Mangaluru: The Highland Islamic Forum (HIF) organised an event titled "Aspire to Inspire for Better Life" at the Town Hall here on Wednesday. The programme aimed to motivate and guide individuals towards leading a meaningful and improved life.

Prominent personalities Moulana Huzaifa Vastanvi, CEO of Jamia Akkalkuwa, and Wali Rahmani, Founder of Umeed Global School, graced the event as distinguished guests.

The programme commenced with a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran by Aahil SM, setting a spiritual tone for the gathering. This was followed by Rizwan Pandeshwar, who delivered an introduction and provided an insightful overview of HIF India and its mission.

Moulana Huzaifa Vastanvi spoke about human existence through the teachings of the Quran, explaining that it encompasses two forms: physical and spiritual. He emphasized that spiritual existence is of greater importance, as it defines the purpose of life and our connection with the divine.

He shed light on the Quran's guidance regarding human existence and the reason for being sent to earth. He highlighted that the Quran is not merely a religious text but a complete way of life, offering solutions to many modern-day challenges, including widespread issues like depression, anxiety, and stress, which have gripped a large portion of the population.

He further pointed out that education alone cannot address the problems faced by humanity. Instead, he stressed the need for a balance between education and spirituality, urging people to hold firmly to their faith in Allah. He called upon social organisations to work towards fostering this balance to create a more harmonious society.

Moulana Vastanvi also addressed misconceptions about Islam, stating that it is not just an alternative solution but the ultimate solution to the problems of the world. He underlined that the principles of Islam are universal and not confined to Muslims alone, offering guidance and remedies for people across the globe.

Wali Rahmani, Founder of Umeed Global School, addressed the audience with a compelling speech on the qualities of great leaders, drawing inspiration from Islamic history and the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Hazrat Umar (RA). He urged Muslims to seek these qualities in their leaders, emphasizing the need for integrity, justice, and inclusivity in leadership.

Rahmani referenced Mahatma Gandhi's recognition of Hazrat Umar's exemplary rule, noting that Gandhi listed him as the top ruler in his book Harijan. He pointed out that a key trait of a great leader is their reluctance to seek power. To illustrate this, he recounted the instance when Hazrat Abubakar (RA) chose Hazrat Umar (RA) as his successor, a decision that deeply moved and humbled Umar.

He encouraged individuals to aspire to be leaders who embody these values whenever they are elected or appointed to any position of responsibility. Highlighting the inclusivity of Hazrat Umar’s governance, Rahmani noted how he maintained harmony and fairness across all communities and religions during his rule, setting an example for leaders today.

Rahmani also called upon people and organisations to foster unity within the community. He stressed the importance of working with pure intentions and refraining from judging others based on personal faith practices. He urged the Muslim community to avoid complacency, reminding them of the continuous effort needed to work towards the betterment of society and their own progress.

Wali Rahmani also shared his inspiring journey of establishing Umeed Academy, which he started with just three orphaned children. Today, the academy has grown into a global institution, nurturing the futures of 350 students from diverse backgrounds.

He credited the success of Umeed Academy entirely to Allah’s blessings, emphasizing the importance of pure intentions, hard work, and sacrifices. Rahmani reflected on the challenges he faced, particularly the sacrifices he made during his youth, which he dedicated to building the institution.

These addresses were followed by questions and answers session wherein the speakers took questions from audience and answered their queries.

Adil Pandeshwar, HIF President was present on stage during the event.

The event concluded with Shaaz Yusuf Rasheed presenting vote of thanks to the attendees.

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Kolkata (PTI): The Enforcement Directorate on Sunday conducted raids at the premises of Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sinha Biswas and a local businessman as part of a money laundering probe against an alleged criminal and his linked syndicate in the poll-bound state, officials said.

Two premises of Biswas, including his residence in Ballygunge area and one location of the businessman named Joy Kamdar, Managing Director of a company named Sun Enterprise, have been raided under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Kamdar has been taken by the officials to the local ED office for questioning. Biswas, chief coordinator and nodal officer of the West Bengal and Kolkata Police welfare committee, was not present at his premises, they said.

The action is linked to a money laundering case against an alleged local criminal named Biswajit Podder alias Sona Pappu, who is booked in multiple cases on charges of attempted murder and extortion.

The federal probe agency had conducted the first round of searches in this case on April 1.

The ED had then seized cash of Rs 1.47 crore apart from gold jewellery and silver valued at Rs 67.64 lakh and a country-made revolver from some premises that were searched.

The probe stems from a Kolkata Police FIR against against Podder for his alleged involvement in rioting, attempt to murder, criminal conspiracy and Arms Act violations. The accused, including Podder, were engaged in organised criminal syndicate activities in the state of West Bengal and generated funds illegally by way of syndicate operations, the ED said in a statement on April 9.

Podder is also wanted by the police in a case of violence in Kankulia road near Golpark of Kolkata and is currently on the run.

The ED has issued summons to Podder but he has failed to join the investigation so far, according to the agency.

West Bengal will have a two phase poll on April 23 and April 29.