Asia
Dear World: Messages of hope and inspiration from Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, everyone has a story to tell — stories about the country’s people, their hopes for the future, of peace and development — yet most go untold. But when a Harvard student working at Roshan decided to launch a Dear World campaign, she gave new voice to the people of Afghanistan and to the many stories they have been waiting to tell.
New jamatkhanas in Northern Pakistan serve as catalysts for improving quality of life
Part of a seismically unstable zone that is prone to earthquakes, floods, landslides and droughts, Pakistan's northern region has long been home to a signifiant Ismaili population. Several new purpose-built jamatkhana projects blend traditional building with new disaster-resistant techniques. From design and construction to finished product, the new structures offer a model to uplifit the quality of habitat throughout the region.
Mawlana Hazar Imam attends presidential inauguration in Kyrgyzstan
Bishkek, 1 December 2011 — Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in Bishkek today for the inauguration of the new President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Almazbek Atambaev. During the visit, Hazar Imam met with President Atambaev, as well as former President Roza Otunbaeva, to discuss the AKDN’s partnership with the country.
For students in IIS Graduate Programme, the whole world is a field for study
This past summer, students of The Institute of Ismaili Studies’ Graduate Programme in Islamic Studies and Humanities (GPISH) travelled to seven different locations across the globe as part of their field research projects. Zuleikha Haji and Sehr Tejpar share accounts from two sides of the globe.
Mawlana Hazar Imam departs Tajikistan
Dushanbe, 1 November 2011 — Mawlana Hazar Imam’s visit to Tajikistan drew to a close today. Following the inauguration of the Dushanbe Serena Hotel, members of the Jamat gathered across the street to bid farewell to Hazar Imam as he departed the Serena.
Dushanbe Serena Hotel is opened by Mawlana Hazar Imam and the President of Tajikistan
Dushanbe, 1 November 2011 — Mawlana Hazar Imam and President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan, inaugurated a new Serena Hotel in the heart of Dushanbe, the Tajik capital. Prince Amyn and Prince Rahim were present for the ceremony, as were dignitaries from the government, development and tourism sectors.
President of Tajikistan hosts dinner for Mawlana Hazar Imam
Dushanbe, 31 October 2011 — The President of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon hosted a dinner in honour of Mawlana Hazar Imam's visit at the Saodat Teahouse (chaikhana). Prince Amyn and Prince Rahim were also present at the dinner, which featured performances of music, dance and song by a number of Tajik artists.
Mawlana Hazar Imam joins leaders of Tajikistan and Afghanistan to lay foundation of fifth cross-border bridge
Showun, Shurobod District, Tajikistan, 31 October 2011 — Mawlana Hazar Imam, together with the President of Tajikistan and Afghanistan’s Minister of Public Works, performed the foundation-stone ceremony for the Shurobod Bridge. The bridge is the fifth to be built in partnership with the AKDN, and will connect the Shurobod District of Khatlon Region in Tajikistan with the Khohon Province of Afghanistan.
Mawlana Hazar Imam stops over in Kabul to meet with President Karzai
Kabul, 30 October 2011 — Between visits to India and Tajikistan, Mawlana Hazar Imam made a stop in Kabul, where he met with His Excellency President Hamid Karzai to discuss the progress of AKDN activities in Afghanistan. The Government of Aghanistan accorded Hazar Imam a full state welcome, including a guard of honour.
AKDN: Mawlana Hazar Imam tours Delhi urban renewal project
Delhi, 30 October 2011 — Mawlana Hazar Imam toured the Humayun’s Tomb - Sunder Nursery - Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti Urban Renewal Project, in the heart of the Indian capital, to review progress on the project.
Mawlana Hazar Imam arrives in Tajikistan to open Dushanbe Serena
Dushanbe, 30 October 2011 — Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in Tajikistan today for the inauguration of the Dushanbe Serena Hotel. Prince Rahim and Prince Amyn had arrived earlier, and will also participate in the opening ceremony.
