The Inspirational Journey of Shabbir Ahmad Ansari Unveiled in ‘Mandal Nama’
Mohammad Taukir Rahmani
EC Exclusive
The July 6th 2024, witnessed a gala release of the prestigious book “Mandal Nama” (Urdu version) at Mumbai’s historic Khilafat House. It is a non-fiction autobiography covering the life and inspirational journey of long-time social activist – Shabbir Ahmad Ansari – the founding President of the All India Muslim OBC Organization. This significant event drew many distinguished guests from within Maharashtra and beyond, each bringing their unique perspective and reverence for the work and life of Shabbir Sahab.
The 200-page paperback book was originally compiled in Marathi by Dilip Waghmare and translated in Urdu by Malik Akbar. It is a book on a living legend who has been a standing hero from zero by his perseverance, commitment and hardworking against all odds.
Among the dignitaries were Dr. Zahir Kazi, President of Anjuman-I-Islam and Padma Shri awardee; veteran journalist and Maharashtra MLC Kapil Patil, Mohammad Wajihuddin, Senior Assistant Editor of The Times of India, Mumbai; Sarfaraz Arzoo, Editor of Hindustan Urdu newspaper; Maulana Mahmood Daryabadi, general secretary of All India Ulama Council; Maulana Mohammad Burhanuddin Qasmi, Director of Markazul Ma’arif Education and Research Centre and Editor of Eastern Crescent along with so many others, especially, OBC leaders and activists from across India. The hall at Khilafat House, Byculla, Mumbai was at its full capacity with academia, journalists and social activists who came together to appreciate and recognise the marvelous contribution made by Shabir Ahmad Ansari for Muslim OBCs and this Nation. These luminaries who are highly respected personalities in their fields of work, graced the occasion and shared their invaluable insights on the book and the remarkable struggles of Shabbir Sahab.
The speakers highlighted the importance of Shabbir Sahab’s mission, emphasizing how he tirelessly worked day in and day out for the community, enduring numerous challenges along the way. They stressed that if this mission is not carried forward, it risks being buried with Shabbir Ansari himself. Shabbir Ahmad Ansari is not merely a name; he represents an Anjuman and a revolution. Despite facing various adversities and betrayals, he persevered and continued to advance his cause.
The event also acknowledged the crucial support provided to Muslim OBC Movement by MLC Kapil Patil and Dilip Kumar, two personalities instrumental in Shabbir Sahab’s mission. They stood by him unwaveringly, enabling him to confront politicians and overcome deceit from within his own ranks.
“Shabbir Bhai’s steadfastness led to a moment where even politicians had to concede to his demands and paved ways for Muslim OBC Reservation in Maharashtra,” echoed by almost all speakers..
“Mandal Nama” is not just a book; it is a testament to Shabbir Ahmad Ansari’s enduring legacy and a call to action for future generations to uphold and advance his mission. This is a book for all fiction and non-fiction readers. A story of a man who stood alone for a greater social cause, struggled and succeeded in his lifetime. “Shabbir Ahmad Ansari and Muslim OBC movement in Maharashtra is so fascinating-story in academic perspective that it should be a research topic in a Central University in India” opined by Maulana Burhanuddin Qasmi.
