Jamatkhana Architecture

kmaherali
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kmaherali
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Moshi Jamatkhana, Tanzania

https://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2016/ ... -tanzania/

Excerpt from “Ismaili settlement in Moshi”

“My father, accompanied by grandparents, came to Africa in 1906,” recalls Jimmy Moolji. “He was only 11 years old.”

The Moolji Nazarali family was among other pioneers.

His father’s elder brother, Alibhai Nazarali came to East Africa a little earlier and settled at a place called Sultan Hamud near Eldoret in Kenya. His mission was to pave way for settling the rest of family members.

Moolji (Jimmy) also recalls as school was not an option, his father started hawking food prepared by his grandmother.

Moshi Jamatkhana

A few years later his father was betrothed to his mother who was born in Dar es Salaam but had become orphans and lived with close relatives in Voi not too far from Moshi.

He eventually moved to Voi and started working in the sisal estate with his in-laws.

The Moolji family made a fortune in business and later decided to return to Moshi with his small family at the time the Ismaili population was on the rapid rise. Jimmy (Moolji) said his father and others built the town’s first Jamat Khana at a cost of 25,000 shillings.

The fund raising campaign was not going well because of hard times.

Moolji died in 1936 and to honour his memory and legacy, a clock tower was built in a traffic circle which is still in existence today.This was when the Moolji family decided to pay for the entire cost for the Jamat Khana and later built a library, a guest house and a nursery school.
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Westwinds Jamatkhana

The Council for Canada is pleased to inform the Jamat that the new Calgary Northeast Jamatkhana will open on Friday, July 15th. The Jamatkhana will be named Calgary Westwinds Jamatkhana to reflect the community in which the Jamatkhana is situated.

Transition from Airways to Westwinds Jamatkhana

Starting on the evening of Friday, July 15th, Airways Jamatkhana will close and members of the Jamat will transition to Westwinds Jamatkhana.

In the first month, once the Westwinds Jamatkhana reaches capacity, Jamati members will be respectfully redirected to attend other Jamatkhanas.

Site Visits and Tours

We understand that many Jamati members will be excited to see and learn more about this beautiful new structure. In order to ensure an orderly and safe environment as construction work is completed on the premises, Jamati members are encouraged to view Westwinds Jamatkhana during the scheduled visits and tours.

Tours will be offered for the Airways/Westwinds Jamat on Tuesday, July 19th and Thursday, July 21th following evening ceremonies.

An Open House will be held for all Prairies Jamati members on Saturday, July 23rd from11 am to 3 pm. Members of the Prairies Jamat are invited to attend with family and friends to see the new Jamatkhana and participate in a tour. Further details regarding the Open House and additional tour dates will be provided soon.

We express immense gratitude to all the sevadaris who have contributed to making this historic moment possible for the Prairies Jamat.

On this auspicious and joyous occasion, we convey heartiest Mubaraki to all members of the Jamat. We offer our humble shukhrana to Mawlana Hazar Imam for this magnificent facility that the Jamat will cherish for years to come.
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Information
Westwinds Jamatkhana, Calgary



The Council for Canada is delighted to inform the Jamat that a commemorative ceremony was held on Friday, July 15, 2016 to celebrate the inauguration of the new Calgary Westwinds Jamatkhana with Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi, Council for Canada President Malik Talib as well as Jamati, community and volunteer leaders and representatives.

Located on almost 7 acres of land, the new Westwinds Jamatkhana replaces Calgary’s Airways Jamatkhana, a Jamatkhana that the Calgary Jamat has enjoyed attending since 1980. Westwinds Jamatkhana will help to better meet a growing need within the Calgary Jamat.

In addition to providing space for congregational prayer and tariqah practices, the Jamatkhana will also offer a venue for cultural events, intellectual discussions and social gatherings. It features spaces for Bait-ul-Ilm classes, institutional offices and a multi-purpose social hall.

We express immense gratitude to all the sevadaries who have contributed to making this historic moment possible for the Prairies Jamat.

On this auspicious and joyous occasion, we convey Mubaraki to all members of the Jamat, and offer our humble shukrana to Mawlana Hazar Imam for this magnificent facility that the Jamat will cherish for years to come.

Please click here for images from the event.

http://iicanada.org/westwinds

http://iicanada.org/national/sun-2016-0 ... #node10883
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Photos taken during the opening of the Brossard JK in greater Montreal

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set ... 430&type=3

https://mobile.twitter.com/AlexandraBrS ... 0228253701

Brossard Jamatkhana

The Jamati institutions are delighted to inform the Jamat that a commemorative ceremony was held on Friday, September 16 to celebrate the inauguration of the new Brossard Jamatkhana with Brossard Mayor Paul Leduc; MP Alexandra Mendes; Council for Canada President Malik Talib; as well as Jamati, community and volunteer leaders and representatives.