Mawlana Hazar Imam in India to review revitalisation of historic Nizamuddin
Delhi, 29 October 2011 — Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in India today to review progress on the restoration of Humayun's Tomb and the work at Sunder Nursery in the capital region of Delhi. The projects are part of a larger initiative that also aims to preserve and rehabilitate landmark buildings in Nizamuddin Basti, while improving the quality of life for inhabitants of the area.
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton holds town hall meeting at Ismaili Centre, Dushanbe
Dushanbe, 22 October 2011 — US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton visited the Ismaili Centre, Dushanbe today, where she held a town hall meeting to help promote the US-sponsored New Silk Road Initiative. Several hundred people attended the gathering, including various members of Tajikistan’s civil society, local and international development organisations, media outlets, representatives of the AKDN and Jamati leaders.
Kabul school sparks new opportunities for young people and a brighter future for Afghanistan
Sparks Academy in Kabul is a catalyst for community development and learning opportunities for people of all ages. When Tahmina Shayan began volunteering with a community-based early childhood development programme of the Ismaili Council for Afghanistan that was supported by the school, she discovered new opportunities for herself and an avenue to make a difference in the lives of other young Afghans.
Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea Jamats gather for Sydney games
The Jamats of Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea gathered in Sydney earlier this year for a National Ismaili Sports Tournament. The event resulted from months of planning, and was the culmination of various local sports and fitness programmes promoting healthy lifestyles and enhancing Jamati unity.
On Eid ul-Fitr, the Ismaili Centre, Dushanbe hosts its first Jamati celebration
As Ismaili families in Dushanbe prepared to observe Eid ul-Fitr in the traditional manner, excitement brewed at the prospect of the Jamat coming together to celebrate the occasion at the new Ismaili Centre for the first time ever. The gathering proved a momentous and moving experience for all.
University of Central Asia benefits from the services of a worldly accountant
Nasir Jetha’s career in accounting and finance has taken him around the world, from Tanzania to England, Canada and Bermuda. Most recently, it took him to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, where he helped oversee the Finance Department of the University of Central Asia as a TKN volunteer.
Through the camera lens: Life after the floods (Part 2)
In this conclusion of a two-part story, broadcast journalist Faridoun Hemani recounts his experience as part of a team that visited areas stricken by the 2010 Pakistan floods to document the impact of the AKDN Early Relief and Recovery Programme. The team travelled to Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh, where they listened to local people tell life-changing stories.
Through the camera lens: Life after the floods (Part 1)
In this first installment of a two-part story, broadcast journalist Faridoun Hemani describes his experience as part of a team that visited areas stricken by the 2010 Pakistan floods to document the impact of the AKDN Early Relief and Recovery Programme. The team travelled to Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh, where they listened to local people recount life-changing stories.
Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa inspires Central Asian youth while developing their potential
Thousands of kilometres from Khorog, on the other side of the vast Indian Ocean, is the Aga Khan Academy, Mombasa. Eight Tajik students were recently given the opportunity to attend the residential school, and are are now benefiting from a multicultural student body, experienced educators and state-of-the-art facilities.
Finding happiness through adoption, the gift of a lifetime
Each year, thousands of North Americans adopt orphaned or abandoned children, and make a lifelong commitment to love and care for them. Two Ismaili families share their personal stories of adoption, and journeys they undertook to bring their children home.
The value of one hundred smiles
For nearly 16 years, Shamim Hassan Shivji placed close to 100 Karachi orphans with couples from around the world. She and a neighbour routinely cared for the orphaned or abandoned infants while seeking out loving homes for them. She never charged for the service — her reward was seeing kids she placed grow up to become well-educated members of society.
New jamatkhanas opening across Afghanistan seen as catalysts for progress
In Afghanistan, the past year will be remembered for the large number of jamatkhanas that were inaugurated across the country. In Kabul alone, four newly built facilities were opened, while ground was broken for additional jamatkhanas in Badakhshan province and elsewhere.
