the match scoring one more field goal in the 57th minute (4-0).

Bachelor on a merry run-Monday Sep 3 Jami Hossain and Azam Miah struck twice as Bachelor Sporting Club absolutely outclassed Mukta Bihanga Tarun Sangha 7-0 to notch their third victory in the Green Delta Insurance First Division Hockey League at the Maulana Bhashani National Hockey Stadium yesterday. Skipper Maruf Reza, Imran Ali and Kazi Rajib netted one each for the winners as they led by four goals in the first-half.

Bachelors on a roll- Monday Sep 4-Bachelors Sporting Club registered their fourth victory in the Green Delta Insurance First Division Hockey League when they defeated Dhaka Wanderers Club by a solitary goal at the Maulana Bhasani National Hockey Stadium yesterday. Ahmed scored the all-important goal for the winners in the 46th minute.
Wari register sixth win- Thursday Sep 7-Wari Club recorded their sixth successive victory in the Green Delta Insurance First Division Hockey League beating Bachelors Sporting Club 3-1 at the Maulana Bhasani National Hockey Stadium yesterday. The match was locked 1-1 at first half. Tanjid Ahsan Babu struck twice and Aminul Haque Babu scored one goal for the winners, all from penalty corners, while Shabab scored the lone goal for Bachelors.

Javed hattrick lifts Bachelors-Wed Sep 13-A brilliant hattrick by Mohammed Javed enabled Bachelors Sporting Club to a facile 4-0 victory over Uttara Hockey Club in the Green Delta Metropolis First Division Hockey League at the Maulana Bhasani National Hockey Stadium yesterday. Javed's three field goals came in the 10, 28 and 48 minutes while Kabir Hossain sealed the win on the hour from a penalty corner.

Victoria win-Fri Sep 15-Victoria Sporting Club won match in the Green Delta First Division Hockey League at the Maulana Bhasani National Hockey Stadium yesterday. usuf's 20-minute field goal saw Victoria edge Bachelors Sporting Club 1-0.

Nikkah of Rafia & Hassan

2006-09-20T23:07:00.000-04:00

Click to see Photos(6)

I am very happy to announce the Nikkah ceremony of my daughter, Rafia F.Khan (granddaughter of Khwaja Raziuddin and late Zarina Begum) to Hassan Aziz.

Rafia has just completed her BBA from University of Toronto and Hassan has a Masters degree from the same University. Hassan and his parents are from Pakistan and are settled in Canada. My husband, Golam M. Khan, and I settled down in Canada 6 years ago.

Please join us to bless the couple a happy and prosperous life we seek allahtala's blessing for them from all of you.

Saba F. Khan (Toronto)
E-mail: sam_raan@hotmail.com

nawabbari awards for everyone

2006-09-19T13:34:00.000-04:00

This website is very interesting, there is something for people from the ages of 13-100. This website can really teach many of us who have lived in America and wasn't told about our ancestors. Not trying to mean anything wrong but for the enjoyment of others maybe you can have something like an award ceremony. On EID everyone can get together and vote for things like best dressed, most fun couple, prettiest teen, kid and women, best couple, most hard working etc. That would bring be a lot of fun since we didn’t have the Nawabbari picnic. People can nominate themselves but voting should be done in person because many people get tied up and vote for the same person many times online. If anyone thinks this might be fun for our family then please leave a comment trying to persuade Mr. Khwaja Anas , Mrs. Saniya Sajed ,and Mr. Belal Hassan

Thank you

Anmol's (Fardeen and Batool daughter) B'day photos

2006-09-16T01:52:00.000-04:00

Anmol's (Fardeen and Batool daughter) B'day photos

Anmol's Birthday Photos I

Anmol's Birthday Photos II

Batool is Chimmu's daughter and Mr. K.M. Aref & Afshani Begum's granddaughter.

Miandad's Famous Sixer !!!

2006-09-15T21:28:00.000-04:00

Congratulation’s To Tushar On His Great Achievement.

2006-09-12T23:32:00.000-04:00

Shafkat Ahmad Tushar

Shafkat Ahmad Tushar, achieved a Golden GPA-5 on the 2006 HSC Exam from Notre Dame College.