Located on approximately 3.5 acres of land, the new Matte Boulevard location replaces the Lapiniere site, a Jamatkhana that the Brossard Jamat has enjoyed attending since 1996. The Jamatkhana will be a hub for Jamati activity and community relations, featuring a beautiful prayer hall, spaces for Bait-ul- Ilm classes and a multi-purpose social hall.

We express immense gratitude to all the sevadaries who have contributed to making this historic moment possible for the Quebec Jamat.

We convey Mubaraki to all members of the Jamat on this important occasion, and offer our shukrana to Mawlana Hazar Imam for this magnificent facility.

- Ontario Electronic Al-Akhbar | Friday, September 23, 2016
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The Shia Imami Ismaili Jamat Khana, Pajifond, Goa

http://www.panoramio.com/photo/24465785
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First Jamatkhana in South Africa #jamatkhana #ismaili #muslim #historicalplace #mosque #ancient #southafrica #pretoria #oldbuilding

Picture:

http://www.pictaram.com/media/130676621 ... _422525097
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Great photographs of Jamatakhanas and other facilities associated with Ismailis.

https://hussein.smugmug.com/Photos/i-fCs7Nv4
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Ismaili Jamatkhana, Junagadh, Gujarat

https://www.facebook.com/35754492427566 ... =1&theater
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Khorog Jamat Khana Tajikistan

ISMAILI JAMATKHANA


Categories

CONCRETE STRUCTURE


Location

KHOROG, TAJIKISTAN


Surface Area

4.890 m2


Year Complete

2017

http://turasconstruction.com/d02.html
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Construction Photographs: New Khorog Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre

Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre under construction, in the “Jewel of the Pamir” Khorog, Tajikistan. Mawlana Hazar Imam laid the foundation of this Jamatkhana on 3rd November 2008.

By: Kamrudin A. Rashid

ISMAILI JAMATKHANA IN KHOROG, GORNO BADAKSHAN, TAJIKISTAN

During our visit to Khorog (Gorno Badakshan, Tajikistan) with our close family friends in August 2016,, we were fortunate to visit the site of the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre in Khorog which is currently under construction. We were also fortunate to visit many important AKF and AKDN projects in and around Khorog including some historical sites and places.

https://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2017/ ... nd-centre/
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Kamrudin A Rashid: Historical Jamatkhana in Majunga, Madagascar

HISTORICAL JAMATKHANA IN MAJUNGA, MADAGASCAR
Kamrudin A Rashid
 
This historical Jamatkhana in Majunga, Madagascar was built during the time of Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah in 1925.

Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah also planted a mango tree as a symbol of prosperity and success of the Jamat in Madagascar.

The following are the pictures of this historical Jamatkhana and the mango tree planted by Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah:

ismailimail.wordpress.com/2017/09/22/kamrudin-a-rashid-historical-jamatkhana-in-majunga-madagascar/
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Aga Khan Foundation Follow

Ismaili Centre under construction, Khorog


https://www.flickr.com/photos/agakhanfo ... 880797262/
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Darkhana Jamatkhana, Kampala, Uganda.

Photo Credit: Salim Adatia

https://www.facebook.com/theismailiugan ... =1&theater
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https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/chaman ... urce=embed

October 23rd Opening Ceremony of Chamangul Jamat Khana Gulmit, Gojal, Hunza. Mubaraki to all Ismaili murids.

VIDEO

https://www.facebook.com/bari.s.ahmed.3 ... 464538801/
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Entrance gate to Khanabad Jamatkhana. Hunza, Pakistan.

Photo:

https://hussein.smugmug.com/Photos/i-QtJS34H
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Abbott joins Ismaili Muslims in opening Cedar Park community center

Gov. Greg Abbott was on hand Tuesday as Ismaili Muslims community members opened their first purpose-built interfaith center in Cedar Park.

The Ismaili Jamatkhana at 2401 South Lakeline Boulevard is the newest prayer and gathering place that community leaders say was built specially to promote an understanding of Islam and other religions.

More...

https://www.mystatesman.com/news/local/ ... TXmB9MabO/
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Texas Governor and community officials inaugurate new Ismaili Jamatkhana

Nestled just outside Austin, the city of Cedar Park is now home to a new, permanent Ismaili Jamatkhana. On 7 August 2018, state, city, and local leaders from across Texas joined Jamati leaders and volunteers to open the new purpose-built space, and share its vision.

Upon arriving at the new Jamatkhana, visitors were struck by its gleaming white facade. Many walked into the building for the first time on 7 August and saw its iconic circular motif of eight overlapping circles, which adorn the exterior walls and outdoor waterfall feature.

