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Showing posts with label Golden Jubilee. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Golden Jubilee. Show all posts
Mar 7, 2009
Golden Jubilee marks the formation of the Canadian Jamat’s national youth choir
The Canadian Ismaili Muslim Youth Choir performs in Montreal. Photo: Mahebub Ladhani
After a long flight from Calgary, Shazya Ladak finally arrived in Montreal and joined her fellow choristers from across the country. They made their way out of Pierre Eliot Trudeau International Airport, and headed straight to the heart of Old Montreal.
Pausing for a moment along Rue Notre-Dame, the sixteen singers quietly took in the stained glass windows and heritage architecture that surrounded them. Then, one of them suggested shyly, “do you think we can sing here?”
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Feb 5, 2009
Kenya launches commemorative Golden Jubilee stamps
The Postmaster General of the Postal Corporation of Kenya, Mr Fred Odhiambo, Vice-President of the Ismaili Council for Kenya, Mr Anwar Hajee, and the Regional CEO of the Aga Khan Foundation, Mr. Arif Neky, at the launch function. Photo: Courtesy of the Ismaili Council for Kenya
On the occasion of the culmination of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Golden Jubilee, the Ismaili Council for Kenya, together with the Postal Corporation of Kenya, officially launched a series of four commemorative stamps to recognise this historic period and acknowledge the work of the Aga Khan Development Network in the country.
In a colourful ceremony on 13 December 2008, attended by Jamati and AKDN leaders, donors and partners in development, the stamps were unveiled by the Postmaster General of the Postal Corporation of Kenya, Mr Fred Odhiambo, and the Vice President of the Ismaili Council for Kenya, Mr Anwar Hajee.
The stamps depict four of the AKDN’s major Kenyan and regional initiatives — the Aga Khan University Hospital, the Aga Khan Academy, and the Aga Khan Foundation’s Madrasa Preschool Programme and Coastal Rural Support Programme. The issue has four stamps in denominations of KShs 25, 65, 75 and 95.
The four stamps depict important initiatives of the Aga Khan Development Network in Kenya and the East African region. Photo: Courtesy of the Ismaili Council for Kenya
The Postmaster General of the Postal Corporation of Kenya, Mr Fred Odhiambo, Vice-President of the Ismaili Council for Kenya, Mr Anwar Hajee, and the Regional CEO of the Aga Khan Foundation, Mr. Arif Neky, at the launch function. Photo: Courtesy of the Ismaili Council for Kenya
“Today marks a special and proud day for the Ismaili Muslim community,” remarked Vice-President Hajee during the launch ceremony. “Just as the Postal Corporation of Kenya enables large numbers of peoples in different lands, and of different cultures, to communicate with each other, promoting the sharing ideas and ideals, visions and aspirations, so too, with the launch of these stamps today, we hope that in a small but significant way, they will also lead to a better understanding amongst Kenyans, and indeed people around the world, of the work of the AKDN, and will promote the principles upon which the Network operates; those of pluralism, peace, acceptance, generosity, collaboration, and the spirit of partnership.”
Following the launch, guests admire the First Day Covers of the commemorative stamps. Photo: Courtesy of the Ismaili Council for Kenya
The Postmaster General noted that Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Golden Jubilee “holds significance not only for the Ismaili Muslim community, but also for Kenyans as a whole, as we acknowledge his great contribution to the socio-economic well being of our people.” He added that “the Postal Corporation of Kenya is proud to have been given the opportunity to spread the message on the contributions of the Aga Khan Development
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Dec 13, 2008
Mawlana Hazar Imam France visit
Monday, 8 December 2008
Mawlana Hazar Imam, Princess Zahra, Prince Hussain and others in the audience applaud the performance of A Mystical Journey in Paris. Photo: Gary Otte
Mawlana Hazar Imam commenced his Golden Jubilee visit to France by taking in A Mystical Journey: Musique Soufie et Autres Expressions the Dévotion en Islam at Théâtre Mogador in Paris. Hazar Imam was joined by Princess Zahra, Prince Hussain, leaders from the Government of France and members of French society, as well as senior Jamati leaders from France and abroad.
A Mystical Journey is a Golden Jubilee International Programme featuring artists from Algeria, Bosnia, Iran, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Syria performing music from various Sufi and other esoteric traditions of Islam. Though different in form, these acts of devotion are common in their peaceful search for the divine and represent the pluralistic traditions and mystical unity among different communities of interpretation within the Muslim world. The 8 December performance was its French premiere; a second show is scheduled for 12 December.
Also see the article A Mystical Journey is on its way to Paris.
Mawlana Hazar Imam is commemorating his Golden Jubilee in France at the invitation of the Government. During this period, Mawlana Hazar Imam will grant a final Golden Jubilee Darbar in Paris for the French jurisdiction Jamats. Hazar Imam will also consult with senior government and civic officials on potential areas of collaboration with the Ismaili Imamat and the Aga Khan Development Network.
Additional photos are available in the gallery. Further details on Mawlana Hazar Imam’s visit to France will continue to be posted at TheIsmaili.org.
The Ismaili Leaders’ International Forum (LIF) is happy to inform the Jamat that, at the invitation of the Government of France, Mawlana Hazar Imam will visit the country from 8 – 11 December 2008.
During this period, Mawlana Hazar Imam will grant a final Golden Jubilee Darbar in Paris for the French jurisdiction Jamats. Hazar Imam will also consult with senior government and civic officials on potential areas of collaboration with the Ismaili Imamat and the Aga Khan Development Network.
Further information on the France visit is available on the visit website.
