Elite Indian diaspora group, “Bihar Anjuman” hosts its annual get-together with great fanfare

Bihar Anjuman, a major Indian diaspora organization, hosted its annual get-together called “Sham-e-Bihar Jharkhand” here with a focus on the need for unified efforts to set up educational projects in the two eastern states of India.  The event featured a compelling speech and presentation on professional development and career tranjectory by distinguished author, top-notch speaker, and civil services coach Sameer Siddique, who is also the founder of Delhi-based Alifs IAS Academy.

Sameer, who flew to Riyadh to deliver his keynote speech as chief guest and to visit the holy cities of Makkah and Medinah, captivated the audience with his thoughts about new and innovative aspects of education with special reference to the learning and innovation for students. Sameer delivered the thought-provoking address titled "Replacing Fear with Education", in which he challenged conventional learning and advocated for education driven by curiosity, innovation, and compassion.

Sameer’s whose educational materials and videos are high in demand in India and abroad also spoke at length about the preference and importance of choosing fields of higher education aligned with future global demands. Highlighting the evolving landscape of work and sustainability, he emphasized the critical role of entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence (AI), hydroponics, and aquaponics. These emerging domains, he noted, will be essential in a world increasingly defined by water scarcity and shifting economic priorities. 

Sameer urged students and parents to think forward and prepare for challenges with knowledge, skills, and adaptability. The event witnessed a huge presence of Indian expatriates from Bihar and Jharkhand, along with an audience from other Indian states and diaspora organizations. The program opened with a warm welcome and introduction by Afaque Akhtar, who set the tone for the evening and invited the distinguished guests to the stage. 

The event began with a soulful recitation from the Holy Quran by Master Abdullah, followed by a bouquet presentation to the dignitaries and guests, honoring their presence. Speaking on this occasion, Shabbir Ahmed Vidrohi, a versatile poet and senior politician from Nagpur (Maharashtra), mesmerized the hearts and left the audience spellbound in pure awe. 

Vidrohi spoke about the conditions of Muslims and minorities in India, saying that “most of our behaviour comes from greed, lack of self-confidence, lack of confidence in the nation, and lack of respect for society”. He said that there is enough in this world for everyone's needs, but not enough for everyone's greed.  “Let us all be responsible citizens who make our country a great place to live,” added Vidrohi, whose words resonated with both wisdom and words of encouragement.  

Dr Mohammad Abul Farah, president of Bihar Anjuman, made a comprehensive presentation on the organization’s activities and its annual progress report. His address highlighted the impactful work being done within the community, particularly in the field of education.  Another active member of the Bihar Anjuman, Abid Hussain, who has been entrusted with the task of overseeing the Anjuman’s projects in India, shared a heartfelt account of the experiences and challenges faced in establishing the Book & Pen Public School (BPPS) at Nawadah, a town in Bihar. 

Further, rich inputs came from the guest of honors for the evening, Syed Wayez Ahmad, CEO of Wayez International Group of Companies, and Dr. Mohammad Idris, medical consultant at Al Shifa Medical Services, whose speeches focused on the community’s social responsibilities and educational aspirations. A special highlight of the evening was the launch of a book titled “The Art of Peaceful Life” by author Seraj Akram, who has been associated with Bihar Anjuman since its very inception. 

This new title offers lessons of practical wisdom on living with purpose and balance in today’s fast-paced world. Akram is also the author of the best-seller “Muslim Factbook”, which gives readers clarity about problems, root causes and the solutions that can bring significant changes in the life and living conditions of Muslim community. On the sidelines of the event, several mementos were presented to the guests and dignitaries to recognize their contributions and achievements, besides certificates of recognition awarded to students and sponsors. 

The results of the essay and speech competition for students were announced by Professor Faisal Zaidi, and the winners were presented with trophies during the event. The function concluded with a vote of thanks by Tauqir Nasir, who extended heartfelt appreciation to all sponsors, contributors, guests, volunteers, and supporters. A delightful dinner followed, giving attendees a chance to relax, reconnect, reflect, and socialize. 

On a concluding note, the Bihar Anjuman (Riyadh Chapter) extended heartfelt thanks to all sponsors of Shaam-e-Bihar & Jharkhand 2025 for their generous support. The major sponsors for the event were Al Shifa Medical Services, Key Safety, Al-Rajhi Bank, PhysicsWallah Gulf, ZeejPrint, Peacock Restaurant, Peaks International Co., National Alliance, Mohra Co. Ltd., Subhan Bakery, Astral Arabia, Godrej, Smart Print & Advertising, Alkeefah Bearings Trading Est., AHMZ Consultancy, India News Stream, The Pathfinder Visa, SABAKT for Metal Fabrication, Malabar Gold, and Dabur. 

The organization also thanked its dedicated volunteers, including  Seraj Akram, Abid Hussain, Mohammad Shahin, Tauqir Nasir, Afaque Akhtar, Danish Sheikh, Miftahuddin, Syed Amanullah, Farman Ahmad, Imteyaz Ahmad, Sajid Hussain, Osama Jawed, Mohammad Mateen, Dr. Alimuddin, Zeya Khan, Nasim Ahmad, Shamsh Tabrez, Prof. Faisal Zaidi, Nisar Ahmad, Naushad Akhtar, Simab Hussain, Abdul Karim, Jamshed Alam, Wasim khan, Amir Khubru, and Samir Alam for their outstanding efforts in making Shaam-e-Bihar & Jharkhand 2025 a memorable success. 

Their enthusiasm truly reflects the spirit of Bihar Anjuman’s mission: “Better to light a candle than to curse the darkness,” said a press statement released by the Bihar Anjuman recently. The gathering was more than a celebration; it was a powerful reminder of what a united community can achieve when it invests in knowledge and shared values. To this end, it is important to note that Saudi Arabia is home to about 2.9 million Indian workers, businessmen, and professionals, including about 500,000 expatriates, who hail from Bihar and Jharkhand.

Moreover, the linkages between India and Saudi Arabia date back to ancient times and are deeply connected to early civilizations. Both Saudi Arabia and India share many similarities and strong relationships, which are complex, long-standing, and constantly evolving. In fact, the Indian diaspora, encompassing over 35 million people globally, including 2.9 million in the Kingdom in 2024, symbolizes India's vast reach and influence. Representing the largest diaspora worldwide, these individuals serve as economic drivers, cultural ambassadors, and strategic allies for India.