Persian scholar Padma Shri Asifa Zamani laid to rest
1
2
3
Lucknow:
Padma Shri
recipient Persian scholar Asifa Zamani was laid to rest at Aishbagh cemetery on Saturday, She died after a prolonged illness on Friday. She was 80. Zamani is survived by her son, Asif Z Rizvi.
Born on Mar 22, 1945, Zamani built a distinguished career in Persian studies. She served as professor and later head of the Persian department of
Lucknow University
. Her academic contributions include over 200 research papers published in prestigious journals in Iran, US and Pakistan.
Zamani authored several acclaimed works, including Aabgeena, Ehsas e Bekaran, Adhura Safar and Lakeerein Hath Ki. In recognition of her excellence, she was honoured with Padma Shri in 2004, President of India Certificate of Honour in 1999 and Jaiza-e-Sadi Award of Iranian govt in 2009.
Married to former UP cabinet minister Aijaz Rizvi, Zamani was also an advocate for social causes and women's empowerment. She received the Women Empowerment Award from Lucknow University in 2002 and a Special Award for Social Services from the Indian Care and Welfare Society in 2009.
The literary community mourned her loss. Sabira Habib, former professor of Russian at LU, said, "I had a deep and cordial connection with Asifa. She was a brilliant scholar and a humble, sweet person. Her death is great loss for the literary world."
Philosopher and former Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Prof Roop Rekha Verma, added, "She was a wonderful human being and an exceptional scholar. I pay my deepest condolences to her."
Follow more information on
Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad here
. Get
real-time live updates
on rescue operations and check
full list of passengers onboard AI 171
.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
10 hours ago
- Time of India
What makes Banarasi sarees so special? Here are 10 reasons for their everlasting charm
Source: Pinterest Banarasi sarees are more than garments, they are heirlooms woven with history, culture and craftsmanship. Originating from the sacred city of Varanasi (Banaras), these silk masterpieces have maintained their iconic status for centuries, admired for their richness and elegance. Steeped in tradition, Banarasi sarees are much more than fashion statements; they are cultural treasures cherished across generations. In many Indian households, a Banarasi saree is passed down through generations, worn by brides on their wedding day or any other religious ceremonies. Each intricate thread symbolises prosperity, spiritual grace, and devotion. Banarasi saree: A glorious heritage Source: Wikipedia The Banarasi saree's rich history began during the Mughal era, combining Indian traditions with Persian and Islamic artistry. Emperors and royal families patronised these waves, merging Indian tradition with Islamic artistry. Royal patronage helped develop its distinctive design, featuring floral patterns, architectural elements, and symbolic motifs. Over the years, this artistry was preserved by generations of weavers in Varanasi and surrounding towns like Chaundali, Mirzapur, and Bhadohi. Today, the Geographical Indication (GI) Act ensures the authenticity and craftsmanship of Banarasi sarees. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Here's A List Of Cheapest Steel Suppliers (See List) Steel Suppliers | search ads Search Now Undo Intricate craftsmanship: The soul of Banarasi saree Creating Banarasi sarees is a time-intensive process that requires patience, precision, and passion. This is how the process works: Design drafting: Designs are drawn on graph paper and drafted onto punch cards for use on Jacquard looms. Weaving: Each saree takes anywhere from 15 days to 6 months to complete. While it requires a few days for the jacquard loom to be threaded and tuned, the weaving is simultaneous with three expert artisans working at the same time on one saree at three positions. Source: Wikipedia Saree threads: Woven together in the sarees are pure silk (Katan), zari (gold/silver metallic thread), and sometimes cotton, creating glittery, textural patterns that are both luxurious and grounding. The most prominent of styles are Jangla, Butidar, Tanchoi, Tissue, and Cutwork sarees; each with its technique and motifs including mango leaves (kalga), lotus flowers, Mughal architecture, and trailing vines (bel). 10 things that make Banarasi saree so special and timeless Royal origin: These sarees are from the historic city of Varanasi, which is associated with much of India's royal heritage. They hold a great deal of Mughal influence and cultural history. Exquisite craftsmanship: Each saree is handwoven by skilled artisans using traditional looms, often taking weeks or even months to complete Luxurious fabrics: When made with pure silk (katan), zari (gold/silver threads), or occasionally fine cotton, Banarasi sarees are tactile, rich, and luxurious Source: Wikipedia Intricate motifs: Banarasi sarees feature designs that resemble fine Mughal artistic influence, with motifs that often represent florals, peacocks, and the kalga-bel vines that are often adorned with symbolic meaning. Zari Buraq: The Banarsi saree can easily be identified by the gold and silver zari plot of work within them. It gives shimmer and elegance to the Banarasi sarees Versatile draping: Despite their rich fabric, they drape beautifully. There are ways to drape and style them for traditional and modern looks. Source: Wikipedia Social status