Fatemi Dawat Annual Report 1436-1437H

F atemi D awat

annual report

©FatemiDawat.com

Shehrullah 1436H - Shehrullah 1437H

‫َات ال َد ّعْوَة ِ ال ف َاطِ م َِي ّة‬ ِ ‫ْف ب َرَك‬ ُ ‫ت َأل ِي‬

Published Zilhijja 1437H (September 2016)

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contents Syedna khuzaima qutbuddin ra eulogy 01 syedna taher fakhruddin TUS BIOGRAPHY 03 philosophy and vision 05 Syedna khuzaima qutbuddin ra program 07 Syedna qutbuddin ra Wafaat 09 Janaza Mubaraka, Khatmul Qur’an Majlis Syedna taher fakhruddin tus program 11 Vazaarat Saifiyyah - dawat administration 13 legal 15 dawat knowledge - sabaqs, madrasa etc 17 zahra hasanaat - social welfare 19 outreach and building bridges 23 publications 25 global reach & volunteers 27

‫ وصلى‬،‫ الذي نعمه على اهل الوالء يوما اثر يوم تتوالى‬،‫احلمد لله سبحانه وتع الى‬ ‫ وعلى دعاتهم املطلقني حجب االئمة جتلى ربهم‬،‫الله على نبيه طه وآله لب اللباب‬ ‫ كشمسهم‬،‫ كل داع منهم المام عصره خير باب‬،‫بهم في حجاب ك رمي اثر حجاب‬ ،‫ وفخرهم الوارث لفضلهم سبب األسباب‬،‫ولبهم قطب األقطاب‬ Praise to Allah, Almighty and Exalted, for his continued blessings upon Mumineen, day after day. May He shower salawaat on Nabi Taha Muhammad and his progeny, essence of essences, and on their Dais, each Dai l-Mutlaq a veil (hijab) for the Imams; the light of their Lord shines forth through them, one after another. Each Dai is a gateway (bab) to the Imamuz zaman, like the sun among them, the essence, the best pivot (qutb), Syedna Qutbuddin, and their pride (fakhr) and joy, heir to their virtues, the best means [to reach Allah and his Wali], Syedna Fakhruddin.

introduction This is the 1437H Annual Report of Dawate-Hadiyah, the Fatemi Dawat administration of the 54th Dai al-Mutlaq Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS, head of the worldwide Dawoodi Bohra community. Last year in Shehre Ramadan 1436H, Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA instructed the publication of a report of Dawat activities and the first Fatemi Dawat Annual Report was published.

The aim of the report is two-fold: (1) To promote the development of an efficient, professional, compassionate, sustainable administration that will grow dynamically and multifold in the years to come, insha’allah

(2) To inform followers and muhibeen of the Dai al-Mutlaq about Dawat activities and social welfare programs. Learning these details, each Mumin will insha’allah be encouraged to get personally involved in Dawat activities by doing khidmat and contributing their skills and offering their counsel.

All departments of Dawat have administered many positive projects and worked efficiently to achieve their mission of serving the 54th Dai al Mutlaq and helping Mumineen. This report explains where Dawat resources are being utilized and describes this year’s accomplishments.

Eulogy Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA ascended the throne of Dawat upon Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin’s RA wafaat, as the 53rd Dai al-Mutlaq. For two years and three months—like his namesake Syedna Qutbuddin Shaheed RA—he established the Imam’s Dawat with justice, wisdom, temperance and courage. In that short period of time, he achieved marvels.

What Syedna Taher Saifuddin RA wrote for Maulatuna Fatema SA, Syedna Fakhruddin TUS said for Syedna Qutbuddin, “each day of his life equaled another’s lifetime, and his lifetime equaled an eon.”

He abundantly disseminated Dawat learning through his wa’az, bayaan and sabaq.

He clarified Fatemi zakaat regulations, in light of modern financial practices. He set up a robust administration.

He clarified the vision, philosophy and principles of the administration of Dawat which had been corrupted by those who usurped control of its institutions after the wafaat of Syedna Burhanuddin.

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He established the proof of Syedna Burhanuddin’s Nass on him, and gave testimony with truth and valor in the Bombay High Court. He clarified our sacred foundational doctrines, which malefactors had corrupted. He conducted bethak audiences for Mumineen, listened to their problems, and offered solutions and doa. And he prayed for them morning, noon and night.

Syedna Qutbuddin was Syedna Taher Saifuddin’s RA eleventh son. Seeing in him the mark of greatness—like Yaqub Nabi SA saw in Yusuf Nabi SA—Syedna Taher Saifuddin showed him very special love and regard. He personally undertook Syedna Qutbuddin’s education, teaching him all facets of Fatimid ‘ilm, and training him in running the Imam’s Dawat. For Syedna Qutbuddin’s first Ashara wa’az—at the young age of twenty—he sent him to the grand city of Udaipur. Proud and pleased at his exemplary performance, he sent him a precious handwritten letter of appreciation, in which he said Syedna Qutbuddin had performed wa’az with “the

gushing flow of the ta’yeed of Allah’s wali [Imamuz-Zaman].”

Another major khidmat was diplomatic negotiation for the installation of the Rasul Husain zarih mubarak in Cairo. This was the last khidmat in Syedna Taher Saifuddin’s era. Syedna Qutbuddin also performed the khidmat of Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin’s historic first safar to Cairo in which he was conferred the honorary docterate by AlAzhar University.

In Syedna Taher Saifuddin’s last years, he would talk privately for many hours every single night with Syedna Qutbuddin, and impart to him precious pearls of wisdom. Sitting on his masalla in his last Lailatul Qadar, he uttered the momentous words: “Khuzaima ni doa mustajab chhe” (Khuzaima’s doa is always answered).

Less than a month after Syedna Taher Saifuddin’s wafaat, Syedna Burhanuddin took the first misaaq as 52nd Dai, and he appointed Syedna Qutbuddin as his Mazoon and Mansoos. For 50 years Syedna Burhanuddin served Imamuz zaman as Dai, and

Syedna khuzaima qutbuddin ra

Perhaps what we remember the most is how Syedna Qutbuddin guided Mumineen at the community level and in their personal lives. He was always accessible to all Mumineen from all walks of life. He always made time for meeting with Mumineen in general bethaks and private audiences. Hundreds of thousands of Mumineen have sought his advice and doa at crucial junctures in their lives, in times of both difficulty and joy. Such was their trust in him that Mumineen confided in him matters that they did not even share with their parents or spouses. And many, many Mumineen had life changing experiences because of Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin’s advice

and doa.

Fulfilling the true role of the Mazoon, he imparted ma’rifat of Syedna Burhanuddin’s exalted status. Syedna Qutbuddin zealously continued his devoted khidmat of Syedna Burhanuddin, despite the growing jealousy and enmity of miscreants in Saifee Mahal and kothar.

Syedna Burhanuddin held Syedna Qutbuddin and his sincere service for Dawat in high esteem. In his wa’az on 7th Muharram 1422H in Houston, Syedna Burhanuddin said that it is the Mazoon-e-Dawat who “establishes the Dawat of Fatema in partnership with the Dai.” During wa’az in Saifee Masjid at his 100th birthday celebrations, Syedna Burhanuddin honored Syedna Qutbuddin with a very special mu’anaqa embrace and exclusive ziafat.

On the wafaat of Syedna

Burhanuddin, Syedna Qutbuddin withstood the onslaught against him.

Despite the tremendous pressures, he forged ahead to fulfill his sacred duty to establish the Dawat of Imamuz-Zaman and protect Dawat and Mumineen.

He continued in the last years of his life to fight for truth and justice against those who usurped control of its institutions and infrastructure to exploit Mumineen.

Syedna Qutbuddin’s everflowing barakaat, his ground laying tamheedaat, his lifegiving nazaraat, will grace Dawat for centuries. As long as the Dawat remains, this azeem ul shaan Dai will be remembered. Generations to come will wonder that such a saint in flesh and blood walked this very earth. May Allah Ta’ala grant him the highest station in Jannaat ul naeem, and fulfil his aspirations in his successor, Syedna Taher Fakhruddin.

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Syedna Qutbuddin served as his Mazoon. Syedna Qutbuddin’s khidmats for Syedna Burhanuddin were numerous and invaluable.

He gave countless eloquent wa’az, bayaans, and wasilas. Syedna Qutbuddin led Mumineen regularly in namaaz. He gave innumerable individuals haqq-ni-tasawwur, and kept them on the path of truth. He spearheaded the financing of numerous community construction projects of masjids, jamaatkhanas, and madrasas, as well as the Saifee Memorial Foundation.

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Short Biography Al-Dai al-Ajal al-Fatemi Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS succeeded our most beloved and forever remembered Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA as 54th Dai al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohra community on 23rd Jumada l-Ukhra 1437H (30 March, 2016). As Moiz Imam SA said to Syedna Qadi l-Nu’man QR, “A Maula has passed away, but a Maula remains.”

