The WF President – Alhaj Safder Jaffer recently visited Mumbai, India, from 1st to 3rd November 2024, where he engaged with community leaders, explored key development projects, and strengthened partnerships to support local initiatives. Spanning three days, the visit included stops in surrounding areas of Mumbai, focusing on educational, housing, and heritage projects critical to the welfare and growth of the community. The President also attended to some of the spiritual developments within the community.
Meeting with Sayyid Ahmedali Abedi sahab
The visit began with a meeting in Mumbai with Sayyid Ahmedali Abedi sahab – Representative of His Eminence Sayyid al-Sistani (dz) in India, to discuss collaboration opportunities between Al Muntazar Academy and the Islamic Education sector of The World Federation. The WF President – Alhaj Safder Jaffer reviewed the university’s curriculum, infrastructure, and potential for joint educational programs that would benefit students across the region.
Visit to Dongri
In the evening, Alhaj Safder Jaffer visited Dongri, where The WF team explored heritage sites on foot and by motorcycle, due to the narrow, bustling lanes. Stops included the historic Mulla Qadar’s site and a boys’ school managed by the Jamaat. Discussions included enhancing these spaces and considering new initiatives, such as a girls’ school in the vicinity.
Aarambaug (Khoja Kabrastan)
With the Office Bearers of Mumbai Jamaat at at Aarambaug (Khoja Kabrastan)
The WF President – Alhaj Safder Jaffer later paid a visit to Arambaug Kabrastan, where he paid respect to community leaders and reviewed opportunities for enhancing facilities for the benefit of the community. The President was impressed by how Arambaug Kabrastan has been upgraded and in particular how the Khoja Wall in the Kabrastan has turned out to be a place of contemplation of how we have evolved as a faith-based community through the sacrifices of prominent personalities buried in Arambaug Kabrastan in Mumbai.
Observations on the Khoja Wall installed at the Khoja Kabrastan
KSI Jamaat Student Felicitation Program
The evening concluded with attendance at the KSI Jamaat Student Felicitation Program, an event highlighting educational achievements and honoring key contributors to the community’s progress. The event welcomed several esteemed dignitaries, including Agha Abedi, members of Mumbai’s Ulema, and prominent professionals. Notable among the guests was Reza Qabul, one of the leading architects in India and the Middle East, whose contributions have had a transformative impact on the region. Hasnain Shroff, a partner in one of the Big Four firms, also attended, underscoring the support and commitment of respected leaders across various fields toward advancing education in the community.
Meeting with the leadership of the Mumbai Jamaat
The WF President met with the leadership of the Mumbai Jamaat to discuss various ongoing and future initiatives, particularly around housing. Key discussions centered on expanding housing projects in Palghar, a crucial step toward easing the city’s housing challenges. They reflected on a shared vision for improving facilities and resources in the community and ensuring alignment with WF’s strategic goals.
Visit to the new Khoja Kabrastan at MM Valley, Mumbra
Alhaj Safder Jaffer then visited Mumbra Kabrastan for an inauguration of its newly extended facility, including a Ghusl Khana. The event drew attendance from dignitaries, including Member of Parliament MLA Jitendra Ahwaad, who has been instrumental in supporting these initiatives.
The WF President also had the honour of unveiling the new Khoja Wall – second largest Khoja Wall in India, alongside Sayyid Ahmedali Abedi sahab – Representative of His Eminence Sayyid al-Sistani (dz).
Palghar Housing Project
The final day was dedicated to the Palghar housing project launch, which commemorates the 25th anniversary of Marhum Mulla Asghar and aims for completion by The WF’s 50th anniversary in 2026. This ambitious project, which will provide housing for 100 deserving families, was made possible in part by a generous land donation from the Mrs Jina Mohammed Ali Rupani family, in memory of her late husband Mohamed Ali Rupani.
Reflecting on the legacy of Marhum Mulla Asghar and the contributions of past community leaders, The WF President highlighted how this project represents a lasting solution to housing challenges, significantly reducing the financial burden on beneficiaries by covering 70% of the cost through donated land.
Ground Breaking Ceremony of the Palghar Housing Project
