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
Author Archives: Malik Merchant, Editor
Founding publisher and editor of www.barakah.com, www.simerg.com and www.simergphotos.com.
Last June, Aniza Meghani of the UK conducted an exclusive interview with Amin Gulgee for Simerg during her visit to Karachi. The interview includes a selection of outstanding works of art by Amin and provides an excellent introduction to his artistic background. We invite our readers to read Aniza’s excellent piece. The last few weeks have seen the release of Gulgee’s first monograph, “No Man’s Land,” published on March 25, 2025. We are delighted to feature the monograph as part of our continuing series of books by Ismaili authors. We follow a similar Q/A format as our earlier presentations of books, which are listed chronologically below, ensuring our readers are always up to date with our series in an organized manner. We encourage Ismaili authors from around the world to participate in this series, regardless of when their books were published. See details of the series HERE and submit your responses to Simerg’s editor, Malik, at mmerchant@simerg.com.
Amin Gulgee on his monograph “No Man’s Land”
Simerg: What constitutes your book No Man’s Land? Why would you want me to read it, and what will we learn from it?
Amin Gulgee: This is the first monograph dedicated to my career as an artist and curator. Spanning over three decades, my multifaceted practice unfolds through a tapestry of techniques and themes. I invite readers to immerse themselves in the intertwined layers of my work. Featuring insightful essays from esteemed figures across the contemporary creative landscape — curators, novelists, artists, academics, and critics — this volume illuminates my artistry from myriad perspectives. I feel honored to include an essay by the late Dr. Oleg Grabar, a preeminent Islamic art historian, who wrote an essay for the catalogue of a solo exhibition I had at Galeri Petronas in Kuala Lumpur in 2008. Also included is a Q and A by Dr. Maryam Ekthiar, a senior curator at the Met, who asked me challenging questions. From spirituality to politics, from the universal to the particular, my trajectory attempts to navigate the complexities of my existence and invites contemplation on the depths of our collective consciousness. Spanning my diverse career, from my early work in jewelry to my sculptures, installations, paintings, performances and curatorial projects, this volume offers a comprehensive insight into the breadth and depth of my artistic journey. Illustrated with over 300 meticulously selected images and QR codes unlocking access to videos and catalogues, No Man’s Land immerses readers in a visual odyssey through my creative practice.
Simerg: What is behind the name and title of the book?
Gulgee: I chose the title No Man’s Land because I feel that my path occupies this liminal space.
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Front cover of Amin Gulgee’s “No Man’s Land,” edited by John McCarry, published by SKIRA, March 25, 2025, Hardcover, 416 pp.
Simerg: How did you find a publisher for this book?
Gulgee: I was introduced to the prestigious publication house Skira, based in Milan, by the late Italian curator Paolo de Grandis. I was well aware of Skira because they had published books on Picasso and Matisse, among many other artists. I had known Paolo since 1998, when I first participated in “OPEN”, an exhibition of installation and sculpture that he established in Venice. Later, in 2017, when I was appointed Chief Curator of the inaugural Karachi Biennale, I invited him to be a guest curator. He included works by Yoko Ono and Michelangelo Pistoletto, among others. In 2018, he and Claudio Crescentini curated my solo shows at the Galleria d’Arte Moderna and Mattatoio, both in Rome. When the book was nearing completion, I asked if he would know any publishers who might be interested in my monograph, and he suggested Skira. I sent them a few chapters and I was thrilled when they accepted to take the project on. I then collaborated with Skira’s team over the next seven months to finalize the project. They were all tremendous to work with.
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Reflections on Amin Gulgee and his monograph No Man’s Land
“Both as a practitioner and as a curator Amin Gulgee’s storytelling is fluid, both creating and dispelling unease. Amin Gulgee explores the vastness of the Universe as the backdrop for those narratives…Contemplating spiritual goals, while confronting the insecurities and displacements of our existence, [he] calls for constant negotiation and inventiveness.” — Salima Hashmi, art historian and artist, in “Fearless,” an afterword to Amin Gulgee’s book.
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“Amin Gulgee defies easy categorisation: he’s a metal sculptor, a curator, and one of Pakistan’s most innovative and cherished artists, the beating heart of his home city of Karachi’s creative scene. His metalwork is as dramatic and eccentric as Amin is. He’s in your face, uncompromising, a living and breathing performance piece” — Excerpt from BBC Documentary podcast, “In the Studio: Amin Gulgee — Heavy metal” (listen to podcast HERE).
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“Amin’s art explores the unexpected. Whether it’s connections or the stories illustrated, he doesn’t follow a norm…Whilst being so different can pose its own challenges, instead, it makes Amin’s work deeply personal and unique to him. It’s also meant, from the start of his career, he’s had a strong sense of self-confidence in embracing uniqueness — Excerpt from “Amin Gulgee: Going against the norm” in The Ismaili.
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Simerg: Did you hire an editor or designer or did you do all the work yourself?
Gulgee: The editor of the book is John McCarry, who was a classmate of mine at Yale. He has written for National Geographic as well as many other publications. He has also published two other books. He is the coordinator of the Amin Gulgee Gallery and edits all its publications. I chose Kiran Ahmad as my designer, as she is one of the most sought-after book designers in Pakistan. I have worked with her many times in the past; however, this monograph was a truly daunting task. We spent over two years trying to make sense of my journey. Her perseverance and her commitment to her craft are commendable. Also, she can make me laugh!
Simerg: What inspired you to do this monograph?
Gulgee: The last time I saw my mother was on December 13, 2007. She had come over to my place in the afternoon since it was the birthday of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. She brought with her a painting by my father, which she presented to me as a gift. “Look at this, Amin,” she exclaimed. “These are the colors of life!” She then sat me down and said, “I want you to do three things for me: one, give up smoking; two, do a book on your work; and three — I don’t remember now, but it will come to me.” She sadly never had the chance to state her third demand. However, in 2020 I had my last delicious cigarette, and in 2022, I decided to start working on my monograph.
