KHUSHALI MUBARAK

Discussion on R&R from all regions
kmaherali
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Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Minister Kenney issues statement recognizing Khushiali

Ottawa, July 11, 2012 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement recognizing Khushiali (Imamat Day):


“Every year on this date, Ismailis in Canada and around the world celebrate the anniversary of the accession of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan as Imam of the Shi’a Ismaili Muslims. His Highness assumed the Imamat in 1957, exactly 55 years ago today.

“Canadians are privileged by our close connection with the Aga Khan and his important work. This may be best exemplified by the fact that His Highness is one of only five people in history to have ever been awarded honourary Canadian citizenship.

“Next year, the Aga Khan museum is scheduled to open in Toronto. It will house some of the most important works of Islamic Art in the world, and will serve as a great centre of culture and education.

“The Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa is another example of the Aga Khan’s visionary international leadership. This research and education centre, focused on deepening the world’s ability to understand and practice pluralism, was founded by His Highness, in collaboration with the Government of Canada. The Aga Khan picked Canada as home for this Centre because of our country’s great success as a pluralist society.

“Prime Minister Harper has praised the Aga Khan’s initiatives, noting that his ‘name has become synonymous with humanitarian aid and development in countries beset by conflict and poverty. Just as importantly, he has worked tirelessly as a bridge-builder between faiths and cultures.’

“Khushiali is a time of great celebration for the Ismaili community. It also offers all Canadians a chance to reflect on the extraordinary achievements of the Aga Khan, and on the contributions of Canadian Ismailis to our society.

“As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I offer warm congratulations to His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan on the 55th anniversary of his accession as Imam, and sincere appreciation for his tremendous contributions to our country.

“Khushiali Mubarak.”

http://news.gc.ca/web/article-eng.do?nid=685599

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Ismailis celebrate Imamat Day today


GILGIT/CHITRAL, July 10: The Ismaili community in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral are observing the 55th Imamat Day on Wednesday.

Prince Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims, ascended the Imamat on July 11, 1957, upon the death of his uncle and the 48th Imam Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III.

As usual, this year too elaborated arrangements have been made to celebrate the event in a befitting manner.

Various programmes have been chalked out to give the event a special colour. In Gilgit-Baltistan, vintage points and mountains have been illuminated on the occasion. Special religious gatherings would be held in all the Jamat Khanas in both Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.

In Garam Chashma, Upper Chitral, Hunza and adjacent areas where the community is settled, colorful events would also take place. Besides, musical programmes and sports festivals will also mark the day.

The government of Gilgit-Baltistan has announced a local holiday in connection with the day.

The chief minister, Mehdi Shah, has directed the Water and Power Department to make sure that there is no power loadshedding, so that the community could enjoy the celebrations without any hardship. Strict security measures have been adopted by the police and administration to avoid any untoward incident.

This year, the tenure of the current Mukhis and Kamadias of Jamat Khanas will end and the names of the new officials will be announced on July 11, who will resume their duties on July 12.

http://chitraltoday.net/ismailis-celebrate-imamat-day/

http://dawn.com/2012/07/11/ismailis-to- ... niversary/

http://tribune.com.pk/story/407069/imam ... al-leader/
kmaherali
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Post by kmaherali »

Role of His Highness the Aga Khan in development of GB is remarkable: Mehdi Shah

GB Chief Minister cutting a cake to celebrate the Imamat Day in memory of the day 55 years (11 July 1957) ago when His Highness became Imam of the Ismaili community.
Our Correspondents

Gilgit, July 11: The role of His Highness the Aga Khan in development of Gilgit – Baltistan is remarkable and others should follow it. Sir Aga Khan III played a leading role in the movement for creation of Pakistan as President of the All India Muslim League.

These views were expressed by GB Chief Minister Syed Mehdi Shah while addressing a ceremony organized to commemorate the 55th Imamat Day of His Highness the Aga Khan.

