The Indian Muslim Welfare Association (IMWA) hosted its highly awaited annual picnic at Al Rawda Garden in Kuwait on Friday, April 19, 2024. This joyous event brought together over 240 members of the IMWA community, including men, women, and children, for a day of celebration, remembrance, and fellowship.
The important feature of the event was a solemn condolence meeting held by IMWA to honor the memory of Dr. Mirza Umair Beg, one of its esteemed founder members. Dr. Beg, a distinguished scientist, started his remarkable career with CSIR in India, where he served as Senior Assistant Director at ITRC, a prominent CSIR Lab located in Lucknow, India. During his tenure with CSIR, he was selected as a fellow and was deputed to the World Health Organization (WHO) in the UK, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Poland, Switzerland, Finland, and USSR, contributing his expertise to various projects of international significance He was also deputed to Dubai, as a founder director of Dubai Institute of Environmental Sciences and Dubai Pharmacy College. Later he worked as Senior Scientist in KISR- Kuwait for 28 years. He was also an articulate writer, a captivating speaker, an admired & adored figure among all age groups of people within Indian community in Kuwait. His sudden passing on April 15, 2024, in his hometown of Lucknow, India, left a profound void in the hearts of IMWA members.
During the condolence meeting, more than 40 members shared their cherished memories and heartfelt tributes to Dr. Umair Beg. Many attendees expressed deep sorrow while reflecting on his significant contributions to the welfare of the Indian community in Kuwait. The meeting concluded with prayers for Dr. Umair Beg's forgiveness and elevation to Jannat Al Firdous, the highest level of paradise, as per Islamic tradition.
Despite the somber tone of the condolence meeting, the IMWA annual picnic continued with enthusiasm and spirit. The day began with a hearty breakfast and featured an array of engaging activities for both children and adults, including games, Islamic and General Knowledge Quiz, Housie, and a Raffle Draw. These activities brought laughter and joy to the entire IMWA family, fostering bonds of friendship and camaraderie.
Dr. Mohammad Naeemuddin, President of IMWA, expressed his gratitude to all members for their participation in this memorable event. He remarked, "Dr. Mirza Umair Beg's legacy will forever remain in our hearts, and his contributions to our community will continue to inspire us. Today, as we gather in his honor, we also celebrate the strength of our IMWA family and the enduring spirit of unity and compassion that defines us.”