The Mayor of Cedar Park, Corbin Van Arsdale, addressed the assembled guests, noting that “Cedar Park is a diverse community … and the Ismaili community brings additional diversity, professionalism, and a servant-hearted ethic that adds great value and quality to our experience in our community.” He recounted attending a Jamatkhana tour a few weeks earlier, and being “struck by the warmth of the people here as well as the architecture and the feeling of the building itself.”

Dr. Barkat Fazal, President of the Ismaili Council for the United States, welcomed the guests and provided a context on the functions of the Jamatkhana: “This centre is envisioned to be a place to build bridges and encourage dialogue between our civic organisations, civil society, and faith communities,” he said.

Following President Fazal’s remarks, Texas Governor Greg Abbott delivered a keynote address in which he also acknowledged the Jamatkhana as “a place of civic and interfaith engagement — a place to share knowledge, to learn, and unite cultures.” He also recognised the Ismaili community’s dedication to volunteerism. He thanked the 2,500 Ismaili volunteers who dedicated more than 13,000 hours to the evacuation and recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, telling the 150-plus attendees present, that “Texas is forever thankful for the way these volunteers came together to help those in need.”

Following the remarks, Governor Abbott, Mayor Van Arsdale, and President Fazal stood together to unveil a commemorative plaque. Governor Abbott then presented a signed proclamation recognising the opening ceremony of the Ismaili Jamatkhana.

After the opening ceremony concluded in the social hall — designed to accommodate educational and social events such as seminars and conferences — the guests gathered to greet one another under the Jamatkhana’s rotunda, which features a large skylight to let in natural light. Here, they were able to view the Ethics in Action exhibit, depicting the work of the Aga Khan Development Network, and join guided tours of the building, to learn about its architecture and many functions.

Attendees at the event included elected city, county, and state officials, as well as leaders from academic and healthcare institutions, interfaith leaders, and representatives from diverse civil society organisations.

Many marvelled at the circular motif found in details from the Jamatkhana’s carpeting to the metal latticework. The tessellating motif symbolises unity and diversity in nature, and is inspired by both traditional Islamic geometry and the clean, modern lines of mid-century architecture prevalent across the Austin area.

The total Jamatkhana space of over 28,000 square feet, designed locally by the renowned Austin company, Pfluger Architects, includes dedicated areas for early learning classrooms, a library, religious education classrooms, and a small conference room, alongside a 7,000-square-feet prayer hall.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the event was that individuals from across diverse communities had all come together under one roof for this momentous occasion.

“I’m very impressed with the community, the centre, and the outreach into the broader community. Just a minute ago, we had individuals from the Jewish, Muslim, and Hindu communities all in one circle of conversation,” noted Earl Maxwell, CEO of St. David’s Foundation, an organisation addressing the most pressing health challenges in the Central Texas region.

“It warms my heart to see a community that is all about inclusivity and gives it such a high value,” remarked Simone Flowers, the Executive Director of Interfaith Action of Central Texas. “This is such a beautiful place … there’s so much light, and the energy is really positive. I can’t wait to have an interfaith event here.”

https://the.ismaili/usa/texas-governor- ... jamatkhana
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Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre in Khorog opens its doors to the Jamat

Nestled amid flourishing trees, a flowing river, and a formidable mountain range, the newly opened Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre in Khorog is a long-awaited blessing for the Jamat of Tajikistan.

Up close, a jewel is made up of a number of facets, each producing intriguing patterns, which help the gem to shine. Shimmering bright on the evening of 12 December 2018, the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre, Khorog opened its doors to the Jamat on the eve of Salgirah.

At the foot of the Pamir mountains, and situated beside Khorog City Park and the Gunt River, the Centre provides a purpose-built space for congregation, contemplation, and contribution to civil society.

In his remarks at the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre, Khorog in 2008, Mawlana Hazar Imam said, “It is my hope that the town of Khorog will become the Jewel of the Pamir.”

On that significant day, Mamadnazar Mamadnazarov thought to himself that whomever is involved in the building of the Centre would be very lucky indeed. Little did he know that he himself would be involved, as the site manager.

“Our people dreamt of their [own] place of worship for years. It was Monday, 3 November 2008 when Mawlana Hazar Imam laid the foundation stone for the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre in Khorog. This day became a happy and special day to our people.”

Construction began in April 2016 with a focus on benefiting the local community and utilising local building materials. For example, approximately 1.5 million pieces of granite were used to clad in the interior and exterior walls of the building. Most of the floors have also been tiled with local granite.

Several local companies were involved in the building project, from site excavation, timber cladding, to stone production. In addition, at its peak, up to 400 local craftspeople worked on the construction of the building, which in the process provided them with new skills for future employment opportunities.

The completed Centre offers tranquil spaces for both spiritual and secular endeavour. Its focal point is the prayer hall, which features a Pamiri roof, stone walls, stained glass windows, and carved wood pillars. The Centre also houses a social hall, library, meeting and multipurpose rooms, a foyer, a covered veranda, an amphitheatre, and courtyards.

