Abdul Rashid Qureshi was born in Jammu shortly before the end of World War I. His father and grandfather were in the British Army. At the age of one, he became an orphan. He spent his childhood with his mother who took care of him with utmost care and love. The mother sacrificed her youth and did not allow her elder sister and A. Rashid Qureshi to feel like an orphan.
The mother longed for her son to pursue higher education. After passing primary school from Jammu, he went to Poonch to his uncle's place. From there, he passed 10th standard from JV Government High School in 1931. After passing the FA from Prince of Wells College, Jammu, he got married. He continued his studies after marriage and after completing his B.Ed from Shri Pratab Singh College, Srinagar, he started his academic career as a class X teacher at Sri Ranbir Singh High School, Jammu.
After teaching for a few years, he worked as Inspector of Schools in the Jammu Region. In 1946, he was appointed as Lecturer at Teachers Training College, Jammu. He had gone to Mirpur with his sister in 1947 for summer vacation. During the holidays, the country was divided. He temporarily stayed in Jhelum with his family and later settled in Sialkot, Pakistan, with the hope that he would return to his native Jammu and Kashmir.
Initially he worked as a Lecturer in Army Convent School in Sialkot but later took up journalism. In 1949, he published his first educational journal "Nizam-e-Taleem" which was published in all schools of Azad Kashmir and Punjab. He later launched the weekly newspaper "Rahbar Kisan" in 1956 which continued till his retirement in 1982.
He remained associated with the field of knowledge and teaching. Before Pakistan was born, he was the author of a few books which were published by a renowned publisher in Amritsar. Rasheed Qureshi believed that he came here because of his mother's vision. In later life, he made several trips to the United States and various European countries. He later visited Saudi Arabia and Qatar also. He passed away on November 19, 2001 after a short illness. Coincidentally, his wife also passed away on November 19, 1983.
Haroon brings a wealth of experience from a distinguished career in banking and finance, paired with a deep passion for the arts and literature. After moving to Doha in 1976, he joined United Bank Limited in 1980, where he developed a long-standing professional background in the financial sector. Beyond his banking career, Haroon has nurtured a profound interest in writing, contributing insightful columns to leading newspapers in Pakistan on social issues and current affairs, while also pursuing his passion for cricket, gaining popularity as a commentator for veteran’s cricket in Qatar. As a key figure in media landscape, he founded Qatar’s first Cricket Academy, and today oversees a bilingual newspaper in Pakistan and Qatar that focuses on poetry, social commentary, and talent discovery. In 2023, his dedication to media and cultural exchange earned him an invitation from China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to represent Middle Eastern journalists, further cementing his influence in the region.
Shahid began his career in production at a multinational company in Pakistan after completing his education. Alongside his career, he actively supported his father’s vision of running a successful newspaper. In late 1988, he moved to Qatar to join his elder brother in pursuit of better opportunities, and after a year, relocated to the United States to further enhance his prospects and support his family. Shahid takes pride in both his children, who are pursuing careers in medicine. A successful businessman known for his generous nature, he provides extensive support to relatives and family members and has undertaken philanthropic efforts, such as building a mosque in memory of his late parents. Since its inception, Shahid has been a steadfast moral and financial supporter of RKI, ensuring the newspaper honors his father’s legacy. He is particularly responsible for promoting RKI in the United States, especially in New York.
Zahid Sheikh has been residing in the Gulf region for the past 24 years and is actively involved in print media. He began his career as a journalist and is now based in Qatar, where he combines his business pursuits with his role as a special correspondent for a leading TV channel.
Rahbar Kisan International (RKI) is honored to have Zahid Sheikh on board as the Executive Editor for the Gulf region. In this capacity, he holds a vital role on the Editorial Board, overseeing significant responsibilities.
As an Executive Editor, Zahid Sheikh leads the editorial department, defining and implementing the publication’s editorial strategy. His responsibilities include setting the tone, style, and standards for content while managing the budget, schedule, and workflow of the editorial team.