The Chief Minister also praised the Ismaili community for their ‘peacefulness and discipline’. He said that the Ismaili community has played an important role in promoting harmony across the region.

He invited His Highness the Aga Khan to visit Baltistan in the future.

It is for the first time that the Imamat Day of the Aga Khan was celebrated at official level at the Chief Minister House. Also present at the occasion were members of the GBLA and notables of the city, including Ismaili leaders.

The Ismaili community also celebrated the day with great zeal and zest in Hunza, Ghizar, Skardu and Gilgit. Different programmes were held to pay tributes to the leadership of His Highness.

A cake-cutting ceremony was also held in Gilgit in which a group of the workers of the Pakistan Peoples Party paid tribute to His Highness.

http://pamirtimes.net/2012/07/12/role-o ... ehdi-shah/

*****
The Gilgit-Baltistan government had announced holiday on the occasion of Prince Karim Agha Khan's birthday. Ceremonies were also held in Hunza, Ghizer and Skardu in connection with Karim Agha Khan's birthday

http://www.thefrontierpost.com/article/171062/

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Statement by Liberal Leader Bob Rae on Imamat Day
Posted on July 11, 2012
EDMONTON – Liberal Leader Bob Rae made the following statement today on the occasion of Imamat Day

“Today, on Imamat Day, we come together as Canadians to commemorate and celebrate the 55th anniversary of the ascension of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV to the Ismaili Imamat.

Over the past 55 years, the Aga Khan has become a global leader in development and humanitarian aid, committed to sharing his compassion with those who need it most. His promotion of tolerance and pluralism have helped make the world a better place.

Joining with Ismailis across Canada, His Highness has worked tirelessly to promote dialogue and inclusivity across Canada’s many cultural communities for decades. The Delegation of Ismaili Imamat and the Aga Khan Museum stand as a testament to his commitment to peaceful co-existence.

As Canadians, we pride ourselves on multiculturalism, and share the same principles and commitment to fundamental human rights as His Highness. We are truly proud to call him a great friend, and delighted to celebrate this important milestone today with him.

On behalf of the Liberal Party of Canada and our Parliamentary Caucus, please accept my best wishes. Kushiali Mubarak!”

http://www.liberal.ca/newsroom/news-rel ... mamat-day/

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President greets Prince Karim Agha Khan

ISLAMABAD, July 12 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari has greeted Prince Karim Agha Khan on 56 years of his Imamat. Prince Karim Agha Khan IV became the Spiritual leader of the Ismaili community at the age of 20, on July 11, 1957. In his greeting message, the President while lauding social services of Prince Agha Khan across the world particularly for the people of Pakistan for poverty eradication, economic uplift of the poor, education, women empowerment and socio-economic development of the poor strata of society, prayed for his long life, good health and prosperity. The President also invited him to visit Pakistan at his convenience.

http://app.com.pk/en_/index.php?option= ... 3&Itemid=1
kmaherali
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Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

As received:

Dear family and friends,

Ya Ali Madad and Imamat Day Mubarak!

When thinking about the meaning of Imamat, I remember an incident recorded by many Muslim historians that I once wrote about in one of my articles. It occurred at the time of Mawlana Zain al-Abidin.

It was the time of the Hajj, and throngs of pilgrims had gathered in Mecca. The mighty prince, Hisham bin Abd al-Malik, the heir to the throne of the Umayyad caliphate, was also present. He had arrived with his retinue of courtiers and servants. Among them was the al-Farazdaq, a panegyrist for the Umayyads and one of the most renowned Arab poets of all time. The royal party circled the holy Ka'ba with the other pilgrims. Prince Hisham tried in vain to reach the sacred Black Stone of the Ka'ba and to touch the holy relic, but despite his aristocratic status, the masses of pilgrims ignored him and would not let him through. He therefore moved aside until such a time as the crowd would disperse.