Navroz celebrated for the first time at the Ismaili Centre, Dushanbe
In celebration of Navroz, the Aga Khan Development Network hosted a reception at the Ismaili Centre, Dushanbe. Over 300 people attended the celebration, which was held on 20 March 2011 and was the first Navroz event ever held at the Centre.
Celebrating new and old traditions: An Afghan Ismaili’s nostalgia for Navroz
Celebrated on 21 March each year, Navroz is an occasion of special significance to millions around the world. Having migrated to Canada from Afghanistan, 35-year-old Ahmad Wali fondly reminisces over the rich traditions and memories of Navroz that he harbours from his childhood.
New Jamatkhana strikes a dignified presence in the capital of Pakistan’s Punjab province
The new Ismaili Jamatkhana Lahore is the first facility to be purpose-built for the Jamat in that city. Rooted in tradition and heritage, it symbolises centuries of the community’s presence in the region, and its continuity in a land steeped in the many interpretations and practices of Islam.
National honours for members of the Jamat in Britain and Australia
Yasmin Waljee and Farah Ramzan Golant were recently named to the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, while Aladin Rahemtula became the first Ismaili to be conferred the Order of Australia. The awards recognise the outstanding services rendered by these individuals in their respective fields.
Climate change, the carbon market and trees
Over the last 25 years, AKDN has planted over 100 million trees in Asia and Africa. Many communities already recognise that sustainable agro-forestry provides dividends in the form of food, fuel and fodder, and the emergence of a global carbon market presents new opportunity.
Compassion and volunteerism save Pakistan’s most vulnerable
Massive flooding last year in the regions surrounding the Indus River caused devastation, destroying more than 1.4 million acres of cropland and over one million homes. But the resilience of those affected and the compassion and generosity of those providing assistance offers hope and lessons for the times ahead.
Awards highlight young Ismaili achievers across India
Young Ismailis are increasingly making their mark in all fields — academic and non-academic. Through the Youth Awards for Excellence, 2010, the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board for India recognised the Jamati youth and honoured high achievers in fields such as sports, the arts, sciences, creative expression, and leadership.
New sport facility in Kabul cultivates the spirit of the youth
The Ismaili youth of Afghanistan have a new place where they can play, learn and socialise. The two-storey Youth, Sports and Social Development Center in Kabul, opened its doors in December 2010.
Singaporean Ismaili makes debut in television series “Dream School”
Shirin Keshvani was a toddler when she first took to the stage. At age four, she was selected to emcee the official opening of her nursery school. In November, the 12-year-old made her television acting debut on Singapore’s Okto TV Channel in Dream School.
Urban renewal through cultural revitalisation transforms Mughal monument into a locus of opportunity for residents
Aftab Jalia works with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in Delhi and is part of an initiative to revitalise the area surrounding Humayun’s Tomb and Gardens, and improve the quality of life of the residents in the neighbouring Nizamuddin district. A graduate of the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at MIT, he shares some insight on the progress of the project and its impact on the surrounding community.
Salimahabad Orchestra in Pakistan fuses contemporary forms of music as part of a continuing tradition
A passionate group of eight individuals makes up the Salimahabad Orchestra in Pakistan. They recently released an album that espouses a vision of life, devotion to faith and respect for humankind through a fusion of contemporary musical genres including hip-hop, Arabic melody and soft rock.
“Superstars” near and far work to help the people of Pakistan in the wake of flooding
Despite the magnitude of the disastrous flooding in Pakistan and the impact on its people, many in the international community remain unaware, and the attention garnered early on has waned. Through individual and organised institutional efforts, many Ismailis, together with others in Pakistan and around the world, have sought to raise awareness and funds to support flood relief efforts.
Nineteen projects shortlisted for the 11th cycle of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture
In May 2010, the Aga Khan Award for Architecture announced the shortlist for its 11th award cycle at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Selected from over 400 nominees, the 19 projects, spanning 16 countries, range from a small private residence in India to the conservation of an Ottoman town in Albania.
