Simerg is an independent initiative dedicated to Ismaili Muslims, the Aga Khan — their Hereditary Imam — and the Ismaili Imamat, and Islam in general through literary readings, photo essays and artistic expressions
Featured photo at top of post: A general view of the Imam Husayn (Hussein) Mosque in Karbala, Iraq. The photo was taken between September 26 and October 12, 1932. Photograph: G. Eric and Edith Matson Photograph Collection, Library of Congress, Washingon D.C.
INTRODUCTION: Mawlana Hazar Imam Shah Karim al Hussaini, His Highness the Aga Khan, is the 49th Hereditary Imam of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, and directly descended from Hazrat Ali and his son Imam Husayn.
Imam Husayn B. ‘Aly began his reign as the 2nd Ismaili Imam* on the death of his father, Hazrat Ali on January 27, 661 CE who, 29 years earlier in 632 CE, had been publicly proclaimed by the Prophet Muhammad (May peace be upon him and his progeny) to be his successor at Ghadir Khumm.
The succession ended the cycle of the Divine Institution of Nubuwwah and ushered the world into a new era of the Divine Institution of Imamat. Thus, the Imams directly descended from the Prophet Muhammad, from Hazrat Ali to Mawlana Shah Karim, have continued to guide their murids (followers) in the ta’wil (interpretation) and talim (teaching) of the Holy Qur’an for the last 1391 years.
Article continues below
A 1932 photograph showing the entrance to the great mosque at Karbala, the holy city of e Shia Muslims. Photograph: G. Eric and Edith Matson Photograph Collection, Library of Congress, Washingon D.C.
Imam Husayn was martyred in the Battle of Karbala on the 10th day of the Muslim month of Muharram, or October 10, 680, at the age of 54, and was succeeded to the Hereditary throne of Imamat by Imam Zainul Abideen.
The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, and thus shorter than the 365 day solar calendar by roughly 11 days. This year (2023), the 10th day of Muharram falls on or around July 28/29, almost 1343 years since the Imam’s tragic death at the hands of Yazid’s army.
Please download the PDF version of Wilfred Madelung’s excellent piece on Imam Husayn B. ‘Ali published on the IIS website. Note: The eminent German scholar Professor Madelung passed away in May 2023 and the IIS has published an In Memoriam in his honour HERE
Date posted: July 28, 2023 (This post is an update to earlier versions of the article that has appeared periodically on this website over the past few years.)
______________________
*Note: In the Shia Imami Nizari Ismaili tradition Imam Husayn’s brother, Hazrat Hassan, is not counted as an Imam. However, he is regarded as their second Imam by other Shia Muslims, thus making Imam Husayn as their 3rd Imam.
Editor’s note: This photo and video post that would normally appear in our photoblog Simergphotos is being published on our primary website Simerg, while we carry out essential upgrades to Simergphotos.
The author arrives at a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE to the beautiful sight of two newborn grebettes to Red-necked Grebes, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
Readers should note that both the male and female Red-necked Grebes share in the incubation. During the many many hours I spent at the pond over the past week, I observed that the dominant partner in the incubation was the male, and I say that because I saw the male, which is slightly larger than the female, spend more time in the nest than his female partner.
The mom’s time was mainly spent in the water, always looking out for danger through her perceptive senses of hearing and eyesight. A constant threat was a nearby resident muskrat. When she became aware of its presence, she would immediately go underwater and swim toward the muskrat to make sure it changed its direction away from the nest. The mom, as per my observation, also gathered and fed the newborns as well as participated in the upkeep of the nest. However, her food offerings to her babies were not always accepted and she would wisely retreat.
Further to my sighting on July 22 of the first baby (henceforth also referred to as a grebette) this new post now reflects my two additional visits to the pond that took place on July 24, when I sighted two grebettes, and on July 26 when I saw three grebettes swimming with their parents in the middle of the pond, at least 125 metres from the nest. It appears to me that the nest with 1 more egg still remaining to be hatched has been abandoned.
Story continues below
Nest abandoned (?) by the Red-necked Grebes with one unhatched egg following the birth of 3 grebettes between July 22-26, 2023 in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE; July 26, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg Photos.
I say this because the Red-necked Grebes never returned to the nest during my 2 hour stay at the pond. I tried to capture a video and photographs of the far-away Grebes and their babies as best as I could with the 40-150 mm lens on my Olympus camera.
Enjoy the photos from my visits to this great pond on Country Hills Blvd in NE Calgary. Of course, I shall be returning to the pond to see the grebettes in the coming days, as I have been told that they continue to ride on their parents backs for the first two weeks of their lives. From time to time, they are given the opportunity to swim by their parents side. The male parent literally flips them into the water as you will see in some of the videos. The male, I noted, exerted his authority over the family quite firmly, while at the same time being warm to his babies and showing deep attachment and love to his female partner. He was also a great educator, as you will see in one of the videos, where he appears to be instructing his baby on how to take care of the nest! I think that was amazing. There are a couple of yawns from the little baby as he was watching his father’s demonstration. Didn’t we all when we were children and even more so later in life as we began taking serious classes?
July 24th, 2023: Photographs and Videos of Red-necked Grebes and their Babies at a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE
Two unhatched eggs in the Red-necked Grebes’ nest in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
~~~~~~~
The male Red-necked Grebe incubating the two remaining eggs in his nest in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
~~~~~~~
Non-threatening ducks pass by and the female Red-necked Grebe at right ensures they are away from her nest where her male partner is incubating 2 eggs in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
~~~~~~~
The female Red-necked Grebe is beautifully reflected in the calm waters of a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
~~~~~~~
The male Red-necked Grebe incubates the two remaining eggs in his nest in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
~~~~~~~
The new Red-necked Grebe family of four, with 2 eggs still to hatch, next to their drenched nest in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
~~~~~~~
The mom Red-necked Grebe offers food to her newborn grebettes as they have their heads out from the their dad’s wings in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
___________________________
A series of 4 related photographs and a video
As mentioned earlier, the incubation of eggs in the Grebe family is shared between the male and female. This series of 4 photographs and the video after encapsulate the transition of incubation from the male Red-necked Grebe to his female partner.