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Dec 6, 2008
Maulana Hazar Imam Far East visit
Wednesday, 3 December 2008
Mawlana Hazar Imam is joined in applause by Presidentbanoo and the Vice-President of the Ismaili Council for Malaysia and Singapore, during a luncheon hosted by the Jamati institutions. Mawlana Hazar Imam graciously granted a Golden Jubilee Darbar to the Jamat of the Far East, Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea as well as the thousands of members of the Jamat who had come from abroad.
Mawlana Hazar Imam then attended a luncheon hosted by the Jamati institutions of the Far East. During the lunch, youth from the Jamat staged a dance performance that highlighted the cultures of the 11 countries where members of the Far East Jamat reside.
The leadership also presented Mawlana Hazar Imam with a model of a traditional Thai house as a gift. Crafted by skilled goldsmiths, the model had taken more than 3 000 hours of workmanship to produce.
Immediately following the luncheon, Mawlana Hazar Imam prepared to depart Singapore. The Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Zainul Abidin Rasheed, bid him farewell on behalf of the Government. Senior Jamati leaders were also present as Hazar Imam’s Golden Jubilee visit to the Far East drew to a close.
Additional photos are available in the gallery.
Tuesday, 2 December 2008
Mawlana Hazar Imam is greeted by President S R Nathan at the Istana in Singapore. Photo: Akbar Hakim
This morning, Mawlana Hazar Imam attended a meeting with President S R Nathan at the Istana, the official residence and office of Singapore’s Head of State.
Following the meeting, Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong hosted a luncheon for Mawlana Hazar Imam.
Later in the afternoon, Mawlana Hazar Imam called on the Minister for Foreign Affairs, George Yeo.
This was followed by a visit to the Singapore City Gallery which offered insight into the concept planning activities of Singapore's Urban Redevelopment Authority. Hazar Imam was hosted by the Authority’s CEO, Cheong-Chua Koon Hean.
Later on, Mawlana Hazar Imam also received a tour of Singapore’s Asian Civilisations Museum from the museum’s Deputy Director of Curation and Collections, Tan Huism.
In the evening, Mawlana Hazar Imam was the guest of honour at a dinner hosted by the Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim.
Monday, 1 December 2008
Mawlana Hazar Imam is received by Singapore’s Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Zainul Abidin Rasheed, upon his arrival. Photo: Akbar Hakim
Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived at Changi International Airport late this evening, commencing his Golden Jubilee visit to Singapore. His Excellency Zainul Abidin Rasheed, the Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, received Mawlana Hazar Imam on behalf of the government.
Inayat Bana, President of the Ismaili Council for Malaysia and Singapore, was joined by a delegation of Jamati leaders in welcoming Mawlana Hazar Imam on behalf of the Jamats from some eleven countries of South East Asia and Australasia. During the visit, it is expected that Hazar Imam will grant a Golden Jubilee Darbar to the Jamat of the Far East and Asia Pacific region.
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Mawlana Hazar Imam is joined in applause by Presidentbanoo and the Vice-President of the Ismaili Council for Malaysia and Singapore, during a luncheon hosted by the Jamati institutions. Mawlana Hazar Imam graciously granted a Golden Jubilee Darbar to the Jamat of the Far East, Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea as well as the thousands of members of the Jamat who had come from abroad.
Mawlana Hazar Imam then attended a luncheon hosted by the Jamati institutions of the Far East. During the lunch, youth from the Jamat staged a dance performance that highlighted the cultures of the 11 countries where members of the Far East Jamat reside.
The leadership also presented Mawlana Hazar Imam with a model of a traditional Thai house as a gift. Crafted by skilled goldsmiths, the model had taken more than 3 000 hours of workmanship to produce.
Immediately following the luncheon, Mawlana Hazar Imam prepared to depart Singapore. The Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Zainul Abidin Rasheed, bid him farewell on behalf of the Government. Senior Jamati leaders were also present as Hazar Imam’s Golden Jubilee visit to the Far East drew to a close.
Additional photos are available in the gallery.
Tuesday, 2 December 2008
Mawlana Hazar Imam is greeted by President S R Nathan at the Istana in Singapore. Photo: Akbar Hakim
This morning, Mawlana Hazar Imam attended a meeting with President S R Nathan at the Istana, the official residence and office of Singapore’s Head of State.
Following the meeting, Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong hosted a luncheon for Mawlana Hazar Imam.
Later in the afternoon, Mawlana Hazar Imam called on the Minister for Foreign Affairs, George Yeo.
This was followed by a visit to the Singapore City Gallery which offered insight into the concept planning activities of Singapore's Urban Redevelopment Authority. Hazar Imam was hosted by the Authority’s CEO, Cheong-Chua Koon Hean.
Later on, Mawlana Hazar Imam also received a tour of Singapore’s Asian Civilisations Museum from the museum’s Deputy Director of Curation and Collections, Tan Huism.
In the evening, Mawlana Hazar Imam was the guest of honour at a dinner hosted by the Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim.
Monday, 1 December 2008
Mawlana Hazar Imam is received by Singapore’s Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Zainul Abidin Rasheed, upon his arrival. Photo: Akbar Hakim
Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived at Changi International Airport late this evening, commencing his Golden Jubilee visit to Singapore. His Excellency Zainul Abidin Rasheed, the Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, received Mawlana Hazar Imam on behalf of the government.
Inayat Bana, President of the Ismaili Council for Malaysia and Singapore, was joined by a delegation of Jamati leaders in welcoming Mawlana Hazar Imam on behalf of the Jamats from some eleven countries of South East Asia and Australasia. During the visit, it is expected that Hazar Imam will grant a Golden Jubilee Darbar to the Jamat of the Far East and Asia Pacific region.