To Khorog with love — Sharing the joy of skating half-way around the world
Since its inauguration in 2009, Khorog City Park in Tajikistan has become a popular year-round destination. Even in the deep freeze of the winter, children zipped through the park last year, laughing and throwing snowballs. But this winter, Khorog’s frozen pond will also come alive, as the joy of ice skating is shared between young Ismailis in Tajikistan and Canada, half a world away.
Of flood rains and resilience: The struggle to survive in the wake of the Pakistan flood disaster
Millions of people throughout Pakistan have been devastated by heavy downpours and massive flooding that has been described as one of the worst disasters in the country’s history. But in the face of calamity, communities, institutions, government and civil society are coming together to help one another and rebuild lives.
FOCUS deploys full-scale relief effort to assist thousands of flood victims in Pakistan
FOCUS Pakistan has launched a significant relief effort in the wake of severe flooding that has caused widespread destruction in several of the country’s provinces. With its Search and Rescue Team, Community Emergency Response Teams and hundreds of volunteers, FOCUS has already delivered food, shelters and supplies to hundreds of affected households, with some 200 tonnes of relief goods en route to help thousands more.
Far East Jamat gathers in Penang for a day of sport, learning and fun
In June, Ismailis from Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur joined the Jamat in Penang, Malaysia for a sports day event that coincided with Father’s Day. Numerous activities were organised, but badminton and table tennis were the centrepiece competitions.
Jamat in Kabul comes together around week-long celebration of volunteerism
Earlier this year, the Afghan Jamat observed a week-long celebration of volunteerism, a tradition that has long been central to Ismaili culture. Volunteer Week was an opportunity to showcase the impact that volunteers have on the Jamat’s wellbeing, and increase the unity and collaboration among them, as well as within the wider Jamat.
Imamat Day in Tajikistan marks 15 years of engagement in the country’s development
On 11 July, the Ismaili Centre, Dushanbe was the venue for an Imamat Day reception hosted by the Aga Khan Development Network in Tajikistan. The event, which also marked the 15th anniversary of the signing of an Agreement of Cooperation between the Government of Tajikistan and the AKDN, included a cultural show as well as a three-day exhibition of AKDN’s projects in the country during the past 15 years.
Performers join hands across the Indian Ocean to celebrate Africa at 2010 World Cup
Over the past four weeks, millions of people have turned their attention to South Africa, host of the 2010 FIFA World Cup championship. It is the first time that the tournament is being hosted in an African country, and for a group of Ismaili musicians who performed at the Kick Off Concert, the occasion is particularly special.
Five-part international news programme sheds new light on human trafficking
It is believed to be one of the fastest growing forms of organised crime in the world, though most people ignore it or are simply unaware. But through a five-part series currently being aired on BBC World Television, executive producer Faridoun Hemani and researcher Jazzmin Jiwa hope to change that. They assert that human trafficking is a modern form of slavery.
Update from Focus Humanitarian Assistance
17 May 2010 — An update from Focus Humanitarian Assistance on FOCUS’ collaboration with Jamati institutions and national agencies in response to the devastating landslide that occurred in the Attabad village of Hunza Valley in Pakistan on 4 January 2010.
Pamirs provide an enchanting backdrop to learn about the Jamat in Tajikistan
Recalling her visit to Tajikistan last summer, Janet Southern shares her experience of being immersed in Pamiri culture, as she lived and worked in Khorog for two months. Embraced by the warm hospitality of her hosts, she observes how community tradition is contributing to self-sustained economic development.
Displaced people of Hunza struggle to move on
Life in the Hunza valley was changed forever when a landslide buried the entire village of Attabad in the Northern Pakistan territory of Gilgit-Baltistan earlier this year. Despite extensive relief efforts, the future remains uncertain as a lake resulting from the landslide swallows villages and threatens the lives of thousands downstream.
In Lisbon, Kabul and around the world, Ismailis gather for International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is celebrated by individuals, organisations and governments every year. This year a special recognition event was held for women at the Ismaili Centre, Lisbon, while the Ismaili Council for Afghanistan hosted an event in Kabul that drew some 900 participants.