The male stands up in the nest and decides to return to the water. The female prepares to take over the incubation process. She has one of her new-born grebettes swimming in front of her, while carrying the second newborn baby on her back — it is partially visible in this photo but fully visible in the next photo. Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
~~~~~~~
The male Red-necked Grebe wades into the pond as his family watches, Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
~~~~~~~
The female Red-necked Grebe arrives with her babies at the nest to assume her incubation role in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
~~~~~~~
The female Red-necked Grebe with her baby on her back leaps onto the nest and does some house keeping on the nest, while the second grebette is still in the Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
VIDEO 1 (This is a sequel to the 4 preceding photos)
DESCRIPTION: The following video below is a fantastic conclusion to the sequence of 4 photos shown above of the incubation transition from the male Red-necked Grebe to his female partner
Video: Red-necked Grebes in a Calgary Pond, July 2023, by Malik Merchant/Simerg
___________________________
VIDEO 2/13
DESCRIPTION: In this extremely short video, the mom arrives at the nest to feed her new-born grebette and returns to the pond to get some more nourishment
Video: Red-necked Grebes in a Calgary Pond, July 2023, by Malik Merchant/Simerg
~~~~~~~
VIDEO 3/13
DESCRIPTION: In this interesting video, we see the female Red-necked Grebe returning to the nest, carefully jumping onto its edge, taking great care to organize it before gracefully sitting on her unhatched eggs.
Video: Red-necked Grebes in a Calgary Pond, July 2023, by Malik Merchant/Simerg
~~~~~~~
VIDEO 4/13
DESCRIPTION: In this video, the mother fails in her attempt to feed her babies, and retreats. The 2 new born grebettes are being playful by their father’s tail. Once the tail wind opens, they slide into it and one of the babies is then seen emerging on centre of his back.
Video: Red-necked Grebes in a Calgary Pond, July 2023, by Malik Merchant/Simerg
~~~~~~~
VIDEO 5/13
DESCRIPTION: In this cute video, the new born gribette decides to have some fun with its mother by pushing against her such in such a way that she moves in a clockwise direction. Seemingly, the baby having been well nourished, appears to have gained enough strength to become playful since its birth in the last 48 hours.
Video: Red-necked Grebes in a Calgary Pond, July 2023, by Malik Merchant/Simerg
~~~~~~~
VIDEO 6/13
DESCRIPTION: In this extraordinary video, we see one bregette on the back of its mom, while the second one swims beside her. The male Red-necked Grebe decides to leave the nest where he was incubating the remaining 2 eggs. The mom then takes over the incubation duty after carrying out some nest maintenance. The bregettes who were with the mom join their dad for some play time. One easily slides into his wing while the second one has a hard time and continues with its struggle
Video: Red-necked Grebes in a Calgary Pond, July 2023, by Malik Merchant/Simerg
~~~~~~~
VIDEO 8/13
DESCRIPTION: In this incredible short video, I capture the first and only instance I hear the cries of the Red-necked Grebes during my entire period at the pond. Unfortunately my camera shook and the remaining video had to be edited out.
Video: Red-necked Grebes in a Calgary Pond, July 2023, by Malik Merchant/Simerg
~~~~~~~
VIDEO 9/13
DESCRIPTION: In this very short video, we see the female Red-necked Grebe bathing while her male partner has the two grebettes, one on the back and the second at the end of his tail.
Video: Red-necked Grebes in a Calgary Pond, July 2023, by Malik Merchant/Simerg
~~~~~~~
VIDEO 10/13
DESCRIPTION: In this amazing video, we see the mom Red-necked Grebe suddenly appear by the nest. First, she looks around for any signs of danger and then she performs some maintenance on the nest before elegantly sitting down on the eggs for more incubation.
Video: Red-necked Grebes in a Calgary Pond, July 2023, by Malik Merchant/Simerg
~~~~~~~
VIDEO 11/13
DESCRIPTION: In this stunning video, we see the male Red-necked Grebe swimming with his two new born grebettes towards the nest. The female, who is left a little bit behind, catches up with him as he reaches the nest and she begins to feed her babies while they are still with the male. The male then suddenly flips his two babies into the water as he climbs onto the nest. He then commences his incubation duty, but not before performing some maintenance on the nest. The female assists in the nest maintenance. The grebettes are then playful with their mom before she finally accepts them under her wing, which she folds down for their protection.
Video: Red-necked Grebes in a Calgary Pond, July 2023, by Malik Merchant/Simerg
VIDEO 12/13
DESCRIPTION: In this last video taken late in the afternoon on July 24, we appear to see the beautiful and caring parents provide a 45 second lesson on nest upkeeping to one of their new-born grebettes. After the demonstration is over, the father lets the grebette slide underneath his wing for a a well-deserved rest! Gribettes spend their first two weeks or so on the backs of their parents and I would guess they are taught about life’s duties just as any other living thing
Red-necked Grebes Bring Their Baby Gribettes into the World, July 24, 2023, Video by Malik Merchant.
July 24, 2023, Photograph of the Day: Thanking the Maker of the Heavens and the Earth
Red-necked Grebe after the birth of 2 grebettes in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 24, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
_________________________
July 26, 2023: The Red-necked Grebe Family of 5 and Other Wildlife at a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE,
Wildlife, ducks, in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 26, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
~~~~~~~
Wildlife, large water birds, in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 26, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
~~~~~~~
VIDEO 13/13
DESCRIPTION: In this video, we see the new Red-necked Grebe family of 5 in the middle of the pond, about 125 metres from the location of their nest where one egg remains unhatched. There is a grebette already swimming in the water and in a few moments we see the male flip his 2 babies that were in his wings into the water.
Video: Red-necked Grebes in a Calgary Pond, July 2023, by Malik Merchant/Simerg
~~~~~~~
The Beautiful New Red-necked Grebe Family
A beautiful new Red-necked Grebe family of 5, with 3 newborn grebettes riding on the back of their dad in a Stormwater Wet Pond on Country Hills Blvd in Calgary NE, July 26, 2023. Photograph: Malik Merchant/Simerg.
