Shabbir Sayyad Biography 
Shabbir Sayyad is a social worker best known for protecting cattle in Beed, Maharashtra. Born into a family of butchers of Muslim community, he is a second generation cow caretaker. He neither sells milk, nor sells cows for meat. He only sells cow-dung as manure to farmers, earning a meagre amount of Rs. 70,000 yearly and works for the welfare of cows. In 2019, Shabbir Sayyad has been conferred with Padma Shri for protecting cattle in Beed, at the age of 55. Ramesh Babaji Maharaj from Uttar Pradesh is yet another recipient of Padma Shri this year, for his efforts for protecting cattle.
Shabbir Sayyad was born into a Muslim family in Beed, Maharashtra. His earlier generations were butchers who sold meat. His father always dreamt about saving cattle. As a child, sayyad also started taking care of cows. Due to scarcity of drinking water and feed for the animals, we faced difficulty in looking after them. But some people in their neighbourhood realized their good intensions and came forward with monetary help. They also received help from those who work the welfare of the animals. As he doesn’t sell milk or meat, he doesn’t earn good income from cattle. He sells only cow dung, which earns him a very lower income.
He has been taking care of 102 string cattle herd for decades despite belonging to a butcher’s community, which is indeed praise worthy. It adds more glory to his efforts as he belongs to Muslim community, at a time when protecting cows are regarded to be ‘Hindu’s job’ only. The family of Shabbir is over enjoyed since Padma awards have been announced this year.
Published: February 19, 2019
Updated: February 19, 2019
