On the 16th of April, 2026, Miles2Smile inaugurated the Jana Begum center of learning in Bathindi of Jammu for the girl survivors of Warman cloud burst and land slides. Warwan has quite often been synonymous with both natural beauty and natural disasters. The serene air of the valley has with great frequency mixed itself with the putrid smell of destroyed houses and burnt education. The month of August, 2025, yet again witnessed an avalanche of grief and loss.
A series of landslides and cloudbursts occurred, sweeping away the houses, shops, and belongings of people, and with that, their hopes too. The residents, already grappling with vulnerability, were forced to choose between survival and education. With not even having promised shelters, they chose the former, but the pain of desisting from education was palpable.
In the middle of grief and mourning, a small group of 5 young girls teemed together and expressed their educational loss to Miles2Smile as we were already on the ground to provide relief and rehabilitation to the survivors. And that is how the idea of the Jana Begum Learning Center took its birth, now set to educate 30 girls inclined towards education, aiming to complete their Hifz (memorization of the Quran) and Aalimah courses (an intensive, specialized Islamic studies program designed for women to become scholars (Aalimat) in traditional Islamic sciences.)
Jana Begum was a Mughal-era Indian noblewoman and scholar, recognized as one of the earliest women to compose a Qur’anic commentary (Arabic: tafsir) in the 17th century. She was the daughter of Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khanan, a distinguished scholar and military commander who served under Emperor Akbar. Her grandfather, Bairam Khan, was also a prominent general who served the Mughal emperors Humayun and Akbar and acted as Akbar’s regent during the early years of his reign.
Naming the center after Jana Begum, we aim to build intellects like hers to lead, create, and evolve the world. The learning center is set to flag off the classes for 30 girls, but that is not what it is all about. With this initiative, we aspire to create an educational space in the valleys of Warwan and create its synonymity with “erudite.”
Inauguration of Jana Begum Learning Center
The inaugural ceremony was marked by the presence of Kazi Abdul Waheed; Mufti Asif; Mufti Irfan; Mohd. Ameen, a prominent figure of J&K; and Aasif Mujtaba, Founder & Director, Milles2Smile in Bhatindi, Jammu, where the center is incorporated.
Starting the ceremony on a spiritual note, two young girls recited beautiful verses of the Quran, leaving everyone teary-eyed. Followed by this, speeches occurred, motivating students.
Starting his speech, Mufti Irfan said, “Whether education is about religion or the world, if it is pursued with good intentions, it always brings positive results and leads to positive change.”
“If a man is educated, the benefit is mostly limited to himself, but if a woman is educated, she educates and transforms the entire family,” he added, emphasizing the importance of education.
Talking about unity and harmony, Kazi Abdul Wahid highlighted the words of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
“The believers, in their mutual love, mercy, and compassion, are like one body. If one part of this body feels pain, the whole body reacts with sleeplessness and fever,” Kazi Abdul Wahid shared the hadith.
Recalling the devastating flood, he said, “When we were in Warwan, we didn’t understand how these children’s education would continue or what we would do, but Allah is the one who always finds a way.”
Moving towards the ending of speeches, Aasif Mujtaba shared his profound words: “Waiting for change is useless; we ourselves must take the initiative to bring change,” he said.
“We can help the community stand on its own feet through relief and education.” Mujtaba said.
“By establishing learning centers, Miles2Smile’s aim is to create future leaders. We don’t need to look for heroes, as there are many examples in our Islamic history,” he added.
Thanking Miles2Smile for the learning center Mufti Asif said,“I pray sincerely that this learning center runs very well and continues to grow and progress. I am deeply grateful to Miles2Smile for taking this initiative. It was initially planned for 5 girls, but today 25–30 are studying here, Alhamdulillah. I sincerely thank Miles2Smile for boosting our morale and supporting us in this way.”
As the speeches espoused everyone in motivation, the ceremony moved towards the thanksgiving ceremony. As a token of love and aspiration, Aasif Mujtaba gifted shawls to Kazi Abdul Waheed, Mufti Irfan, and Mufti Asif. The act not only extended love but also respect for them.
Long Road to Go
Shortly after this, stationery kits and bags were distributed to 30 girls, making them feel loved and cared for. The small gesture warmed their hearts. Ending the ceremony on an inspiring note, the future plans of the Jana Begum Center of Learnings were announced, which are to incorporate the computer center to provide technical exposure to the girls and establish classes for English, math, science, and other subjects to provide students formal education alongside their Hifz and Aalimah.
About Miles2Smile: Established nearly five years ago, the Miles2Smile Foundation is dedicated to making a positive impact on marginalized communities in India. From the crisis response during the pandemic to ongoing efforts in education and advocacy, the foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
Other Glimpses of the Ceremony