Date posted: July 27, 2023.
________________________
We welcome feedback from our readers. Please click Leave a comment. You may remain anonymous and we never show your email address. Your letter may be edited for length and brevity and is subject to moderation.
Malik Merchant’s recent walk around a Calgary pond led him to a floating nest built by a pair of beautiful Red-necked Grebes. Two days later, one egg out of four hatched and Malik saw the new born grebette’s first day of life in the new world. Below is one of four videos that he took. To see Malik’s collection of photographs and more videos of his stunning day at the pond, please visit his beautiful PHOTOBLOG.
For more stunning videos and photographs please click HERE
Simergphotos, a sister website of Simerg, is dedicated to photographs. Since his relocation to Alberta from Ontario, Malik has visited a number of Alberta’s magnificent national and provincial parks. Here are a few of his many pieces:
Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un “Surely we belong to God and to Him we return” — Holy Qur’an, 2:156
“Life is a great and noble calling, not a mean and grovelling thing to be shuffled through as best as we can but a lofty and exalted destiny” — Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah, His Highness the Aga Khan III (1877-1957), 48th Imam of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims.
UPDATE, JANUARY 19, 2024: I am grieved to learn — and inform readers — of the passing of Late Salim Harji’s son, Rahim, earlier today in Calgary at the age of 41 after a brief illness. We offer our prayers that his soul may rest in eternal peace. Ameen. We also offer prayers for the courage and fortitude of his mother, Shirin, and sister, Farah, to face this immense loss that takes place only six months after the demise of Salim.
Rahim’s funeral ceremonies will be held at noon on Thursday, January 25, at Calgary’s Westwinds Jamatakhana, followed by samar and zyarat (special prayers for the soul) the same evening at the Jamatkhana.
The following is the original tribute honouring Salim Harji shortly after he passed in Calgary on July 13, 2023, at the age of 70.
JULY 18, 2023: Just over 2 weeks ago, Salim and his wife Shirin had invited me to their place like they had done a number of times since my arrival in Calgary in 2022. My simple gift to them on that day was a booklet of Eid stamps that was released by Canada Post in May of this year.
Then, on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, on the auspicious occasion of Mawlana Hazar Imam His Highness the Aga Khan’s 66th Imamat Day anniversary, I was on my way to Headquarters Jamatkhana. It was around 7:15 pm. As I took the exit, just 500 metres from the Jamatkhana, I found myself unable to change lanes due to a traffic jam on McKnight Blvd. I had two lanes to cross and I did not take the chance. I hoped for a U-turn further away but I did not see one, and I drove to Westwinds Jamatkhana instead, ten minutes away.
After the lengthy Jamathana ceremony, that included a beautiful and inspiring Talika (written letter) of blessings from Mawlana Hazar Imam, along with new appointments to Ismaili Institutions across Canada, I saw Salim waving his hands to me through a large crowd in the Jamatkhana’s social hall, from about 7 metres. There, with his lovely wife Shirin, who had earlier recited the traditional Ginan Amar Te Ayo — it is recited whenever new appointments related to Jamatkhana officials are made — I finished my hot cup of chai. We talked about going to Kananaskis this week (week of July 17). Shirin mentioned she would prepare a picnic basket for the outing. But the trip was not to be. Forty-eight hours later, on Thursday night, July 13, Shirin called me: “I’ve very bad news. Salim just passed away”. I was speechless and in utter shock.
I owe it to the traffic jam, which forced me to drive to Westwinds Jamatkhana and meet him for the last time on Imamat Day. Apparently, he passed away inside the Jamatkhana with the paramedics unable to revive him. Earlier, that fateful evening, he had opened the Jamatkhana! He passed away serving the Imam-of-the-Time and his spiritual children, and just before his body was taken away, the key of the Jamatkhana was retrieved from his volunteer’s blazer.
Salim Harji (1952-2023) in the uniform of the Ismaili Volunteers. Photograph: Salim Harji family collection.
Salim was a devout murid of Mawlana Hazar Imam and an exceptional volunteer. Over the last few days, since his death, the family has been receiving phone calls from around the world — even from individuals the family never met or knew — expressing their condolences; and many have mentioned how Salim had helped them out during his lifetime — hidden service that was not even known to his closest family members.
Shirin and her children are coping with the tragic death well. She is a woman of strength, courage and faith — she regularly attends Jamatkhana in the morning and evening. Her support for her husband over the years has been remarkable. I have watched their relationship since I was a young boy of 15; it blossomed into a happy marriage that lasted for more than 40 years! For the past couple of days, I have witnessed nothing but love between members of the family who have travelled from across Canada and abroad. The two children, Rahim and Farah, and their families have provided tremendous support to their mum.
Born on August 3, 1952, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (then Tanganyika), Salim completed his education at the Aga Khan School before proceeding to London, England in 1971/2, where he got married to Shirin. They migrated to Canada. While Shirin pursued her career in accounting, Salim went on to open a very successful business in printing. They raised two children, Rahim and Farah.
Salim was a jovial individual. He loved life. We called him Elvis in Dar es Salaam. In Calgary, he was known as “Stan the Man”. He participated and gave his support to Ismaili institutions as a volunteer in numerous capacities. He was also a Scout leader. He was passionate about serving and also, if my memory serves me right, helped in building award winning floats that represented the Ismaili Muslim community in the iconic world renowned annual Stampede Parade.
Predeceased by his parents Mr. Jadavji Harji and Mrs. Remti Harji and his older brother Amin, Salim leaves behind his wife Shirin and two grown-up children Rahim and Farah as well as his siblings Firoz, Shiraz, Shemim, Shanaz, Nasreen and Aziz and their families. His entire family and the thousands of friends he made throughout his life will deeply miss his joyful presence. They will be inspired by the wonderful memories of friendship and his genuine concern for everyone he knew.
For me personally, Salim and Shirin have offered me the best support I would wish for during my recent settlement in Calgary. Their home has always been open to me. My daughter Nurin recollects our stay at their home some 16 years ago during our holiday in Alberta, when the couple and their daughter Farah looked after us so well, and Farah treated her like her younger sister.