Simerg: How long did it take you to complete your monograph and what were the difficulties?
Gulgee: I live in the moment and I do not like looking back. When I finally came to the decision to fulfill my late mother’s wishes, I was trepidatious. John and I had decided that we would approach writers and let them choose any angle of my trajectory that engaged them. We chose to reprint only two essays — the one by Oleg Grabar and another by Dr. Kishwar Rizvi, who is the Robert Lehman Professor in the History of Art, Islamic Art and Architecture at Yale University. The rest of the ten essays were to be new writing on my practice. We were both delighted by the essays that came in. As far as the images are concerned, since my trajectory began in predigital, archaic times, my early work was documented on slides. When I asked my young technical advisor how can I digitize them, he asked me, “What is a slide?” This, of course, made me feel like a dinosaur! But we got the painstaking job done. Then, there was the challenge of organizing my trajectory, which Kiran and I did in sections. It took two years and I am so very grateful for all the support I received along the way.
Date posted: April 22, 2025.
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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. Simerg’s editor may be reached via email at mmerchant@simerg.com.
April 10 and 11 mark the birthdays of Prince Hussain Aga Khan and his nephew, Prince Irfan Aga Khan, older of the two sons of Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan, who became the 50th Imam of the Ismaili Muslims when his father, Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, passed away February 4, 2025. To celebrate these birthdays, Malik Merchant, a trusted publisher and editor of Barakah, a blog dedicated to the Aga Khan and his family, has meticulously compiled information and photographs about the two princes you must read. Please click:
Prince Irfan’s procession walk in Aswan, leading the group of mourners with his brother Prince Sinan in a disciplined, dignified and respectful manner, was extraordinary. He exhibited confidence….READ MORE
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Swimming with whales is unbelievably rewarding. As corny as it sounds, the whales do “change your life”. They’re simply too majestic, too enormous, too touching and too intelligent not to…..READ MORE
Mr. Manilal Devani was elected Mayor of Dar es Salaam, Tanganyika (now Tanzania) in 1959. In October of that year, Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, the 49th Hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, visited Dar es Salaam and other towns across Tanzania. The Mayor hosted him and leaders of the Ismaili community for lunch at The Aquarium Restaurant in Dar es Salaam and organized meetings with the British Governor General, Sir Richard Turnbull, and other dignitaries.
The 49th Hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV (d. February 4, 2025), is welcomed by the Mayor of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (then Tanganyika), Manilal Devani, in 1959. Photograph: Rohit and Nisheet Devani collection.
Upon the Aga Khan’s recent death on February 4, 2025, aged 88, the late Mayor’s nephew, Sanjay Devani, my friend since the 1980s, sent me a condolence note along with the photo of the Mayor and the Aga Khan, shown above. The photograph Sanjay so thoughtfully sent me has turned into an album after Sanjay, sensing my keen interest in the one picture he sent me, contacted Mayor Manilal’s sons, Rohit and Nisheet, who responded with a set of additional rare photos from their father’s collection. These precious images, so unique and exclusive, will deeply resonate with many readers of this website. I sincerely thank Rohit and Nisheet for their kindness and my beloved friend Sanjay for seeking these precious, rare photographs from his cousins on my behalf — a testament to our firm and enduring friendship.
Mayor Manilal Devani, Mayoress Sushila Devani and Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, who assigned the Mayor to carry out important functions for the Government of Tanzania before and after independence. Photograph: Rohit and Nisheet Devani collection.
Mayor Manilal Devani, who died on June 10, 2010, was active in Tanzania’s commercial and public life for over 50 years. He served the Tanzanian Government and the local community in Dar es Salaam in many vital roles. We are pleased to share the Late Mayor’s historical and exclusive collection and invite readers to read the Rotarian’s tribute to him.
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Dar es Salaam Mayor Manilal Devani Hosts Mawlana Shah Karim Aga Khan, 1959
Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, with Mayor Manilal Devani, Mayoress Sushila Devani, Hon. Al Noor Kassam, a prominent Ismaili leader (behind His Highness), and Mr. P. J. Bharwani (right), Dar es Salaam, 1959. Photograph: Rohit and Nisheet Devani collection.
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Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, with Mayor Manilal Devani and Mr. Subotuik, owner of The Aquarium Restaurant, where the Mayor hosted Mawlana Shah Karim for lunch, Dar es Salaam, 1959. Photograph: Rohit and Nisheet Devani collection.
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Mayor Manilal Devani introduces Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, to a British dignitary, Dar es Salaam, 1959. Photograph: Rohit and Nisheet Devani collection.
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Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, is hosted for lunch by Mayor Manilal Devani as Mayoress Sushila Devani and Mr. Subotuik, the owner of The Aquarium Restaurant, watch over, Dar es Salaam, 1959. Photograph: Daily News via Rohit and Nisheet Devani collection.
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Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, and Mayor Manilal Devani, with several guests at a buffet table in The Aquarium Restaurant, Dar es Salaam, 1959. Photograph: Rohit and Nisheet Devani collection.
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Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, savours food as Mayoress Sushila Devani looks at him with a wide smile, Dar es Salaam, 1959. Photograph: Rohit and Nisheet Devani collection.
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Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, and Mayor Manilal Devani, depart The Aquarium Restaurant, Dar es Salaam, 1959. Photograph: Rohit and Nisheet Devani collection.
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Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, with British Governor of Tanganyika, Sir Richard Turnbull, Dar es Salaam, 1959. Photograph: Rohit and Nisheet Devani collection.
Date posted: April 4, 2025.
NOTE: A version of this post appears on our sister website, Barakah, dedicated to the Aga Khan, his family, and the Ismaili Imamat. His Late Highness Aga Khan IV’s son, Prince Rahim, succeeded him as the 50th Ismaili Imam on February 4, 2025, immediately after his father’s passing. This swift and seamless transition is a testament to the stability and continuity of the Ismaili Imamat. His Majesty King Charles III honoured him with the title of His Highness.