Four Partnership Walk & Run enthusiasts share their experience of meeting beneficiaries firsthand
Last November, four dedicated participants from the Partnership Walk & Run in the United Kingdom had a chance to see the impact of their efforts firsthand. They spent seven days in India, where they visited one of the projects selected to receive funds from the event. They recently shared their impressions with TheIsmaili.org.
Afghan Jamat hosts a successful event commemorating Prophet Muhammad’s birthday
Some 800 people gathered at Uranus Hall in Kabul to commemorate Mowlud-e-Sharif, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family). The event, which was hosted by the Ismaili Council for Afghanistan, was attended by poets, scholars, Members of Parliament, government officials and representatives of other communities in Afghanistan.
Jamati member from Australia earns second prize in Divisional Toastmasters competition
Hussain Rajwani of Sydney, Australia was recently placed second in a Toastmasters divisional competition. Toastmasters International is a global organisation dedicated to public speaking and oral communication, enhancing leadership skills and confidence.
Fatal landslide in Hunza Valley threatens to flood villages
A massive landslide in the Hunza Valley damaged and buried three villages in the northern Pakistan territory of Gilgit-Baltistan, killing at least 19 people and rendering over 250 families homeless. Residents were quickly evacuated, but the aftermath of the landslide is also threatening populations outside of the immediately affected area.
A summer adventure: FOCUS Hike4Life in Kyrgyzstan
Alim Nagji, writes about his experience during the FOCUS Hike4Life held this summer in Kyrgyzstan. Some 40 participants undertook a 100 kilometre journey through the Tian Shan mountains surrounding Lake Issyk-Kul, the second largest mountain lake in the world.
First Ismaili Centre in Central Asia Opens
Dushanbe, Tajikistan, 12 October 2009 — His Highness the Aga Khan, Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and His Excellency President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan, jointly inaugurated the first Ismaili Centre in Central Asia — a region that has been home to Ismaili Muslims for more than a thousand years.
Mawlana Hazar Imam opens “a park for all seasons” in the Khorog city centre
A newly revitalised Khorog City Park was inaugurated on 10 October 2009 by First Deputy Prime Minister Asadullo Gulomov of the Republic of Tajikistan, in the presence of Mawlana Hazar Imam. The Park is a significant new green space that will serve the residents of the capital of the Gorno-Badakhshan autonomous region in Tajikistan.
A beacon of hope from the summit of Afghanistan’s highest mountain
Four young Afghan Ismaili mountaineers from Wakhan wanted to offer a message of peace and hope to their countrymen. Together with a team of Frenchmen, they set out to climb Noshaq — the country’s highest mountain.
Scoring the sounds of Bollywood
Salim and Sulaiman Merchant started their career composing “jingles” — short pieces for television advertisements. But a big break in 1997 led them to build a solid career in Bollywood, where they regularly compose songs and background music for high-profile films.
Economic opportunities in Bangladesh attract interest from the Jamat abroad
Decades ago, Bangladesh was home to a thriving Jamat. Ismailis were active in key industries including jute, textiles, steel, aluminum, leather, construction, and food processing, as well as trading, banking, insurance and hotels. Today, the country is re-emerging as an area of economic interest to both the Jamat and the wider international community.
My year of living livelihoods
During the course of the Golden Jubilee, many murids around the world pledged a nazrana of Time and Knowledge to Mawlana Hazar Imam. Shaheen Tejani reflects on the completion of her recent TKN engagement with the Aga Khan Agency for Microfinance.
Imamat Day celebrations in Tajikistan feature education-themed reception
In Tajikistan, the celebration of Roz-e Takht Nishini has traditionally included family and neighbourhood gatherings with shared meals, music and dancing. This year, the AKDN Resident Representative Office contributed to the festivities by hosting an education-themed reception.
Volunteer search and rescue team is the highlight of FOCUS event
In May, Focus Humanitarian Assistance celebrated its 15th anniversary with An Evening with Focus, held at the Ismaili Centre, London. The event created awareness of the integral role that FOCUS and its volunteers play in communities around the world.