Salim and I were not yet teenagers when our parents, in a hat-drawn lottery process, were offered ownership to their respective apartments in a newly built Ismaili Housing Society, the Islamabad Flats, on Cameron Road (later changed to United Nations Road.) That was way back in 1963. Our friendship never faltered and we have loved each other for 60 years.
As is customary during any funeral, members of the community are asked to forgive any mistakes committed by the deceased person during his or her lifetime. I went through our friendship and could not recall one instance in his friendship with me when he made a mistake. As a cricketer, he dismissed me a few times but that was because of his superior bowling and my mistakes while batting! He never ever hurt me.
His funeral in Calgary on Monday, July 17, 2023, at the Westwinds Jamatkhana was attended by many hundreds including members of the local Ismaili leadership, the Ismaili scouts and volunteers. The burial took place at the Rocky View Garden of Peace Cemetery. The temporary plaque on his grave adorned with rose stems and the sweet and sacred smell of agharbati (incense sticks) read:
“Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. In Loving Memory of Salim Harji “Stan the Man”, August 3, 1952 — July 13, 2023. Innalilahi Wa Inna Ilahi Rajiun.”
Indeed, Salim’s beautiful soul has returned to its original abode — in the presence of Allah’s Noor (Light). May his soul rest in eternal peace, Ameen. And may his family have the courage and fortitude to face this immense loss. They are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Date posted: July 18, 2023. Last updated: January 19, 2024 (announcement of the passing of Rahim Salim Harji)
____________________
We invite you to submit your condolences and tributes to Salim Harji in the comments box below or by clicking on LEAVE A COMMENT.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Simerg invites Ismaili families to submit obituaries and tributes to deceased members of their families, whether they passed away recently or in the past. Please review PASSINGS on how to prepare and submit your tribute.
Azim’s message of SPARK celebrates the potential within all of us regardless of our circumstances — Harvey Mackay, author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Swim With The Sharks
Simerg: What is behind the naming of the title of the book?
Azim Jamal: In our all-out pursuit for success, we lose touch of what deeply ignites that drive. I refer to that ignition as the SPARK. Through the book, I share how the end game is not as much about Success, but more so about Significance. Hence, the title SPARK: Journey from Success to Significance. In some way, the motivation for the protagonist’s journey resembles my own personal journey when I made the shift from “accounting for business (Success)” to “accounting for life (Significance)”. This journey led to three powerful discoveries:
— How my vocation became my vacation — The more I aspired, the more the universe conspired — On my path to transforming other lives, my own life transformed
Simerg: Why would you want me or my family members to read the book, and what will we all learn from it?
Jamal: This book will offer all readers a visionary yet practical pathway to discovering an unwavering significance to life. SPARK is a beginner’s guide to finding the sense of purpose and passion which lives inside all of us.
Simerg: What inspired you to write SPARK: Journey from Success to Significance?
Jamal: During the pandemic being locked down for 2-3 years resulted in physical and mental fatigue. However, the pandemic pause made us question whether our pursuit for bigger and better was in fact what defined our happiness. It was clear to me really our desire for meaning (Significance), and not our motivation for profit (Success) that brought us the most fulfillment!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PRAISE FOR SPARK
All the elements Azim shares in his inspiring book are time tested, proven and indeed foundational principles that can ignite the SPARK within you — Dr. Nido Qubein, President of High Point University
This is a book for those who dare to search for answers, and who are unafraid to SPARK a change in their lives — Brian Tracy, author of # 1 international bestseller Eat That Frog
If you would love to make a significant difference on the planet, doing exactly what you truly love, then Spark is the book to read — Dr. John Demartini, International bestselling author of The Values Factor
Designed for our increasingly uncertain world, SPARK is a reassuring guide to discover your purpose — Marshall Goldsmith, New York Times #1 bestselling author of Mojo
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Simerg: How can I purchase the book and what are its available formats?
Simerg: How did you find a publisher for the book?
Jamal: Over the years, I have self-published a few books and also worked with several publishers. For this book, I am taking a hybrid approach (partly self-published, and partly through selected foreign publishers). I’m hoping this will result in a win-win-win outcome for all parties — author, publisher and reader. My experience working with a major publisher began in 2005 when I co-authored The Power of Giving, which topped the Amazon charts. It was at that time Penguin showed interest. Soon after, the book went on to win the Nautilus Gold Award for books that inspire social change. The Power of Giving was translated in ten languages, which in turn triggered work with other foreign publishers. Overall, however the experience of working with publishers has been a difficult one and despite writing ten books, am still figuring out the book publishing journey!
Article continues below
Azim Jamal’s “SPARK. Journey from Success to Significance,” published by Tellwell Talent, November 2022, 230 pp. Available in Hardcover, Softcover and Kindle.
Simerg: Did you hire an editor, an illustrator or did you do all the work by yourself?
Jamal: Yes, I did have lots of help in writing this book. From creating the fable to hiring copy editors and proofreaders. My family and team helped me tremendously in my journey. Writing a book is rarely, if ever, a one-person endeavour!
Simerg: Which was your first book and how many have you written?
Jamal: My first book, called 7 Steps to Lasting Happiness, was published on July 13, 1999. As mentioned above, SPARK: Journey from Success to Significance is my tenth book. All my ten books revolve around the synergy of Business, Balance & Beyond.
I hope to introduce the remaining of my earlier publications through this very useful and informative series that you have launched. It encourages Ismaili authors tremendously and informs the Jamat as well as members outside the Jamat about the literary scene in the community.
However, I would wish that books by authors you have featured so far as well as books by other Ismaili authors are made available at Jamati literature counters here in Canada and around the world. The Ismaili literary scene has become rich in the last two decades and Ismaili authors, established as well as new ones, deserve to be promoted within the community, just as there is so much institutional encouragement for artists in the community.
Simerg: I sincerely hope the situation will change and that a regular literary forum is created where Ismaili authors can engage with community members. Reading your profile, your own personal story about how you became involved in writing is fascinating in itself.
How long did it take you to write “SPARK: Journey from Success to Significance from start to finish and to begin marketing it?
