This story was reported by The Times of India and The Free Press Journal
Around 100,000 Dawoodi Bohra members from across India and abroad gathered in Mumbai to pay their respects to the late Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin on his 10th death anniversary.
Commemorating this occasion, the 53 al-Dai al-Mutlaq and the leader of the worldwide Dawoodi Bohra community His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin delivered a sermon at the newly inaugurated Saifee Masjid in Bhendi Bazaar. In his sermon, Syedna Saifuddin fondly remembered his father Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin and his grandfather Syedna Taher Saifuddin, and their tireless efforts to guide the community and serve humanity for over 100 years.
Syedna Saifuddin based his sermon on the teachings of the Prophet Mohammed expounding on the virtue of overcoming challenges and adversity by remaining patient and steadfast in life. He underscored the importance of education for both men and women, particularly balancing religious and temporal education to excel in various fields and contribute to the growth of society.
Alifya Jariwala who came from Nashik to attend the sermon in Mumbai said, "One of the key learnings I gathered from Syedna's sermon is his message on attaining holistic education and striving for excellence while upholding the values of our faith. Understanding my role in society and finding the right balance is the key to a wholesome lifestyle."
Speaking on the arrangements made to host thousands of attendees, Mustafa Kanchwala, Secretary of Anjumane Shiateali, a body that manages the Dawoodi Bohra community affairs in Mumbai, said: “Around 100,000 community members across the world took part in this historic occasion in Mumbai. The sermon delivered by Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin at Saifee Masjid was broadcast live across 45 community centres in Mumbai and suburbs.”
He added, “We’re grateful to the local authorities including traffic police for their continued support to ensure the smooth flow of the event.”
Murtaza Kothawala who came from Dhandhuka in Ahmedabad to mark this historic occasion said, "A decade may have passed, but the memory of Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin lives on in the hearts and minds and his values continue to guide us in all aspects of life."
Serving as the 52nd al-Dai al-Mutlaq for half a century, Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin touched the hearts of countless people across the world. His leadership was marked by his unwavering commitment to education, healthcare, and social welfare. His advocacy for interfaith dialogue and environmental stewardship highlighted his vision of a harmonious and sustainable world. His teachings provided guidance for staying true to spiritual values while leading a fulfilling and meaningful life in the 21st century.