Like Syedna Ismail Badruddin Bawa RA—on whose Urus mubarak he became Dai— Syedna Fakhruddin combines in-depth knowledge of the Islamic traditions and its applicability in today’s world with acute business acumen.

In our turbulent times, his sage leadership promises to be a grounding force for the larger Muslim community as a vocal advocate of an ideology of plurality and tolerance; and a beacon for Mumineen, steering them on the true path of conviction and faith, and guiding them to a life of peace, prosperity and happiness in

this world, and Jannat in the hereafter.

Syedna Fakhruddin was born in Mumbai on 26th Rabiul Akhar 1388H (21 July 1968), during the era of the 52nd Dai Muqaddas Maulana Mohammed Burhanuddin RA. Syedna Burhanuddin gave him the mubarak name of his revered grandfather Syedna Taher Saifuddin RA, and bestowed on him many blessings and honors, including sabaq and haddiyyat.

Beloved eldest son of Syedna Qutbuddin, Syedna Fakhruddin throughout his life received his father’s continuous personal and special training in ilm-e Aal-e Mohammed and in the running and siyasat of Dawat affairs. For some years, Syedna Fakhruddin lived in Cairo, and studied Arabic and Quran memorization and recitation.

He topped his Bombay University class in an Arabic literature BA, and obtained an MA in Arabic literature from London University’s School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS).

Syedna Fakhruddin performed selfless and tireless khidmat of both Dais. At Syedna Burhanuddin’s personal farmaan, he delivered Ashara wa’az in Thane for the first time at the young age of 20; and delivered Muharram waaz regularly thereafter in numerous towns including Mohammadiyya (near Galiakot), Ujjain, Rajkot, and in the year of Syedna Burhanuddin’s 100th Milad, in Karbala Mo’alla.

At just 18 years of age, Syedna Fakhruddin took on the full responsibility of managing all aspects of Syedna Qutbuddin’s—then Mazoon-e-Dawat—office and activities. Syedna Qutbuddin referred many who came to him for advice to Syedna Fakhruddin, on matters ranging from marriage counseling to business problems, to arbitrating in disputes.

Syedna Fakhruddin counseled thousands of Mumineen in this manner, transforming and turning around their lives.

After Syedna Burhanuddin’s wafaat in 2014, Syedna Fakhruddin directed Syedna

Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS 3

This year on 27th Muharram, Urus Mubarak of Syedi Fakhruddin Shaheed QR, Syedna Qutbuddin performed Nass on Syedna Taher and granted him the laqab Fakhruddin. Five months later, Syedna Qutbuddin passed away. But in Syedna Fakhruddin, he left behind his mirror image in ilm, siyasat, and rehmat. During their

time of grief when Mumineen were coming to terms with the loss of Syedna Qutbuddin, they found refuge in Syedna Fakhruddin’s embrace and himmat.

In the months since Syedna Qutbuddin’s wafaat, Syedna Fakhruddin has captained the ship of Dawat with Imami ta’eed and strength, and heavenly guidance and direction. He has continued Syedna Qutbuddin’s battle in the Bombay High Court and challenged the usurpers to a public debate. He has showered Mumineen with precious pearls of ilm, hidayat and doa. Tens of thousands of Mumineen have benefited and taken barakaat from Syedna

Fakhruddin’s many waaz and bayaans which Syedna graciously granted raza to broadcast on YouTube.

He leads Mumineen in ibadat, and counsels them in their daily lives. Under his wise and strong leadership and his lifegiving bayaan and nazaraat, Mumineen aboard the Safina of his Imami Dawat are at peace.

May Allah Ta’ala grant our beloved Maula, Shamsudduaatil-mutlaqeen, Syedna Taher Fakhruddin, longest life till qiyamat, and the strength to perform Imamuz zaman khidmat. May Allah grant him nasre azeez and fathe mubeen.

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Qutbuddin’s Dawat administration in the United States. He regularly led namaaz and majlis in his home in Bakersfield, California, which were internationally broadcast through YouTube, as were his Muharram waaz: thousands took barakaat from Syedna Fakhruddin’s bayaan.

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vision Imam Sadiq AS said: Religion is not just fasting and prayer, rather religion is the construction of the edifice of Dunya (this World) and Aakherat (the Hereafter ).

The mission of the Dawat is to call Mumineen to the true path of Allah, the Sirat-e-mustaqeem, which leads to spiritual, personal, social and material prosperity in this world, and ultimately to Jannat (Heaven) in the Hereafter. To fulfill its purpose, its philosophy is to promote and establish a material and physical infrastructure and organisation in service of its mission.

The vision of Dawat, especially of Syedna Taher Saifuddin RA and

Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin RA always was to achieve the pinnacle of excellence in establishing such an organisation. This vision was achieved.

However, there were elements within the administration, especially in the latter part of Syedna Burhanuddin’s time, who took advantage of their administrative positions and pushed their own agenda, to the detriment of Dawat. Today those same people have completely taken over the Dawat infrastructure and are using it only for their own ends and benefit.

But in opposing Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA, the Mansoos of Syedna Burhanuddin, they have fully exposed themselves to be self-serving and fraudulent.

Dawat-e-Hadiya is an institution which has stood the test of time, of usurpers, of persecution, of migration, of perilous mortal attacks, of pogroms, of confusion in faith. All of these attempts to destroy or exploit Dawat

were conducted chiefly by people from “within” the community. They attempted to undermine the faith and the spiritual and temporal well-being of the community for their self-interests and gain. Such is the challenge that we face today in Dawat, and such is the storm which Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin previously and Syedna Taher Fakhruddin presently are guiding the ship of Dawat through.

The community has always risen again stronger from these challenges. A 100 years ago, Syedna Taher Saifuddin took the community from dissidence and turmoil to unprecedented heights of spiritual and material success, and a position of recognition and respect in the wider world. The challenges Dawat faces today are unprecedented.

However, with these challenges there are also unprecedented opportunities.

Principles 1.

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Mumineen should uphold the Shariat to the best of their ability Mumineen should uphold the highest standards of morality Mumineen should respect and strive to be helpful to all of God’s children.

Mumineen should strive to acquire knowledge of the Qur’an and our Fatemi heritage as it is the source of radiance and grace for this world and the next.

In addition to deeni taleem, Mumineen should strive to get the best possible secular education.

Mumineen should especially respect and encourage women‘s education.

Dawat dues and waajebaat must be collected in line with Shariat rules.

The Dawat administration and the well-to-do should always be concerned for the well-being of the less advantaged people, especially within the community.

Our community should have a dynamic business outlook in this information age, a cuttingedge approach that leads us to prosperity in today’s fast-moving world.

philosophy

Dawat Endures and Perseveres 1. Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS continues to guide the community through his spiritual and temporal leadership, he continues the mission of the 53rd Dai-l-Mutlaq and all the Du’aat Kiraam before him.

2. Syedna continues to articulate and implement the values espoused by our faith in today’s context: justice, equity, compassion, unity.

3.Syedna continues to establish and develop systems and processes which will ensure the professional, efficient, transparent, accountability-based working of the system.

The challenges Dawat faces today are unprecedented However, with these challenges there are also unprecedented opportunities.

The mission, the philosophy and the vision ensures the flourishing and ever-increasing prosperity and perpetuity of Dawat, so that our children, and their children, and the generations to follow, are guided on the true path, the Sirat-e-Mustaqeem to goodness and prosperity in this world, and success in the Hereafter.

“Religion is not just fasting and prayer, rather religion is the construction of the edifice of this World and the Hereafter“ -Imam Jafarus Sadiq AS

The Vision and Mission of Dawat Endures & Perseveres

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In Summary

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Testimony in Bombay High Court For establishing truth, protecting the most precious heritage of our Mawali Tahereen, and restoring the honour and dignity of the Dawoodi Bohra Community, Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA proceeded to the Hon’ble Bombay High Court for testimony and cross-examination on the following dates in 2015: April 27, April 28, July 29, July 31, August 3, August 4, August 24, and August 25. The opposing counsel asked more than 600 questions in the course of the testimony. (See page 15 for more details.)

With his Imami quwwat, himmat and courage, Qutbuddin Maula faced the forces of falsehood and evil singly in battle. The Dai of Amirul Mumineen, with his inviolable testimony and absolute truthfulness, established the banners of Haqq, which will stand as an epitome of the sacrifices and unwavering resoluteness of our Du’at Mutlaqeen for the sake of the Dawat.

Just as the martyrdom of Syedna Qutbuddin Shaheed RA ensured that the blessed mission of the Dawat would remain for the future generations, the divine steadfastness of his namsesake and successor Syedna Qutbuddin in the face of seemingly insurmountable enmity has ensured that this mission of Dawat continues until the day of Qiyamat. May Allah Ta’ala grant Qutbuddin Maula’s waaris Syedna Fakhruddin TUS nasre-azeez and fathe-mubeen in the very near future – “nasrun minallahe wa fat-hun qareeb, wa bash-shiril mumineen.”