Jamal: From concept to creation, it took me approximately 2 years. In comparison, the first book I ever wrote, 7 Steps to Lasting Happiness, took me 5+ years to complete. With every book I write, the timing and process gets better!
Simerg: Tell us something more about your book.
Jamal: In this inspiring fable you will meet Steve, a hotshot lawyer fighting to climb the corporate ladder. His life transforms seemingly overnight when he is sent to India for a task he considers pointless. Things quickly fall apart. Steve, forced to reconsider his path, realizes that the curveball life has thrown him is an opportunity to find his true purpose. This spiritual odyssey is about to transform him beyond his wildest dreams. A powerful lesson follows each chapter, making up the SPARK that transforms Steve’s life.
Date posted: July 17, 2023.
_______________
We welcome feedback from our readers. Please click Leave a comment. Your letter may be edited for length and brevity and is subject to moderation.
Azim Jamal is the founder of Corporate Sufi, a company dedicated to inspiring and empowering leaders at all levels to achieve material success, blended with a deep sense of purpose, passion, and fulfillment. Author of several highly-acclaimed books including, “What You Seek is Seeking You”, co-authored with Brian Tracy, Azim twice was a # 1 Amazon bestselling author, and in 2005 topped Harry Potter. He has also been a # 1 bestseller with Barnes & Noble with his co-authored book — “The Power of Giving”, which won the Nautilus Gold Award in May 2009 for books that change lives.
Once a highly successful accountant, he was moved by the plight and inner strength of refugees he went to serve; he was inspired to make a life-altering decision that transformed his mission from “accounting for business” to “accounting for life”. His dynamic, inspiring and thought-provoking message has been heard live by over 1 million people in more than 100 cities in five continents. His media message has reached more than 5 million people around the world. We invite our readers to listen to one of his podcasts HERE and watch his TEDx talk Live to Give.
Read more about Azim Jamal at his official website, Corporate Sufi.
_______________
Calling all Ismaili Authors
We encourage Ismaili writers to introduce their books in a similar format as has been done in the post above. Please also see the series launch article and submit your responses to Malik at mmerchant@simerg.com. All submissions will be acknowledged. If a writer has published multiple books, each book will be highlighted in a separate article, and not combined with other books into one post. All writers should include a brief profile with a portrait photo.
We welcome feedback from our readers. Please click . Your letter may be edited for length and brevity, and is subject to moderation.
_______________
Links to the Ismaili Authors’ Series (in chronological sequence, oldest article first):
Before departing this website please take a moment to review Simerg’s Table of Contents for links to hundreds of thought provoking pieces on a vast array of subjects including faith and culture, history and philosophy, and arts and letters to name a few. Also visit Simerg’s sister websites Barakah, dedicated to His Highness the Aga Khan, and Simergphotos.
“Forwarded many times” is a ubiquitous term on the WhatsApp platform. I am of course delighted when my referrals to articles posted on my three blogs get “forwarded many times”. However, I feel helpless when I receive messages and dateless photographs and quotes that I have to authenticate by doing searches on Google and other search engines as well as visiting my own websites! These messages come from all segments of the Ismaili Jamat (community) including highly educated youth and professionals. Everybody wants to be recognized for their speedy forwards. For example, a photograph of His Highness the Aga Khan — Ismailis respectfully address him as Mawlana Hazar Imam — taken with a Federal German minister some 15 years ago got forwarded a few months ago without a date and made all recipients think it was “yesterday’s” photograph. I can cite many other similar examples.
Yesterday, Friday July 14, 2023, thousands of Ismailis around the world including me received the worst ever forward from multiple sources. It is difficult to trace where the original message came from, and the person who first sent out the message should feel ashamed for causing anxiety to thousands of Ismailis around the world for hours. Just over 3 years ago, following some thoughtless forwards of unauthenticated messages, Aniza Meghani of London, England, had contributed this must read piece Ismailis on Social Media: You Need to Take Care and STOP Indiscriminate Likes, Follows and Forwards!
The FAKE message sent on July 14 stated that prayers were in order because Malik Talib, the Chairman of the Leaders Ismaili Forum (LIF), received a call from Mawlana Hazar Imam to “immediately come back to Lisbon”. The FAKE message further goes on to state that before returning to Lisbon, Talib left a message with a Mukhi (congregational leader) in Vancouver “to ask the Jamat to pray for Mawla’s health” (the Aga Khan is also addressed as Mawla by his devout followers.) Some individuals who personally forwarded me the message dutifully told me that the message was not verified. Others, however, did not and I politely responded to them to stop forwarding the message.
Through my contact with the most credible sources, I learnt that the news was FAKE. I immediately sent a message to my WhatsApp contacts, and they were thankful that their anxious moments had ended.
In the next line, the FAKE communication that I received stated, “Jamat [members of the community] is advised that there is a SPECIAL message from the LIF which will be read tonight” [Friday, July 14]. Of course, many went to their respective Jamatkhanas with a concern in their minds about the FAKE message that had accompanied this line.
The Ismaili Jamat has remained steadfastly united for decades by respectfully following the Imam-of-the-Time and his appointed institutions. The Imam has repeatedly asked the Ismailis to follow instructions from institutions.
Article continues below
The Ismailis have had to confront physical harm through the ages. We have been challenged and our missionaries and scholars have responded and continue to respond intellectually to such challenges.
Today, there are certain elements in society that do not welcome the Ismailis, and will do everything in their power to harm the Jamat or cause disunity. It could happen through a bad Tweet or a WhatsApp or social media message, combined with emails to hundreds of recipients to give the FAKE message some authenticity. Indeed, the FAKE message was also distributed in an email originating from Ismaili sources to more than 200 recipients. I was among the recipients.
We have to be intelligent and vigilant about both external and internal threats. We have to learn about our faith and bear in mind that important decisions relating to the Jamat and the Imamat will come from the Office of the Imam. We have to learn to be patient.