A lens into the legacy of Royal Photographer Noor Ali Rashid
Born in 1929 in the port of Gwadar, Noor Ali Rashid was sent to Dubai by his father, who hoped to cure him of his interest in photography — a distraction from the family business. Instead, through the lens of his camera, Rashid bore witness to the unfolding of a new country.
Young Ismaili travellers discover their history and heritage
Last year, a group of young Ismailis from around the world undertook a unique expedition. Through the Heritage Discovery Programme, they explored the physical, intellectual and spiritual dimensions of centuries of Ismaili legacy.
Cycling the open road: FOCUS Bike4Life 2008
Sixty-nine people participated in the 2008 FOCUS Challenge event, cycling some 550 kilometres from Mumbai to Goa along the Konkan Coast. This photo essay documents their journey.
Donation of 100 wheelchairs to benefit the infirm in Singapore
The Ismaili Council for Malaysia and Singapore recently donated 100 wheelchairs that will benefit several social welfare groups as well as twin sisters suffering from cerebral palsy. The wheelchairs were presented during a ceremony attended by Singapore’s Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Zainul Abidin Rasheed.
Graduates of IIS programme carve out dynamic career paths
Ismailis interested in tackling pressing issues faced by societies around the world increasingly see the Graduate Programme in Islamic Studies and Humanities as a stepping stone. The multi-disciplinary programme is a bridge to new and exciting opportunities.
Eleven countries, one Jamat united in celebration
Jamati members from 11 countries of the Far East are gathering in Singapore for Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Golden Jubilee visit. The events and celebrations leading up to the Darbar reflect the diversity of the Jamat in the region.
UCA-NUS partnership to develop a cadre of Central Asian scholars
A partnership between the University of Central Asia and the National University of Singapore aims to ensure that Central Asian scholars with top international academic credentials are strongly represented in the UCA’s faculty. The first students selected for the programme have high aspirations for their native countries.
Civic participation and institutional expertise assist villages in Tajikistan to prepare for natural disaster
Thousands of families living in Tajikistan experience earthquakes and other hazards throughout the year that impact their lives and livelihoods. Focus Humanitarian Assistance strives to reduce the impact of natural disasters through community-based initiatives.
Central Asia visit diary
During a ten-day visit to Central Asia, Mawlana Hazar Imam visited Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and the Kyrgyz Republic, where he met with senior government and institutional leaders, and assessed the development of the University of Central Asia as well as other AKDN and Imamat projects. In Tajikistan, Hazar Imam granted Golden Jubilee Darbars at Ishkashim and Porshinev, and layed the foundation for the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre in Khorog.
Speech at the Foundation Ceremony of The Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre, Khorog
Speech by Mawlana Hazar Imam at the Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony of The Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre, Khorog on Monday, 3 November 2008
Jamat prepares for Mawlana Hazar Imam’s arrival in Tajikistan
The Jamat of Tajikistan is eagerly awaiting the commencement of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s visit with anticipation and excitement. From sprucing up the streets to holding celebratory community gatherings, members of the Jamat are preparing for the country’s first Darbars in ten years.
Art competition in Pakistan raises awareness of environmental issues
In Islam, protection of the physical environment is one of humankind’s responsibilities. The Aga Khan Planning and Building Service, Pakistan organised a nationwide Friends of the Environment art competition to raise awareness about the importance of the natural environment and methods of preserving it.
Revival of traditional dress in Badakhshan mirrors shifting landscape of cultural influence
The evolution in choice of dress among the Ismailis of Gorno-Badakhshan in Tajikistan is reflective of wider changes and influences that have affected that society over the past decades. The recent re-emergence of Pamiri dress speaks to a rediscovery of local heritage.
First purpose-built Jamatkhana opens in the Ishkashim region of Afghan Badhakhshan
The Jamat of Afghanistan celebrated the opening of the first purpose-built Jamatkhana in the Ishkashim district of Badakhshan. Hundreds gathered for the official opening, which was attended by a number of distinguished guests including the Governor of Badakhshan Province and the President of the Provincial Assembly.