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Dec 4, 2008
Eleven countries, one Jamat united in celebration
Members of the Jamat from the Far East and further abroad were greeted with a smile as they arrived in Singapore.
Members of the Jamat from 11 countries of the Far East under the jurisdiction of the Ismaili Council for Malaysia and Singapore are gathering in Singapore for Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Golden Jubilee visit from 1 – 4 December 2008. The Far East Jamat also looks forward to hosting international visitors from Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and elsewhere.
Mawlana Hazar Imam last visited with the Far East Jamat some 21 years ago, in 1987. Therefore, it is with great happiness and anticipation that the Jamat awaits Mawlana Hazar Imam’s arrival in Singapore, where he will grant a Golden Jubilee Darbar.
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Dec 1, 2008
Golden Jubilee France Visit
December 9 to 13, 2008
5 Golden days to celebrate 50 years of the Imamat
5 Golden days to celebrate 50 years of the Imamat
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Nov 24, 2008
Nov 20, 2008
Golden Jubilee Canada visit
Wednesday, 19 November 2008
Mawlana Hazar Imam with Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, at Rideau Hall. Photo: Gary Otte
This afternoon, Mawlana Hazar Imam called on Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, at Rideau Hall. She warmly welcomed Hazar Imam to Canada on the occasion of his Golden Jubilee.
Mawlana Hazar Imam then visited Parliament Hill where he met with the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage, and the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration, and Multiculturalism.
In the evening, Mawlana Hazar Imam attended a working dinner with the Honourable Bev Oda, Minister of International Cooperation and Margaret Biggs, President of the Canadian International Development Agency.Additional photos are available in the gallery. Also see the video of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s arrival in Ottawa. Further details on Mawlana Hazar Imam’s visit to Canada will continue to be posted at TheIsmaili.org.
Mawlana Hazar Imam with Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, at Rideau Hall. Photo: Gary Otte
This afternoon, Mawlana Hazar Imam called on Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, at Rideau Hall. She warmly welcomed Hazar Imam to Canada on the occasion of his Golden Jubilee.
Mawlana Hazar Imam then visited Parliament Hill where he met with the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage, and the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration, and Multiculturalism.
In the evening, Mawlana Hazar Imam attended a working dinner with the Honourable Bev Oda, Minister of International Cooperation and Margaret Biggs, President of the Canadian International Development Agency.
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Nov 19, 2008
Nov 18, 2008
The way we celebrate
Like the multicultural nation that we call home, the Canadian Jamat is diverse and comes from all corners of the globe. In the four decades since our community’s settlement, we have adapted to the culture, language, and society of our new country. But in the days leading up to Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Golden Jubilee visit to Canada, the ways in which we celebrate will reveal our enduring ties to our cultural and historical roots.
Jamati members of all ages will share their joy by participating in a variety of dances, such as dandia and raas, which trace their origins to the Indian sub-content. Ismailis from Central Asia, who began arriving in Canada more recently, have added the traditional Afghan attan dance to the mix. Meanwhile, contemporary hip-hop and bollywood influences will complement the rhythms of the dance floor.
The diversity of heritage in the Canadian Jamat is also woven into our garments and accoutrements. Ladies will dress in beautiful silk saris and gandai-afghani. Mendhi parties are being organised for the festive adornment of henna on hands and feet for joy, beauty and barakah (blessings). The resulting tapestry of colour and style will decorate and enliven the merriment.
Traditional meals are an important part of our festivities. Customary menus featuring pilau, biriyani or khaliyo will be complemented by spicy chutneys, and achaars, as well as sweet treats like sticky jalebi, syrup-soaked gulab jamun. Pink sharbat and mango lassi will add to the usual complement of tea, coffee, and juice.
The unity of the Jamat and our love for the Imam of the Time is reflected in the theme One Jamat, One Heart that links celebratory events planned across the country. Programmes such as Khushamadeed will gather the Jamat for dinner, dancing and live band music. Performances such as Allah Hu, Allah Hu, Expressions and Umeed-e-Deedar, will provide a stage for vocalists and instrumentalists to capture the Jamat’s sentiments of devotion, hope and anticipation.
Jamati members of all ages will share their joy by participating in a variety of dances, such as dandia and raas, which trace their origins to the Indian sub-content. Ismailis from Central Asia, who began arriving in Canada more recently, have added the traditional Afghan attan dance to the mix. Meanwhile, contemporary hip-hop and bollywood influences will complement the rhythms of the dance floor.
The diversity of heritage in the Canadian Jamat is also woven into our garments and accoutrements. Ladies will dress in beautiful silk saris and gandai-afghani. Mendhi parties are being organised for the festive adornment of henna on hands and feet for joy, beauty and barakah (blessings). The resulting tapestry of colour and style will decorate and enliven the merriment.
Traditional meals are an important part of our festivities. Customary menus featuring pilau, biriyani or khaliyo will be complemented by spicy chutneys, and achaars, as well as sweet treats like sticky jalebi, syrup-soaked gulab jamun. Pink sharbat and mango lassi will add to the usual complement of tea, coffee, and juice.
The unity of the Jamat and our love for the Imam of the Time is reflected in the theme One Jamat, One Heart that links celebratory events planned across the country. Programmes such as Khushamadeed will gather the Jamat for dinner, dancing and live band music. Performances such as Allah Hu, Allah Hu, Expressions and Umeed-e-Deedar, will provide a stage for vocalists and instrumentalists to capture the Jamat’s sentiments of devotion, hope and anticipation.