Now that I have dealt with this FAKE matter let me mention a few things that DID take place on Friday, the 14th:
(1) Malik Talib was sighted in Vancouver. He had already arrived back in his home town several hours earlier, and was never asked to return to Lisbon; and
(2) An announcement from the LIF was read in Jamatkhanas around Canada. It mentioned that a group of leaders from the LIF met with the Mawlana Hazar Imam in Lisbon on the occasion of his 66th Imamat Day. During the meeting, a gift was presented to him on behalf of the worldwide community. The Imam deeply appreciated the gift and conveyed his blessings to the worldwide Ismaili community. A description of the beautiful gift will appear in our sister website Barakah, as soon as we have more details about it. This message from the LIF was truly welcome on a day that had begun with a FAKE message!
In conclusion, we need to be aware of this virus of FAKE news and the serious and harmful consequences of thoughtlessly and irresponsibly forwarding unauthenticated messages.
On a personal note, nothing is more satisfying and can bring greater happiness and one closer to the Imam-of-the-Time and the Noor (Light) of Imamat than reciting the Salawat — one, two, ten or more — everyday, whether the Imam is well or unwell. It seeks Allah’s blessings on Muhammad and the progeny of Muhammad.
Date posted: July 15, 2023.
__________________
FEEDBACK
Simerg welcomes your feedback. Please complete the LEAVE A REPLY form below or click on Leave a comment. Your letter may be edited for length and brevity, and is subject to moderation.
Religion News Service (RNS) spoke to Shenila Khoja-Moolji, a professor of Muslim societies at Georgetown University, about her forthcoming new book (Oxford), “Rebuilding Community: Displaced Women and the Making of a Shia Ismaili Muslim Sociality.” The book records the histories of women in her faith community that are absent from religious archives. Please click HERE or on the image below to read and listen to Kathryn Post’s report in RNS, along with Professor Khoja-Moolji’s interview.
Date posted: July 12, 2023.
Featured image at top of post: Ismailis cooking for the community in advance of a religious festival in Toronto in the 1970s. Photograph: Dr. Mohamed Manji, Vancouver.
Artistic Greeting Cards by Karim Ismail, Brief Notes on the Imamat and the Aga Khans, and an Explanation and Recitation of a Celebratory Ismaili Ginan (Hymn)
Simerg and its sister websites, Barakah and Simergphotos, convey heartiest felicitations to Ismailis and friends of the Ismaili community in Canada and around the world on the auspicious occasion of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan’s 66th Imamat Day anniversary which falls on July 11, 2023. The Aga Khan succeeded to the Hereditary Throne of Imamat on July 11, 1957 at the age of 20 upon the death of his grandfather, Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III, whose reign of 71 years as the 48th Imam is the longest in the 1400 year history of the Shia Ismaili Muslims.
Yesterday, on July 10, 2023, we presented a unique collection of pages from the Tanganyika Standard newspaper that reported on the death of the late Aga Khan and the succession and enthronement of his grandson Prince Karim. For July 11, we present a series of beautiful works of Imamat related calligraphies created over the years by Toronto’s Karim Ismail, including one for 2023 which is shown below.
Inspiration for the calligraphy was drawn from the book “The Master and the Disciple” in which the ayat (7:181) is quoted, and which relates to the Imams. The book is an early Islamic spiritual Dialogue by Ja’far b. Munsur al-Yaman. In this section of the book two characters are involved in a dialogue. One is an Ismaili da’i by the name of Salih and a knowledgeable Mullah called Abu Malik. After some time the dialogue turns to the concept of Divine Justice where Salih refers to 7:181 several times. The Ismaili da’i explains to Abu Malik (who has gained the surname of Cube of scholars) that God’s act of justice towards His servants is through just witnesses (7:181). Salih uses the Arabic word adl to also mean witness (7:181). In Shi’i and especially Ismaili understanding, these just witnesses are the Imams (Ahl al-bayt). Upon hearing this, Abu Malik exclaims, ‘By my life, this is the very foundation of justice!’. He now understands that God’s justice is by means of the just witnesses mentioned in 7:181.
According to well-known Muslim traditions, the Prophet Muhammad (May peace be upon him and his family) said:
“I am leaving amongst you two weighty things after me, the Qur’an and my Progeny (ahl al-bayt). Verily, if you hold fast to them both you will never go astray. Both are tied with a long rope and cannot be separated till the Day of Judgement.” (Muslim, Vol. II, pg. 279).
The Prophet appointed Hazrat Ali to be his successor as the Imam in a pivotal gathering during his return to Medina from his final pilgrimage to Mecca. The Aga Khan, who is respectfully addressed by the Ismailis as Mawlana Hazar Imam (our Lord the present/living Imam), is the 49th Hereditary Imam in direct succession of Imams since Imam Ali.
In the Ismaili Ginan (hymn) Girbah Vali, attributed to the Ismaili missionary Pir Sadr al-Din, the Pir says:
“If the Imam did not have his feet on this earth for even a moment, then the world, moon, sun would vanish and nothing would exist, neither the heaven nor the earth.”
This notion of the cosmic necessity of an Imam, expressed by the Pir, is also found in famous traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (cited in “The Divine Guide in Early Shi’ism,” pp 125-131):
“The earth cannot be devoid of an Imam; without him, it could not last an hour,” and also: “If there were only two men left in the world, one of them would be the Imam.”
The calligraphies that Toronto’s Karim Ismail has created for Imamat Day over the past few years, are inspired by Qur’anic phrases that in Shia tradition refer to the Imam, and we are happy to include all the calligraphies that he has contributed to the website since 2020.
The Qur’anic phrase Al-rasikhun fi’l-ilm (Those firmly rooted in knowledge) in Fatimid Kufi script on all 4 sides of the art work. The Fatimids were rulers of North Africa and Egypt from the 10th through the 12th centuries. The Fatimid Imams or Caliphs were ancestors of the current Aga Khan.
The Qur’anic phrase Al-rasikhun fi’l-ilm (Those firmly rooted in knowledge) on top and bottom of the art work in Fatimid Kufi script; the centre of the art work has the same phrase in Thuluth script. Calligraphy and design by Karim Ismail, Toronto.