He also achieved GPA-5 in SSC Exam form Udayan Higher Secondary School.

He is the second son of Mr.Neaz Ahmed (Taslim) & Mrs. Karima Ahmed, grandson of Late Barkat Ahmed & Mrs Fazilat Barkat.

We are so proud of you that world cannot express. We all wish you a very long life & the greatest achievements a person can desire.

With love. ………………Choto Uncle Mohammad.Azad Barkat

Must be read by all Khwaja's

2006-09-12T00:30:00.000-04:00

Please double click on the image for bigger font. If you cant' read bengali , please get it translated. This historical research has been copied from "Ahsan Manzil O Dhakar Nawab" written by Dr. Md. Alamgir. This is very relevant to the topic discussed below and solves the problem at its core. I did not add the footnotes for shortage of space.

Shahriar with Bollywood Stars

2006-09-11T23:42:00.000-04:00

"Aap ka Saroor" a bollywood concert was held at the New Jersey Continental Airlines Arena, New Jersey on Sunday, 10 September. This was attended by pop sensation, Himesh Reshammiya along with 'Kajra Re' fame singer Alisha Chinoy, Indian Idol-Abhijeet Sawant, Zee Tv Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Winners Vinit And Himani & Bollywood Actress Udita Goswami from film Aksar Falong with many Bollywood Musicians And Dancers'

"These concerts promote our culture to the generation that's born here," said Vijay Taneja. "They should know their identity, and Indian cinema is the best way of keeping them aware of it. It makes me feel I'm keeping India close to the Indian overseas."

Shahriar (s/o Zartaj Kabir) is special assistant to Bollywood event organizer for USA Bharat Jotwani and Vijay Taneja.

Here is a link to his photos with Himesh Reshamiyya, Indian Idol - Abhijeet Sawant and Alisha Chinoy among others.

Click here ! (15 Photos)

Outstanding Result: HSC Exam

2006-09-11T13:10:00.001-04:00

Badrul Alam Chowdhury (Omar), s/o late Khurshed Alam Chowdhury and Zafar Bano (d/o late K.M Ashraf and Ishrat Begum), has achieved a GPA of 5 in his HSC exams. He's been an excellent student in school and in college.

He passed his HSC exam from Dhaka City College, a renowned educational institution. He received a GPA of 5 in his SSC exam as well.

We wish him success in all his future endeavours.
Khawja Ashhad Belal
(s/o Khawja MD Sayeed)

Ancestors address in Kashmir

2006-09-06T10:26:00.000-04:00

Dear Nawabbarians-
Do you have any physical address of our ancestors in Kashmir? Did any one ever visited? Is it in Pak or Indian side, does anyone know for sure? Please provide us details. I hope Reaz uncle or Iftekar bhai can give some realistic information.
It would be great to know the exact location or address. What about a group tour in coming years? :-)

Arshad

Awesome Promo on Bangladesh

2006-09-03T16:15:00.000-04:00

Awesome Promo on Bangladesh by Channel One.

Video: Yes, it rained in Karachi just like Dhaka

2006-09-03T01:55:00.000-04:00

Click to see video!

Sarwar makes it to MIT with a full Scholarship

2006-08-27T18:30:00.000-04:00

My nephew, SYED SARWAR HASSAN (son of my youngest sister Nusrat who lives in Dhaka) received acceptance from the prestigious MIT to do his undergrad there. He intends to major in Electrical Engineering.

He has been offered a full scholarship and was selected from a pool of 80 students thru a rigorous selection process. He starts his classes on 31 August 2006

Please pray for his continued success in this prestigious institution.

Thanks and Regds.
Khelafat, New York.

Google Satellite: Nawabbari and the Gol Talab

2006-08-26T02:39:00.000-04:00

Navigate from above with your mouse.
Click on the image!

Historic Footage: Bhutto's Drama at the United Nations

2006-08-26T01:31:00.000-04:00

On December 3, 1971, India, which had provided substantial clandestine aid to the Bangladesh independence movement, launched a massive offensive against West Pakistan. Bhutto traveled to New York City to plead West Pakistan's case before the United Nations, but left in disgust when the Security Council supported Bangladesh's independence and called for a cease-fire.

