A Tribute to Salim Maqlub Hussein Ansari

Let me begin by paying tribute to this individual above, in this picture. The Aeromodelling community of India, especially Bombay, know him well; and most consider him their aviation guru. His name is Salim Maqlub Hussein Ansari, or, as he is affectionately known universally, Hussein-saab.

Hussein-saab was born into a family of old landed gentry, fallen on hard times; and which had arrived in Bombay in the early days of the 20^th century, to find sustenance, and to build on a new life of newer realities. In this, many trials and tribulations paved the path; many sorrows; many rejections – many battles were fought.

Hardships of life are the best school of learning; with Hussein-saab, it was no different. His genius was revealed at an early age; and to give wings to it, he joined the National Cadet Corps (Air Wing).

Hussein-saab is one of the most prolific and experienced aeromodellers of the world. And, perhaps, in knowledge, he is second to none. Over the years, he has guided countless students and lovers of aviations; given them their first wings, taught them to fly; even planted the seed of flight to many, who were earthbound. Some of these students have gone on to become airline pilots; and of course, senior officers in the Airforce. They all share as common their guru, Hussein-saab. Hussein-saab has built every kind of model airplane – of varied shapes, sizes, models, makes and descriptions. And in doing this, it was in 2007 that he finally decided to crown his glory by building the B-17 Flying Fortress.

Here are some pictures of the B-17 being built. Plans were supplied by Wingspan Models; and this work of art took 2 years of hard work to create.

This model went on to win the concourse d’elegance at the Amby Valley Air Show – the premier aeromodellers’ meet in India.   Hussein-saab continues to create not merely flying model airplanes, but students of aviation, and aero-dynamics. We, as his students and well wishers, wish him a long, long and very productive life; it is our feeling that Hussein-saab is yet to see his real and great achievements.