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Simerg welcomes tributes to Mawlana Shah Karim and messages of congratulations to Mawlana Shah Rahim Al Hussaini, His Highness the Aga Khan. Please click COMMENT box. If you encounter problems, email the comments to mmerchant@simerg.com. We want to reassure you that we respect your privacy and that your published comment will never reveal your email address. For recent and older posts, please visit our HOME PAGE. Please also follow us @Facebook, @X and @LinkedIn.
Simerg’s introduction of “Books by Ismaili Authors” continues with Shenaz Shamji’s cookbook “Passage to East Africa,” which she launched on the 87th Salgirah (birthday) of the 49th Ismaili Imam, Mawlana Shah Karim, His Highness the Aga Khan, who passed away recently on February 4, 2025, at 88. We follow the same Q/A format as our earlier presentations of books, which are listed chronologically below. We encourage Ismaili authors from around the world to participate in this series, regardless of when their books were published. See details of the series HERE and submit your responses to Simerg’s editor, Malik, at mmerchant@simerg.com.
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Simerg: What is behind the name and title of the book?
Shenaz Shamji: This book delves into the rich history of East African Ismaili and Indian cuisine, exploring the unique fusion cooking that was born from the migration of Ismailis and Indians from India. The title “Passage to East Africa — A Cookbook of East African Ismaili and Indian Cuisine” is a testament to the profound impact of this migration on our culinary heritage, as our ancestors adapted to the local food ingredients to create a new and vibrant cuisine.
Simerg: Why would you want me or my family to read the book, and what will we learn from it?
Shenaz: This book is a legacy for future East African generations. The recipes are authentic and accurately written. It is a must for all households that want to keep this tradition going, as well as everyone else in the UK, Europe and North America who wants to discover the extraordinary tastes of Ismaili cooking. There are not many comprehensive East African Ismaili and Indian cookbooks available in ONE book — a total of over 250 recipes.
Simerg:What inspired you to write the book?
Shenaz: I have been writing recipes for my children since about 22 years ago. As a pharmacist, I was used to writing them methodically with ingredients and methods listed in an easy-to-follow way. Indian cooking is all about “aasre”, meaning a bit of this and a bit of that using “guestimates”. Children and many adults, too, cannot follow that or remember. My mother-in-law lived with us, and she was an expert cook. I used to watch her and write her recipes roughly, again “aasre”.
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Beautiful and vibrant cover page of Shenaz Shamji’s Passage to East Africa, published independently on December 13, 2023, illustrated, 376 pages, hardback and paperback.
As time passed, I started cooking them myself and wrote the ingredients down in a structured, step-by-step manner with accurate quantities and methods. This was a laborious task requiring hours and hours of work and editing and storing recipes in electronic folders. I wrote them down in a very user-friendly way so my children, novices or new cooks could follow them. As time went on, after 15 years, my family and friends persuaded me to make a cookbook as these recipes were of treasured Ismaili and East African cuisine. What I thought could take 2 years to make ended up with 5 years of intensive, laborious work, facing many challenges. Not being an author and especially not being a cookbook author, the whole project was bewildering but achievable.
Simerg: How can I purchase the book, and what are its available formats?
Shenaz: The book can be purchased in hardback and paperback from Amazon in the UK, CANADA and the USA/WORLD. It is also available for purchase at the Aga Khan Museum Gift Shop and can be ordered online at the Aga Khan Museum Shop.
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AMAZON REVIEW EXCERPTS
Shenaz Shamji offers a delightful exploration into the vibrant cuisine of East African Indian and Ismaili cuisine. The book elegantly captures the fusion of Indian and East African flavors, presenting an anthology of meticulously curated recipes. Shenaz’s dedication shines as she shares her family’s culinary heritage, meticulously testing and documenting recipes over the year — Sean Ramrattan on Amazon, which has a 4.8/5.0 rating on the book based on more than 60 global ratings
This book has such good recipes. I have attempted a few, and they have all been a hit in my household — Bessie Rego Sanchez
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Simerg: How did you find a publisher for the book?
Shenaz: By using the internet searches for the maximum global sales. I opted for Amazon as they did the publishing, printing, marketing, and posting of the book.
Simerg: Did you hire an editor or an illustrator, or did you do all the work yourself?
Shenaz: I did all the work by myself and with my son Naadim Shamji, but I had to hire a graphic designer and a food photographer and employ a Social Media team.
Simerg: Which was your first book, and how many have you written?
Shenaz: This is my first and only book.
Simerg: How long did it take you to write the book — from start to finish and to begin marketing it?
Shenaz: It took me 15 years to write, collect and store these recipes for my children, 5 years of editing and creating the book and two years of social media. I have 14 cooking videos on YouTube, which have gained much popularity!
Simerg: Tell us something more about your book
Shenaz: I hope — and am confident — that the recipes and photos of the dishes in “Passage to East Africa” will tease your tastebuds and stimulate your visual senses to new heightened limits! May I also note the following incredible features of my book:
The indexing is done in English, Indian, and Swahili names, making referencing very easy;
There is a historical account of migration and settlement by my ancestors, which is very similar to many East African Ismailis family’s history too;
The book is very high and rich in photo content — almost 94% of food photos, which is unique as not all books have such a high volume of photos;
Over 60% of the recipes are vegetarian recipes, with many being vegan, too;
The ingredients are listed very accurately and are readily available;
A section in the book explains different measures and different names of ingredients used in various parts of the world. This makes it easy for everyone globally to decide how much to use or substitute or know the equivalent; and
I have included little snippets/stories in many recipes, some to remind me and others of the good and fond memories of having had this dish back home.