Programming has also been planned for different segments of the Jamat. J2D: Journey to Darbar aims to engage the youth — not only in the celebrations, but also in educational, voluntary, and leadership endeavours. It begins with an orientation session for youth leaders, which will include a gala dinner with the senior leadership in each major centre. The programme will also comprise a series of discussion panels and seminars to engage young Ismailis on issues of significance to the Golden Jubilee.
J2D will culminate in a massive youth day in each region, with special ceremonies and celebrations. Regional celebratory spaces will host a specific area where youth can gather, share their experiences and reflect on this momentous occasion.
J2D will culminate in a massive youth day in each region, with special ceremonies and celebrations. Regional celebratory spaces will host a specific area where youth can gather, share their experiences and reflect on this momentous occasion.
Special initiatives are also being organised to make it easier for the elderly in the Jamat to take part in the excitement. In British Columbia and Ontario, volunteers are arranging visits with Ismailis living in nursing homes and hospitals to share the festivity and enable them to be involved in the celebration.
Meanwhile, seniors in Edmonton are working on a special quilt making project, in which each participant writes a personal sentiment in the language of their choice on a square of cloth. The squares — with messages in English, Farsi, Gujarati, Urdu, and other languages — are being sewn together to create a single quilt that will be displayed prominently at the Darbar venue.
Meanwhile, seniors in Edmonton are working on a special quilt making project, in which each participant writes a personal sentiment in the language of their choice on a square of cloth. The squares — with messages in English, Farsi, Gujarati, Urdu, and other languages — are being sewn together to create a single quilt that will be displayed prominently at the Darbar venue.
Some members of the Jamat — particularly the very young — will be experiencing their first Jubilee Darbar. Programmes and activities have been arranged in Jamatkhanas and Bait-ul Ilm classes to prepare them for what will happen on the day of the Darbar and help them to appreciate the significance of the occasion. Educational programmes have also been created for non-Ismaili family members to enhance their understanding of the Golden Jubilee and engage them in the celebration.
In the anticipation of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Golden Jubilee visit, the Canadian Jamat will come together across the country. We will dress in our traditional clothing, partake of our traditional meals, play our traditional songs and dance our traditional dances. But from the diversity of our traditions, we will create something new.
In Canada, that’s the way we celebrate.
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Nov 5, 2008
Speech by Mawlana Hazar ImamAt the Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony ofThe Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre, KhorogMonday
, 3 November 2008
Bismillahir Rahamanir Rahim
Your Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Asadullo Ghulomov,Your Excellency Governor Qodiri Qosim,Your Excellency Governor Munshi Abdul Majeed,Distinguished guests, ladies and gentleman
I would like to begin these comments this morning by welcoming you to this most happy occasion, this historic event, to celebrate the laying of the Foundation Stone of this first Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre in Tajik-Badakhshan.
I would like to say how deeply happy I am, that this Foundation Stone ceremony will occur during the 50th year of my Imamat. I can think of few events in this year which will have given me the happiness which this one today will bring me and inshallah all the people who will participate in this event.
At the beginning of these comments, it is appropriate to situate here, one of the functions of the Ismaili Centre in the tradition of Muslim piety. For many centuries, a prominent feature of the Muslim religious landscape has been the variety of spaces of gathering co-existing harmoniously with the masjid, which in itself has accommodated a range of diverse institutional spaces for educational, social and reflective purposes.
Historically serving communities of different interpretations and spiritual affiliations, these spaces have retained their cultural nomenclatures and characteristics, from ribat and zawiyya to khanaqa and jamatkhana.
The congregational space incorporated within the Ismaili Centre belongs to the historic category of jamatkhana, an institutional category that also serves a number of sister Sunni and Shia communities, in their respective contexts, in many parts of the world. Here, the Jamatkhana will be reserved for traditions and practices specific to the Shia Ismaili tariqah of Islam. The Centre on the other hand, will be a symbol of confluence between the spiritual and the secular in Islam.
I would like today to situate what the Centre and the Jamatkhana aspires to be in the town of Khorog. It is my hope that the town of Khorog will become the Jewel of the Pamir. The gem cutter, the person who prepares the jewel, cuts it and cuts it and polishes it and cuts it and polishes it until he has fashioned the gem stone in to a stone of absolute purity with no clouding, absolute purity. And the gem cutter has to do his work very carefully with a lot of time, because if he makes a mistake, he can not bring back the part of the stone that he cut away by mistake. And this is what I hope, with the President of the Republic, His Excellency the Governor, we will be able to do over the years ahead, to improve the town of Khorog, to make it the Jewel of the Pamir.
And we will seek to improve, all of us together, the quality of the environment in which we live, bringing clean water to everywhere where the people live, bringing energy to all the places where people live, improving the schools and health facilities, improving and restoring our historic buildings which are representations today of our cultural history, and thanks to the Governor Niyozmamadov and his gift of land, we today have a new park in Khorog, inshallah we will build the University of Central Asia, we will build this Centre, and while working together, step by step, we will make Khorog the Jewel of the Pamir.
And I want to thank again His Excellency the President, the Deputy Prime Minister, His Excellency the Governor, the Governor of Afghan-Badakshan who has done us the honour of being here today, I want to thank everyone who has made this event possible today. But more than that, who is making new things happen in partnership and in friendship. Like the University of Central Asia, which is a very complex exercise, but inshallah, we will do it properly.
And every time I come back to Khorog, I will ask myself: Are we moving towards making Khorog the Jewel of the Pamir?
