Introduced by MALIK MERCHANT

Major Lakhpati, a volunteer, poet, and writer, had been in poor health for many years. However, he clung to one cherished wish: to live to see the Diamond Jubilee of his beloved Imam, Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah, His Highness the Aga Khan III. This Jubilee held a profound significance in the Major’s life, and he was determined to be a part of it. His recovery was a testament to his unwavering spirit, allowing him to celebrate the Jubilee and travel to Dar es Salaam, Tanganyika (now Tanzania), for the grand celebration in March 1946.

As an artist, Lakhpati’s talent and dedication to the Imam were evident in his incredible paintings for the Imam’s Golden and Diamond Jubilees. I acquired a fine copy of Lakhpati’s Diamond Jubilee print from Ottawa’s Abdulmalek Thawer and posted it on this website after professionally scanning it (please click HERE for the story).

The Ismaili, the official website of the Ismaili community, has just published a short but inspiring YouTube video highlighting the life of Major Lakhpati, a figure of immense significance who served the Imam and the Jamat for decades. His literary, poetic and artistic contributions are genuinely inspiring, as showcased in the video. I urge a passionate research student or scholar in Ismaili history to undertake to study the Major’s life and works and publish a comprehensive biography of one of the most extraordinary Ismaili volunteers of the 20th century. Watch the following video to learn more about this remarkable individual and feel the responsibility and urgency to contribute to his legacy.

Date posted: December 7, 2024.

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