I invite your readers to visit my Facebook Page. As I mentioned earlier, the book is also featured on YouTube, where I demonstrate how to cook a diverse range of authentic and flavourful dishes such as Sev (sweet vermicelli), Spicy Masala Prawns, Kuku Paka (chicken in coconut curry), Makate Mayai (Mince and eggs) and more. I am pleased to say that our YouTube channel has become a thriving community, with thousands of viewers joining us since the book launch. And the book? It’s a treasure trove of 250 unique and delightful recipes, each waiting to be discovered.
Date posted: April 3, 2025.
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Born and raised in Tanga, a coastal town in Tanzania, Shenaz Shamji, from a very young age, began to take an interest in East African Ismaili and Indian cooking. Over the years, in Tanga, and later in London, where she pursued Pharmacy, Shenaz relentlessly pursued her family’s mouth-watering dishes and inspirational recipes. Her beautiful, fully illustrated book “Passage to East Africa,” which was years in the making, was finally perfected and published on December 13, 2023. Through her book and YouTube demonstrations, Shenaz brings the joy of cooking to everyone at home. with delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian recipes. While she owes her success to the influence of her culinary mentors many of the recipes are her own creation too.
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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.
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.
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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. Simerg’s editor may be reached via email at mmerchant@simerg.com.
Chez Mahmadi, a renowned sanctuary in Nairobi, Kenya, graciously invited two Ismaili artists, Nimira Shariff and Shamim Subzali, to exhibit a collection that uniquely depicted a theme anchored on Sufism — the mystical aspect of Islam. Despite being separated by the winds of time and space, living oceans apart, these two artists embarked on a collaborative journey that transcended physical distance. They displayed their noteworthy pieces from their respective collections of artwork, each showcasing a unique style of inspiration and talent, all under the singular theme of Sufism. Chez Mahmadi, the serene host that showcased the beautiful exhibition from February 1 – 23, 2025, is a multifunctional space that champions an aura designed to inspire, connect, and nurture one’s mind in unison with the soul.
In a story featured in the Asian Weekly, Tanya Vas noted that the exhibition was a harmonious blend of art and atmosphere, each element resonating with the Sufi theme. She described the art pieces as having vibrant hues and swirling patterns, which seemed to breathe, vividly bringing to life the spiritual essence of Sufism.
Artist Nimira Shariff noted the differences in their artistic styles yet emphasized how their works complemented each other. Shamim Subzali shared the joy they found in working with the Sufi theme. The artists are thrilled to showcase a collection of their exhibition work in Simerg, which warmly welcomes and encourages Ismaili artists worldwide to showcase a selection of their works in our continuing series on Ismaili Artistic Expressions.
ARTWORK BY NIMIRA SHARIFF
Nimira Shariff
Nimira Shariff is inspired by pursuing a lifelong passion for ‘Art,’ validating that which is authentic or allegorical at the heart of a given scene. This is evident as she displays her talent stimulated by the inner beauty within her environment and the inner being she yearns for. Using watercolours, Nimira finds harmony in depicting animals, birds, flowers, landscapes, whirling dervishes, and silhouettes of African women. In addition, she has dabbled meticulously using Oils and Pastels. The medium she applied for the Chez Mahmadi Sufi Art Exhibition was Acrylic. This exhibit engrossed her to plough further into ‘The World of Sufism’, exemplifying her passion and the cornerstone of her disposition, illustrating that ‘no literature is enough for her to dwell in.’
Shamim Subzali has nurtured her skill by creating impressive pieces of artwork. She favours the formation of portraitures yet continues to explore various art themes, as is demonstrated in this specific Sufi art works. Some of her other creations encompass animals, landscapes, whirling dervishes, life drawings, still life, seascapes, and portraits, drawing inspiration from impressionists. At the Chez Mahmadi exhibit, Shamim harnessed the use of Oils, Pastels, and Watercolours. She continues to excel by experimenting with various other mediums and techniques, such as charcoal and pencil. Shamim’s artful approach is a testament to her talent as she states ‘the learning curve is ever evolving, and never diminishes’. Her ongoing artistic journey is an inspiration to all. Discover the intriguing wonders of an enchanting journey by reading Shamim Subzali’s BIO.
“BROTHERHOOD” by Shamim Subzali.
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“PRAISE” by Shamim Subzali.
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“SAMA BROTHERHOOD” by Shamim Subzali.
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“TOTAL SUBMISSION” by Shamim Subzali.
Date posted: March 31, 2025. Last updated: April 1, 2025 (inserted links).
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“DAD” (Al-Karim Jaffer), acrylic painting by son Faizaan Jaffer.
About the contributor: Al-Karim Jaffer, the youngest of four siblings, was born in Burundi and has travelled extensively, having resided in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the UK, and the USA. Presently, he lives in Vancouver, B.C., where he cherishes his family and community. As a proud father of two outstanding young men, his commitment to their well-being and the well-being of his community is unwavering. He is ready to serve with outright dedication and passion. Volunteerism has consistently been the tenet of his being. Life has taken him on a spiritual search path by composing allegorical poetry inspired by faith, the environment, and nature photography.
The editor invites Ismaili artists to submit a selection of their paintings and other works of art for publication in Simerg. Please submit images of no more than 8 objects in Jpeg (1280 x 940) and your profile to the editor, Malik, at mmerchant@simerg.com.
We convey our heartiest felicitations to Muslims around the world, our readers, and friends of the Muslim community on the auspicious and joyous occasion of Eid-ul Fitr. We pray for your happiness, peace, and good health. We wish you all Eid Mubarak.
On March 10, 2025, Canada Post continued its tradition by issuing a Booklet of 6 Permanent™ domestic rate stamps to commemorate the festivals of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in March and June 2025, respectively. This is Canada Post’s seventh Eid stamp, a testament to its continuity and commitment to celebrating the country’s cultural diversity. The previous Eid stamps were issued in 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.