Azmat Haroon is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over a decade of experience in the media industry. She has held pivotal roles, including as Digital Media Manager at Gulf Times, where she led impactful social media campaigns for major events like the 2020 US Election and the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup. Most recently, she served as a Consultant at Hill & Knowlton, handling diverse international clients across the aviation, finance, tech, and gaming sectors. Her expertise spans social media strategy, SEO, copywriting, and project management, with a dedication to impactful storytelling, conducting interviews with prominent figures, and leading investigative projects on critical issues. Azmat holds an MA in Gulf Studies from Qatar University and a BA in English Literature from Government College University, Lahore.
Muhammad Shafiq began his journalism career in 2006 at Daily Naya Dur in Multan, where he gained valuable experience in roles such as page designer, news desk staff, and reporter. He later advanced to prominent newspapers in Islamabad, including Muslim, Azkar, News Mart, and K2, and subsequently joined Daily Express, serving in both the Islamabad and Multan branches. Currently, Shafiq holds the position of Chief Sub-Editor at Rahbar Kisan International (RKI), where he leverages his extensive industry knowledge and editorial expertise to enhance the quality and impact of the newspaper.
Azhar Ul Haq Naseem, a seasoned web developer with 37 years of extensive experience in software development. Throughout his career, he had the privilege of working with a diverse range of technologies across desktop, mobile, and web platforms. His journey has equipped me with a deep understanding of various programming languages and frameworks, enabling me to create robust and user-friendly applications tailored to meet the needs of clients and users alike. Passionate about leveraging my expertise to drive innovation and deliver high-quality solutions that enhance user experiences. He contributing his skills and knowledge to the RKI Website.
Azhar Ul Haq also work with many newspapers , news channels and others media organizations. He managed many applications and websites for different type of business.
Arooj Haroon was born and raised in Qatar and pursued her studies in graphic design in Lahore, Pakistan. During her time in Lahore, she served as the president of Photography Club.. Arooj has played a pivotal role in shaping the visual identity of Rahbar Kisan, contributing to the development of social media templates, logo designs, and web design. Her passion for design and photography continues to inspire her creative journey.
Dr. Amir Sohail, a distinguished scholar and educator, has dedicated 28 years to the realm of education, inspiring generations with his profound knowledge. He earned his Ph.D. from Hazara University, Mansehra, solidifying his expertise.
His magnum opus, “Modern Linguistic and Stylistic Concepts,” is a testament to his rigorous research, now available in book form. Dr. Sohail’s intellectual curiosity spans literature, philosophy, history, and sociology, reflecting his passion for interdisciplinary exploration.
A prolific writer, he has authored over 40 research and critical articles featured in esteemed academic journals and literary magazines, both nationally and internationally. His conference presentations and research on Hindko language and literature, alongside Urdu, demonstrate his commitment to linguistic diversity.
Currently, Dr. Sohail is delving into modern literary theory and cultural manifestations, expanding the horizons of literary critique. His thought-provoking articles on Iqbal’s philosophical framework, published in Funoon quarterly, have garnered significant attention.
As General Secretary of Bazm-e-Ilm-o-Fun Hazara, Dr. Sohail continues to foster literary and cultural enrichment
Feroz Khan Afridi is a dedicated advocate for Pashto and Urdu literature. After relocating to Qatar in 1984, he founded the Pak Pashto Adabi Tolena to promote Pashto literature, becoming General Secretary in 1992 and President in 1994, a role he held until 2007. Under his leadership, Qatar became a vibrant center for Pashto literary gatherings, hosting renowned poets from Pakistan. Afridi’s contributions include the compilations Da Dasht Naghma (1994) and Jaga Shumlay (2003), along with his own works such as Rohana Saban (2009) and Zarchan (2018). In 2024, he marked a career milestone by translating two Urdu books into Pashto and launching the quarterly magazines Dastar International and Khkley Peshawar. Recognized with over two dozen literary awards, Afridi’s commitment has cemented his legacy in promoting Pashto and Urdu literature, enriching Qatar’s cultural landscape.