Ashara Mubaraka 1437H Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA delivered waaz in Ashara Mubaraka 1437H (October 14-22, 2015) in Darus Sakina, Thane.

During these holy days of the shahaadat of Imam Husain SA, Qutbuddin Maula showered Mumineen with heavenly barakaat.

With the ever flowing ta’eed of Imamuz Zaman SA, Qutbuddin Maula did zikr of the history and virtues of Panjtan Paak, Aimmat Tahereen, and their Du’at Mutlaqeen, particularly emphasizing the utmost importance of having good character (akhlaq).

Qutbuddin Maula related that Amirul Mumineen SA has specified 10 essential qualities that a Mumin should possess in this World, which lead him to 10 rewards in the Hereafter. In each of the 10 waaz of Ashara Mubaraka, Maulana Qutbuddin explained one of these essential qualities at length, which include zuhd (nonindulgence), ambitiousness in seeking knowledge, piety, worship of God, sincere repentance, and studying the Qur’an.

The soul of Ashara Mubaraka is the remembrance of Imam Husain, and his sacrifice for the Dawat of Truth. Imam Husain’s Dai Maulana Qutbuddin rendered the shahadat of Aqa Husain everyday and especially on Ashura in a heartrending manner; tears flowed from every eye, and Mumineen performed maatam with fervour and emotion.

No one could have imagined that this would be the last Ashara in which Qutbuddin Maula would deliver waaz. It is our most ardent dua that by the Wasila of Imam Husain may Allah Ta’ala grant him afdal ul jaza (the best of recompense) in A’la Illiyyeen.

Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA Program P reface :

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The Dai’s work during each day of his life is not only for the establishment of the Mission of Dawat and salvation in his time, but it is to ensure the continuity of the Dawat for generations to come. This is why our Hudat have said that one day in a Dai’s life is equal to a lifetime of another.

This year was the last year of Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin in which Maula departed for the Hazrat Nabawiyya of Imam uz Zaman SA. In the last months of his holy life, he bestowed Dawat and its Mumineen, Muminaat and children with a treasure of barakaat and blessings, while

single-handedly securing and protecting the Dawat from those who have sought to sacrilegiously disfigure its aqida and ilm.

The following are some of the highlights of Maulana Qutbuddin’s program during the past year.

Nass on Syedna Fakhruddin TUS In addition to establishing the Dawat of Imam uz Zaman, A Dai’s primary responsibility is to appoint his Mansoos so that the Dawat may continue for the future generations, and Mumineen may continue to attain hidayat in this world and najaat in the Hereafter.

With the ilhaam of Imam uz Zaman, Syedna Qutbuddin performed the mubarak amal of nass on 27 Muharram, 1437H (November 8, 2015), the auspicious day of the Urus of Syedi Fakhruddin Shaheed QR. Syedna Qutbuddin, who is the 14th Dai in the nasal (progeny) of Syedi Fakhruddin Shaheed, appointed his son Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS as his successor and the 54th Dai Mutlaq. Qutbuddin Maula bestowed his Mansoos the mubarak laqab (surname) of ‘Fakhruddin’, drawing upon the blessings of the holy name of Syedi Fakhruddin Shaheed.

Mumineen had gathered from all over USA in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, to attend the Urus majlis and seek the blessings of Qutbuddin Maula. The Dai of Imamuz Zaman delivered bayan with azeem shaan, and for nearly 2 hours, bestowed Mumineen with priceless pearls of wisdom. In particular, Qutbuddin Maula did zikr of Syedi Fakhruddin Shaheed and his khidmat and sacrifice for Dawat; he then highlighted many of the essential concepts of the aqida of Dawat, such as the infallibility of a Dai in appointing his Mansoos, against which false claimants to the Dawat argue today. Qutbuddin Maula bestowed his mustajaab doa for all Mumineen, and especially appreciated and prayed for those who, following the lofty examples of Mawali Tahereen such as Syedi Fakhruddin Shaheed, do khidmat today with sincerity, honour and uprightness for the sake of the Dawat of Truth.

While the loss of Syedna Qutbuddin is inconsolable, Mumineen draw solace from the benevolent presence of Qutbuddin Maula’s successor, Syedna Taher Fakhruddin, in their midst. He is the waaris of the holy heritage of the Du’at Mutlaqeen. May Allah prolong his life till the Day of Judgement.

Photo from 27 Muharram 1437H

Milad of Syedna Qutbuddin RA 29 Rabi-ul-Aakhar, 1437H (February 7, 2016) - On the Milad Mubarak of Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA, Mumineen gathered in Bakersfield, California to do deedar of their beloved Maula and araz tehniyaat and mubarakbadi.

Maula delivered a moving bayan which deeply touched the hearts of all who were present. No one imagined that this was to be the very last bayan of Qutbuddin Maula. Qutbuddin Maula appreciated that Mumineen had travelled from afar to come to him and araz tehniyaat on this joyous occasion. In the bayan, and especially during qadambosi, Qutbuddin Maula graced each and every Mumin with shafaqat and priceless pearls of doa, which will remain a treasure for us for the rest of our lives.

After khushi ni majlis, Mumineen enjoyed lunch, which was arranged in the beautiful gardens of Syedna Taher Fakhruddin’s bungalow.

The atmosphere was one of happiness, of a loving ruhani family, brothers and sisters of one bawa shafiq, who blesses them with such divine ne’mats that bestow ease and happiness in this world, and grant spiritual fulfilment and yaqeen that our hereafter is in Jannat.

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On the night of 23 Jumadil Ukhra, 1437H (March 30, 2016), Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin Aqa RA left this world and ascended to the heavens, to the zumra of Panjetan Paak, Aimmat Tahereen and Du’at Mutlaqeen. Mumineen around the world were left grief stricken and heart broken at the wafaat of their most shafiq bawa.

Syedna Qutbuddin’s Mansoos and 54th Dai Mutlaq Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS advised Mumineen to do sabar and keep himmat during this most difficult time.

With the ilhaam of Imamuz Zaman, and following the example of Imams and Dais who brought their predecessors’ holy bodies to where the centre of Dawat existed at the time, Syedna Taher Fakhruddin brought the janaza mubaraka of Qutbuddin Aqa to Mumbai for burial. The Indian Government lent their full support at the highest levels so that the janaza mubaraka may be flown from the US to Mumbai in a manner befitting the janaza of the Dai of Imamuz Zaman, and so that the necessary permissions may be granted in time for burial to take place in Darus Sakina. Upon arrival, the janaza

mubaraka was laid in a helicopter to be flown to Rozat Tahera, where it was circled around the qabr mubaraks of Syedna Taher Saifuddin RA and Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin RA 7 times in tawaf.

On 4 Rajab, 1437H, Urus mubarak of Syedna Noor Mohammed Nooruddin RA, Syedna Taher Fakhruddin lead janaza namaz in Darus Sakina. Mumineen had gathered from all around the world for the wada of Qutbuddin Maula. After namaaz, Syedna Fakhruddin and Mumineen carried the janaza of their revered bawa and Maula on their shoulders for dafan. The unimaginable agony and pain were tempered only by the sabar and resolve that have been the sunnat of our Awliya in such times.

Fakhruddin Maula presided over Khatmul Qur’an and Sadaqallah majlis of his beloved predecessor in Iwan-e-Fatemi immediately after dafan, and thereafter everyday until the 40th day.

Everyday during majlis, following the recitation of Qur’an Majeed, Fakhruddin Maula prayed Sadaqallah, in which he did

Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA Wafaat, Janaza Mubaraka, Khatmul Qur’an Majlis

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zikr of Qutbuddin Maula, and invoking his vasila, prayed for the well-being of Dawat and all Mumineen. Thereafter, Mumineen recited qasidas and marsiyas in shaan of Qutbuddin Maula. Fakhruddin Maula also gave raza for Mumineen to express their heartfelt remembrance of Maulana Qutbuddin and his countless ihsaans in speeches during the majlis. On the night of Chehlum of Maulana Qutbuddin, majlis was conducted with rawnaq and shaan in the heavenly shade of the Qubba Mubaraka. After Sadaqalla, Shehzada Dr Aziz Bhaisaheb did zikr of

Qutbuddin Maula in a heart-rending bayan.

Qutbuddin Maula’s heavenly blessings continue to flow towards us through the barakat of his ziarat. Just as he personally listened to, prayed for, and helped each and every person who approached him during his holy life, today after his wafaat, his qabar mubarak continues to be a sanctuary for all Mumineen, where divine blessings are attained and prayers are answered. May Allah Ta’ala grant him afdal ul jaza (the best of recompense) in A’la Illiyyeen.

Ameen.