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STAMPS BOOKLET COVER
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Eid al-Fitr signifies the end of fasting during Ramadan and will be observed on or around March 30, 2025. Eid ul-Adha will be held from June 6, 2025, to mark the Festival of Sacrifice commemorating Ibrahim’s (Abraham) willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, to God. The Eid ul-Adha is held at the end of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca.
The rug’s design depicts Alberta’s diverse landscapes and distinct seasons. At its centre are an archway and a lodgepole pine — a tree that supports teepees and lodges and is reminiscent of the cypress of settler homelands.
Celebrated by Muslims all over the world — and by more than one million Muslims in Canada — both events can last several days and include communal prayers and feasts, visits with family, gift-giving, and acts of charity. In the previous two years, Simerg featured the 2023 stamp graced with a beautiful Iranian artifact and the 2024 stamp depicting the Maamoul, a melt-in-your-mouth cookie stuffed with dates and nuts.
The 2025 stamp, a unique addition to the series, features the Canadian prayer rug. This distinctive design is described on the Canada Post website as follows:
“Prayer is a pillar of Muslim faith practised several times daily and on special holidays, including Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Rugs help beautify and focus the act of prayer and play an important part in gift giving and cultural exchange, often embodying local stories, materials, patterns and techniques.
“The Canadian Prayer Rug — a project of the charity Islamic Family — celebrates the deep and enduring connection between Indigenous and Muslim peoples and the multi-faith collaboration that built Canada’s first mosque in Edmonton in 1938. A reflection of their shared stories, it was created by Muslim weaver Noor Iqbal and Métis designer Kit Craven, based on interviews conducted by local youth with Indigenous Elders and descendants of some of Canada’s first Muslim settlers.
“The rug’s design depicts Alberta’s diverse landscapes and distinct seasons. At its centre are an archway and a lodgepole pine — a tree that supports teepees and lodges and is reminiscent of the cypress of settler homelands.”
About the design, specifications and link to purchase stamp booklets
The booklet cover and the inside and back of the booklet feature photographs of the original, handwoven Canadian Prayer Rug. The inside and back include images of some of the tools and materials that would have been used to create it.
On the inside (left to right) are a spool and hanks of yarn; bowls of logwood and black tea, red oak and willow leaves, and bark (used as dyes); and a weaving raddle.
On the back are another raddle and shuttle, as well as a spool. Also featured are a short text on the stamp subject, and credit and caption information.
Cancellation Site: Edmonton, Alberta Stamp Designer: Kristine Do Stamp Illustrator: Kit Craven Issue Date: March 10, 2025 Quantity Produced: 55,000 booklets of 6 Permanent™ stamps Product Type: Stamps
Stamps can be ordered on the Canada Post website HERE. Note: If you order four sets of booklets, each with six stamps, at CDN $7.44 per booklet, postage is free! You can use the stamp for all your first-class letters within Canada indefinitely.
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 Ismaili Imam.
Sadrudin Hassam
A loving tribute by THE FAMILY OF HUZUR MUKHI SADRUDIN KASSAMALI HASSAM
Huzur Mukhi Sadrudin Kassamali Hassam was born in Zanzibar on August 15, 1936, and passed away peacefully on December 26, 2024, at the age of 88 in the company of his loving family in London, U.K. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Huzur Mukhiani Roshan (Habiba) Hassam, his two daughters, Farah Hassam and Salima Hassam Ladha, his son-in-law, Alim Ladha, and two precious granddaughters, Sophia Noor Ladha and Alisha Noor Ladha.
Sadrudin Hassam with his family. Photograph: Sadrudin Hassam Family collection.
Sadrudin was fondly known as Mr. Hassam by his students and Sadrubhai by colleagues and others. Mr. Hassam grew up in the rich culture of Zanzibar. He showed academic achievement at school as a young boy. He went on to train as a professional teacher for two years at the Teachers Training College in Nairobi, Kenya where he graduated in 1956.
After graduating, he returned to Zanzibar, where he was the Honorary Secretary for the Aga Khan Sports Club. He also started teaching at the Aga Khan School of Zanzibar.
It was here that Mawlana Shah Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV (A.S.) visited his school and entered the classroom where Mr. Hassam was teaching. This very special, unexpected encounter would change the trajectory of Mr. Hassam’s professional career and life forever. Mawlana Shah Karim asked Mr. Hassam if he had furthered his studies enough, and after Mr. Hassam replied, “No Khudavind, I have not,” he was graciously offered a scholarship to study a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Islamic History at University of Edinburgh, Scotland. This inspirational moment is captured in a black and white photo where both are 21 years old and shaking hands as Mr. Hassam humbly accepts the Aga Khan scholarship.
Mawlana Shah Karim, His Highness the Aga Khan IV (d. February 4, 2025), shaking hands with Sadrudin Hassam during a school visit in Zanzibar. Photograph: Sadrudin Hassam Family collection.
This life-shaping opportunity was the catalyst for Mr. Hassam’s vast and long-spanning career as an experienced educationist. He evolved into various specialised roles and committed to honorary services within the Ismaili institutions. He served the community and his students to the best of his professional abilities with the same level of commitment, passion, gratitude, humility, and knowledge-sharing in all his work endeavours until he gracefully retired from the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS) in London, U.K. at the age of 84 in 2020.
He had graduated from the University of Edinburgh with an M.A. majoring in Islamic History and European History and subsidiaries in English, Latin and Philosophy. In addition to fluently speaking and writing in Kiswahili and Gujarati, he learnt French, German, Arabic, and Persian and held distinction certifications in Maths and Geography from the University of London. He also learnt to read Khojki (Sindhi) script in his early years, which would prove to be an important and unique skill in the latter years of his career at the IIS. While working towards his M.A., he simultaneously qualified in Writing and Editing with the British American School of Writing, another skill he would utilise throughout his career.