In Shi’i tradition, “The Rope of Allah” (Qur’an 3:103) refers to the “Ahl al Bayt” — the Imams from the House of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.S). This important tradition appears in the card within heptagonal geometry (seven-sided polygon) about which the (Late) Karl Schlamminger, creator of extraordinary designs and distinctive calligraphies for the Ismaili Centres in London, Lisbon and Toronto, observed as follows in an essay for Arts & The Islamic World (volume 3, number 3, page 25-26): “The floor of the outer entrance hall [of the Ismaili Centre London] has an open ended pattern in heptagonal form which rises at the focus of the room to create a fountain: such a pattern in such space is of course a completely classical Islamic response — but I have never heard of a heptagonal pattern anywhere in Islamic architecture. “The number seven symbolizes for Ismailis the values of its essential philosophy — but has never been used in an architectural context. Here the sevenness of the design is no superficial effigy or naturalistic picture of an idea, but — as always in Islam — is expressed in geometry (literally: measurement of the earth).”
Calligraphy by Karim Ismaili on the auspicious occasion of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s 63rd Imamat Day Anniversary.
_______________________
The Aga Khans
From the day the Prophet Muhammad (May peace be upon him and his family) passed away on June 8, 632, and Hazrat Ali became the first Imam on the Divine Commandment that the Prophet had received at Ghadir Khumm, there have been forty-nine Ismaili Imams in continuous Hereditary Succession, spanning a period of 1391 years in Islamic history.
Upper row: Imam Shah Hassanali Shah (Aga Khan I) and Imam Shah Ali Shah (Aga Khan II). Lower row: Imam Sultan Mahomed Shah (Aga Khan III) and Mawlana Shah Karim Al Hussaini (Aga Khan IV). Total reign of the four Imams 203 years from 1817 to current year (2021). Longest reign Aga Khan III, 71 years; followed by Aga Khan I and Aga Khan IV, each 64 years.
The current Aga Khan and his immediate three predecessors have reigned the Ismaili community for a total of 207 years or 14.9 % of the entire span of Imamat, as follows:
1. Mawlana Shah Karim Al Hussaini Hazar Imam (His Highness the Aga Khan IV, Imam from 1957 – Current, 66 years, he became the 49th Imam at the age of 20); 2. Imam Sultan Mahomed Shah (His Highness the Aga Khan III, Imam from 1885 – 1957, Imam for 71 years, he became the 48th Imam at the age of 7 years); 3. Imam Shah Ali Shah (Aga Khan II, 1881 – 1885, Imam for 4 years, he became the 47th Imam at the age of 51 years); and 4. Imam Shah Hassanali Shah (Aga Khan I, 1817 – 1881, Imam for 66 years, he became the 46th Imam at the age of 13 years).
This 207 year period of the reign of 4 successive Ismaili Imams accounts for more time than does the entire Fatimid period, reigned by 8 Imams from Imam Mehdi (11th Imam, North Africa) to Imam Mustansir bi Allah (18th Imam, Cairo).
On that historical and interesting statistical fact, we convey to members of the Ismaili community around the world as well as friends and supporters of the community Imamat Day Mubarak. We also pray for the fulfillment of our readers’ wishes and that everyone’s lives are filled with barakah (happiness) and success. We particularly wish families with young children and youth success in their studies. On this auspicious day, we also pray that the souls of the deceased may rest in eternal peace and that their family members may find strength and courage to overcome the grief over the loss.
_______________________
An Explanation and Recitation of the Ismaili Celebratory Ginan Ya Ali Khuba Mijalas
Editor’s note: This is a very condensed, yet comprehensive, post on the munajat, Ya Ali Khuba Mijalas that is recited in many Ismaili Jamatkhanas around the world for the auspicious celebration of Imamat Day. For the complete version, which offers much more in terms of the Ginan’s history, composition, style, and explanation with a glossary, please click Original article.
By SADRUDIN K. HASSAM
INTRODUCTION
Popular tradition has it that the Munajat,Ya Ali Khuba Mijalas, was first recited during the enthronement ceremony of the 48th Imam, Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah, His Highness the Aga Khan III, which took place at Aga Hall at Mazagon Road in Mumbai in September 1885. Another tradition says that the recitation first took place when the young Imam met his followers at the main Ismaili Jamatkhana in Mumbai, known as the Darkhana. In any case, the munajat became very much part of the Ismaili tradition in many parts of the world to recite it in jamati gatherings (mijalas) to commemorate the enthronement of their 48th Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah, the late Aga Khan III (1877 – 1957). Continuing with this tradition, this Munajat, with slight variations, is now recited on the occasion of the anniversary of the ascension of Mawlana Shah Karim al-Hussaini (His Highness the Aga Khan IV) as the 49th Ismaili Imam. July 11th, 2023 marks his 66th Imamat anniversary.
The Arabic word Munajat is formed from the root word na-ja-wa which means ‘to converse secretly’ or ‘confidentially’. From the context of the Ginanic literature of the Ismailis, the term Munajat would be equivalent to venti (supplication). Apart from conveying this basic idea of venti, the term Munajat also has the connotation of conveying mubaraki (greetings) and adoration or reverence to a holy person, in this case the Ismaili Imam.
The complete Munajat has eight stanzas of four lines each, the chopai. At the end of each stanza there is a warani (refrain) of four lines which ends with the words ‘Mubarak hove’. This refrain is repeated at the end of each stanza for collective recitation and participation of the Jamat.
EXPLANATION
It is not an easy task to explain and translate a Ginan or Qasida from one language to another. For this Munajat which is a blend of several languages and is suffused with deep feelings and sublime supplication, the task becomes even more daunting. A conscious effort has been made to be as close to the original as possible and we hope that this explanation will impart our readers with some understanding about Ya Ali Khuba Mijalas.
VERSE ONE
Transliteration
Ya Ali Khuba Mijalas Zinat Karake Farasha Bichhai Gali, Aan Baithe Hay Takht-Ke Upar Shah Karim Shah Vali
Refrain
Aaj Raj Mubarak Hove, Noor Ain Alikun Raj Mubarak Hove, Shah Aal-e Nabi Kun Raaj Mubarak Hove, Hove Hove Aaj Raj Mubarak Hove.