Syedna taher fakhruddin program Khatmul Quran (40 Days)

After the Wafaat of Syedna Qutbuddin RA Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS presided over khatmul Quran and Sadaqallah Majlis on the niyyat of Syedna Qutbuddin until Chehlum in Darus Sakina.

On the eve of Chehlum, the Majlis was held in the cool shade of Roza Qutbiyya. The temporary structure of the Roza was also completed by then, and its glowing lights reflected a glimmer of Syedna Qutbuddin’s noor in Jannat.

WAAZ

19 Rajab & 19 Ramadan - Worldwide Broadcast Syedna’s TUS waaz on both these occasions was broadcast worldwide through Youtube.com. Even in these challenging times, tens of thousands of Mumineen listened to Syedna’s bayaan and received its barakat. Highlights of the waaz were presented with English translation subtitles and selected clips with Arabic subtitles as well. In the 19th Rajab waaz Syedna renewed Syedna Qutbuddin’s RA call to Shz Mufaddal Saifuddin for debate.

Shehrullah Ibadaat & Lailatul Qadar Wasila Broadcast Syedna TUS led all five faraz Imamat namaz daily in Ramadan. Maghrib Isha Namaz was performed daily in the newly constructed Iwan-e-Fatemi built in the same location where Syedna Qutbuddin RA performed Ashara waaz and where his janaza namaaz was prayed. Syedna’s wasila on Lailatul Qadar was also broadcast live from Iwan-e-Fatemi. Thousands of Mumineen listened to Syedna’s heartfelt doa on this auspicious night and took barakat of his wasila, prayed namaz and took full ghanimat of this mubarak night.

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Preface The blessed mission of Syedna is the establishment of Imamuz zaman’s Dawat and the continuation of the great and enduring legacies of Syedna Taher Saifuddin RA, Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin RA, and Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA, and to bring Mumineen closer to the Dawat by: (a) Imparting the knowledge, ‘ilm, of Aale Mohammed, (b) Providing hidayat, guidance, khayrkhuwahi and doa for Mumineen, with the high purpose of living a full life in this world and the attainment of Jannat in the Hereafter.

First Misaaq majlis

Mab’as Day - 27 Rajab 1437H (3 May 2016) In the tradition of Du’aat Mutlaqeen before him, after the wafaat of 53rd Dai al-Mutlaq Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA, his successor the 54th Dai al-Mutlaq Syedna Taher Fakhruddin took the first Misaaq of Mumineen as Dai, on the auspicious day of Mab’as, the day Rasulullah was commanded to call people to Islam. It was also an auspicious coincidence that Rasulullah’s Dai took Misaaq under the shade of trees, reminiscent of Rasulullah’s bay’at al-ridwan. Sitting in Darus Sakina, Mumineen felt the sakeenat that Allah Ta’ala bestowed in their hearts and were assured of Allah Ta’ala’s promise of victory. We offer hamd and shukur to Allah Ta’ala that 1400 years after bay’at al-ridwan we gave Misaaq and bay’at to Rasulullah’s Dai, sitting under the shade of a tree in Darus Sakina.

By doing so, we garnered the same pleasure (rida) from Allah Ta’ala as those who gave bay’at to Rasulullah. With our sincere commitment to Allah Ta’ala we were bestowed with the same tranquility (sakinah) in Darus Sakina that the muhajireen and Ansaar were bestowed with. Having given Misaaq to the Dai al-Haqq, we are as assured of Allah Ta’ala’s promised victory as they were.

Tasneefat Syedna’s TUS Compositions After the wafaat of Syedna Qutbuddin RA, Syedna Fakhruddin composed a qasida salaam in Syedna Qutbuddin’s remembrance. The salaam was prayed for the first time in the Majlis after Syedna Qutbuddin’s dafan. Continuing the legacy of Hudaat Kiraam, Syedna also composed munajaat and qasida in Shehrullah and Eid ul Fitar 1437H which were published (see pg 25). Syedna also began to author a Risalat in Shehrullah 1437H.

The spring of knowledge of Aale-Mohammed Syedna’s TUS Dawat is established on the foundation of divine knowledge and wisdom. What has remained constant throughout the years is that each Imam and each Dai in the Imam’s seclusion, has ascended the throne of Dawat. A throne not made of rubies and gold, or wealth and power but a throne of divine knowledge and wisdom - a throne on life giving water.

After Syedna Qutbuddin’s RA Chehlum, Syedna Fakhruddin held sabaqs for several halqas in zahir, tawil and haqeeqat. The flow of the heritage of the ‘ilm of Aale Mohammed is evident in each of Syedna Fakhruddin’s sabaqs.

Bethak

Audience with Mumineen During Shehrullah regular Bethak was held for all Mumineen each Saturday. All Mumineen had access without conditions. Many Mumineen came to Syedna’s TUS hazrat for Misaaq, guidance in family and business affairs, and to seek doa and benediction and also to seek aid.

Syedna also granted private audience to Mumineen who required it.

Dignitaries Outreach with Prominent National Dignitaries Syedna TUS traveled to New Delhi for a meeting with the President of India Shri Pranab Mukherjee (see section on Outreach below). Syedna also met with former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. Several other high level meetings took place in New Delhi and Mumbai over the last year. Several community leaders also came to Darus Sakina to meet with and pay their respects to Syedna TUS and offer ta’ziyat.

LANDMARK INTERVIEW

With the Mumbai Mirror In an exclusive interview to Mumbai Mirror, Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS presented his vision to bring about positive change in the Dawoodi Bohra community in order “to liberate the community from oppressive practices…to get the community to what it always was - forward-looking…to extend our community from the selfishly insular to the expansively integrated…where we are not seen as takers but givers…where we are not seen as clannish but as catalysts of a society of progress.” The full page interview was the most read and most commented article on the Mumbai Mirror website for many weeks.

Legal Suit in the Hon’ble High Court of Bombay Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS, the 54th Dai alMutlaq filed a Chamber Summons on the 27th of June 2016 in the Hon’ble High Court of Bombay to be substituted as plaintiff in the Suit filed by his predecessor the Late Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA, the 53rd Dai al-Mutlaq against Shz Mufaddal Saifuddin. In a statement Syedna Fakhruddin said “Since Shz Mufaddal Saifuddin is unwilling to resolve the matter internally through a debate to establish the truth, we have approached the Hon’ble Court, in which we have full faith, with evidence that will expose the falsehoods being perpetuated by Shz Mufaddal Saifuddin. I will continue the fight that my revered father Syedna Qutbuddin started, for truth, justice, and the future and well-being of the Dawoodi Bohra community” The Suit 337 of 2014 was filed by Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin Saheb against Shz Mufaddal Saifuddin in the Hon’ble High Court of Bombay in April 2014.

Cross-examination of Syedna Qutbuddin started on 27th April 2015 and was ongoing when Syedna RA sadly passed away.

OPEN LETTER

To Shz Mufaddal Saifuddin On 30th Ramadaan 1437H (4th July 2016) Syedna Fakhruddin TUS sent an open letter to Shz Mufaddal Saifuddin out of concern for the community. In the letter Syedna stated that he has filed a Chamber Summons in the Hon’ble High Court of Bombay to be substituted as plaintiff in the Suit filed

by Syedna Qutbuddin RA to continue the fight for truth and righteousness, which are the hallmarks of our faith. In this letter Syedna also highlighted pertinent issues including: 1) Syedna Qutbuddin’s esteemed position as Syedna Burhanuddin’s Mazoon for 50 years, 2) the exploitation of the illness of Syedna Burhanuddin in his late years, 3) the heresies presented in the Bombay High Court by Shz Mufaddal Saifuddin to support his false claim.

Syedna urged Shz Mufaddal Saifuddin to relinquish this false claim, and conveyed to him that the doors of repentance remain open for him.

khafz statement

Syedna’s TUS Statement on Khatna (Khafz) In keeping with the precedents set by previous Dais, to maintain the sanctity of the faith and also address issues relating to social practice and the law of the land, Syedna Fakhruddin issued a statement that khafz (khatna - medically known as CHR) of girls should only be allowed after they attain legal adulthood, after which they are free to make their individual decision to do the medically, legally and religiously sanctioned procedures.

Syedna’s statement was widely reported in numerous newspapers and blogs.

w w w.FatemiDawat.

SABAQ

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Mission of Vazaarat Saifiyyah The Vazaarat Saifiyyah is the central office of Syedna’s Administration. Its activities are guided by Syedna’s TUS mision to call Mumineen to Dawat, and to organize community affairs to fulfill this mission.

Vazaarat aims to run efficiently and professionally: a system of meritocracy must be at the core of the organization. All those who serve Dawat must be given responsibilities based on their ability, sincerity and effort. Vazaarat will work towards fulfilling Syedna Fakhruddin’s vision that the Dawat administration, through efficient management of resources and long term financial planning, ultimately becomes a more productive and stronger organization. The ultimate goal is to ensure the continuity of the mission of Dawat and to provide a growing and sustainable civic structure and safety net for all Mumineen.