At that moment, Prince Hisham's entourage noticed that all the people parted reverently and lovingly to make way for a dignified looking figure. It was Prophet Muhammad's great-grandson, our Imam, Mawlana Zayn al-Abidin, who easily approached the stone and kissed it. Deeply offended and jealous at the greater respect given by the pilgrims to the newly arrived personage, the Umayyad prince feigned ignorance of the Imam's identity and asked sarcastically "Who is this?"

Hearing the disparaging remark, al-Farazdaq boldly stepped before the Umayyad prince and spontaneously composed the following poetic rejoinder, which has since been considered a masterpiece of Arabic literature. On the occasion of Imamat Day, this poem tells us something about who the Imam is. I have translated part of it below:

Who is This?

This is he whose very footsteps are known to the valley of Mecca!
The surrounding land, the sanctuary and the sacred House itself know him well

This is the child of the best of all God's servants
Peerless, pious, pure and pristine

Are you ignorant of who he is? He is the son of Fatima
God's prophets were sealed with his grandfather

Your words, "Who is this?" harm him not
For Arabs and non-Arabs, all know well the one of whom you feign ignorance

His liberal hands, ever-generous like the bounteous rain clouds
Shower abundantly, untouched by want

So gentle and mild, there is no fear of outbursts
For two ornaments adorn him: charming character and delightful disposition

He has embraced all creatures in his favours
Such that their gloom is dispelled, their poverty and privation put to flight

When the Quraysh see him, their locutor proclaims:
Nobility culminates in his noblesse

He lowers his gaze in modesty, while others do so in awe of him
A smile always accompanies his speech

Recognizing his touch, the Ka'ba's wall
Almost leaps forth to greet his hand

God exalted and ennobled him in pre-eternity
For the Pen decreed this for him on His Tablet

The vestments of darkness are rent asunder by the light of his forehead
As night's gloom vanishes before the glorious rays of the rising sun

If you would like to read the remainder of the poem, you can find it at this link (it will take the page a few moments to load):

http://www.shafiquevirani.org/pdfs/Virani-WhoisThis.pdf

On this Imamat Day, may you and your dear ones be blessed by the hand of the Imam, ever-generous like the bounteous rain clouds, by the light of whose forehead the vestments of darkness are rent asunder, and in whose presence night's gloom vanishes before the glorious rays of the rising sun….ameen.

With warmest wishes and Khushali Mubarak,

Shafique
--
Dr. Shafique N. Virani
Chair, Department of Historical Studies
University of Toronto Distinguished Professor of Islamic Studies
University of Toronto related correspondence: shafique.virani@utoronto.ca
All other correspondence:shafique.virani@gmail.com
http://www.shafiquevirani.org/
kmaherali
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Post by kmaherali »

Video:

Aga Khan Development Network commemorates 55th Imamat Day: supporting Kenya’s Vision 2030


https://mail.google.com/mail/?shva=1#in ... e6e2837668

The Aga Khan Development Network celebrated the 55th Imamat Day promising to engage in more development activities in the country.The network is pledging to support the country’s development blueprint, Vision 2030
kmaherali
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Post by kmaherali »

13th December, 2012: Celebrating Mawlana Hazar Imam’s 76th Salgirah – Photo Essay, Readings and the Ginan “Eji Dhan Dhan Aajano” with Meaning

simerg.com/2012/12/09/13th-december-2012-is-mawlana-hazar-imams-76th-salgirah-photo-essay-readings-and-the-ginan-eji-dhan-dhan-aajano-with-meaning/
kmaherali
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Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Salgirah

Throughout history, Ismaili Muslims have been led by a living, hereditary Imam-of-the-Time descended from the progeny of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) through his cousin and son-in-law, Hazrat Ali, and his daughter, Hazrat Bibi Fatima.