Explanation
O Ali! In the fair assembly, gloriously adorned with carpets spread on the floor, Our Lord Shah Karim sits on the takht, our Lord Shah Karim our Guardian.
Refrain
Today blessed be your rule Oh the light of Ali’s eye, Blessed be your rule Shah, the descendant of the Holy Prophet, Blessed be your rule today Blessed be your rule today.
VERSE TWO
Transliteration
Ya Ali Didar Lenekun Aye Shah Teri, Hindi Jama-et Sari, Sijada Baja Kar Najaran Deve Jan Apniku Vari…. Aaj.
Explanation
O Ali! To be blessed with didar (glimpse of the Imam) your whole Indian jamat have assembled. They prostrate and they offer nazrana (homage) devoting their lives to you.
VERSE THREE
Transliteration
Ya Ali Tera Nasiba Roje Awal-Se, Deta Haire Kamali, Shah Sultan Shah Ke Mukhamen Se Nikala, Shah Karim Shah Vali….Aaj
Explanation
O Ali! Your fortune from the very first day (right from the beginning) has bestowed perfection upon you, Hazrat Imam Shah Sultan Muhammad Shah declared that Mawlana Shah Karim is the Lord and the Guardian.
VERSE FOUR
Transliteration
Ya Ali Shah Kahun To Tujakun Baja Hay, Bakhta Bulanda Peshani, Chhoti Umarmen Aali Marataba, Taluki Hay Nishani….Aaj
Explanation
O Ali! To call you Lord is your due. Your fortune and greatness is evident on your forehead. Your exalted status at the young age is a sign of greatness.
VERSE FIVE
Transliteration
Ya Ali Takhta Ne Chhatra Tujakun Mubarak, Zaheraji-Ke Piyare, Abul Hasan Shah Karani So Teri Jannat Aap Sanvare….Aaj
Explanation
O Ali! May your throne and canopy (exalted position) be blessed, the dear one of Fatimatuz Zahra. O Mawla Ali! All this is because of your glorious deeds. Paradise is embellished by your presence.
VERSE SIX
Transliteration
Ya Ali Takht ne Chhatra sunake tere Falakase Barase Nooran, Moti Tabaka Hathunmen Lekar, Shah KunVadhave Huran….Aaj
Explanation
O Ali! At the news of your Takht Nashini (Takhta ne Chhatra) the heavens shower Light, with trays of pearls in their hands, the houris (chaste heavenly maidens) greet the Lord.
VERSE SEVEN
Transliteration
Ya Ali Maheman Khanemen Momankun Jab La-i ‘Id Musal-le Shamsi Jo Salavat Pada Kar Marafat-Ki Khushiyali….Aaj
Explanation
In the guest-house when the celebration of your Takht Nashini takes place, the momins celebrate like ‘Id. They recite the Shamsi prayer, the salwat, and they experience the ecstasy of spiritual enlightenment.
VERSE EIGHT
Transliteration
Ya Ali Teri Mubarak Badike Khatar, Sayyad Karte Munajat, Shah Najaf Tere Pushta Panah Tere Dushman Hove Fanah….Aaj
Explanation
O Ali! To offer greetings, the Sayyads make their humble supplication (munajat) O Ali, the Lord of Najaf, may your progeny be protected and your enemies be destroyed.
~~~~~~~~~~~
Recitation of the Munajat by Shamshu Bandali Haji
A rare portrait of the late Ismaili missionary Shamshu Bandali Haji from his early years. Photograph: Shamshu Bandali Haji Family Collection.
Simerg welcomes your feedback. Please complete the LEAVE A REPLY form below or click on Leave a comment Your letter may be edited for length and brevity, and is subject to moderation.
CONTRIBUTORS
Karim Ismail
Originally from Uganda, Karim Ismail lived in England before settling in Canada. By profession, he is a Pharmacist (retired). It was in England, in 1986, that he came across the artwork of a German Muslim, Karl Schlamminger (1935-2017), at the Ismaili Centre London. Karl’s artwork on calligraphy and geometrics, had a profound effect on Karim. He is frequently seen conducting calligraphy workshops for children at the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto. Karim is also active on the literature counter at the Ismaili Centre Toronto.
Malik Merchant
Malik Merchant is the founding publisher and editor of Barakah (2017) as well as its two sister websites Simerg (2009) and Simergphotos (2012). See full profile HERE
Before departing this website please take a moment to review Simerg’s Table of Contents for links to hundreds of thought provoking pieces on a vast array of subjects including faith and culture, history and philosophy, and arts and letters to name a few. Also visit Simerg’s sister websites Barakah, dedicated to His Highness the Aga Khan, and Simergphotos.
The family of Ajmal Andani (1949 – 2021) originally of Tanzania (known as Tanganyika until 1964) has shared Ajmal’s collection of the Tanganyika Standard newspapers that carried reports of the celebration of the Diamond Jubilee of the late Aga Khan in 1946, his death in 1957 after a reign of 71 years, and the succession of his grandson, the current Aga Khan, as the 49th Ismaili Imam. Our sister website, Barakah, brings you a selection of Jpeg images from the newspaper along with a PDF file. Please click HERE or on the image below for the memorable post.
Today, in this post, I honour Calgary city’s police force by providing a photo of some of the police officers that were on duty for the annual Ismaili Muslim Stampede Breakfast. Yes it is “THE TOP” breakfast event in Calgary during the Stampede. On Saturday July 8, 2023, the breakfast even brought the political heavyweights in Canada — from the Prime Minister of Canada to the Premier of Alberta to the Leader of the Official Opposition of Canada — to the grounds of the Ismaili Muslim Headquarters Jamatkhana for a superb breakfast consisting of the East African dish, bharazi! Malik Merchant knew about the bharazi, the pancakes, and the chai but the sirens that he heard as he reached closer to the grounds were not of those of fire brigades and ambulances…but that of the Prime Minister’s motorcade! Please see his story and photographs.
External link(s) to story after photo
The Ismaili Muslim community’s self-discipline creates a stress free environment for everyone including police officers. They are seen at the annual stampede breakfast held in Calgary on Saturday, July 8, 2023. Please click om image for story and more photographs.
Simerg - Insights from Around the World 