Legal Department

Zahra Hasanaat Department

The department coordinates Dawat’s suit in the Bombay High Court as well as other jurisdictions including Gujarat and London.

For further details see section on Legal efforts (pg 15). The dedicated team coordinates professionals, researchers, reviewers and manages the finances for legal expenses.

A complete social welfare organization for Mumineen that addresses their health and education needs, provides financial advice and qarzan hasana. For details see section on Zahra Hasanaat (pg 19).

Talim Department The department organizes religious education (deeni ta’lim) for Mumineen at all levels - Fatemi Madrasa, regular sabaq halqas that cover the various levels of zahir, tawil and haqiqat. See section on Dawat Knowledge for further details (pg 17).

Syedna Qutbuddin RA constituted this advisory council in 1435H. He appointed a committed and professional group to consider and deliberate matters important to Dawat, to formulate plans and solutions, and to report directly to Syedna TUS.

Finance Department

Communications

The department aims to streamline the efficacy of operational infrastructure for Dawat activities in present day circumstances.

It is involved in budgeting and planning for all Dawat expenses and is in the process of establishing a corpus fund for long-term sustainability and growth of Dawat resources.

The department manages and coordinates all communication between Dawat offices and Mumineen.

It includes the FatemiDawat.com Team, the Sijill Team, the INFO@ Team, and the Broadcast Team.

Maulaya Raj Project This committee aims to reach out to as many Mumineen as possible in the various towns and cities of the world where they reside to help them come together as groups for observance of religious occasions and organisation of jamat activities such as the implementation of the religious and social welfare programs of Dawat.

Outreach The department facilitates and builds ties of friendship and cooperation between people of all faiths and ethnicities. For details see section on Outreach (pg 23).

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Fatemi Council

Ansaar Department Ansaar-e-Fatemi Dawat department includes all khidmat ghuzars (volunteers) of Fatemi Party (Marsiya), Security Teams, Event Management Teams, Hizbe-Khalilullah, A/V Team, and the Mumbai Committee.

Publications The department manages all FatemiDawat.com publications, including Syedna TUS qasida, munajaat, risalaat - as well as other publications such as the Ikhwanus Series, the Finance Series, Sijill Volume, the Annual Report etc. For details see section on Publications (pg 25).

Dawat administration

Featured departments Mas‘ul Coordination Committee (MCC) The Mas’ul Coordination Committee was established with Syedna’s TUS raza to facilitate communication between the 30+ Mas’uls in various parts of the world, to provide training and to support in community building.The MCC aims to assist and enable Mas’uls to fulfill the religious and social needs of community members in their area.

The MCC also organizes a global meeting every month in which issues suggested by Mas’uls are discussed. This year, Mas’uls led Shehrullah Namaaz in various towns and cities across the world. They continue to plan for and observe miqaats in their respective jurisdictions. Mas’uls are also currently being trained and making arrangements for ghusul, kafan and dafan facilitation in their respective local areas. Mas’uls are also currently forming jamaats in their local areas to conduct Dawat religious activities and to facilitate all other aspects of Mumineen’s welfare. The MCC meets on a weekly basis.

Tadbir Committee Infrastructure Department With the raza mubarak of Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS the large khaima (shamiana) in Darus Sakina where Syedna Qutbuddin RA conducted two Ashara Mubaraka waaz was converted into a permanent venue for imamat namaz and Dawat majalis and gatherings. Syedna TUS granted the name Iwan-e-Fatemi to this hall. Other infrastructure projects are also in progress and will be announced in due course.

INFO@FatemiDawat.com The response team has been restructured and is working with utmost dedication to reply to each and every email, letter and Facebook message that is sent to Fatemi Dawat. The team also processes Araz-es to Syedna TUS in a timely and efficient manner. Other queries and questions about faith, Shari’at, Masuls, welfare requests etc. are also addressed. The team also organizes follow up phone calls for Mumineen with concerned officials in Syedna’s office. The response time for emails has significantly improved.

The “Info Team” is also working with the Maulaya Raj Project for linking local Mumineen in various cities.

Syedna Qutbuddin RA constituted the Tadbir Committee last year to strategise and implement Dawat social and administrative programs and operations under directions from Syedna TUS. Tadbir in Arabic means “planning”.

Rasulullah SA said “half of living well is planning well” (husn-ut-tadbeeri-nisful‘aysh). The committee comprises dedicated Mumineen - professionals and entrepreneurs - from across the globe and has been meeting on a weekly basis.

Ashara 1437H Mumbai - San Jose - London The Ashara Committee in Mumbai planned and organized Ashara Mubaraka. In Mumbai, the committee undertook the khidmat of Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin’s RA last Ashara in a noorani khaymah in Darus Sakina (see “Ashara Mubaraka” in section on Syedna Qutbuddin RA Program - pg 9). In San Jose, California, USA, the San Jose Masul along with dedicated and sincere Mumineen of the local jamaat hosted Syedna Taher TUS for Ashara Mubaraka. Syedna Taher’s waaz was broadcast and viewed by tens of thousands of Mumineen worldwide. In London, United Kingdom, the London Masuls along with dedicated and sincere Mumineen of the local jamaat hosted Shehzada Abdeali Bhaisaheb for Ashara Mubaraka.

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Mission Syedna’s TUS Dawat is established on the foundation of divine knowledge and wisdom. Throughout the years, each Imam, and his Dai in the Imam’s seclusion, has ascended the throne of Dawat - a throne not made of rubies and gold, or wealth and power, but a throne of divine knowledge and wisdom - a throne on water. “‘Ilm of Aale Mohammed” refers to the divine knowledge received by Rasulullah SA from Allah Ta’ala. It is passed on from one Imam to another, and from one Dai to another, who safeguards this priceless treasure and gives raza to Mumineen to

partake from its barakaat so that their souls shine with the radiance of its divine light. The purpose of seeking this divine knowledge is to elevate our souls by deepening our conviction and faith in Allah Ta’ala and His Imam and Dai. It is important to keep in mind that there are ascending levels of zahir and batin (esoteric), and a taalib-e ilm (seeker of knowledge/student) should progress appropriately within them. It is equally important that we understand the principles of this ‘ilm using reason and logic through question and dialogue, and imbibe them in a way that it reflects in the way we live our lives.

Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA and Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS Tasneefat (Compositions) Following the tradition of Du’aat Mutlaqeen Syedna Qutbuddin and Syedna Fakhruddin composed Munajaats, Qasidas and Risalats in 1436H/1437H (see details in section on Publications - pg 25). These compositions (tasneefat) are repositories of the ta’yeed of Imamuz-zaman SA. The eloquent words of these

compositions encapsulate deep meanings and philosophies. They are a source of Dawat Knowledge for us today and for generations to come.

The qasidas and munajaats were made available with Dawat ni zaban and English translation so that the deep meanings of each eloquent Arabic verse may be more accessible to Mumineen.

Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA and Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS Waaz Syedna Qutbuddin delivered waaz in Ashara Mubaraka 1437H. His bayaan was a pure source of Dawat knowledge and guidance for Mumineen and also contained the pearls of ta’yeed (see details in section on Syedna Qutbuddin Program pg 7).

After the passing of the predecessor, the flow of the ta’yeed of the Imam continues to his successor.

This knowledge (‘ilmul yaqeen) was vindicated by the flow of barakaat we witnessed in Syedna’s

waaz-es (aynul yaqeen). Syedna Fakhruddin delivered waaz on 19th Rajab, 27th Rajab and 19th Shehrullah.

The barakaat of Dawat Knowledge directly from its source, the Dai of Imamuz zaman were accessible to Mumineen through YouTube.com. Many waaz clips were also made available with English and Arabic subtitles so that Syedna’s knowledge and wisdom could reach all those who sought it. (Details of these waaz are available in section on Syedna Fakhruddin program - pg 11).

Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA and Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS Sabaq Syedna Qutbuddin continued sabaqs in the last year until his wafaat. The flow of his knowledge continues through his successor Syedna Fakhruddin who continued zahir, tawil and haqeeqat sabaqs. Syedna Fakhruddin resumed

sabaqs immediately after Syedna Qutbuddin’s Chehlum and several halqas are fortunate to receive ‘ilm directly from Syedna on a regular basis. The flow of the heritage of the ‘ilm of Aale Mohammed is evident in each of Syedna Fakhruddin’s sabaqs.

dawat knowledge

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The ladder of Knowledge

Sabaqs in the last year ‫سمط الـحقائق‬

‫ال مبدأ وال معاد‬

Total Sabaqs - 42

Total Sabaqs - 21

- ‫ال م جالس ال مؤي دية‬ ‫ال مائة الـخامسة‬ Total Sabaqs - 42

‫رسائل‬, ‫تاو يل الدعائ م‬ ‫مسائل‬, ‫اخوان الـصفا‬ ‫سيدي امين ج ي بن جلال‬ Total Sabaqs - 39

,‫ال م جالس الـحات مية‬ ‫قصيدة‬ Total Sabaqs - 31

‫الوحيدة‬

‫م ج موع التربية‬

Total Sabaqs - 34

- ‫ال م جالس ال مؤي دية‬ )A( ‫ال مائة ال اولة‬

- ‫ال م جالس ال مؤي دية‬ ‫ال مائة‬/‫ال مائة الثانية‬ ‫الثالثة‬

Total Sabaqs - 31

- ‫ال م جالس ال مؤي دية‬ )B( ‫ال مائة ال اولة‬

Total Sabaqs - 19

Total Sabaqs - 21

‫شرح‬, ‫دعائ م ال اسلام‬ ‫ ضوء‬- ‫ رسالة‬,‫ال اخبار‬ ‫نور الـحق ال مبين‬

‫تنبيه الغافلين‬

Total Sabaqs - 35

Total Sabaqs - 29

Madrasa in the last year Level 3 Class

Level 2 Class

Level 1 Class

Ages 16-21

Ages 11-15

Ages 6-10

Total - 30

Total Sabaqs - 31

Total - 12

Level 3 Review

Level 2 Review

Level 1 Review

Namaaz, etc.

Dawat ni Zaban writing, Doa revision

Dawat ni Zaban, Akbhar, Namaaz doas, Quran surats etc.

Total Classes - 35

Total Classes - 40

Total Classes - 15

Qur‘an Majeed Hifz & Tarteel Classes Total 100+

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mission

For the Future of the Dawoodi Bohra Community Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA approached the Bombay High Court seeking a declaration that he was the 53rd Dai, and for an order and injunction restraining Shz Mufaddal Saifuddin from in any manner holding himself out as or doing any acts or deeds as the Dai al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohra Community, and for other reliefs.

Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS, the 54th Dai alMutlaq has filed a Chamber Summons on the 27th of June 2016 in the Hon’ble High Court of Bombay

to be substituted as plaintiff in the Suit filed by his predecessor Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA, the 53rd Dai al-Mutlaq against Shz Mufaddal Saifuddin.

Syedna Qutbuddin and Syedna Fakhruddin have personally funded (done inayat) towards the legal efforts of Dawat and have also allocated a portion of Dawat funds towards this effort. Syedna Fakhruddin has also given raza to Mumineen to participate in the legal mission, and many have contributed.

legal

timeline of events The cross-examination of Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA in the Suit in the Hon’ble High Court of Bombay took place on the following dates in 2015: April 27, April 28, July 29, July 31, August 3, August 4, August 24, and August 25. The opposing counsel Mr. Chagla asked more than 600 questions in the course of the testimony. For example: Mr. Chagla asked whether the Plaintiff was appointed as a Mazoon in private or public, the Plaintiff responded that he was appointed in the

17

sermon in public. Prior to that, Syedna Burhanuddin called him to his room and informed him that he would appoint him as Mazoon in the misaq majlis. He also pronounced nass on the Plaintiff. He gave the Plaintiff his ring, which the Plaintiff wears to this day. He said that Syedna Taher Saifuddin used to wear this very ring. When Syedna appointed the Plaintiff as Mazoon in the misaq majlis he conveyed in his words and blessings that the Plaintiff was his successor.

2) Syedna Qutbuddin was asked: Mr. Chagla showed the Plaintiff his Affidavit of Evidence in which the Plaintiff has said that the Defendant and his brothers “started to implement a devious scheme to try and malign the Plaintiff”. Mr. Chagla asked in what way they did this.

The Plaintiff said that they told people to stop paying respects to him and stop addressing the Plaintiff as “Maula” and not offer him “Sajda”. When asked whether people actually stopped paying respects to him as before as a

timeline continued result of this, the Plaintiff answered that some people did while some defied the Defendant and continued addressing him as “Maula” and would offer “Sajda”. The Plaintiff also said that the Defendant and his brothers told people that if they addressed the Plaintiff as “Maula” they would not be allowed to go to the Syedna (52nd Dai).

On being questioned as to when all this started, the Plaintiff replied that it was sometime after 1987. Mr. Chagla asked whether it was correct that Sajda, as a mark of respect, can be offered to persons other than the Dai or the Mansoos.

The Plaintiff replied emphatically that Sajda can only be “offered to the Dai or the Mansoos or to a person who is known as one who will succeed the Dai.” Mr. Chagla asked if all persons of higher spiritual learning knew that the Plaintiff was made the Mansoos, to which the Plaintiff replied that many persons of higher spiritual learning did know. On being asked if the Plaintiff was suggesting that those persons of higher spiritual learning who knew that the Plaintiff had been made the Mansoos offered Sajda to him, the Plaintiff said that many of them did. The Plaintiff added that he was offered Sajda even during the time of the 51st Dai by persons of higher spiritual learning, including Miyasaheb Fidahussain Yamani, who was a learned scholar and was placed first in the tarteeb (hierarchy), used to offer him Sajda. He would also bring his family members to Plaintiff and get them to offer sajda.

this matter, which affects the whole community. But Shehzada Mufaddal Saifuddin has not responded to that invitation either.

4) To ensure that the path set by the previous Dai al-Mutlaqs is followed, and the Community is not torn asunder by false claimants, and having full faith in the Indian Judiciary, Syedna Fakhruddin has approached the Hon’ble High Court for appropriate remedies.

5) In a statement Syedna Fakhruddin said “Since Shehzada Mufaddal Saifuddin is unwilling to resolve the matter internally through a debate to establish the truth, we have approached the Hon’ble Court, in which we have full faith, with evidence that will expose the falsehoods being perpetuated by Shehzada Mufaddal Saifuddin. I will continue the fight that my revered father Syedna Qutbuddin started, for truth, justice, and the future and wellbeing of the Dawoodi Bohra community” 6) On the 30th of Ramadan 1437H (4th July 2016) Syedna Taher Fakhruddin sent an open letter to Shehzada Mufaddal Saifuddin out of concern for the community. In the letter Syedna informed Shehzada Mufaddal Saifuddin that he has filed a “Chamber Summons in the Hon’ble High Court of Bombay to be substituted as plaintiff in the Suit filed by Syedna Qutbuddin to continue the fight for truth and righteousness, which are the hallmarks of our faith.”

Syedna also urged Shehzada Mufaddal Saifuddin to relinquish his false claim, and conveyed to him that the doors of repentance remain open for him.

3) After Syedna Qutbuddin sadly passed away to his heavenly abode on 30th March 2016, Syedna Taher Fakhruddin also invited Shehzada Mufaddal Saifuddin to a debate according to the precedents For further details visit FatemiDawatLegal.com. of the community, and in the interests of resolving

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Mission

* Zahra Hasanaat aims to become the primary social welfare organization of the Dawoodi Bohra community. Its mission is to improve the life of every community member and their families. Ultimately Zahra Hasanaat aims to help them realize and achieve their aspirations in the areas of health, education and finance. * It was Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin’s RA wish that the Zahra Hasanaat mission is achieved through personal interactions with Mumineen.

* Although Zahra Hasanaat activities focus on community needs, they also extend to humanity at large. * Zahra Hasanaat deals with all individuals with respect and compassion, ensuring that the dignity of those receiving help is maintained. * Zahra Hasanaat is committed to the principles of good governance, transparency, fair management, responsible use of funds, continuous improvement, and a 360° feedback loop.

Hasanaat

Zahra

w w w.FatemiDawat.com

social welfare

Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Aid

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Zahra Hasanaat and other Dawat organizations have supported several disaster relief and humanitarian causes in the past year including, refugees from the Middle East (September 2015), Tamil Nadu floods (December 2015), and other efforts by NGO’s especially in India.

H e a lt h

3) Educational webinars have been organized by the Fatemi Dawat Health Initiative on 1) digestive Mission and Aims health, 2) sleep apnea and 3) hypertension as well as The mission of the Zahra Hasanaat Health Initiative is to nutrition and breast-cancer examination workshops. promote good health and wellness through education The webinars will be made available online on the new and access to high quality and affordable health care.

Zahra Hasanaat website.

The health initiative aims to: 1) Motivate people to take charge of their own Goals and Work in Progress health with a focus on preventive health and healthy Zahra Hasanaat Health is currently working on the living. following: 2) Provide access to Primary Health care in India 1) Encouraging and subsidizing catastrophic health through resources such as medical vans and health care insurance to develop a medical safety net for clinics.

Mumineen.

2) Developing an effective and efficient protocol to process emergency medical aid requests.