This Centre is the latest in a series of projects which have contributed to the development of the city of Khorog, the capital of the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region in Tajikistan.

Mawlana Hazar Imam remarked on these plans for progress at the foundation stone ceremony in 2008.

“And we will seek to improve, all of us together, the quality of the environment in which we live, bringing clean water to everywhere where the people live, bringing energy to all the places where people live, improving the schools and health facilities, improving and restoring our historic buildings which are representations today of our cultural history,” he said.

“We today have a new park in Khorog, inshallah we will build the University of Central Asia, we will build this Centre, and while working together, step by step, we will make Khorog the Jewel of the Pamir.”

Since then, the revitalised Khorog City park was inaugurated in 2009, and includes a river promenade, a pond, a children’s play area, and a restaurant and teahouse. In addition, the University of Central Asia’s Khorog campus was officially inaugurated earlier this year, becoming UCA’s second operating campus, attracting students from across Central Asia.

The Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre Khorog is the latest in this series of developments, representing a long-awaited blessing for the people in the Pamirs, and which will serve the flourishing of the Jamat and the surrounding communities for decades to come. Glimmering at the heart of Khorog, the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre adds another facet to the ‘Jewel of the Pamir.’

Photos at:
https://the.ismaili/news/jamatkhana-and ... oors-jamat
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Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center opens in the “Jewel of the Pamir”

The Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center has opened in the “Jewel of the Pamir”, Khorog, the capital of the Gorno Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO).

The project costs 15 million U.S. dollars and the construction of the Center was funded by the Aga Khan Foundation.

The Center consists of three parts, including the prayer halls that can accommodate 1,500 worshipers. The Center also features administrative and meeting facilities, classrooms, library and social halls that can accommodate 450 people.

The Center is located in the center of Khorog near City Park on the bank of the Ghund River.

The foundation stone laying ceremony of the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center in Khorog took place on November 3, 2008 but the active phase of construction of the Center began in 2016.

Read more: https://news.tj/en/news/tajikistan/soci ... -the-pamir
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Common Ground - The Ismaili Centres as Enablers for Holistic Engagement.

“The Holy Quran commands humankind to shape our earthly environment, as good stewards of the Divine Creation...We hope that the Aga Khan Award for Architecture will always point towards an architecture of optimism and harmony, a powerful force in elevating the quality of human life.”

Speech by Mawlana Hazar Imam at the Aga Khan Award for Architecture Ceremony, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 2016.


Across history, the public space has physically and symbolically consolidated the presence of civilizations and societies throughout the world.

Unique to the architectural traditions of Muslim Cultures, however, has been the masterful, and at times playful, balance of this aesthetic expression with functional utility. In doing so, this creates a lasting impact for the communities who live and work amongst these public spaces.

And of course this is not a compromise between practicality and creative ambition - it is a rich fusion between the two. By doing so, the ‘Public Space’ does not only act as a representation of a community’s heritage and values, but it in fact becomes the focal point around which the social and cultural life of a community can revolve.

The Ismaili Centres act in the same way, both as ambassadorial or cultural symbols, but also as spaces with the capacity to facilitate all aspects of the daily life of the Ismaili community.

Traditionally, the space established for congregational prayer has been referred to by many Muslim Communities as masjid ( a term derived from the Arabic sajada, meaning to bow or prostrate).

Derived from the Arabic Jama‘a (Community) and the Persian khana (House), the Jamatkhana similarly serves as a place for congregational and personal prayer, whilst also providing capacity and facility for the various cultural, social and educational needs of the community.

It is with this intention of facilitating inclusive and active social engagement that a variety of architectural features, inspired by the traditions of Muslim Civilizations, can be seen across all of the six Ismaili Centres.

The alcove, for instance - a small pocket of space placed at an indent from the usual wall or corridor - is not just a feature of aesthetic value; it encourages groups of people to sit together and engage, with an added quietness from the sound-muffling qualities of the way the windows are shaped.

This smaller retreating space compliments the wider atrium-style spaces commonly referred to as ‘social halls’. These larger multipurpose spaces utilise natural light, open plan design, and various floor elevations to provide larger spaces where the entire community can come together, with the addition of, and a warm welcome towards, non-Ismaili guests and visitors.

Another key design consideration present in the Ismaili Centres is accessibility. Designers of public spaces, furniture and interiors are often faced with the challenge of ensuring that those with all ranges of ability are able to participate in an equally immersive experience, across the entire journey of being in the public space. At the Ismaili Centre London, enclosed built-in ramps on the sides of the entrance provide privacy and comfort for wheelchair users to travel up to the social space, where this ramp rejoins with the shared walkway. Moreover, the shape and form of the staircase railings are able to provide sensory cues to aid visitors with visual impairments to find their way upstairs to the social and prayer halls.
Not only does this suggest the high level of consideration given for people of all levels of ability, but it also reinforces the notion of unity within the community, as all individual members can all take part in a collective experience within the community space.