Watch the drama unfold...

Appeal to All DNF Members: Nawab Begum Ayesha

2006-08-20T15:19:00.000-04:00

If you love her you should help her before its late and you regret it.

Nawab Begum Ayesha, wife of the great Nawab Habibullah, who most of the younger generation address as Dadi (grandmother) is very ill and needs our prayers and our support.

To check on her well being you may contact, her great granddaughter Anita (di/o Late Khwaja Umer Hichoo)

Karachi Phone Nos:
(9221) 827-7854 RES
(92300) 210-4330 (Mobile)

She needs us now ! Please coordinate with DNF members in Karachi to help her.

Obituary: Fasih Keshwar

2006-08-20T02:46:00.000-04:00

Fasih Keshwar son of K.M.Keshwar and Mrs. Qamar Bano passed away on 19th August 2006 at his Kolabagan (Dhanmondi) residence of heart attack. (Inna Lillahe Wa Inna Ilayhe Rajeun). May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdous. He left behind mother, brother and three sisters.He was burried at Begum Bazar family graveyard.

To offer condolences, contact tel# (8802) 913-0932.
Request all of you to pray for the departed soul.

We had Fasih uncle's e-mail (kmfasih@yahoo.com) in our DNF e-mail list, today we sadly remove it. He will forever remain in our prayers and in our memories.

- DNF Website Team

Poet Shamsur Rahman passes away

2006-08-19T13:25:00.000-04:00

The DNF team regretfully informs you about the loss of one of our members, Kobi Shamsur Rahman. Mr. Rahman was the husband to Zohra Begum, d/o Qudsia Begum, g/d/o Nawabzada K.M Azmal and gg/d/o Nawab K.M Yusuf Jaan.

Mr. Rahman passed on August 17th, leaving behind his wife, one son, three daughters and a host of relatives, admirers and well-wishers at home and abroad to mourn his death.

For more information please click on link above.

-DNF Team

Meena bazar in Talaab Kinaar

2006-08-15T02:23:00.000-04:00

A Meena Bazar was held in Nawab Bari-Talaab Kinaar on the 11th of August.
This time there were many stalls from the non family members along with the colorful stallls from the Saheb and the Bibi's. This year the pary was jubilant, attended by many. The ending ceremony was marked by concert by Nakib (Nakko) staged in Bara Ghat.
People danced in every bit of his song -Ya Ali.
This year the Bazaar was more or less sucessful, as it banked on last year's advertisment and popularity in the surrounding neighbourhood (Moholla).

Some stall owners complained that the sale was not as good as last year, beacuse this Meena Bazaar was only for a day instead of three..
Also some nationalist questioned the timing of the M bazaar.As 15th August is the death anniversary of Bongobondhu and 14th August is Pakistans independence day.Is it merely coincidence or it was preplanned?

Video Clips

2006-08-12T17:46:00.004-04:00

1. The Day Begins in Dhaka:

http://blip.tv/file/get/JulieLindsay-TheDayBeginsForPodcastBangladesh733.WMV

2. (India - Pakistan) Wagah Border ceremony -- A "must see" Video

What an atmosphere, what a drama! The crowd that gathered on the Indian side should not be less than 12000, about half this number were on the other side of the border. Fridays normally get a larger crowd than other days. This is the road to Pakistan. The Delhi – Lahore bus service passes through these gates. The Samjhauta Express, the train that runs between Delhi and Lahore, also passes through this border post.

Over the last few years, Wagah border has grown in popularity as a tourist destination. Wagah has become popular for its ceremonial lowering of flags at the border gates every evening. I must say it was an unforgettable experience to be able to visit the Wagah border.

If you happen to visit Lahore you should visit the Wagah Border which is just 20-25km away from the Lahore.

Feel of Wagah at Indo-Bangla border Soon !!!!!!!!