On 13 December 2012, Ismailis around the world will celebrate the 76th birthday of our present living Imam, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan. Born in Geneva, Switzerland in 1936, he succeeded his grandfather to become the 49th Ismaili Imam at the age of 20. During the five decades of his Imamat, Mawlana Hazar Imam has devoted himself to the spiritual and worldly progress of Ismailis everywhere.

The celebration of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s birthday is an occasion for Ismailis to reflect on the unique spiritual bond that links each murid to Hazar Imam. It also affords the Jamat an opportunity to express its love, loyalty and devotion to the Imamat, which binds the Ismaili community together as one.

Salgirah Khushiali Mubarak!

theismaili.org/cms/914/Salgirah

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Minister Kenney issues statement celebrating Khushiali
December 13, 2012
I wish to extend my warmest wishes to His Highness, Prince Karim, the Aga Khan, on occasion of his birthday, and Salgirah Khushiali Mubarak to Canada’s Ismaili Muslim community.

Under the Aga Khan’s leadership, there has been a revitalization of social, cultural, and economic institutions all over the world, and important humanitarian development projects.

On several occasions, I have had the opportunity to meet with His Highness, to discuss matters of mutual interest including pluralism and human rights. Earlier this year, we had the privilege of hosting His Highness in my home province of Alberta. Moreover, our government continues to work closely with His Highness to establish the unique Global Centre for Pluralism in our nation’s Capital.

Just last month, I was privileged to see the Al-Azhar Park in Cairo, Egypt, one of many extraordinary projects in the Aga Khan Development Network. The area includes not only the rehabilitation of historic Islamic structures and open green space in one of the world’s most crowded cities, but also provides numerous economic opportunities for the people of Cairo. It is just one of the Aga Khan’s many development projects in Asia and Africa.

I wish his High Highness, the Aga Khan, a very happy birthday, and thank him for his continuing contributions to the global community.

jasonkenney.ca/news/minister-kenney-issues-statement-celebrating-khushiali/

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76th birthday of Prince Karim Agha Khan celebrated

KARACHI/TALHAR - The 76th birthday of spiritual leader of Ismailis, Prince Karim Agha Khan, was celebrated throughout the country with zeal and fervor on Thursday.
Candles were lighted in the Ismaili community centres to observe the sanctity of Muharram-ul-Haram, while the Ismailis prayed for the peace, prosperity and safety of Pakistan.
Prince Karim Agha Khan is 49th Imam of Ismaili sect and also head of the Agha Khan Foundation and Agha Khan Development Network contributing to many humanitarian and social service projects undergoing in the country.

http://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2012/12 ... elebrated/
kmaherali
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Post by kmaherali »

Mayor of Ottawa Jim Watson sends Birthday Greetings to His Highness the Aga Khan

ismailimail.wordpress.com/2012/12/14/mayor-of-ottawa-jim-watson-sends-birthday-greetings-to-his-highness-the-aga-khan/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Ismailimail+%28Ismailimail%29

*****
SELECTION OF TWEETS FROM MEMBERS OF CANADA’S PARLIAMENT

Honorable Jason Kenney, Canadian Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism
Salgirah Khushiali Mubarak to everyone in Canada’s #Ismaili Muslim community! bit.ly/UcP79n—
Jason Kenney (@kenneyjason) December 13, 2012

Honorable Bob Rae, MP for Toronto Centre
Want to wish a very happy birthday to the Aga Khan – liberal.ca/newsroom/news-…—
Bob Rae (@bobraeMP) December 13, 2012

Honorable Jim Karygiannis Privy Councillor Member of Parliament Scarborough-Agincourt
76th Birthday of His Highness Aga Khan IV Statement for the by the Honourable Jim Karygiannis
karygiannismp.com/spip/article.p…—
(@jimkarygiannis) December 13, 2012

SELECTION OF TWEETS FROM MEMBERS OF VARIOUS CANADIAN PROVINCIAL LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLIES

Christy Clark, Premier of British Columbia
Wishing His Highness the Aga Khan a very happy birthday today. ow.ly/g4X1U—
Christy Clark (@christyclarkbc) December 13, 2012

John Yap, BC Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation, Technology and Multiculturalism
Best wishes on the celebration of the birth of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV;2day his 76th birthday #Diversity tinyurl.com/abqtwpo—
John Yap (@John_Yap) December 14, 2012

Jane Thornthwaite, Member of the BC Legislative Assembly for North Vancouver
Happy Birthday to His Highness The Aga Khan! ow.ly/g5nbc—
Jane Thornthwaite (@jthornthwaite) December 13, 2012

SELECTION OF TWEETS FROM THE MEDIA

Patricia Graham, Vice President, Pacific Newspaper Group
BC honours the Aga Khan on the occasion of his 76th birthday ow.ly/g5v1Q—
Patricia Graham (@patriciagraham) December 14, 2012

The Dardistan Times
Mubarak to the #Ismailies around the World. Happy Birthday to Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini, A.K.A the #Aga Khan http://t.co/psyBdEJ9
The Dardistan Times (@dardistantimes) December 13, 2012

The Pamir Times
Heartfelt greetings to all our Ismaili readers on the occasion of the Salgirah (bitrthday) of His Highness the Aga Khan (IV).—
(@pamirtimes) December 13, 2012

The Lahore Times
76th birthday of Prince Karim Aga Khan celebrated lhrtimes.com/2012/12/14/76t…—
The Lahore Times (@lhrtimes) December 13, 2012

********

Minister John Yap's statement on Aga Khan Birthday

I would like to extend my best wishes to the Ismaili community and all those celebrating the birth of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV on his 76th birthday.

Today is an opportunity for all of us to recognize the deeds of His Highness as one of the most prominent and influential spiritual leaders in the world who has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for others regardless of faith, ethnicity or gender.

Through the Aga Khan Foundation, His Highness has committed to find sustainable solutions to the complex problems causing global poverty while the Aga Khan Development Network focuses on environment, health, education, culture, rural development, disaster reduction, the promotion of private-sector enterprise and the revitalization of historic cities.

His Highness's influence extends beyond his own community. In Canada, not only does His Highness connect with Ismailis but his work has helped countless others through the Canadian branch of the Aga Khan Development Network.

As we commemorate the birth of His Highness, we also celebrate our province's rich cultural diversity, one that preserves the culture and heritage of others.

On behalf of all British Columbians, I congratulate those celebrating the birth of High Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan!

John Yap
Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism

newsroom.gov.bc.ca/2012/12/minister-john-yaps-statement-on-aga-khan-birthday.html

*******

Statement on the Birthday of His Highness The Aga Khan

VICTORIA - To mark this occasion, Premier Christy Clark has issued the following statement:

"It is a pleasure to congratulate His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan on the occasion of his birthday.

"For millions of Ismailis around the globe, His Highness provides spiritual guidance, but since becoming the Aga Khan over 50 years ago, has also become one of the world's greatest statesmen. His work to build bridges across religious and ethnic divides has resulted in real change. His Highness also has been a tireless advocate for peace, prosperity, and equality.

"His Highness has touched many lives in Canada and British Columbia, not least through his non-profit foundations, including the Aga Khan Foundation Canada. I personally look forward to the Aga Khan Partnership Walk each May, which supports his goal of ending global poverty.

"In one of the most diverse provinces in one of the most diverse countries in the world, the Aga Khan has provided real leadership, and an example of the difference kindness, generosity, and tolerance can make.

"I know I speak on behalf of all British Columbians when I thank His Highness for everything he has done, and join with the Ismaili community in wishing His Highness a very happy birthday."