1) Medical vans have been running in collaboration 3) Compiling basic information about different with NGO’s and several health clinics are being health topics (in multiple languages) so patients can constructed in several locations - including one in Bihar understand their own health problems and engage - with support from Zahra Hasanaat. with their health care providers on the the new Zahra 2) Numerous applications for medical aid have been Hasanaat website (expected launch 2017) granted by Zahra Hasanaat. Application forms have 3) Partner with other organizations to expand the been developed to help efficiently and expediently health safety of our community and our societies at process genuine aid requests. large.

Current Activities

E d u c at i o n -

qjsp

Mission and Aims

Under the auspices of Zahra Hasanaat, the mission of the Qutbi Jubilee Scholarship Program (QJSP) is to promote education, especially higher education, in the community and to encourage character development through community and social service. QJSP especially emphasizes the importance of educating girls by earmarking at least 1/3 of its scholarships and grants for them. QJSP aims to: 1) Achieve a scenario where every follower of Syedna is able to pursue their higher education dream in the country of their residence.

2) Extend its outreach beyond Dawoodi Bohras and promote academic scholarship that strengthens communal and societal harmony.

Current Activities

QJSP currently has over 30 students in its program.

These include higher education scholarships (India and abroad) and primary schooling scholarships. Over 20 more applications are in process. QJSP has also offered partial support for a conference organized by Calcutta University in March 2016.

Goals and Work in Progress

QJSP is currently working on the following: 1) Restructuring its core committee and streamlining its application process to make it more efficient and transparent.

2) Establishing a network of field officers, mentors community service coordinators and academic advisors to support each individual student.

3)Collaborating with academic institutions to further the goals of education and inter-faith dialogue.

Financial Advisory - Qarzan Hasana Mission and Aims

Under the auspices of Zahra Hasanat, the Financial Advisory Program mission is to raise the financial and economic standard of the community. The program is designed to cater to both the personal and business needs of community members.

Current Activities

1) Provide qarzan hasana and general financing to Mumineen in urgent need 2) Provide business advise and counseling 3) Provide career finding assistance by utilizing the network of community member businesses and associated contacts throughout the world

4)Educate Mumineen on Fatemi-Tayyebi financial principles and promote their use in daily transactions

Goals and Work in Progress

1) Develop protocols and processes for an accountable qardan hasana and general financing program for Mumineen’s personal and commercial purposes 2) Provide business advise and consultancy services to enhance community member business performance in the digital age 3) Networking of community members focused towards new business ventures with community (and non community) members

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Eid ul Adha - 1436H - Hizb-e-Khalilullah

Outreach and building bridges Syedna Taher Saifuddin RA wrote in praise of Rasulullah SA that, “he called people to harmonious co-existence, and forbade discord and hostility.”

“As per Syedna Qutbuddin’s RA guidance and irshaad and under the auspices of Zahra Hasanaat, meat from the qurbaani on Eid day and the day following Eid was distributed by the members of Hizbe-Khalilullah in about 3000 homes of Mumineen and Muslimeen. Coordination with local volunteer groups was essential in the success of this effort. The teams also distributed an Eid card with a beautiful print of Ayat-ul-Kursi and a message of doa from Syedna Qutbuddin.

The mission of Hizb-e-Khalilullah emphasizes outreach and building bridges: “Qurbani meat should be personally delivered to individual homes of Mumineen and Muslimeen, especially in less affluent areas, with dignity and respect. This activity follows the tradition of A’immat Tahereen in Fatimid Misar and embodies the spirit of Eid ul Adha…”

For the first time Hizb-e-Khalilullah, prepared and published a detailed report of key facts and financial figures of its Eid-ul-Adha activities including the cost of sheep, expenses for maintaining, cutting and cleaning, expenses for distribution of the meat, details of meat output and places where meat was distributed and volunteer hours spent in planning and executing the program. The full report was shared with participants of the program in keeping with Syedna’s vision that organisations functioning under the umbrella of Dawat should be run professionally with clear transparency. The report was published on FatemiDawat.com

Meeting with Alavi Bohra Community Delegation “ On 26 April 2016, the High Dignitaries and members of the Alavi Bohra Community, including Alavi Mukasir Saheb Bhaisaheb Mohammed Nooruddin and Alavi Rasul-Hudood Bhaisaheb Zulqarnain Hakeemuddin visited Darus Sakina to offer ta’ziyat to Syedna Fakhruddin TUS on the sad passing away of Syedna Qutbuddin RA. The Dignitaries especially conveyed ta’ziyat and salaams to Syedna Fakhruddin on behalf of Alavi Dai al-Sayyed al-Anbal Hatim Zakiyuddin Saheb as well as members of the Alavi community.

University of Calcutta Seminar “ The Qutbi Jubilee Scholarship Program supported a seminar on “Nehru Azaad and Perso-Arab World” organized by the University of Calcutta. This is the second time that QJSP has taken part in such efforts to fulfill its aim of “promoting academic scholarship that strengthens communal and societal harmony”. Shehzada Dr Abdeali Bhaisaheb Saifuddin was the Guest of Honor at the conference and was due to deliver a talk. Sadly on that day Syedna Qutbuddin RA passed away and Shehzada Abdeali Bhaisaheb returned to Mumbai.

In this spirit, Syedna Qutbuddin RA and his successor Syedna Fakhruddin TUS have directed that Dawat and Mumineen build ties of friendship and cooperation with people of all religions and ethnicities, Fellowship of the Shi’ah Institute including particularly our fellow Muslim “ Shehzadi Dr Bazat Tahera Baisaheba was appointed Honorary communities, and participate actively in Fellow of The Shi’ah Institute in London “in recognition of the progress of the nation academic excellence in the study of Shi’ah Islam.” The and of humanity at large.

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organization is a scholarly association that aspires to bring together scholars from across the world, working within a wide variety of disciplines, under the umbrella of Shi’ah studies. The list of current Fellows includes renowned scholars from eastern and western academic institutions.

Meeting with President of India Shri Pranab Mukherjee “On 8 July 2016, Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS met with the Honourable President of India, His Excellency Shri Pranab Mukherjee, at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Syedna Fakhruddin presented a bouquet to His Excellency and conveyed greetings on behalf of the entire community, and appreciation for the Honourable President’s long and distinguished service to the country. Syedna Fakhruddin also conveyed his community’s commitment to the fostering of universal brotherhood, service and loyalty to the nation, and the promotion of tolerance and pluralism.

He presented the President with a PhD Thesis on Islamic finance, “The Principles of Finance in Fatemi Tayyibi Law,” by Shehzada Dr Abdeali Bhaisaheb.

Syedna Fakhruddin emphasised the importance of education, the empowerment of women, and role of religion as a force for good, in bringing the best values of universal brotherhood, philanthropy and

good character in the modern world.

The President appreciated Syedna’s adaption of traditional knowledge and values to modern times in his efforts to foster good character and a more humane, harmonious, peaceful and prosperous society. He especially appreciated Syedna’s unique background of being steeped in the faith tradition as well as being an astute and successful businessman.The president also remembered his meeting with Syedna Qutbuddin RA last year and said that “he was a great man.”

“ The former Prime Minister of India the Honorable Dr. Manmohan Singh gave a warm reception to Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS at his official residence in New Delhi on Friday the 8th of July. The open and deep discussion on varied subjects lasted for more than an hour. Syedna Fakhruddin presented Dr. Singh with a bouquet of flowers and greatly appreciated his long service to the nation on behalf of Syedna’s community, and especially his pivotal role in bringing about and successfully implementing its economic reforms, and later 8 years as the Prime Minister. Dr. Singh fondly recalled his visit to the opening of Saifee Hospital and his meeting there with Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin RA, saying that he was

a truly magnanimous leader of great wisdom and compassion. Syedna Fakhruddin affirmed his and his community’s commitment to the progress of the nation and especially to upholding the worthy principles of pluralism and communal harmony.

Syedna quoted Imam Ahmad al-Mastur who said that all creatures are God’s children, and the most beloved of them to God is one who benefits His children the most. Dr. Manmohan Singh heartily agreed and appreciated Syedna’s sentiments and said that self-interest must not come in the way of communal harmony and inter-community cooperation. Syedna observed that it is very common for people to criticize others, whereas self-criticizm is very rare. Self-criticism is a great principle of our faith, and if only people were more self-critical than that of the other, then many problems would be solved, a thought which Dr. Singh greatly appreciated.

Dr. Singh said, “the community is greatly blessed to have Your Holiness as a leader.” And that the country would be a better place if people followed Syedna’s guidance in the values and ethics of life. At the conclusion of the meeting Dr. Singh asked Syedna to “pray for the country,” and then accompanied him all the way to the car.

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Meeting with former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh

Meeting with Archbishop of Mumbai “ In September 2015, Shehzada Dr Abdeali Bhaisaheb Saifuddin, Shehzada Dr Aziz Bhaisaheb Qutbuddin and Shehzadi Fatema Baisaheba and Shehzadi Arwa Baisaheba called upon the Archbishop of Mumbai, His Eminence Oswald Cardinal Gracias. Cardinal Oswald very warmly received Syedna’s family. They conveyed to the Cardinal Syedna’s message that “Our faiths share many universal humanist values and we believe that intellectual dialogues between

people of different faiths are absolutely necessary to further mutual understanding.