Read Article

Movie Review: Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna

2006-08-11T21:46:00.000-04:00

The film was released on Friday, August 12 amid high expectations. I watched the first show at Eagle Theatre in Jackson Heights, New York with my wife and relatives.

The songs are nice. Its has a surprisingly large multi-star cast than shown above on the poster.

The story at the end tends to drag on. One feels like telling the director to put an end to the trauma. Amitabh's role was superfluous and did not fit his age and persona.

All in all, I would give it ** out of *****.

Listen to songs here: http://www.raaga.com/channels/hindi/movie/H001063.html

Mia Bhai in NY

2006-08-11T21:24:00.000-04:00

Mushfiq (10) & Muhid (7) with Spiderman

Syed Ishaq (s/o Syed Mushtaque of Nawab Bari) and his family enjoyed vacation in New York from July 18th to July 24th.
Even though he is settled in Toronto since last two decades, it was his first opportunity to visit Canada’s backyard- The big Apple.
In addition to visits to friends & family his itinerary included NY landmark Empire State building, lady liberty and Bangladeshi market in Jackson Heights. He stayed with
his brother in law Syed Shahadat (s/o Syed Abdul Majed) who is settled in NY. It was a good reunion for the family which they will remember for time to come.

Syeda Nusrat-L (d/o Syed Abdul Majed of NB)

Real Power or Fake Power of PAC

2006-08-09T12:40:00.000-04:00

Interesting reading for DNF members

Not since Foreign Affairs magazine published Samuel Huntington's "The Clash of Civilizations?" in 1993 has an academic essay detonated with such force as "The Israel Lobby and US Foreign Policy," by professors John J. Mearsheimer of the University of Chicago and Stephen M. Walt of Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government. Published in the March 23, 2006, issue of the London Review of Books and posted as a "working paper" on the Kennedy School's Web site, the report has been debated in the coffeehouses of Cairo and in the editorial offices of Haaretz. It's been called "smelly" (Christopher Hitchens), "nutty" (Max Boot), "conspiratorial" (the Anti-Defamation League), "oddly amateurish" (the Forward), and "brave" (Philip Weiss in The Nation). It's prompted intense speculation over why The New York Times has given it so little attention and why The Atlantic Monthly, which originally commissioned the essay, rejected it.
The objects of all this controversy are two eminent members of the academic establishment. Mearsheimer is a graduate of West Point, a veteran of five years in the Air Force, and the author of three books, including The Tragedy of Great Power Politics. In 1989, Mearsheimer persuaded Walt to leave Princeton and to join the faculty at Chicago, and they worked closely together until 1999, when Walt left for Harvard's Kennedy School; he's been its academic dean for the last three years. Last year, he published Taming American Power: The Global Response to US Primacy. As their book titles suggest, both professors belong to the "realist" school of international relations, viewing national interest as the only effective ground for making foreign policy.
In their paper (the Web version runs eighty-two pages, forty of them footnotes), Mearsheimer and Walt argue that the centerpiece of US policy in the Middle East has been its unwavering support for Israel, and that this has not been in America's best interest. In their view, the "extraordinary generosity" the US showers on Israel— the nearly $3 billion in direct foreign assistance it provides every year, the access it gives Israel to "top-drawer" weapons like F-16 jets, the thirty-two UN Security Council resolutions critical of Israel that it has vetoed since 1982, the "wide latitude" it has given Israel in dealing with the occupied territories—all this "might be understandable if Israel were a vital strategic asset or if there were a compelling moral case for sustained US backing." In fact, they write, "neither rationale is convincing." Israel may have had strategic value for the US during the cold war when the Soviet Union had heavy influence in Egypt and Syria, but that has long since faded. Since September 11, Israel has been cast as a crucial ally in the war on terror, but actually, according to Mearsheimer and Walt, it has been more of a liability; its close ties to America have served as a rallying point for Osama bin Laden and other anti-American extremists. Morally, Israel qualifies as a democracy, the authors write, but it's a deeply flawed one, discriminating against its Arab citizens and oppressing the Palestinians who have lived under its occupation.