This notion of accessible engagement for all members of the Jamat is evident in the emphasis Mawlana Hazar Imam places on our Jamatkhanas and Ismaili Centres as spaces for fostering unity within the Jamat, and stronger, collaborative ties with the communities amongst whom we live.

“These are places where Ismailis and non-Ismailis, Muslims and non-Muslims, will gather for shared activities… they will also, we trust, be filled with the sounds of enrichment, dialogue and warm human rapport, as Ismailis and non-Ismailis share their lives in a healthy gregarious spirit!

Yes! We are a community that welcomes the smile!”

Speech by Mawlana Hazar Imam at the Opening Ceremony of the Ismaili Centre, Toronto, September 2014.

Photos at:

https://the.ismaili/united-kingdom/comm ... engagement
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USA Jamatkhanas play important role in diversity and pluralism

Jamatkhanas and Ismaili Centres play an important role in the lives of the Ismaili community in the USA but they also play a very important role in promoting diversity and pluralism in the communities where they exist.

Jamatkhanas share a natural affinity with many places of worship. Throughout the country, local Ismaili Councils have engaged with various faith communities, inviting them to tour Jamatkhanas to participate in programmes.

In the Midwest, the Ismaili Jamatkhana in Glenview has hosted children from the neighboring Glenview Community Church Sunday School, St. David's Episcopal School, and 300 students from Springman Middle School, as part of their social studies curriculum. They toured the building and participated in a discussion about Islam and the Ismaili tariqah.

For almost two decades, the Council for the Midwest has also participated in the annual Thanksgiving service organized by the Edgewater Community Religious Association, an alliance of roughly 20 Christian, Jewish, and Muslim congregations in north Chicago. The celebration this year was held at the Ismaili Jamatkhana. Rabbi Craig Marantz remarked on the “similarity of our compassion,” and said that, “Even though we are all created in God’s image, we come out in diverse ways.”

The Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center, Houston, has held an Eid luncheon for many years, and this year over 130 people, including state and city officials and people of diverse faiths and backgrounds attended the event, which also featured musical entertainment by renowned sitar maestro Ikhlaq Hussain Khan, and tabla artist Shantilal Shah.

Also in Texas, the Ismaili Jamatkhana, Plano, hosted an interfaith event where 150 people of diverse faiths were invited to learn more about the Shia Ismaili Muslim community and to build bridges with the greater Plano community. The event offered tours of the facility, featured a performance by the Ismaili Muslim Youth Choir, and a visit from Plano Mayor Harry LaRosiliere who remarked, “There’s a sense of warmth and acceptance I feel when I come here, a sense of belonging immediately.”

For several years, Atlanta's Lovett School students, teachers, and parents have been visiting the Ismaili Jamatkhana while exploring diverse places of worship in Islam, and to learn about Islamic architecture, ethics, and values.
Said Mary Beth Walker, the Lower School Chaplain, “Our main goal was to not just talk about how we are the same, but also how are we different.”

Literature, art, and music have been avenues through which to share culture for centuries, and offer an entertaining and educational medium through which to understand each others' traditions, faiths, and histories. Cultural programmes provide a safe space through which to explore the diversity of the world around us.

With this in mind, musical performances are recurring events offered by the Jamat, and Plano Jamatkhana has hosted the musical heritage of Central Asia, performed by the trio Ancient Moods, co-sponsored by the Aga Khan Music Initiative and the Ismaili Council for the Central US, as well as the HUM Ensemble, with sitar player Sandeep Das.

A qawwali performance was organized at the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center in Houston, featuring the group Fanna-Fi-Allah. From the Indian Subcontinent, the audience was flown on a musical magical carpet to Spain, as the country's premier flamenco group, Solero Flamenco, illustrated the rhythms of this captivating art form.

Every year in New York since 2011, the Jamat has organized a Roz-e-Nur (Day of Light) event at the New York Headquarters Jamatkhana. The occasion is a celebration of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s first visit to Tajikistan in May 1995. It is a time when Tajik families celebrate by cooking palau and sweets, sing songs, maddoh and qasidas, and share memories and experiences.

Additional cultural programmes and interfaith collaborations are planned for the future at Jamatkhanas across the United States, and are expected to intensify following the opening of the Ismaili Center in Houston. They have provided a valuable opportunity for communities to come together and appreciate each other's traditions, and have allowed for lasting relationships to be built.

