Draft:Hamdam Daily

Hamdam is a newspaper publishing from Hyderabad Founded by Hazrath Late. Al-Haj Dr.Syed Mustafa Quadri Khateeb ; (Freedom Fighter) Tambra Patra & Abhinonden Patra Holder awarded by the president of India.

Established in the year 1951. This Newspaper is published in Urdu language & the period of publication is Daily.

History

Hamdam Urdu Daily: A Legacy of Courage, Journalism, and Resilience in Hyderabad

In the bustling landscape of Hyderabad, where history whispers from every corner, one institution stands as a testament to unwavering courage and journalistic integrity: the Hamdam Urdu Daily. More than just a newspaper, Hamdam's roots delve deep into the early 20th century, emerging as a defiant voice against oppression and a pivotal player in India's struggle for independence. Its saga is inextricably linked with the extraordinary life of its founder, Dr. Syed Mustafa Quadri Khateeb, a figure who dared to challenge the status quo when few others would.

Hamdam’s journey began in the era of the Hyderabad Deccan State, a time when openly opposing the Nizam’s Government was an act of profound bravery. Dr. Syed Mustafa Quadri Khateeb, a lone Muslim voice from Hyderabad, emerged as a beacon of resistance. In 1936, his commitment to freedom and greater democracy led him to pen a groundbreaking article in Hamdam, advocating for these very principles within the Nizam’s regime. This act of journalistic courage, however, came at a heavy price. Dr. Khateeb was swiftly arrested and detained, and in an unprecedented move, the Nizam of Hyderabad issued a decree seizing Hamdam Newspaper along with a significant portion of Dr. Khateeb’s properties and lands.

Yet, Dr. Khateeb was not one to be silenced. He valiantly fought his case against the formidable ruling Nizam Government, ultimately emerging victorious. This legal triumph allowed him to resume the publication of Hamdam, a testament to his tenacity. The incident was so impactful that the Nizam himself was quoted in Urdu, acknowledging the newspaper's persistent challenge: "Hamdam se aagaya meri Naak me Dum" (Hamdam has put me in a fix/made me exasperated).

Dr. Khateeb's resistance extended beyond the Nizam's dominion, reaching into the heart of the British Raj. His dedication to the Independence Movement saw him repeatedly imprisoned during critical periods, including the Salt Satyagraha Movement of 1930, the Quit India Movement of 1942, and the broader Struggle for Freedom Movement leading up to 1947. He endured frequent jail sentences, spending years in various central prisons like Karachi, Chanchalguda, Naini, and Allahabad.

Hamdam Newspaper itself played a crucial role in these national movements. During the iconic Salt Satyagraha and Dandi March, an act of nonviolent civil disobedience led by Mahatma Gandhi, Hamdam became a vital source of information. By diligently publishing news and articles related to the movement, it helped galvanize thousands of people, contributing significantly to the widespread participation. Dr. Khateeb’s unique position as the only Muslim from Hyderabad Deccan to join the Indian National Congress, and his inclusion among its national leaders, further underscores his immense contribution. Notably, his commitment saw him imprisoned alongside India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, in Allahabad Central Prison.

Following India's hard-won independence in 1947, Hamdam Urdu Daily officially registered with the Government of India in 1951, a date proudly reflected in its "Estd: 1951" masthead. Its enduring presence is remarkable; records from 1951 indicate that Hamdam was one of only five Urdu daily newspapers operating out of Hyderabad, alongside Masheer E Deccan, Milap, Rehnuma E Deccan, and Siasat. Today, it proudly holds the 5th position among the leading Urdu dailies of Hyderabad, a testament to its consistent readership and influence over more than seven decades.

Beyond his groundbreaking journalism and freedom fighting, Dr. Syed Mustafa Quadri Khateeb was also an intrepid adventurer, recognized as the first Indian cycle tourist to travel 47 countries, even undertaking the arduous journey to Makkah Shareef for Haj on his bicycle.

The historical significance of Hamdam is further cemented by its frequent citation in academic and historical works. Its articles, editorials, and news columns serve as valuable references in books such as "India Wins Freedom," "The Indian Political System," "The Press in Hyderabad," and "During the Election 1951-52," highlighting its role as a primary source for understanding critical periods in Indian history.

After the passing of Dr. Syed Mustafa Quadri Khateeb, the stewardship of Hamdam Urdu Daily passed into the capable hands of his son, Syed Mohammed Quadri Khateeb, who took charge as editor and owner. Syed Mohammed Quadri Khateeb’s dedicated work as a journalist and editor proved instrumental in maintaining Hamdam's reputation as a trusted source of information for the Urdu-speaking community. A well-respected figure in both journalism and social service, his unwavering commitment to community development and social justice not only shaped public opinion but also inspired many to follow in his footsteps. His leadership during this period solidified Hamdam's standing and earned him widespread respect and admiration from his peers and the wider community.

Today, the legacy of Hamdam is meticulously preserved and propelled forward by Syed Zaid Quadri Khateeb, also known as SZQ Khateeb, a prominent journalist and orator who serves as its Editor and Publisher. A descendant of the illustrious Quadri & Khateeb e Shattal Arab Family, tracing its lineage to Sayyiduna Shaykh Abdul Qaadir Jeelani Mahboob-e-Subhani Ghaus-e-A’zam Dastageer (R.A), SZQ Khateeb ensures that Hamdam continues to be a vibrant and authoritative voice for the Urdu-speaking community.

Hamdam Urdu Daily is more than just an old newspaper; it is a living chronicle of courage, a beacon of journalistic independence, and an enduring voice that has shaped public discourse and stood for freedom for over seven decades. Its story is an integral part of Hyderabad's heritage and India's struggle for nationhood.