In the early years of his career, after graduating with his M.A., he taught History, English and Religious Education in secular secondary schools in Edinburgh (1965-72). He then moved back to Tanzania and taught at the Aga Khan School of Commerce and then at the Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School, Dar-es-Salaam, where he was Head of History and subsequently Deputy Headmaster (1973-1981). Simultaneously, he was also the Religious Education Officer of the Ismaili curriculum for Ismaili students for 10 years, which also involved him conducting a number of courses on Ginans and Gujarati in the manpower training programmes in Tanzania. Additionally, he was the Honorary Secretary of the Ismailia Association for Tanzania and Honorary Secretary of the Aga Khan Sports Club for Tanzania and loved to play tennis. At the Ismailia Association for Tanzania, he trained religion teachers. He participated as an educationist in the Religious Education Conferences at Nairobi, held under the auspices of the Ismailia Association for Kenya, to plan the International Curriculum for Religious Education for the worldwide Ismailis. In his time in Tanzania worked closely with Al-waez Abu-ali Missionary and edited his materials.
In 1981, he moved with his family to London, U.K., to accept a role that would be a long-standing position as the Religious Education Officer with Ismailia Association (now known as the Ismaili Tariqah and Religious Education Board, ITREB) U.K.
Sadrudin Hassam, seated left, during his early years in London with the Ismailia Association (ITREB) U.K. leadership, including President Dr. Aziz Kurwa (seated third from left), colleagues and Baitul Ilm teachers. Photograph: Sadrudin Hassam Family collection.
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Sadrudin Hassam, standing 2nd from left, with ITREB U.K. leadership including Chairman Noordin Kasssam (seated, centre), and colleagues on the rooftop of the Ismaili Centre London. Photograph: Sadrudin Hassam Family collection.
It was at the ITREB, U.K., where he worked on a variety of projects amongst high-esteemed colleagues including Al-waez Jehangir Merchant, Al-waeza Malek Merchant, Al-waez Saddrudin Fattoum, Al-waez Bashir Ladha, Al-waez Gulam Abbas, Dr. Farouk Topan, Al-waez Faqir Muhammed Hunzai, Al-waeza Rashida Hunzai, Amin Keshawji and Aziz Khoja to name but a few.
One of his initial roles was to identify Baitul Ilm religious education locations around the U.K., set them up and oversee them. His primary duties included training volunteer teachers, especially in Ismaili History and Ginans, directing the courses for teachers and preparing instructional material for the programmes, teaching secondary students, and providing critique to draft curriculum plans and materials from IIS U.K. He also wrote articles for Al-Misbah and Ilm, which are reproduced on this website. He wrote a book on the Alamut period of Ismaili history for secondary students. Mr. Hassam directed and conducted, with the team, teacher training programmes in London, Birmingham, Leicester, Edinburgh, and Amsterdam and also, in 1985, conducted a 17-day teacher training course for the Ismailia Association of Portugal. He was invited to IIS (U.K.) to lecture to the M.A. graduates on a few festival Ginans and identify manuscripts in Khojki and other Indic scripts. He also prepared a curriculum to teach Ginans more systematically to co-relate with the curriculum for primary 4 and 5. He also conducted many short courses in Ginan and Gujarati in the manpower training programmes in U.K. and Portugal. In 1994, before Mawlana Shah Karim’s visit with the UK Jamat, he was responsible with Al-waez Mohamed Ladak for identifying from over a hundred candidates, selecting and training 26 groups to recite verses of Ginans in the presence of Mawlana Shah Karim during his mulaqat with the Jamat.
Sadrudin Hassam, 9th from left, centre row, with ITREB colleagues and students attending a special project. Photograph: Sadrudin Hassam Family collection.
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Sadrudin Hassam is standing, second row, centre, with the UK Jamati and ITREB leadership, and colleagues. Photograph: Sadrudin Hassam family collection.
In subsequent years at the IIS in London, he was involved in several research projects, which gave him access to and exposure to the Khojki and Gujarati manuscripts in the library. He worked on cataloguing various special and heritage materials in Indic languages (Gujarati, Urdu and Khojki script). His knowledge of the Indic languages and familiarity with Arabic and Persian allowed him to examine and catalogue many materials in these languages, many of which are featured through the Institute’s special collections catalogue.
He used his knowledge of Indic languages to also develop (in his spare time) reading materials for students to learn the Gujarati and Khojki languages so that students and researchers could better understand ginan literature and our cultural traditions and religious practices, which are rooted in South Asia for a large number of Ismailis. As such, students and researchers at IIS have benefited immensely from his knowledge and expertise. The IIS provided a Gujarati keyboard for him to use as it was an appropriate tool in some of his written materials. He has written a number of articles on the festival and other Ginans for Ilm and lectured on these to graduate students. These are now available online at simerg.com. He has authored ‘Ginans – Understanding and Appreciation Made Easy,’ a book based on his long teaching experience at different levels on the Ginans and the Ginanic literature. He has also authored ‘Mastering Gujarati and Khojki Scripts’ a book aiming to enable learners (for example Baitul Ilm and Ginan teachers, Waezeen, IIS alumni, GIPISH and STEP graduates who want to pursue an M.A. or Doctorate on Ginanic literature or socio-cultural aspects of Ismailis) to read fluently and understand the printed books in Gujarati and Khojki and hand-written manuscripts. He felt this to be important because studying the primary sources and languages of the Indo-Pakistan subcontinent and African countries is essential to truly understand the history and culture of these areas.
Mr. Hassam’s enriching experience and love for learning and teaching have left a lasting impact on many students and colleagues. Their fond memories, compliments of his kind, gentle nature, and heartfelt gratitude for his contributions are a testament to his service. We offer our humble shukrana for his lifetime of dedicated service to the Imam-of-the-Time and the Ismaili Jamat and its institutions. He leaves behind a rich and enduring legacy.