Contact:

Mike Morton
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
250 661-1015

newsroom.gov.bc.ca/2012/12/statement-on-the-birthday-of-his-highness-the-aga-khan.html

*******

Statement by MPP Kathleen Wynne on the Occasion of the Birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan
ismailimail.wordpress.com/2012/12/14/statement-by-mpp-kathleen-wynne-on-the-occasion-of-the-birthday-of-his-highness-the-aga-khan/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Ismailimail+%28Ismailimail%29

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Ismailis celebrate Aga Khan’s birthday
Report Waqar Ahmed

CHITRAL, Dec 13: The Ismaili community in Chitral celebrated the 76th birthday of their spiritual leader, Shah Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV with great pomp and show and enthusiasm on Thursday.


A Salgirah cake is being cut in Chitral.
Reports received here from different parts of Chitral, especially Yarkhun valley, Laspur, Mastuj, Booni, Garam Chashma, Arkari, Madaklasht etc., said that special congregations were held to celebrate the event. On this occasion, cakes were cut in houses and religious organizations and offices. People said bakery and other shops saw huge rush of buyers in Chitral, Mastuj and Booni for about three days. Chiraghan were held on Wednesday and Thursday nights in all the villages populated by the Ismaili community. In many areas, people also gathered to hold musical programmes. This year, in Chitral, all the AKDN organizations, including AKES schools and colleges, also made special arrangements to celebrate the Salgirah.

In Chitral town, Booni, Mastuj and other areas where mobile phones services are available, the Ismailis sent each other SMS wishing Saligarah Mubarak. Even those from other communities also wished the Ismailis happy Salgirah.

chitraltoday.net/ismailis-celebrate-aga-khans-birthday/

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BIRTHDAY: His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan feted by B.C. premier, Ismaili community

LARISSA CAHUTE
VANCOUVER DESI

The Ismaili community across British Columbia will gather for a prayer Thursday evening to recognize His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan’s 76th birthday.

“It’s a very important time for everyone to celebrate and reflect on the vast work that His Highness has undertaken around the world,” said Ali Solehdin, a volunteer from within the Ismaili community.

The now 76-year-old Ismaili spiritual leader is believed to be a direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad and is the 49th Imam of the Ismailis. He’s developed the Aga Khan Development Network, which has helped numerous people in developing parts of the world as well as the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.

It’s already been a memorable year for the Ismaili community as they recognized 40 years in Canada since they were expelled from Uganda in 1972.

Honourary Counsel of Uganda, John Halani, attributes much of B.C.’s multiculturalism to the Aga Khan’s work.

“Forty years ago he did meet the Prime Minister of Canada (so) people from Uganda (could) come here,” he said. “That’s how we all came down to settle in Canada – partly because of him.”

If he hadn’t have paved the way, Halani may not be in Canada today.

And since their arrival, His Highness has provided guidance.

“We appreciate the guidance that he has given to the community,” he said. “A lot of advice that he gives to us is to be involved in the community and involved in the face of the province, of the country.”

Premier Christy Clark also extended her best wishes as well.

“In one of the most diverse provinces in one of the most diverse countries in the world, the Aga Khan has provided real leadership, and an example of the difference kindness, generosity, and tolerance can make,” Clark said in a release. “I know I speak on behalf of all British Columbians when I thank His Highness for everything he has done, and join with the Ismaili community in wishing His Highness a very happy birthday.”

An evening prayer will be held in his honour in many community centres and jamatkhanas Thursday night.

vancouverdesi.com/news/birthday-his-highness-prince-karim-aga-khan-feted-by-b-c-premier-ismaili-community/401519/

********
Statement on the 76th Birthday of His Highness Aga Khan IV

Posted on December 12, 2012

76th Birthday of His Highness Aga Khan IV
Statement by Joyce Murray, Member of Parliament for
Vancouver Quadra and Liberal Critic for Small Business and Tourism

It is with great pleasure that I extend my best wishes to His Highness Shah Karim al-Hussayni, the fourth Aga Khan and 49th Imam of Ismaili Islam, on the occasion of his 76th birthday.