Respectfully Submitted

Iftekhar Hassan

Announcement: Anmol's Birthday Party in NY

2006-08-03T01:25:00.000-04:00

1st Birthday Party of Anmol -daughter of Fardin (s/o S Khelafat Hossain) and Batul (d/o Chimmu Begum & Mr.Ayaz) .

Venue: Maurya of Queens Restaurant (718) 416-4007.
63-108 Woodhaven Blvd., Rego Park, NY 11374

See Driving directions

"Kakeder Judho"

2006-08-03T01:14:00.000-04:00

Picture of the month :"Fight for the throne" Digital image by Anas Khwaja

meena bazar once aain

2006-08-01T15:41:00.000-04:00

meena bazar once again in nawab bari or this is the end as v all see the uncontrolable populations of un authorised shops all around nawab bari and nawab bari talab its harb to imagine any more cultural events to occur .
hope the authority take some action or else give birth to his new shop somewhere around nawab bari

Karachi - Through the Lens !

2006-07-24T23:11:00.000-04:00

Are u missing the beautiful city of Karachi.
Than watch this...

[For DNF members who call Karachi Home]

Dhaka Now and Dhaka of Gore Nana

2006-07-21T17:31:00.000-04:00

By: Iftekhar Hassan

Gone are the days when Municipility trucks use to wash the street of Dhaka after Marwari Cleaners finished swept the streets of dhaka. Inspector like our beloved GORE NANA use to go around the city to inspect the works of Drivers and Cleaners. I remember very clearly "once GORE NANA" was yelling at a group of sweeper near "NAYABAZAR" as they failed to perform their respective duty of sweeping a some street that day. GORE NANA warned them of loosing job. I must GORE NANA was angry that day, but heck, later I came to know GORE NANA well, as he used to get angry every half an hour. GORE NANA was very skinny and looked funny, as he used to wear "PINK SATIN-KA-LUNGI" even when he was not around TALAB KENAR.

Now lets talk about how filthy Dhaka has become since the good old days. In reality Dhaka is a city that can be honestly describe as planets hell-hole, it has become most unhealthy city in the world for the following reason:-

(1) Thousand of factories and industries big and small, almost all unregulated dump thousand of tons of lead, chromium cadmium and other hazardous toxic materials coming from the Hazaribagh leather tannery, Dyeing and Finishing Textile units and other smelters in the adjoining areas.

(2)There is no sanitation for 80 percent of the urban population. Individual toilet facilities are available to only about 20 percent. Try to take a train ride in the morning from Komolapur Rail Station and watch "Thousand upon Thousand of kids taking crap on both side of the rail line along miles and mile of BASTIS.

(3) Adding insult to injury there exist no sewerage treatment system for 140 laks humans that now call Dhaka their home. WASA sources say that 16 lakh cubic metres of sewage generated everyday in the city, only about 50 thousand cubic metres could be treated. Reports say that the river Buriganga, Shitalakhya, Turag, Balu and adjacent wetlands including the lakes namely Gulshan-Baridhara and Uttara lakes receive an estimated 14 lakh cubic metres of raw sewage and waste water everyday.

(4) Solid chemical waste and poisons from untested cheap chemicals that are being imported into country along with disperse dyes, pigments, enzymes and effulents are all being discharge indiscriminatly into river Buriganga and Setalakhya without being treated first. So-called high class people of Dhaka Residents and workers across the city face disability, cancer and god knows mass death as these industries and shanty town units process and reprocess industrial by-products a series class of toxic metals and chemicals called hazardous wastes.

(5) Forget about Buriganga and Setalakhya river, water quality around so-called high class area of Gulshan-Baridhara and Uttara lakes is now a lifeless receptacle of human wastes, raw sewage and toxic industrial effluents from various industrial units of Tejgaon, Tongi and Badda areas has created a nightmare. I am quoting part of a report here as follows:-