Dr. Mohd Haneef Khan, a fiction writer and academic, earned his Ph.D. in Urdu from Aligarh Muslim University in 2022 and holds a Master’s from the University of Lucknow. He has published multiple books, including Ankhon Ka Pani (2018), Mujassamon ka Shaher (2019), and Khamoshi Jurm Hai (2020), alongside over 20 short stories and numerous articles in literary magazines.
With editorial experience at notable Urdu publications like Roznama Aag and Daily Inquilab, he also served as an Assistant Professor at Women’s College, Aligarh. Dr. Khan has presented research at national and international seminars, focusing on critical and political themes. His accolades include the Uttar Pradesh Urdu Akademi Award and the Surendra Prakash National Fiction Award. Fluent in Urdu, English, Hindi, and Arabic, he is skilled in typing, page-making, and research methodology, with a passion for Urdu and Arabic literature, story writing, and cricket. He resides in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh.
1.Short story critism: Tabeer w Taqleeb 2002
2.Sawaneh Hayat Begam Abdullah Waheed jahan begam. 2023 Founder of Womens College AMU
columnist
weekly Column publishing in slRashtariye sahara Urdu since 2018 till Now every Sutardy
– Economist, researcher, finance professional, an author and literary critic in Urdu and English
– Post graduate in management from Germany and PhD in Banking and Behavioural Economics from the UK
— Head of Treasury at a group of companies in energy sector in Qatar.
– Chairman, Bazm-e-Urdu Qatar, oldest literary organisation in Qatar
– Founding president, Guzergah-e-Khayal Forum dedicated to understanding of Ghalib’s work
– Founding Chairman of Iqbal Academy Middle East
– Founding president of Guzergah-e-Khayal Toastmasters Club, first Urdu club in Qatar
Azmat Haroon is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over a decade of experience in the media industry. She has held pivotal roles, including as Digital Media Manager at Gulf Times, where she led impactful social media campaigns for major events like the 2020 US Election and the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup. Most recently, she served as a Consultant at Hill & Knowlton, handling diverse international clients across the aviation, finance, tech, and gaming sectors. Her expertise spans social media strategy, SEO, copywriting, and project management, with a dedication to impactful storytelling, conducting interviews with prominent figures, and leading investigative projects on critical issues. Azmat holds an MA in Gulf Studies from Qatar University and a BA in English Literature from Government College University, Lahore.
A.H. Qureshi is the eldest son of Abdul Rashid Qureshi, the founder of Rahbar Kisan International (RKI). As the firstborn, Abdul was cherished by the entire Qureshi family. His childhood was deeply shaped by his late father, with whom he shared a close, almost friendship-like bond.
Abdul excelled academically throughout his school and college years. Before pursuing higher education in the UK, he began writing articles and officially served as the Assistant Editor of Rahbar Kisan International. He played a significant role in supporting his family financially and made meaningful contributions toward reviving the newspaper after 40 years. Before leaving for the UK, Abdul provided valuable guidance to his younger brother, Haroon Rashid Qureshi, in re-establishing Rahbar Kisan International.
Currently, Abdul resides peacefully with his family in London, where his children, who are highly educated, are also settled. Despite his age, Abdul remains actively connected to his father’s legacy, always available to offer support and guidance to RKI. He fondly remembers his late father every day, carrying his memories with him in every moment of life.
Humayoon Rashid Qureshi is the second son of the late Rashid Qureshi, founder of Rahbar Kisan International. His childhood was shaped under the guidance of his father, and during his studies, he became actively involved in Rahbar Kisan, gaining hands-on experience with all aspects of newspaper publishing. He also assisted his father in managing a printing press in Mirpur.
In March 1978, Humayoon moved to Doha to join his younger brother, Haroon Rashid Qureshi, in pursuit of a better future for his family. To this day, he remains fully engaged in the affairs of Rahbar Kisan International. After retiring, he now resides with his three sons, who have completed their education in Qatar and Pakistan and live with their families.