symbol: Historically worn by brides and Noblemen, Banarsi sarees are recognised for beauty and social status as well. Variety of styles: Banarasi sarees are available in Katan, Organza, Georgette, and Shattir, and are suitable for bridal occasions and evening parties, or light celebrations. Cultural preservation: Weaving communities in Varanasi have retained their craft throughout the generations and consequently have helped safeguard India's textile heritage. International appeal: From Bollywood superstars to commercial runways in New York City, Banarasi sarees are now popular and recognised by a number of initiatives worldwide. Sustainability & challenges The Banarasi weaving industry, though celebrated, faces challenges. The rise of machine-made imitations threatens the livelihood of authentic handloom artisans. Additionally, chemical dyes and synthetic yarns have raised environmental concerns. However, many initiatives are working toward sustainable solutions, such as the revival of plant-based dyes, eco-friendly weaving, and direct-to-consumer artisan marketplaces. Supporting these movements ensures that the true essence of Banarasi craftsmanship lives on One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
UP plans to restore Ayodhya's ancient river
Ayodhya: The river 'Tilodki Ganga', once the lifeline of rural areas of Ayodhya, has gradually vanished over time as the river land was largely encroached upon with the construction of buildings in the last couple of years. The main stretch of this river falls along the Allahabad national highway, where the area is being developed with large industrial establishments and other big constructions. Now, the UP govt and Ayodhya administration are planning to rejuvenate the river. Its current form will be completely transformed, and the river will return to its original state. Talking to TOI, Ayodhya DM Nikhil Tikaram Funde said that work has begun over a 7-km stretch as the first phase. The total length of the river is 46 km. Chief minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed for the revival of one river in every district of the state, and this directive is being implemented here. The work is being carried out to restore the river to its original form between Gaura Brahmanan and Panditpur in the Sohawal area through the MNREGA scheme. Around 250 labourers have been deployed at various points along this stretch to clean the river. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Your Finger Shape Says a Lot About Your Personality, Read Now Tips and Tricks Undo It is part of the 'One District, One River' plan in UP and is being revived with the aim of restoring its historical significance. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had also taken cognizance of the issues related to the river and ordered the Ayodhya district magistrate to take steps for its rejuvenation, including exploring options for reusing discharged water. The locals have also raised concerns about the impact of the airport expansion and the discharge of wastewater from the multinational giant's bottling factory on their village. "We have highlighted that the airport's construction has led to waterlogging in some areas and that the drain water overflows during the monsoon season," said Om Prakash Singh, an environmental activist. "We have lodged complaints with the authorities against the bottling factory that is not only contaminating the river but has also encroached a large part of the river," Singh said. Chief development officer Krishna Kumar Singh said that the work of cleaning the river and removing encroachments will be completed by June 30. Following this, a large-scale tree plantation campaign will be conducted along the riverbank from July 1-7.
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Noida tops school education rankings in state, Ghaziabad fourth
Noida: Gautam Budh Nagar emerged as the only district in the state to be placed in the high-performing category in schooling and education standards in 2023-24, according to the central govt's Performance Grading Index (PGI) 2.0. The report, released by the Union education ministry on Friday, showed that Noida scored 309 out of 600 points, putting it in the Pracheshta-1 (51-60%) category. The district improved its count from 272 in the previous academic year. It was followed by Jhansi (299), Varanasi (292) and Ghaziabad, which was ranked fourth with a score of 288 – all under the relatively lower Pracheshta-2 category. Under PGI, assessment is made for each district out of 600 points divided into six broad categories – outcomes, effective classroom transaction, infrastructure facilities & student entitlements, school safety & child protection, digital learning and governance process. These categories have 11 separate domains, including learning outcomes and quality, access outcomes (AO), teacher availability, attendance monitoring systems, etc. Based on cumulative points, each district is given grades – the highest being 'Utkarsh' (for scoring over 90% of total points), and the lowest, Akanshi-3 (up to 10%). In the latest findings, Noida scored well in overall outcome and effective classroom transaction. Both NCR districts – Noida and Ghaziabad – scored just 19 out of 50 in digital learning. In 2023-23, there was no district in UP to score over 50% and be included in Pracheshta-1. Jhansi scored the highest that year, with an overall score of 287. It was followed by Noida, at 272, and Ghaziabad at 259.