Date posted: March 25, 2025.
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We welcome your condolences and tribute to Huzurmukhi Sadrudin Kassamali Hassam. Please click LEAVE A COMMENT
[DEATH ANNOUNCEMENT: I announce with deep sadness that Farah Tejani passed away in Vancouver on December 17, 2025. We have posted a special tribute to this excellent and creative writer. Please read the tribute, and generously pen your condolences/tributes to her by clicking HERE— Malik Merchant, Editor]
Ya Mawlana Shah Rahim Al Hussaini, Please accept my devoted allegiance, You possess the Nur, the light of Ali, For this there could be no greater credence.
And so it is with my greatest respect, My sincere trust, my genuine need, For your Blessed Sacred Guidance, I remain your loyal Murid.
I am moved by the powerful words, You embraced us with in your very first Farman, We were saddened by the loss of your father; It was dark, but you became the Dawn.
Your Light continues to guide us, Through your Love, Experience and Wisdom, This is the beauty of our faith as Ismailis, For we all know the origin where it is from.
I was in awe while watching the entire Takht-nishini, How seamlessly the ceremony took place. All the formalities were completed with insignia presented, And Behold there was your serene and loving face.
Ya Mawla, you have worked alongside your father For years and your wealth of experience is vast; The very moment you spoke your chosen words, Your Light and Truth was amassed.
When Mawlana Shah Karim passed away, All I could feel was tragic regret, And then Hazar Imam, you stepped in, And the stage for the world was set.
Salwaats will wash to you like waves from the shore, As you bless us with your Holy Noorani Deedar, I can barely contain my excitement and heart-filled joy, As I am certain you will travel near and far;
You will follow your father’s footsteps with pride, But with a vision and certainty that is all your own, For now you are Our Present Living Imam, And your unbroken Imamat is world known.
I take your guidance seriously, with all the specific areas you addressed, For it is with over 1400 years of such unbroken guidance From our Imams that we have all come to be our best.
I would not be in Canada if not by the vision of your father, And the love and wisdom he has shown, With the help of Pierre Trudeau, many Ismailis from East Africa, In the time of exodus came to know Canada as their home.
Millions and millions of Ismailis everywhere, Owe our lives to the Imams-of-the-Time who have passed, Their steadfast diligent service to us all, Are incredulous legacies that will surely last.
We offer our loyalty and commitment to you, Ya Hazar Imam, May Allah shower you with His Holy Grace, May you and the entire family be blessed With Good Health and may you never have setbacks to face.
The Nur shines through your eyes, Hazar Imam, You are a chosen fortress and blessing; GodSpeed, Nothing touches me more than how you said in your Farman To “come to you” in our time of need.
The global jamat will be begging for your time, I marvel at your glory, Spring is here, it is time for rebirth, So I bless your journey as you write our new story.
Ameen.
Date posted: March 21, 2025. Last updated: December 19, 2025 (death of Farah Tejani, please read TRIBUTE)
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Farah Tejani
About the author: Farah Tejani is a creative writer based in Vancouver. She graduated with her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English Literature and Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia in May of 1997. She earned top Honors for her Thesis on Short Fiction. Farah then published a collection of short stories by Trafford called “Make Your Own Chai, Mama’s Boy!” — ten short stories dealing with different dilemmas South Asians face. Her works, characterized by humour and poignancy, often explore cultural identity, family dynamics, and the immigrant experience. Farah also wrote and co-directed her stage play, “Safeway Samosas,” which won “The Best of Brave New Playwrights Award” in July 1995. Her short story “Too Hot” won third place in the “Canada-Wide Best Short Fiction Award” and was read at The Vancouver Writers Festival. She has contributed poems and stories for Simerg and its sister website, Barakah, since 2020. We invite our readers to read some of Farah’s poems by clicking on Elastic Embrace;The Fragrance of Spring, “In Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Eyes,” and her story Mr. Sneaky Peeky and the Two Red-Tailed Monkeys.
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Simerg welcomes your feedback. Your thoughts and opinions are important to us. Please click LEAVE A COMMENT. If you encounter problems, email the comments to mmerchant@simerg.com with the subject “Farah poem.” We want to reassure you that we respect your privacy and that your published comment will never reveal your email address. For recent and older posts, please visit our Table of Contents. Please also follow us @Facebook, @X , and @LinkedIn.
Malik Merchant scours printed Ismaili magazines dating back many decades, personal and family archives, contributions from readers around the world and the official websites of the Ismaili community for Barakah’s impressive collection of 250+ pictures highlighting the life of the 49th Ismaili Imam, Mawlana Shah Karim Al Hussaini His Highness the Aga Khan IV, who died on February 4, 2025. This is Part 1 and just the tip of the iceberg of his story and contributions that would take years and volumes to complete.
A solemn and reverent gathering of great significance will occur in Ismaili Jamatkhanas all over the world on Sunday, March 16, 2025, as the Chehlum — or Chalismo in Gujarati — of Mawlana Shah Karim Al Hussaini, His Highness the Aga Khan IV, is observed. It will mark the 40th day of mourning for the late Imam, who passed away on February 4, 2025, at the age of 88.
The Imamat, a divinely ordained Institution of immense spiritual significance, has stood for 1392 years since the designation of the first Imam, Hazrat Ali (may peace be upon him), by the Prophet Muhammad (may peace be upon him and his progeny) as his successor at the famous event at Ghadir-Khumm. This historical event, whose authenticity is unquestionable, is supported by the Quranic verse, “O Apostle, deliver (to the people) what has been revealed to you from your Lord. And if you would not do so, then you have not delivered His Message…” (Qur’an 5:67), and the Prophetic tradition “He whose Mawla (Lord) I am, Ali is his Mawla.”
His Highness the Aga Khan V, Mawlana Shah Rahim, succeeded his father, Aga Khan IV, to the Imamat as the 50th Imam.