Thank you.
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Bismillahir Rahamanir Rahim
Your Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Asadullo Ghulomov,Your Excellency Governor Qodiri Qosim,Your Excellency Governor Munshi Abdul Majeed,Distinguished guests, ladies and gentleman
I would like to begin these comments this morning by welcoming you to this most happy occasion, this historic event, to celebrate the laying of the Foundation Stone of this first Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre in Tajik-Badakhshan.
I would like to say how deeply happy I am, that this Foundation Stone ceremony will occur during the 50th year of my Imamat. I can think of few events in this year which will have given me the happiness which this one today will bring me and inshallah all the people who will participate in this event.
At the beginning of these comments, it is appropriate to situate here, one of the functions of the Ismaili Centre in the tradition of Muslim piety. For many centuries, a prominent feature of the Muslim religious landscape has been the variety of spaces of gathering co-existing harmoniously with the masjid, which in itself has accommodated a range of diverse institutional spaces for educational, social and reflective purposes.
Historically serving communities of different interpretations and spiritual affiliations, these spaces have retained their cultural nomenclatures and characteristics, from ribat and zawiyya to khanaqa and jamatkhana.
The congregational space incorporated within the Ismaili Centre belongs to the historic category of jamatkhana, an institutional category that also serves a number of sister Sunni and Shia communities, in their respective contexts, in many parts of the world. Here, the Jamatkhana will be reserved for traditions and practices specific to the Shia Ismaili tariqah of Islam. The Centre on the other hand, will be a symbol of confluence between the spiritual and the secular in Islam.
I would like today to situate what the Centre and the Jamatkhana aspires to be in the town of Khorog. It is my hope that the town of Khorog will become the Jewel of the Pamir. The gem cutter, the person who prepares the jewel, cuts it and cuts it and polishes it and cuts it and polishes it until he has fashioned the gem stone in to a stone of absolute purity with no clouding, absolute purity. And the gem cutter has to do his work very carefully with a lot of time, because if he makes a mistake, he can not bring back the part of the stone that he cut away by mistake. And this is what I hope, with the President of the Republic, His Excellency the Governor, we will be able to do over the years ahead, to improve the town of Khorog, to make it the Jewel of the Pamir.
And we will seek to improve, all of us together, the quality of the environment in which we live, bringing clean water to everywhere where the people live, bringing energy to all the places where people live, improving the schools and health facilities, improving and restoring our historic buildings which are representations today of our cultural history, and thanks to the Governor Niyozmamadov and his gift of land, we today have a new park in Khorog, inshallah we will build the University of Central Asia, we will build this Centre, and while working together, step by step, we will make Khorog the Jewel of the Pamir.
And I want to thank again His Excellency the President, the Deputy Prime Minister, His Excellency the Governor, the Governor of Afghan-Badakshan who has done us the honour of being here today, I want to thank everyone who has made this event possible today. But more than that, who is making new things happen in partnership and in friendship. Like the University of Central Asia, which is a very complex exercise, but inshallah, we will do it properly.
And every time I come back to Khorog, I will ask myself: Are we moving towards making Khorog the Jewel of the Pamir?
Thank you.
http://www.theismaili.org/?ID=584
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Oct 26, 2008
Aga Khan Development Network in Tajikistan
Operating in Tajikistan since 1992, the AKDN works towards a vision of an economically dynamic, politically stable, intellectually vibrant, and culturally tolerant Tajikistan. The AKDN is present in all regions of the country and employs approximately 3,000 people through its operations and investments. For more information on AKDN activities in Tajikistan, click here.
The Ismaili Centre Dushanbe, expected to be completed in 2009, will seek to be a place for "contemplation, upliftment, and the search for spiritual enlightenment."
The Tem Bridge, opened in 2002, is one of four cross-border bridges connecting Afghanistan and Tajikistan constructed by the AKDN to improve linkages in the region.
Expected to be completed by the end of 2009, the Dushanbe Serena Hotel will create opportunities for economic development in Tajikistan.
The University of Central Asia campus in Khorog will offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programmes at an internationally recognized standard.
Ismaili Heritage
According to an article published by the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS), the Tajik Ismailis constitute one of the largest and historically oldest concentrations of Ismaili communities in the world. The history of Islam in Central Asia has extended from the eighth century to the current post-soviet era. Contemporary Tajik Ismailis have participated not only in the change of the broader processes of politics and culture, but in the restoration of stability in conjunction with the work of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
Some further background on the history of the Tajik Ismailis can be found in this article by the IIS entitled the "Evolution of the Shi‘a Ismaili Tradition in Central Asia".
Further Reading
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ismailiworld@gmail.com
The Ismaili Centre Dushanbe, expected to be completed in 2009, will seek to be a place for "contemplation, upliftment, and the search for spiritual enlightenment."
The Tem Bridge, opened in 2002, is one of four cross-border bridges connecting Afghanistan and Tajikistan constructed by the AKDN to improve linkages in the region.
Expected to be completed by the end of 2009, the Dushanbe Serena Hotel will create opportunities for economic development in Tajikistan.
The University of Central Asia campus in Khorog will offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programmes at an internationally recognized standard.
Ismaili Heritage
According to an article published by the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS), the Tajik Ismailis constitute one of the largest and historically oldest concentrations of Ismaili communities in the world. The history of Islam in Central Asia has extended from the eighth century to the current post-soviet era. Contemporary Tajik Ismailis have participated not only in the change of the broader processes of politics and culture, but in the restoration of stability in conjunction with the work of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
Some further background on the history of the Tajik Ismailis can be found in this article by the IIS entitled the "Evolution of the Shi‘a Ismaili Tradition in Central Asia".