Photos at:
https://the.ismaili/usa/usa-jamatkhanas ... -pluralism
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New Jamatkhanas inaugurated in Gilgit-Baltistan

Situated in the mountains of Northern Pakistan, two new Jamatkhanas were opened last month in the valleys of Ishkoman and Puniyal in Gilgit-Baltistan. The inauguration ceremonies were attended by over 5,000 members of the Jamat.

The new spaces are located in areas of outstanding natural beauty. The Ishkoman valley runs north to south in the Northernmost part of Pakistan, and separates the Karakoram mountain range from the Hindu Kush. Puniyal, also a mountainous valley, translates from the Shina language to mean “basket of fruits.”

At the opening ceremony of the Ismaili Centre, Toronto in September 2014, Mawlana Hazar Imam remarked, “One of the ways in which Ismailis have expressed their identity wherever they have lived is through their places of prayer, known today as the Jamatkhana.”

The Jamatkhanas in Daien (Chatorkhand, Ishkoman) and Gitch (Singal, Puniyal) serve as a centre point for religious activities, and the inbuilt multi-purpose halls provide space for conducting social and educational activities such as early childhood development (ECD) classes.

“There is only one Diamond Jubilee School in the vicinity and it was difficult for the parents to travel to other areas due to harsh weather conditions,” said Jahangir Shah, President of the Ismaili Council for Chatorkhand. “The ECD hall in Jamatkhana has provided hope and will play a significant role in the development of young children of the Jamat. We feel lucky to have this facility at our doorstep.”

Highlighting the benefit of multiple social services offered under one roof in Daien Jamatkhana, President Shah said, “Through one window service, skill development training was given to the Jamati members and now four of them have shops through which they are now able to support their families.”

Built on high altitudes, the Jamatkhanas in Daien and Gitch have been constructed in collaboration with the community in Gilgit-Baltistan. They blend traditional design with modern structural and architectural methodologies. To address the seismic risk, harsh winter climate, and other challenges posed by the natural environment in the Northern region, the construction team relied on the disaster risk assessment capabilities of the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH), along with its decades-long experience with technologies and methodologies used in its Building and Construction Improvement Programme (BACIP).

Experts at AKAH conducted Hazard Vulnerability Risk Assessments at both sites in order to ensure safe zones for Jamatkhana construction. “After the assessment, AKAH hired the designers and provided top supervision throughout the construction period. From AKAH, the Architect and Buildings Manager took the lead and worked closely with the construction teams and the consultants to build the Jamatkhana,” said Tausif Ahmad, Head of Planning and Building at AKAH, Pakistan.

The Jamatkhana structures use the flexible BACIP galvanised wire which adjusts to the contours of uneven stone masonry, thus providing seismic resistance. Therefore, the new Jamatkhanas will not only create a space for the Jamat to gather for prayer, learning, and social functions, they will also act as shelters in the event of a natural disaster. Through sharing of best practice, these spaces will also encourage the Jamat and neighbouring communities to adopt similar construction practices in their own buildings.

With the potential to uplift the Jamat in a variety of ways, the new Jamatkhanas of Northern Pakistan are sure to be catalysts in improving the quality of life of all communities in the region.

Photos at:

https://the.ismaili/news/new-jamatkhana ... -baltistan
kmaherali
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Post by kmaherali »

Ismaili Centres empower youth to "study, celebrate, and pray"

Along with serving as symbols of the presence of the Ismaili community around the world, Ismaili Centres also act as meeting points for youth in the Jamat to connect, learn from, and interact with one another.

At the opening ceremony of the Ismaili Centre Toronto in 2014, Mawlana Hazar Imam said, “When our planning for the Toronto Ismaili Centre started in 1996, we decided to ask the younger generation of Ismailis about their vision for this building. What did they want it to represent? How did they see it functioning? In response, young people from the ages of 18 to 27 generously shared their aspirations with us. They told us that they wanted a building that would be forward looking, while also being anchored in traditional community values.”

Through each Centre’s unique programmes and events, young Ismailis have had numerous opportunities to come together and benefit from these buildings in ways that are unique to each region.

Ismaili Centre Dushanbe

“The Ismaili Centre is my favourite place to visit; I always feel so comfortable there,” said 16-year-old Fatima Mirzoeva. “It’s amazing that you can study, celebrate, and pray in the same place.”

Along with hosting religious education classes, the Ismaili Centre also offers tutoring in academic subjects including math, physics, and biology. These sessions allow students to practice and get extra help with the concepts they learn at school.

The variety of events held at the Centre also provides an opportunity for Tajik youth to come together. Recently, the local Jamat celebrated Khushiali by partaking in Madoh, a traditional singing event passed down to younger generations by the community’s elders.

“Because of the Ismaili Centre, we get to know our brothers and sisters in Dushanbe better,” said Fatima. “It brings together the local Ismaili community.”