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Mawlana Shah Karim, His Highness the Aga Khan IV.
Observing Chehlum, derived from the Farsi word “Chehelom” (40th), or Chalismo, is a deeply rooted custom spanning many religions and cultures, including Islam. In Islam, the 40-day mourning period following a death is a tradition that can be adapted to individual and family circumstances. For instance, the period can be shorter if some close family members and other loved ones attending the funeral have to return to their places of residence. This flexibility in the mourning period allows for understanding and empathy toward those who need to resume their everyday lives. However, the 40-day period of bereavement continues to be observed by members of the family living in the same town as the deceased, highlighting the deep respect and cultural significance of this tradition.
[Mawlana Shah Karim, who became the 49th Imam on July 11, 1957, upon the death of his grandfather, Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III, made a significant request during his visit to Kenya the following month. He asked for the observance of Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah’s chehlum with solemnity and special prayers as was being done in London, England, in a few days, around August 21. This information is recorded in the archival notes of the editor’s late father, Jehangir Merchant.]
During the bereavement period, loved ones offer prayers and engage in deep reflection on the life of the departed. They attend Jamatkhana daily or as regularly as possible, finding comfort in the familiar rituals. Individually, they spend time reciting Qur’anic verses, Salwats, and other prayers for the deceased’s soul and their own courage and fortitude. Many find solace in reciting appropriate Qasidas and Ginans — poems and hymns — that prompt introspection on the spiritual journey and the meaning of life. Some take on special commitments in memory of the departed, a practice that encourages personal growth and reflection.
The Chalismo of Mawlana Shah Karim on March 16 is a solemn occasion. It allows us to invoke the name of Allah and remember His clemency, mercy, and grace. These divine attributes enable us to live according to the ethics of our esoteric faith. We do so under the benevolence of Mawlana Shah Karim and, now, under the unwavering spiritual guidance of our present Imam, Mawlana Shah Rahim Hazar Imam.
On the 40th day of mourning, communion and deep emotion, the Ismailis will express their shukranas, their profound gratitude to Mawlana Shah Karim Al Hussaini for his Benevolence, his Protection, and his Farmans, and for having guided the community spiritually and materially for 67 years of his Imamate.
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The 49th Ismaili Imam, Mawlana Shah Karim, His Highness the Aga Khan IV, with his younger brother Prince Amyn, and children Princess Zahra, Prince Rahim, Prince Hussain, and Prince Aly Muhammad on Imamat Day, July 11, 2022. Photograph: The Ismaili.
Let us also extend our gratitude to the Imam’s family members for their unwavering commitment to expanding the influence of the works and institutions established worldwide during the previous Imam. Their efforts, particularly over the past three years, have kept us united as a community and strengthened our shared commitment to humanity’s well-being.
As was the wish of our 49th Imam, we will remain confident and united as “One Jamat” in its diversity, expressing solidarity, justice, tolerance, mutual respect, compassion and the sharing of Time and Knowledge. This is how we will not only escape fear in these troubled times but also face the hazards and trials of everyday life with resilience. Let us say Ameen to the Divine Will and invoke Ya Allah, the most Clement, full of Mercy.
By Allah’s Grace, let us express our Shukranas to our 50th Imam, Mawlana Shah Rahim Hazar Imam, our Protector and Lighthouse. Let us choose a spiritual life based on a quest to recognize the balanced life of din (faith) and dunya (world), and invoke Allah’s Permanence, thereby enriching our spiritual link with the Imam-of-the-Time.
Our first Imam, Mawlana Hazrat Ali, urged us to apply the following precept relentlessly:
“Respect the human being, for if he is not your brother in religion, he is your brother in humanity.”
Rest in peace, Mawlana Shah Karim Al Hussaini. We are deeply grateful for your support. We will honour your memory by working actively with courage and hope under the aegis of your son, Mawlana Shah Rahim Al Hussaini Hazar Imam, to support our sisters and brothers who live in countries in conflict. Our commitment to caring for the dignity of the elderly and fighting against extreme poverty will be a testament to our shared values under your guidance.
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Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan, addresses his spiritual children around the world in the presence of his leaders on the occasion of his Takht-nishini at the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat. The ceremony was relayed live to Ismailis gathered in Jamatkhanas around the world; February 11, 2025. Photograph: Akbar Hakim / The Ismaili.
And, as Mawlana Shah Karim lovingly told us throughout his Imamat that he was by us all the time, whether he was physically present or not, we are reassured of this inspiring message when Mawlana Shah Rahim declared in his Takht-nishini Farman in Lisbon on February 11, 2025:
“If you have worries and concerns, turn to your Imam. Your Imam is with you. Wherever you are, your Imam is with you, and you are with the Imam.”
Date posted: March 13, 2025. Last updated: March 15, 2025.
Correction: In the original version of this post, Chehlum was misspelled as Chelhum. We apologize for the typo.
About the author: Born and raised in Madagascar, Mohez Nato left for France in the late 1960’s. After completing his PhD, he worked as a teacher-researcher in Plant Biotechnology at the University of Paris Sud XI from 1971 to 2011. Now retired, Mohez does voluntary work giving courses in French-speaking universities in countries like Burkina Faso, Lebanon, Benin, Algeria and Tunisia. He has served in the Ismaili community in numerous voluntary positions, for which he was bestowed with the title of Alijah by Mawlana Shah Karim. We invite you to read his earlier pieces, Ode to the Imam of the Present Time and Laylat al-Qadr, published in Barakah and Simerg.
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Simerg welcomes your tributes to Mawlana Shah Karim Shah, His Highness the Aga Khan IV. Please click Leave a comment. If you encounter problems, email the comments to mmerchant@simerg.com. We want to reassure you that we respect your privacy and that your published comment will never reveal your email address. For recent and older posts, please visit our Table of Contents. Please also follow us @Facebook, @X and @LinkedIn.