Further Reading
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ismailiworld@gmail.com
Aug 26, 2008
Syria Visit IMages -www.akdn.org
 | His Highness the Aga Khan greeting leaders of the Ismaili Community and the AKDN in Syria, upon his arrival at Damascus Airport. He is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Abdullah Al-Dardari. File size: 655KB |
 | His Highness the Aga Khan with Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Abdullah Al-Dardari, who received him upon his arrival at Damascus Airport. File size: 657KB |
 | His Highness the Aga Khan leaving Damascus airport. File size: 664KB |
 | His Highness the Aga Khan meets with Syria's President, His Excellency Bashar al-Asaad, in the afternoon of his arrival into Damascus. The Aga Khan is visiting Syria on the occasion of his Golden Jubilee. File size: 402KB |
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Aga Khan University Signs Agreement to Further Health and Education Development in Syria
Damascus, Syria, 25 August 2008 - The Ministries of Health and Higher Education of the Government of Syria and Aga Khan University (AKU) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance capacity in the health sector. The memorandum was signed at the Office of the Prime Minister in Damascus and witnessed by Syrian Prime Minister, His Excellency Muhammad Naji Al-Otri and His Highness the Aga Khan, Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. His Highness the Aga Khan is the founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and the Chancellor of the Aga Khan University. He is in Syria on a 6-day official visit.
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The memorandum, which provides a framework for cooperation in nursing education and hospital quality assurance, was signed by Dr. Maher Al-Husami, Minister of Health, Dr. Ghiath Barakat, Minister of Higher Education and Mr. Firoz Rasul, President of AKU, witnessed by Mr. Mohamed Seifo, AKDN Representative in Syria.
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Aga Khan Arrives in Syria on the Occasion of His Golden Jubilee
Damascus, Syria, 24 August, 2008 - His Highness the Aga Khan, Imam, (spiritual leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, and founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), arrived in Damascus today, on a 6-day official visit to Syria. He was received at the airport by Deputy Prime Minister Mr Abdullah Al-Dardari, Minister of Tourism, Dr Sadallah Agha Al-Qala, various faith leaders as well as leaders from the Ismaili Community in Syria and officials from the AKDN.
The visit comes in response to an invitation from the Syrian Arab Republic Government, and within the context of His Highness’ Golden Jubilee - the Aga Khan acceded to the Ismaili Imamat on 11th July 1957 and is visiting some 30 countries around the world which have long-standing and close relations with the Imamat to express his gratitude and friendship with governments, leaders, and other partners of the AKDN.
During his visit to Syria, the Aga Khan, is scheduled to meet with Dr. Bashar Al Assad, President of the Syrian Arab Republic, and to hold meetings with the Syrian Prime Minister and a number of political and spiritual leaders in Syria to discuss ways of furthering cooperation and coordination in the areas of healthcare, nursing, education, microfinance, tourism and culture. Within this framework, a number of agreements and memoranda of understanding are expected to be signed to further development in these areas and enhance sustainable integrated development in the country.
In a ceremony to be held in Aleppo on Thursday 28th August 2008, the Aga Khan will also mark the completion of cultural revitalisation work on the Citadels of Aleppo, Salah ad-Din and Masyaf, carried out by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) in partnership with the Syrian Directorate General of Antiquities and Museums.
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Syria visit - 25 Aug
Syria visit
Monday, 25 August 2008
Mawlana Hazar Imam addresses a media gathering as Prime Minister Muhammad Naji Al-Otri looks on. Photo: Gary Otte
This morning, Mawlana Hazar Imam met with the Prime Minister, Muhammad Naji Al-Otri, and the Deputy Prime Minister, Abdullah Al-Dardari.
Following the meetings, Hazar Imam and the Prime Minister witnessed the signing of an agreement by the Governor of the Central Bank, Dr Adib Mayaleh, to mark the launch of the First MicroFinance Institution (FMFI) in Syria. The FMFI is the first entity of its kind in the country. It will operate as a banking institution, while remaining focused on poverty alleviation and sustainable economic development in line with the mandate of the Aga Khan Agency for Microfinance.
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Aug 21, 2008
Salamieh Syria Map
Point C: Salamieh centre where Homs street (south), Hama street (north west) and Thawra street (east) intersect. Point 1: Local Council of Salamieh and the mausoleum of Prince Aly Khan (0.5 km south west from centre)Point 2: Darbar site – Al zeraa (Agricultural School), located on 1.5 km west of city centre on Hama road. Point 3: Al-Hussaini Jamatkhana, near the AKES language center (Rawdah) 1.75 km north east of Salamieh centre, where the Registration Centre is situated, Point 4: Imam Ismail Mosque, where tomb of Imam Radiyyidin Abdallah is located (0.5 km from city centre)>
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Aug 20, 2008
MHI Golden Jubilee Syria Visit Venue
Venue
Aug 26
Salamieh - Agricultural School, Hama Str.
Syrian and International Jamat
Aug 26
Salamieh - Agricultural School, Hama Str.
Syrian and International Jamat
Aug 27
Khawabi - Kharbat Al Faras Village
Khawabi Jamat
Panorama of Salamieh from 'Ain Al Zarqa' (photo: Karim Valimohamed)Given the limited facilities and extreme environmental conditions, members of the International Jamat who are ill or in need of special care are advised not to participate in this event.
Darbar sites:Traditionally, the Darbars in Syria are organised in open air locations exposed to strong sunlight and extreme temperatures. Expect to be in direct sunlight for as much as six hours.