Ismaili Centre Dubai

When 17-year-old Karim Jadavji first moved to Dubai, integrating into his new home was made easier thanks to the connections provided by the Ismaili Centre.

“It was a great, welcoming place to meet new people,” he said.

Through a variety of camps, sports tournaments, and activities, there are several ways in which youth are able to get involved. The Centre is also home to the Aga Khan Early Learning Centre, Dubai. This early childhood development facility is accredited with the UK National Day Nurseries Association and welcomes children of all backgrounds and nationalities.

Located across the street from the Centre is the Dubai Park, a gift from Mawlana Hazar Imam to the city of Dubai.

“The Dubai Park is really nice because everyone in the neighbourhood can go there,” said Karim. “The beautiful architecture of the Ismaili Centre and Park reflects the beautiful history of the region.”

Ismaili Centre London

“Seeing the Ismaili Centre sign in the tube station makes me proud because I know that the work that Mawlana Hazar Imam is doing is being recognised,” said 17-year-old Khaleel Jiwa.

Along with being a hub for young members of the Jamat, the Ismaili Centre also provides youth with the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities and serves as a marker of the Jamat’s presence in the UK.

During one of the programmes, youth from Jamatkhanas across the region spend the entire night at the Centre and have the chance to connect with each other while participating in different games and activities. This programme, and planning for events such as the European Sports Festival, allow students to meet one another and participate in different events while keeping an active lifestyle.

“The fact that it is in the middle of London makes me really proud,” said Khaleel. “Along with the new Aga Khan Centre, it is a symbol of our community to people of all faiths, and brings awareness to what Mawlana Hazar Imam is trying to achieve.”

Ismaili Centre Burnaby

“Given that Burnaby was amongst one of the first Centres to be built, us Vancouverites are very proud to have our identity as Ismailis represented this way,” explained 17-year-old Inaya Ali. “As Canadian Ismailis, we are honoured that Hazar Imam has placed so much trust in our Jamat in terms of maintaining this establishment.”

Lectures and workshops are regularly hosted in the Centre to benefit youth in the Jamat. Recent events have included a children’s robotics exhibition and a session for young artists with the musical duo Salim-Sulaiman.

The Centre’s social hall and surrounding green spaces have allowed for numerous events and activities, including those that welcome non-Ismailis such as scouting, seminars on law enforcement, lectures on the future of technology, and other networking events.

Ismaili Centre Toronto

“The Ismaili Centre plays an important role in the lives of many youth across Toronto,” said 17-year-old Rumsha Panjwani. “The Centre provides a space for lots of involvement as well as educational opportunities. It allows Ismaili youth from all around the city to learn more about our identity. Being an Ismaili, walking by the Centre everyday makes me feel so proud.”

Rumsha also explained how, through her eyes, this establishment represents the large Ismaili presence in Canada and fosters peace, pluralism, and unity, which is a huge part of our ethics and values. “This Centre serves as a symbol of our strong relationship with society in Canada.”

The events held in the Centre, such as educational workshops and lectures, encourage youth to express their culture and love for the Imam through the mediums of art and dance, which gives them an opportunity to appreciate the talents in our Jamat. Not only does the Centre, as well as the neighbouring Aga Khan Museum, serve as a communal space for Ismailis, it also provides an opportunity to build relationships with other Torontonians.

Ismaili Centre Lisbon

To 17-year-old Hannah Sofia Sabjaly, the Ismaili Centre is much more than just an area for devotion and reflection. It is a safe place that brings fellow Ismaili brothers and sisters together, giving them a chance to interact through the different events that take place there. The Centre hosts numerous workshops and educational sessions on a regular basis so that young minds are stimulated by discussion. The majority of the events aim to connect teens and to make them feel included in the community.

“This Centre is a reflection of our history, our ethics, and our culture, not only as Ismailis but also as members of the Portuguese society,” she explained.

Portugal contains such a rich Islamic history, dating back to the early 700s CE. This presence has left some cultural heritage there, which can clearly be seen in the art and architecture. Today, the Centre is considered to be an architectural landmark in Lisbon.

Hannah Sofia stated how proud she is of the connection between her faith and country. “Both Islamic and Portuguese ethics share common fundamental principles, and the Centre acts as a constant reminder of them: pluralism, tolerance, inclusiveness, and respect towards others.”

Photos:

https://the.ismaili/our-stories/centres ... e-and-pray
kmaherali
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Post by kmaherali »

Bujumbura Burundi Jamatkhana

BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON FEBRUARY 17, 2019

The Republic of Burundi is a landlocked country in the African Great Lakes region of East Africa, bordered by Rwanda to the north, Tanzania to the east and south, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. Burundi is a part of the Albertine Rift, the western extension of the East African Rift. Currency: Burundi Franc (FBu) Official language: Kirundi, French Population: 10.5 million. It joined the East African Community in July 2007.

