By Rehan Ansari, TwoCircles.net,
Mumbai: In a first of its kind the financial capital of India witnessed a meet of Muslim entrepreneurs of the country here on Monday at Islam Gymkhana. The entrepreneurs had gathered to participate in a seminar on “Muslim Entrepreneurs: Challenges and Opportunities” organized by an Urdu News magazine.
Discussion went beyond business and commerce opportunities and threats for the entrepreneurs especially Muslims but participants also discussed social issues like Urdu as a language and education standard among Muslims.
Prominent entrepreneur of Karnataka Syed Siddiqui Mohd Beary appreciated the concept and said, “This is a very good beginning and, in fact in my life, this is the first occasion when Muslim entrepreneurs have gathered under one roof. We all should meet regularly and should draw a map for young entrepreneurs.
The Managing Director of Al Samit International Ghulam Peshimam, who also presided the seminar, also echoed the same sentiments and went a step head. He suggested something beyond seminars and symposium and said, “It is rare opportunity when issues of Muslim entrepreneurs are being discussed, we should also organize workshops and seminars for young entrepreneurs to guide and help them become an admirable Businessman.”
Entrepreneurs also discussed the Education standard among Muslims and observed that education is the key to success. Dr. Mohd Ali Patanker, while expressing his views said “Education is the only weapon which can lead you to success.”
Not only the entrepreneurs but Muslim politicians from all parties got together.
Mohd. Arif Naseem Khan, Minister for Minority Affairs, Maharashtra, claimed “Urdu is not a religious but national language that’s not only attractive but a language of common citizen.”
Chief Guest of the seminar, Khan also said that he will take every necessary step for the promotion of Urdu Language and declared, “Government of Maharashtra would build three ‘Urdu Ghars’ in Maharashtra with all modern facilities for Urdu loving people.” He told that these Urdu Ghars will be built in Aurangabad, Nanded and Mumbai.
Few successful Muslim entrepreneurs were also honored with the awards for their success. Mr. V. R. Sharif, Mr. Abdul Qadar Fazalani, Iqbal Abdul Hameed Memon, and Syed Mohd Beary were presented business promotion awards and shawls.
Samajwadi Party MLA and well known businessman, Abu Asim Azmi and famous Psychiatrist and Social Worker, Abdul Karim Naik also graced the occasion.
The program was organized by Urdu edition of Sunday Indian.