Entering the Darbar siteInternational visitors who are not accompanied by a local host or who have not received their darbar badge should assemble at the designated meeting point at Al-Hussain Jamatkhana in Salamieh, from where they shall be escorted to the Darbar site. To ensure the Jamat’s comfort and safety, each person will be required to undergo a security screening upon entering the Darbar site. Bags and purses may be inspected.
Identification International Jamati members will be provided with a badge with instructions in Arabic to allow others to assist you in case you are lost. Please carry your identification with you at all times.Parents should ensure that their children have a document (in Arabic) with the parent’s name, contact details, a list of any allergies or medical conditions the child may have.
Photo IdentificationJamati members will be required to have valid photo identification at the Darbar site. Valid photo IDs include:
National ID Cards
Passports
Drivers License
Prohibited ItemsThe Security Task force reserves the right to restrict items allowed at the Darbar site. In general, electronic devices and any items deemed dangerous or hazardous, such as sharp objects and lighters, will not be permitted.
Specifically, the following items are prohibited at the Darbar site:
Cellular / Mobile phones
Paging devices
Audio recorders
Video recorders and cameras
Electronic video games
iPods, CD, MP3, and other music/video players
Pocket PCs and Laptop Computers
If any of the above items are found, you will be requested to deposit them with the On-site Security Team. You can expect that items will not be available until several hours after the event as exiting the site will take approximately two hours.
Unopened, sealed, or wrapped parcels will not be permitted in the Darbar site.
Recording or photography of any kind is strictly prohibited within the Darbar site.
Health InformationThe International Jamat is advised to carry the following at all times for each family member, in case of emergency:
Health Insurance Card
Local contact
Name and contact information of closest relative and/or next of kin
Name and phone number of family doctor
List of allergies
List of current medications being taken (prescription and non-prescription)
Epi-pens, blood glucose meter, sugar diary, etc. (as required)
List of medical conditions
Tips for staying well during the event:
Drink plenty of water.
Stand up and stretch periodically.
Notice signs of exhaustion in yourself, your family members, and those around you.
If you feel sick, please let someone know and seek the assistance of a medical professional.
ChairsA limited number of chairs are available and will only be made available on a first come first served basis to those that have registered with their Local Council or through the website.
Temporary WheelchairsAssistance will be provided throughout the venue, including from the entrances and between the seating and restroom areas, to transport members of the Jamat who are not permanently in wheelchairs.
Permanent WheelchairsMembers of the Jamat who require the permanent use of a wheelchair are requested to bring their own wheelchair.For each person who is in a permanent wheelchair, one family member or caretaker accompanying that person will be permitted to sit in the area designated for permanent wheelchairs.Individuals will not be able to reserve seats for others.
Medical Needs and RequirementsDoctors will be on site to assist members of the Jamat in need of emergency medical care and first aid. Individuals who have medical conditions should ensure that they carry their medication. If there are family members who are terminally ill or in hospice and would like to participate in the Darbar please inform the Local Council office as soon as possible to discuss the necessary process.Jamati members with medical conditions that will require special attention should contact their Local Council office to discuss appropriate arrangements.Individuals with chronic illnesses or who are on prescribed medication are advised to maintain an adequate supply of medication. Such individuals are encouraged to carry copies of all prescriptions along with doctor’s name and contact information and where appropriate, Medic-Alert bracelets, EpiPen, etc.
Medical Facilities and First AidHealth care services will be available at two Health Centres located at the venue. Medical professionals can be accessed in three distinct areas:
For minor medical issues or to report a medical event, ask the volunteer closest to you to call the floating medical team. This team is readily available to triage and treat minor medical problems.
Two Clinics will serve minor medical conditions requiring on-the-spot treatment such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomachaches, backache, etc. Doctors will serve a higher level of medical problems such as breathing difficulties, chest pains, loss of consciousness, seizure disorders, etc. Patients seen in the Care Center who require hospitalization will be transported via ambulance.
Finally, there is a designated area for Syrian Jamati members who require constant medical attention. Special arrangements were made with the Local Council prior to the Darbar.
Medical care and assistance are provided by volunteers on a voluntary basis. In the event of hospitalization or administration of medical treatment by any health care provider, individuals are personally responsible for all financial obligations incurred. The Council for Syria is not liable for any health care assistance or any related financial costs. Members of the Jamat are, therefore, strongly advised to obtain health and travel insurance.
Expectant MothersChair seating arrangements have been made for expectant mothers who so desire. Please indicate this when you register so that chair arrangements can be made if required. If any further accommodations are needed, please contact your Local Council office or the International registration team.
Child Care and Baby AreasThe following items will be permitted in the Darbar site:
Baby Diapers
Tissues
Milk Bottles
Baby Food
NO arrangements have been made to store strollers during the Darbar.Babysitting services will not be offered.
Weather Conditions:The month of August is the height of summer in Syria, with daytime temperatures that are consistently extreme. These pose a severe challenge for the elderly, infirm and sick, and we specifically recommend that Jamati members in these categories should avoid travelling to Syria.
Khawabi - Kharbat Al Faras Village
Khawabi Jamat
Panorama of Salamieh from 'Ain Al Zarqa' (photo: Karim Valimohamed)Given the limited facilities and extreme environmental conditions, members of the International Jamat who are ill or in need of special care are advised not to participate in this event.
Darbar sites:Traditionally, the Darbars in Syria are organised in open air locations exposed to strong sunlight and extreme temperatures. Expect to be in direct sunlight for as much as six hours.