Bujumbura Burundi Jamatkhana was built in around 1949, and was renovated around 2007.

Photos at:

https://ismailimail.blog/2019/02/17/buj ... amatkhana/
kmaherali
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Ismaili Centres: Spaces that uplift mind and spirit

Situated in six cities around the world, the Ismaili Centres are places of contemplation and congregation, peace and prayer, humility and hope, discovery and dialogue, and equanimity and enlightenment.

In his remarks at the Foundation Ceremony of the Ismaili Centre Dubai in 2003, Mawlana Hazar Imam defined the purpose and the unique characteristics of an Ismaili Centre as:

“At a time when the search for mutual understanding remains essential to assuring peace and stability, the creation of spaces that will enable that search becomes a greater imperative than ever. It is my humble prayer that, when built, the Ismaili Centre in Dubai will be a place for contemplation and search for enlightenment, where people come together to share knowledge and wisdom. It will be a place of peace, of order, of hope and of brotherhood, radiating those thoughts, attitudes and sentiments which unite, and which do not divide, and which uplift the mind and the spirit.”

Ismaili Centres therefore serve as a bridge between our community’s heritage and our aspirations for the future, a statement of where we have come from and of our permanent home in the places we now reside.

In 1979, the foundation stone was laid for the first Ismaili Centre, in the South Kensington area of London. The completed high-profile building was officially opened by then prime minister Margaret Thatcher and Mawlana Hazar Imam in April 1985 — a historic event which marked a new phase of the Ismaili community’s presence in Europe. Several months later, in August, Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney joined Mawlana Hazar Imam to open the second Ismaili Centre in Burnaby, British Columbia, an area where Ismailis had first settled in the country more than a decade earlier.

Each Ismaili Centre contains a space for prayer — a space we refer to as the Jamatkhana. The word Jamatkhana is a combination of two words; Jamat, meaning community or gathering; and Khana, meaning house or place. Jamatkhana therefore is a place where the community comes together for a variety of purposes, often including congregational prayer, expressions of piety, and personal search.

The third Ismaili Centre was opened in Lisbon in 1998. The Muslim heritage of Portugal made it appropriate for the Centro Ismaili to draw inspiration from many influences, including the distant but familiar heritage of Moorish architectural forms in the Iberian peninsula. In particular, the interplay and combination of outdoor and indoor spaces give the building a unique aesthetic feel, reflecting the local context as well as aspects of Islam's architectural heritage.

In ensuring that the buildings are aesthetically pleasing, inside and out, Ismaili Centres remind the world that beauty is significant. Often incorporating courtyards and gardens with flowing water, the Ismaili Centres instil a sense of peace and serenity in visitors. The elegant appeal of these elements is one way in which the Jamat gives back to the communities in which we live, and is also a reflection of the Islamic tradition which gives beauty its own intrinsic value.

The Ismaili Centre, Dubai was opened in March 2008 during Mawlana Hazar Imam's Golden Jubilee, which commemorated 50 years since his accession as the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. The Centre is comparable in scope and architectural standing to its predecessors in London, Burnaby, and Lisbon. Built on land donated by the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, the Ismaili Centre unites in its construction and décor the experiences and aesthetics of the past with the materials of the present, in order to meet the needs and objectives of the future.

The Foundation Ceremony for the first Ismaili Centre in Central Asia was held in August 2003 in Tajikistan, after which the Ismaili Centre Dushanbe was opened by President Emamoli Rahmon in October 2009.

The Ismaili Centres open their doors beyond the Jamat, and welcome diverse communities among whom Ismailis live. As demonstrated through exceptional architecture, the Centres act as representational buildings, symbolising the aspirations of the Jamat and Ismaili Imamat, while marking the community’s integration into the societies in which they live.

In May 2010, Prime Minister Stephen Harper laid the foundation stone for the Ismaili Centre in Toronto, Canada. Although each of the Ismaili Centres have incorporated green spaces and gardens, this was the first Centre to be built within a park which also incorporates the Aga Khan Museum. The Centre and Museum opened in September 2014.

These buildings, unique in architectural form yet forged in a common spirit, embody the hopeful aspirations of a forward-looking community. As Mawlana Hazar Imam said at the opening ceremony of the Ismaili Centre in Toronto, “These are places where Ismailis and non-Ismailis, Muslims and non-Muslims, will gather for shared activities — seminars and lectures, recitals and receptions, exhibitions and social events. These meeting halls and lounges, work offices and conference rooms will serve the organisational needs of the Ismaili community. But they will also, we trust, be filled with the sounds of enrichment, dialogue and warm human rapport, as Ismailis and non-Ismailis share their lives in a healthy gregarious spirit!”

Photos at:

https://the.ismaili/centres/centres-spa ... and-spirit
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