From a tailor’s household to national achievement, Dr Afrah Ansari’s success inspires Muslim students across India, proving that patience, sacrifice and hard work can overcome every difficulty in education and life
BHIWANDI – In a moment of joy and pride for the Muslim community, Dr Afrah Wasim Ansari from Bhiwandi in Maharashtra has secured the 231st rank in the All India PG NET examination. This is the first time a student from the city has reached such a level in the medical field.
Her achievement has been described as “historic” by teachers and community leaders, with celebrations spreading in Bhiwandi’s educational and social circles.
Dr Afrah began her early studies at Aqsa Girls High School, where she was always among the brightest students. She later joined MES Junior College, excelling in all disciplines. Preparing at CCPT Institute in Milind, she earned admission to Rajiv Gandhi Medical College, Kalwa, purely on merit.
Throughout her studies she was a topper many times. Her consistent success has now culminated in this national rank, making her a role model for young Muslims across the country.
Dr Afrah belongs to a modest family. Her father, Wasim Moinuddin Ansari, is a tailor by profession and is popularly known as Wasim Master. Despite financial challenges, he and his wife worked tirelessly to educate their children.
Speaking to reporters, Wasim Master said: “I never dreamed that my three children would become doctors and one a chartered accountant. But by the grace of Allah, the prayers of my parents and the support of friends, I am seeing this day.”
He credited much of the family’s success to his late father, Moinuddin Samiuddin, who served as a teacher in Swat district of Allahabad for nearly five decades. Samiuddin was respected for his knowledge of Arabic, Persian, Sanskrit, English, Latin and other languages.
Dr Afrah is not the only achiever in the family. Her elder sister, Dr Zara, is pursuing MS in Gynecology at Neeraj Government Medical College after completing her MBBS. Her younger sister, Fariza Ansari, is a final-year Chartered Accountancy student. The youngest brother, Muhammad Ayan, is entering the final stage of BDS admission this year after scoring excellent marks in NET.
The parents proudly note that none of their children took private tuition until the tenth grade, relying instead on discipline, self-study and guidance from their father.
Local teachers, students and community leaders have hailed Dr Afrah’s achievement as an inspiration.
One of her former teachers at Aqsa Girls High School said: “Afrah was always hardworking and respectful. She showed that when girls from our community get proper guidance, they can shine at the highest level.”
A student from MES Junior College added: “Her success gives us courage. It tells us that if she can do it with limited resources, we too can aim high.”
Dr Afrah’s success has brought immense pride to Bhiwandi, a city that has often struggled with lack of educational opportunities. Her achievement is now being spoken of as a milestone for the entire Muslim community.
A local community elder remarked: “This is living proof that lack of money cannot stop talent. Dr Afrah has shown that courage and determination are stronger than circumstances.”
As celebrations continue, Dr Afrah’s name is being remembered as an example of how sacrifice, patience and faith can transform dreams into reality.