These dialogues are a foundation for lasting friendships and cooperation.” Following Syedna Qutbuddin’s RA wafaat Cardinal Oswald sent a heartfelt letter of condolence to Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS.

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books reports articles Sijill Volume Two - the second 50

issues of Sijill, recording the last year of the 53rd Dai-l-Mutlaq’s time as Dai. Covering from 4 Rabiul Aakhir 1436H 4 Rabiul Aakhir 1437H, the second Sijill Volume chronicles the major events, directives and teachings of Syedna Qutbuddin’s Fatemi Dawat during his second year as Dai-z-zaman.

A Simple Introduction to Islamic Finance book - presented a

selection of concepts from the Ph.D thesis submitted to the University of Manchester by Shehzada Dr Abdeali Bhaisaheb Saifuddin. His Ph.D was completed in 2003 with the raza and doa mubarak of Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin RA. This introductory piece is a precursor to the Islamic Finance Series.

Jame’ Anwar - an Annotated Photo

Gallery published on the second Urus of Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin’s RA.

Ten Virtues of a Mumin - based

on Rasullulah’s hadith and Syedna Qutbuddin’s waaz this book explains the ten virtues of a Mumin in this world, and the ten virtues of the Hereafter.

Zahra Hasanaat – Hizbe Khalilullah Report 1436H - for the first time, with the raza of Syedna Qutbuddin RA, this detailed report of key facts, volunteer hours and financial figures of its Eid-ulAdha activities was published.

“Ali’s Contemplations on this World and the Hereafter in the Context of His Life and Times” - academic article

by Shzd Dr Tahera Baisaheba published in Essays in Islamic Philology, History, and Philosophy, in the series Studies in the History and Culture of the Middle East.

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Syedna tus Salaam in Remembrance Syedna Qutbuddin RA— Maulana Fakhruddin composed this qasida mubaraka in the tradition of his predecessors.

It is published in eBook and print with Dawat ni Zaban and English translation, and audio recitation

Syedna Fakhruddin Munajaat 1437H— Syedna Taher Fakhruddin composed this munajaat, “Unajeeka Rabbi Mujeeb-ad-doa’i”, It is published in eBook and print with Dawat ni Zaban and English translation, and audio recitation

Publications Syedna Qutbuddin RA and Syedna Fakhruddin TUS directed that select Dawat related materials be published in print and online so that Mumineen may benefit from ilm of Aal-e Mohammad.

Throughout the year, Fatemi Dawat’s Team publishes material so that Mumineen can learn about Dawat history and philosophy.

Fatemi Dawat has also published numerous translations and commentaries on prayers and qasidas by our Mawali Tahereen for prayer. Also, Fatemi Dawat publishes summaries and photos of Syedna’s waaz, wasila mubaraka and other activities in Dawat so that all Mumineen may engage and participate.

Series Ikhwanus Safa series -

this past year we published 5 articles in a 10-part-sequence of articles on ‘ilm: 1) Takmeel and Reunification with the Divine Origin; 2) The Pursuit of Knowledge: The Ikhwan’s Vibrant Approach; 3) The Classification of Knowledge: Primary and Religious Sciences; 4) The Classification of Knowledge: Philosophical Sciences; 5) The Value of Knowledge - Religious and Secular.

Sijill articles - the editorial articles

published in Sijill every week that provide a contemporary context to our religious philosophies as well as various historical anecdotes, traditions, and religious miqaats. Since the past year 50 articles have been published; a total of 128 so far.

Hikaayat series - translations of fables

presented in Da’wat books, many from the Ikhwanus Safa. The morals presented in these stories highlight the transience of this world and the importance of character and the Hereafter. Since last year we presented an illustrated ebook of “The Marvelous City” and “Foxes and the Wolf.”

Syedna Fakhruddin Eid Qasida 1437H— in eBook and print with Dawat ni Zaban and English translation, and audio recitation.

Syedna Fakhruddin Risalat Sharifa 1437H Syedna began the composition of Risalat Ramadaniyya as per the tradition of Du’aat Mutlaqeen.

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Total Publications Including Sijill Articles, translations, eBooks, academic articles, Ikhwanus Safa Series, Nazaraat etc.

Online Website & Sijill – for the last two years FatemiDawat.com

has developed into a vast resource and library for Mumineen worldwide - the website has grown to over 1300 pages. Our website team has continuously worked to reorganize the website to enable Mumineen to find and locate relevant information. We created a robust Google powered search tool (at the top right hand corner of the homepage) so that Mumineen can search across FatemiDawat.com, FatemiDawatLegal.com, FatemiMadrasa.com, QJSP.org, and ZahraHasanaat.org websites. We also published a new design for Sijill which reflects the growth and ever-increasing breadth of this newsletter, and we hope it will improve Mumineen’s ability to engage and understand the published material.

Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS brief biography and photo gallery - brief biography was published when Al-Dai al-Ajall al-

Fatemi Syedna Taher Fakhruddin succeeded our most beloved and forever remembered Muqaddas Maulana Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA, as 54th Dai of the Dawoodi Bohra community.

Sijill Weekly Newsletter - a weekly publication of

FatemiDawat.com that includes the latest news and instructions from Syedna Fakhruddin’s TUS office, as well as several article series (listed in this section). This report is being published in the 135th Sijill.

Syedna TUS bayaan and wasila highlights - written

highlights and video excerpts of waaz, bayaan, wasila mubaraka

by Syedna Qutbuddin and Syedna Fakhruddin, some with Dawat ni Zaban transcription, English, and Arabic translation.

We have broadcast over 35 bayaans and wasilas, that have been viewed by hundreds of thousands Mumineen around the world.

After Syedna Qutbuddin’s wafaat we also presented Sadaqallah with English translation so that Mumineen may listen daily and listen with understanding. We also presented Syedna Fakhruddin’s Arabic address to Mumineen (especially in Yemen).

Nazaraat – narrates some anecdotes of countless and unique nazaraat and barakaat bestowed upon Syedna Qutbuddin RA

by Syedna Taher Saifuddin RA and Syedna Burhanuddin RA. In this last year we published six nazaraat articles: 1) Syedna Burhanuddin RA and Syedna Qutbuddin - Video Lailatul Qadr 1431; 2) Darus Sakina; 3) “Abu Mohammed, Your Father - Taher Saifuddin”; 4) 100th Milad Ziafat; 5) Syedna Burhanuddin’s Last Ashara; 6) Syedna Taher Saifuddin’s RA Janaza Mubaraka.

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tasneefat

Qasida and Doa & Amal Details - this past year we have continued to publish Dawat ni zabaan, English translations and audio recordings so that Mumineen in all corners of the world may engage further in prayer.

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volunteer teams Listed below are some of the volunteer teams who take out time on a regular basis for the service and khidmat of Dawat Tadbir Online Communications FatemiDawat.com Sijill Fatemi Madrasa Zahra Hasanaat - QJSP Zahra Hasanaat - Health Initiative Zahra Hasanaat - Financial Advisory MCC Outreach Marsiya Hizbe Khalilullah Trusts and Finances Maulaya Raj A/V and Broadcast Miqaat Management

Volunteer hours

Niyaaz Ansaar

global reach & volunteers w w w.FatemiDawat.com

‫دعوة ين خدمة ؛ مهويت نعمة‬ ‫كرسسس تنسس تارا خالق رمحة‬

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+50,000 hrs In his bayaan, Syedna Khuzaima Qutbuddin RA expressed his wish that all Mumineen should take part in the activities and khidmat of Dawat, not only a select privileged few. From Shehrullah 1436H (July 2015) till Shehrullah 1437H (July 2016) Mumineen have dedicated more than 50,000 hours in khidmat.

‫دعو ُة احلق ين كرجسس تو خدمة‬ ‫كهمجسس هج ثثهنحح سس امها هي زمحة‬

‫اجر تنسس اهنو هباري ملسسس‬ ‫يهاطط هبي انسس تو جيارسس ولسسس‬

Website unique Visitors On FatemiDawat.com from Shehrullah 1436H (July 2015) till Shehrullah 1437H (July 2016)

Website hits

10.97 Million On FatemiDawat.com from Shehrullah 1436H (July 2015) till Shehrullah 1437H (July 2016)

The location pins depict the Fatemi Dawat Mas’uls

298,858

This statistic is of new videos published on YouTube from Shehrullah 1436H (July 2015) till Shehrullah 1437H (July 2016)

The map here is from Google Analytics and depicts visits during a single month (July 2016) to FatemiDawat.com.

These bubbles reflect the density and volume of FatemiDawat.com viewership around the world

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w w w.FatemiDawat.com

528,000

total youtube views

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