Humayoon enjoys spending quality time with his wife and grandchildren, cherishing the memories of his golden years with his late parents.
Haroon Rashid Qureshi, the third son of the late Rashid Qureshi, founder of Rahbar Kisan International, moved to Doha in 1976 in pursuit of new opportunities. He joined United Bank Limited in 1980, building a distinguished career in banking and finance. Alongside his professional journey, Haroon’s passion for cricket flourished, leading him to become a well-known commentator for veteran’s cricket in Qatar. Driven by his love for the game, he founded Qatar’s first Cricket Academy, bringing the sport closer to the community and nurturing a legacy of sportsmanship.
Beyond banking, Haroon found a profound interest in writing and literature, contributing insightful columns on social issues and current affairs to major newspapers in Pakistan. Post-retirement, he revived Rahbar Kisan International, realizing his father’s dream of fostering cultural and literature. In his renewed pursuit of writing, Haroon has written almost 100 articles across various publications, rediscovering a long-held passion and cementing his role as a key figure for Rahbar Kisan International.
Haroon’s four children have completed their studies in Qatar and Pakistan, and most now reside with their families. He has remained dedicated to Rahbar Kisan International while enjoying quality time with his wife and family, cherishing the bond they share and the legacy they continue to build.
The late Hamid Rashid Qureshi, known as Billu, was the fourth son of Rashid Qureshi, founder of Rahbar Kisan International (RKI). Unlike his brothers, Billu chose to remain in Pakistan, dedicating his life to his family and staying close to his father. Known for his straightforward and kind nature, he often faced societal challenges but never complained, remaining content despite any misfortunes. After his brothers left Pakistan, Billu became the main support for his father in publishing RKI.
When his father fell ill in June 2001, Billu was a constant source of support, staying by his side until his passing. After his father’s departure, he opened the family home, House 538, to preserve the cherished memories of his parents and siblings.
Billu was also deeply committed to his daughters’ education. His elder daughter earned an MPhil in English Linguistics from a top university in Pakistan, while his youngest, after completing her graduation, continues to live with her mother.
On February 21, 2016, Billu passed away due to a severe heart attack. His family remembers him for his loyalty and gentle spirit, as he now rests in peace alongside his parents and siblings.
Shahid Rashid Qureshi is the fifth son of the late Abdul Rashid Qureshi, founder of Rahbar Kisan International (RKI). After completing his education, Shahid began his career at a multinational company in Pakistan, working in production. Alongside his career, he actively supported his father’s dream of running the newspaper.
In late 1988, Shahid moved to Qatar to join his elder brother in search of better opportunities. After a year, he relocated to the United States to further improve his prospects and provide for his family. Shahid feels fortunate that both his children are pursuing careers in medicine.
A successful businessman with a generous nature, Shahid is known for supporting relatives and family members. He has also engaged in several philanthropic efforts, including building a mosque in memory of his late parents. From the beginning, he has been a consistent financial supporter of RKI, ensuring the newspaper continues to honor his father’s legacy.
Now, Shahid resides happily in New York, cherishing the memories of his great parents, just as his brothers do.
Zahid Rashid Qureshi is the youngest son of Abdul Rashid Qureshi, the founder of Rahbar Kisan International (RKI). Like his elder brother, Abdul, Zahid was a beloved son, especially favored by his late father. Their bond exemplified the love within the Qureshi family. While their father loved all his children, Zahid and his eldest brother Abdul Hamid Qureshi received special attention and affection.
In 1995, Zahid moved to Qatar to pursue his future and support his father and family. After getting married in 1999, he relocated to his final destination, New York. Like his brother Shahid, he continues to provide financial support for the day-to-day expenses of the newspaper, which is the brainchild of his elder brother Haroon.
Being the youngest son, Zahid was particularly cherished in the family. He now also supports relatives in Pakistan and engages in charitable work. He takes pride in the legacy of his great father, whose name continues to shine brightly.
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