Athletes from around the world arrive to a warm Kenyan welcome
Hundreds of Golden Jubilee Games athletes were greeted upon their arrival at the Games Village on the premises of the Parklands complex in Nairobi. Most had travelled long distances, and for many the journey was their first to Africa.
Road to the Games: USA and Australia prepare to send their best to Nairobi
In the run-up to the Golden Jubilee Games, Ismaili athletes from the United States, Australia and New Zealand came together as a single team. Overcoming vast distances, they built bonds, strengthened their skills and prepared themselves for Nairobi.
Road to the Games: Tajikistan Jamat’s volleyball team has a storied past
The Ismaili women’s volleyball team from Tajikistan is composed of members of the the Badakhshan regional team, recent winners of Tajikistan's 2008 National Volleyball championship. Players describe the history of their team and their aspirations for the Golden Jubilee Games in Nairobi.
Road to the Games: Pakistan’s josh trials at AKU draw wide participation
The Pakistan Jamat participated in the josh trials for the Golden Jubilee Games at the Aga Khan University Sports and Rehabilitation Centre in Karachi, drawing more than 2 200 athletes from across the country.
Road to the Games: Saurashtra galli players impress in cricket final
Athletes from across India revelled at the opportunity to showcase their talent in qualification rounds leading to the Golden Jubilee Games. Strong cricket teams from Saurashtra, Gujarat performed well against their urban competitors, and the Indian team will include nationally recognised athletes in table tennis and swimming.
Road to the Games: Athletes from USA, Australia and New Zealand train for the Games
Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania, was the site of a weekend camp for athletes who will be competing in the Golden Jubilee Games at the end of June. The excitement was palpable as the players came together for the first time as Team USA / ANZ.
Road to the Games: Afghan Jamat holds first tournament at the Kabul Olympic Stadium
Selections for the Golden Jubilee Games in Afghanistan began in the Autumn of 2007. Qualification rounds in various sports took place in the provinces of Badakhshan, Baghlan, Bamyan and Kabul, and an excited national Jamati team is now preparing to join their brothers and sisters in Nairobi, Kenya.
Bangladesh visit
19 – 22 May 2008
In Bangladesh, Mawlana Hazar Imam granted a Golden Jubilee Darbar to the Jamat in Dhaka. Hazar Imam also presided over the foundation of the Aga Khan Academy and the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre Dhaka.
Rebuilding in post-tsunami Aceh
Naik Alam has been working in the tsunami-affected region of Aceh, Indonesia since 2005, as part of an effort to rebuild the devastated province. He has applied his knowledge of sanitation to improve access to fresh water in some of the worst-affected communities in the region.
Bangladesh visit diary
During his visit to Bangladesh between 19 – 22 May 2008, Mawlana Hazar Imam granted a Golden Jubilee Darbar to the Jamat in Dhaka. Hazar Imam also presided over the foundation of the Aga Khan Academy and the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre Dhaka.
India visit diary
Mawlana Hazar Imam's Golden Jubilee visit to India between 12 – 19 May 2008 included stops in Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat. In addition to granting Darbars to the Jamat, Hazar Imam met with government leaders and visited AKDN institutions and projects in various parts of the country.
Jamat in Badakhshan celebrates Navroz with an historic cross-border concert
In a symbolic expression of their long historic ties and common roots, thousands of Jamati members from the Tajik and Afghan sides of Badakhshan came together for a cross-border concert to celebrate Navroz.
Dushanbe marks Navroz with art exhibition and performances
A Navroz reception in Dushanbe, Tajikistan drew more than 600 attendees and featured an exhibition of children’s artwork on the theme of Navroz, as well as a performance by 2006 Grammy nominee, the Academy of Maqâm.
Ismaili business alliances in India
Ismaili-owned retail businesses in India are forming alliances in order to remain competitive in a growing economy. In November 2007, various Ismaili alliances gathered in Hyderabad to share best practices and strengthen their partnerships.