"According to a study conducted by the DoE, these lakes' water carries a bacteria count of 1200 in place of 200 or less that is considered to be tolerable bacteria count in water bodies. Uttara lake was once a vast water body stretching from one end of Sector 3 to Sector 11 at least 3 km in length and 400 m wide. Because of indiscriminate dumping of household garbages, wastes and raw sewage from the bustling residential buildings all around, the lake's width and length have shrunk. The lake now is a stagnant pool of water, a giant sewer. With construction going apace in the RAJUK allotted land and people coming in ever increasing number to settle at Uttara, Joar Sahara, Badda and adjoining private lands, and RAJUK expanding its territory every year, the pollution scenario will be much worse. It is high time WASA devised an articulate plan to stop flow of sewage and wastewater into lakes and rivers that are considered "life line" of the city. People wonder if RAJUK prepared the Master Plan with any vision and forethought with regard to an articulate sewer line that would drain the raw sewage and waste water to places away from the habitat."

Respectfully Submitted

Iftekhar Hassan

Where is Nawab Sir Salimullah's history?

2006-07-18T12:31:00.000-04:00

If we see our past, we can predict our future. People of Dhaka, in this modern world, has forgotten the legend of Nawab Sir Salimullah. they don't know who was he. It's a shame for us and the rest of the people living in this country. I think medias should take initiative in order to focus the life of this great legend. we see our neighbouring country, India, making films of their legend. why shouldn't we? we now have certain amount of modern technology by which atleast we can capture some parts of the life style, cultures, traditions etc were in Dhaka Nawab Family. so that people should know how things were in the past of their own country and realising the facts and contributions of Nawab Salimullah..

What do u say?

Khwaja Ali Madani.

Try To Maintain DNF Cultural Tradition Whereever You Are

2006-07-17T14:54:00.000-04:00

By: Iftekhar Hassan

"Culture is Training of Mind Toward Better Taste"

Unique social and religious tradition of the DNF can be describe as an exclusive rich cultural traditions that the family members followed and practice up until the creation of Bangladesh. DNF culture was developed over a period of about 150 years as an exclusive family value units. These values were taken from certain islamic tradition of northern India that stretch from the Kashmir Valley to Uttar Pradesh and finally to Bengal. DNF tradition is unique is because (1) accent of the urdu language spoken among member of the DNF (2) exclusive cooking recipes (3) and various value units of individual tradition that are still being practice by the DNF members, wherever, they are today and such tradition are not being practice by others "as a whole unit"anywhere within the Indian sub-continent.

Purpose of this article is to discuss

"why follow family tradition and continue to cultivate such tradition"
"why abandon some tradition which are scientifically proven wrong"

We must never forget that it is the traditions that establishes family continuity, When we do something again and again over the years and through the generations, we tie togeather our past and our present. We link year to year, childhood to adulthood, nana to nati, dada to potta with shared experience, values and memories. We cultivate a sense of connecttedness in a time when everything else in the world, from clothing style to landscapes, seems to be changing rapidly.

Consistent family customs provide regular, fimiliar patters for a rhythm of life togeather. We may now think that the bed-time story of Badshah Nano was funny or going to Mohsena Nano (wife of Naeem sir) as boring to learn arabic or religious reading, but in reality, such custom added an element of predictability to the cycle of family life within DNF as a unit, that was comfortable and comforting.

The uniqueness of DNF culture and custom, most certainly contribute and provide its members a sense of who they are and where they belong.

NEXT: "why abandon some tradition which are scientifically proven wrong"

Respectfully Submitted

Iftekhar Hassan

Rich and beautiful Nawab Bari

2006-07-17T00:35:00.000-04:00

there has been many heard stories from my parents, relatives, and friends about how rich and beautiful Nawab Bari once was. when i visited BD in 2004, i was very shocked to see that it was nothing like what i heard. in fact, i didnt see anything there. i only enjoyed it because my relatives were there. or else i wouldnt plan on visiting Nawab Bari. children from my generation would say the same thing. we didnt grow up there, for which we wouldnt like it. yet we should still appreciate our parents land. the thing is, we cant though. so many outsiders have invaded our homes. the place is polluted! there's garbage everywhere and there are stray dogs walking around. it's just disgusting! this made me think.......can't we all donate some money and make Nawab Bari like it's old self again?? i know this is a very big thing i'm thinking of, but it's only for the better. i also know that it's going to take a really long time. maybe years, maybe decades, who knows?? but there's no harm in trying. we all moved out of BD leaving many of our families and friends behind. we're all living a decent life. we can all afford to get our wants accomplished, then why not our love and affection for those we left behind??this way when our generation goes to BD sometime in the future, which Insha-Allah we all will.. we should be able to visit our old Nawab Bari again. the way our parents left it. to do this i need some ideas to raise the money. what i need right now is everyone's help. we all just go to BD and enjoy, but we dont think about what everyone's going through over there. if the place is nice and clean atleast then we can atleast get started with their health. well that's all i had to propose.if anyone has any questions and if anything is unclear then please let me know. thank you so much dnf for making it possible for me to say this to all the Nawabbarians.thank you