Entering the Darbar siteInternational visitors who are not accompanied by a local host or who have not received their darbar badge should assemble at the designated meeting point at Al-Hussain Jamatkhana in Salamieh, from where they shall be escorted to the Darbar site. To ensure the Jamat’s comfort and safety, each person will be required to undergo a security screening upon entering the Darbar site. Bags and purses may be inspected.
Identification International Jamati members will be provided with a badge with instructions in Arabic to allow others to assist you in case you are lost. Please carry your identification with you at all times.Parents should ensure that their children have a document (in Arabic) with the parent’s name, contact details, a list of any allergies or medical conditions the child may have.
Photo IdentificationJamati members will be required to have valid photo identification at the Darbar site. Valid photo IDs include:
National ID Cards
Passports
Drivers License
Prohibited ItemsThe Security Task force reserves the right to restrict items allowed at the Darbar site. In general, electronic devices and any items deemed dangerous or hazardous, such as sharp objects and lighters, will not be permitted.
Specifically, the following items are prohibited at the Darbar site:
Cellular / Mobile phones
Paging devices
Audio recorders
Video recorders and cameras
Electronic video games
iPods, CD, MP3, and other music/video players
Pocket PCs and Laptop Computers
If any of the above items are found, you will be requested to deposit them with the On-site Security Team. You can expect that items will not be available until several hours after the event as exiting the site will take approximately two hours.
Unopened, sealed, or wrapped parcels will not be permitted in the Darbar site.
Recording or photography of any kind is strictly prohibited within the Darbar site.
Health InformationThe International Jamat is advised to carry the following at all times for each family member, in case of emergency:
Health Insurance Card
Local contact
Name and contact information of closest relative and/or next of kin
Name and phone number of family doctor
List of allergies
List of current medications being taken (prescription and non-prescription)
Epi-pens, blood glucose meter, sugar diary, etc. (as required)
List of medical conditions
Tips for staying well during the event:
Drink plenty of water.
Stand up and stretch periodically.
Notice signs of exhaustion in yourself, your family members, and those around you.
If you feel sick, please let someone know and seek the assistance of a medical professional.
ChairsA limited number of chairs are available and will only be made available on a first come first served basis to those that have registered with their Local Council or through the website.
Temporary WheelchairsAssistance will be provided throughout the venue, including from the entrances and between the seating and restroom areas, to transport members of the Jamat who are not permanently in wheelchairs.
Permanent WheelchairsMembers of the Jamat who require the permanent use of a wheelchair are requested to bring their own wheelchair.For each person who is in a permanent wheelchair, one family member or caretaker accompanying that person will be permitted to sit in the area designated for permanent wheelchairs.Individuals will not be able to reserve seats for others.
Medical Needs and RequirementsDoctors will be on site to assist members of the Jamat in need of emergency medical care and first aid. Individuals who have medical conditions should ensure that they carry their medication. If there are family members who are terminally ill or in hospice and would like to participate in the Darbar please inform the Local Council office as soon as possible to discuss the necessary process.Jamati members with medical conditions that will require special attention should contact their Local Council office to discuss appropriate arrangements.Individuals with chronic illnesses or who are on prescribed medication are advised to maintain an adequate supply of medication. Such individuals are encouraged to carry copies of all prescriptions along with doctor’s name and contact information and where appropriate, Medic-Alert bracelets, EpiPen, etc.
Medical Facilities and First AidHealth care services will be available at two Health Centres located at the venue. Medical professionals can be accessed in three distinct areas:
For minor medical issues or to report a medical event, ask the volunteer closest to you to call the floating medical team. This team is readily available to triage and treat minor medical problems.
Two Clinics will serve minor medical conditions requiring on-the-spot treatment such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomachaches, backache, etc. Doctors will serve a higher level of medical problems such as breathing difficulties, chest pains, loss of consciousness, seizure disorders, etc. Patients seen in the Care Center who require hospitalization will be transported via ambulance.
Finally, there is a designated area for Syrian Jamati members who require constant medical attention. Special arrangements were made with the Local Council prior to the Darbar.
Medical care and assistance are provided by volunteers on a voluntary basis. In the event of hospitalization or administration of medical treatment by any health care provider, individuals are personally responsible for all financial obligations incurred. The Council for Syria is not liable for any health care assistance or any related financial costs. Members of the Jamat are, therefore, strongly advised to obtain health and travel insurance.
Expectant MothersChair seating arrangements have been made for expectant mothers who so desire. Please indicate this when you register so that chair arrangements can be made if required. If any further accommodations are needed, please contact your Local Council office or the International registration team.
Child Care and Baby AreasThe following items will be permitted in the Darbar site:
Baby Diapers
Tissues
Milk Bottles
Baby Food
NO arrangements have been made to store strollers during the Darbar.Babysitting services will not be offered.
Weather Conditions:The month of August is the height of summer in Syria, with daytime temperatures that are consistently extreme. These pose a severe challenge for the elderly, infirm and sick, and we specifically recommend that Jamati members in these categories should avoid travelling to Syria.
http://www.goldenjubileesyria.org/venues/
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MHI Golden jubilee Syria Visit Website.
"Syria has been at the crossroads of civilizations for over 2500 years - an ancient witness to the fruitful interaction of different peoples and cultures. Today that tradition remains a cornerstone in the national psyche: an objective for all future generations of Syria. It is also an example of which many societies around the world should take note."
Remarks by Mawlana Hazar Imam at the Aga Khan Award for Architecture ceremony held in Aleppo, 2001.
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