Sports Festivals encourage individuals with special needs
Six Sports Festivals are being held across Pakistan to give members of the Jamat with special needs, an opportunity to take part in the Golden Jubilee year celebrations while promoting awareness and support for them and their families.
Bangladesh Youth Camp
Society has high hopes for the youth given their potential to change the destiny of nations. The Prottasha (Bengali for "expectations") Youth Camp aimed to instill those aspirations in the youth of Bangladesh.
AKDN hosts exhibition in Tajikistan
Over 5 000 people viewed informative exhibits, listened to traditional Tajik music, and examined locally-developed products as part of a two-day exhibition on the work of the Aga Khan Development Network in Tajikistan.
Spiritual Sounds of Central Asia
A profile of the AKMICA sponsored concert tour in the USA which featured three musical traditions from Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan. Each tradition displayed a common thread that linked the cultures with music that has been used to express social identity and preserve spiritual beliefs.
Laughter club
The old adage that "laughter is the best form of medicine" is behind the growing popularity of Laughter clubs. Zareena Bana, the chairperson and founder of Joo Chiat-East Coast Laughter Club, has been noted in the Singapore Book of Records for conducting the largest laughter session which was attended by approximately 20 000 people.
Forays into the global village
Sabeen Virani talks about the growing phenomenon of young people across North America going overseas to study, work, or volunteer. She recounts her own experience in Syria as well as other individuals’ ventures to places like Sudan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Uganda.
Life in the fast lane
The air was acrid and the noise deafening as state-of-the-art race cars zoomed around the track only coming in for a pit stop to pick up a fresh set of tires and more fuel. For a small group of Malaysian youth this outing exposed them to a very different career and allowed them to meet an Ismaili celebrity in their midst - Nur Ali, the dashing young racing phenom.
Nanga Parbat - Hike to raise awareness of thalassemia
The United Arab Emirates Thalassemia Society and Pakistani Thalassemia Society joined hands to increase awareness of thalassemia. Last year, the awareness effort was undertaken by a trek to Nanga Parbat in the Himalayas. The Aga Khan Scouts and Guides of United Arab Emirates participated and raised funds for this awareness campaign.
Volunteers celebrated
The commemoration of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Golden Jubilee was a unique and momentous occasion for Ismailis around the world. In North America, Australia, and New Zealand, the planning for the celebrations began over a year ago by thousands of volunteers as they prepared to host the Jamat in 19 different cities. The multitude of activities from conceptualization of the commemoration to the execution of the epochal event were performed entirely by volunteers who on this day, gave with their tan, man, and dhan (material, spiritual and financial resources.)
Rumi — 800th anniversary
Tell me, is sugar sweeter Or He who makes sugar cane? Is the Beauty of the moon better Or He who makes it wax and wane? Source: Diwan-e Shams-e Tabrizi, translated by Shahriar Shahriari
The Harmony Centre, An-Nahdhah Mosque
Pluralism involves more than just tolerance, for tolerance does not ensure harmony. With ten national religions Singapore could be deemed the poster child for diversity and with this diversity, pluralism is tantamount. The Harmony Centre, part of the An-Nahdhah Mosque in Singapore aims to cast aside the misconceptions regarding Islam and Muslims and provides insights into the religious practices of Muslims as well other religions and the importance that Islam places of pluralism.
Jamat celebrates Independence Day in India
Sixty years and she's seen it all - happiness and sorrow, love and hate, poverty and riches. And her citizens celebrated this milestone across the country. Independence Day in India was celebrated by Jamati members at various centres across India. The Independence Day events invigorated and re-ignited the spirit of patriotism in the Jamat who are proud to be citizens of India and share with her the journey forward.
Golden Jubilee Imamat Day in Asia
Asia is a continent spread across great distances, represented by diverse food, saree colours, culture, tradition and a dynamic blend of ethnicities. However, these physical distinctions played a secondary role when Jamats across the Central, South, Southeast Asia and the Far East came together for one purpose recently – to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Mawlana Hazar Imam.
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