Khawja Nazimuddin Illegal Removal and Begining of Disintegration of Pakistan

2006-07-12T15:36:00.000-04:00

By: Iftekhar Hassan

Khawja Nazimuddin illegal removal by Punjabi Governor General Ghulam Muhammad, was the begining of disintegration of Pakistan, may or may not be agreed by most political scientist. However, research led me to believe that it was indeed the begining of the disintegration of Pakistan. Governor General Gulam Mohammad's action was indeed, undemocratic and objectionable because the Prime Minister Khawja Nazimuddin enjoyed the confidence of the majority of the people of Pakistan and the Parliament.

This single act set an unhealthy tradition of undemocratic Pakistan and was the precedent for the future Presidents of Pakistan who were fond of removing elected governments. ( this fashion continued til this day)Not only this created continued instability in than, whole of Pakistan, in terms of foriming a solid democratic institution to support democracy, but also, this was the begining of military intervention in the affairs of civil rule, which made Pakistan a failed state, as it is today.

I must also point out that, Khawaja Nazimuddin's forced downfall was not only due to his peace loving nature, but power struggle amongst the various power hungry Pakistani leaders of that time. Situation created by than, movement for Tahaffuz-i-Khatam-i-Nabuwat and so-called food riot condition in Punjab was shown as failure of Khawaja Nazimuddin administration was nothing, but a hoax.

Khawaja Nazimuddin was called in by the Governor General and ordered to resign. Khawaja Nazimuddin declined but was dismissed by Malik Ghulam Muhammad on April 17, 1953. After removing Khawaja Nazimuddin, the Governor General appointed Muhammad Ali Bogra who himself was in those days was a thier tier political novice, as the Prime Minister of Pakistan.

We must not forget that the most important work to finish the rule of law book known as second draft of the constitution of Pakistan was written under Prime Minister Khawaja Nazimuddin and was presented to the Constituent Assembly on December 22, 1952.

It is true that the The Basic Principles Committee's report was severely criticized and bitterness grew between East and West Pakistan. However, Prime Minister, Khawaja Nazimuddin, welcomed the report as a valuable document according to the aspirations of the people of Pakistan. But the fact was that the nation was not satisfied with the report and this was also the begining of the problem of making of the constitution of Pakistan.

Respectfully Submitted

Where R We DNF??

2006-07-07T07:09:00.000-04:00

Strange news but true... Once i was walking down the road of Dhaka City. then i came to chat with some of the local dwellers there. surprisely, they thought i am frm abroad. when i told them about me and suddenly they all got suprised. they all speaking to themselves. and i said what happen.. do u knw what they replied. they replied that we all thought Nawab family does not exit no more. I was really very shock. then i somehow had them a long discussion with them.

so, my point is why people of dhaka city doesn't know that we , DNF, do exist? the answer is very simple. we don't come to the people face to face, in media for example.

Khwaja Ali Madani.

the main gate of nawab bari fall off last night

2006-07-04T10:05:00.000-04:00

finally it happened last night but thanks to almighty that the death rate was as minor as 10 people as the old entrance fall on a micro bus entering at 7 o clock the driver with 2 ricksha puller with 6 passenger on the ricksha and mr rahaman and son died on the sudden accident took place yesterday evening we really should hav taken some step to stop this accident but it was too late for us hope next time we wont be late may allah bless those departed souls in heaven