Since becoming the Aga Khan in 1957, Prince Karim has been an inspiration to Ismaili Muslims and others around the world. He has worked tirelessly to promote both religious and racial tolerance. His strong belief in education has inspired young Ismaili people around the world to achieve post-secondary educational success.

In 1967, His Highness the Aga Khan founded the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) as a private, not-for-profit international development agency. The Aga Khan Foundation seeks to provide long-term solutions to problems of poverty, hunger, illiteracy and ill health in the poorest parts of South and Central Asia; Eastern and Western Africa; and, the Middle East. The Aga Khan Foundation works in close conjunction with The Aga Khan Development Network, a group of development agencies with mandates that include the environment; health; education; architecture; culture; microfinance; rural development; disaster reduction; the promotion of private-sector enterprise; and, the revitalization of historic cities. The Aga Khan Foundation and the Aga Khan Development Network agencies conduct their programs without regard to faith, origin or gender.

In Canada, His Highness has inspired Ismailis to work with the broader community in raising significant funds for worthwhile causes, helping many Canadians. On June 6, 2005, His Highness was recognized as an Honorary Companion of the Order of Canada in recognition of a lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.

Congratulations to all my friends in the Ismaili Community – it is a pleasure to wish His Highness the best of success and many happy returns.
joycemurray.liberal.ca/blog/enews/blog-enews/statement-76th-birthday-highness-aga-khan-iv/
agakhani
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Post by agakhani »

Khushali Mubarak to all Ismaili.net readers,admim and all moderators.
shiraz.virani
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Post by shiraz.virani »

Beautiful article written by brother Mike Ghouse, its a must read !!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mike-ghou ... 77420.html

Excerpt
Aga Khan delivered the following statement at the Inauguration Ceremony of Aga Khan University in Karachi on November 11, 1985, "The divine intellect Aql-i Kull, both transcends and informs the human intellect. It is this intellect which enables man to strive towards two aims dedicated by the Faith: that he should reflect upon the environment Allah has given and that he should know himself. It is the light of intellect which distinguishes the complete human being from the human animal and developing that intellect requires free enquiry. The man of Faith who fails to pursue intellectual search is likely to have only a limited comprehension of Allah's creation. Indeed, it is man's intellect that enables him to expand his vision of that creation."
tret
Posts: 1195
Joined: Thu Sep 09, 2010 2:09 pm

Post by tret »

shiraz.virani wrote:Beautiful article written by brother Mike Ghouse, its a must read !!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mike-ghou ... 77420.html

Excerpt
Aga Khan delivered the following statement at the Inauguration Ceremony of Aga Khan University in Karachi on November 11, 1985, "The divine intellect Aql-i Kull, both transcends and informs the human intellect. It is this intellect which enables man to strive towards two aims dedicated by the Faith: that he should reflect upon the environment Allah has given and that he should know himself. It is the light of intellect which distinguishes the complete human being from the human animal and developing that intellect requires free enquiry. The man of Faith who fails to pursue intellectual search is likely to have only a limited comprehension of Allah's creation. Indeed, it is man's intellect that enables him to expand his vision of that creation."
I wish there was a like button. Beautiful excerpt. I have read this before, but each time I read the inspiration becomes even more intense.

Another must read speech by our beloved MHI.

nanowisdoms.org/nwblog/10824/
kmaherali
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Post by kmaherali »

SEVENTEEN Years Ago -
Coastweek, July 06 - 12, 1979:

Coastweek -- HIS EXCELLENCY President Daniel Arap Moi appeared in a front page photograph together with the Ismaili Community’s Spiritual Defender of the Faith, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan - marking the start of annual ‘Imamat Day’ celebrations to honour his official enthronement in 1957.

http://www.coastweek.com/3928-thirty-ei ... rs-ago.htm
kmaherali
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Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on Imamat Day

Ottawa, Ontario ‑

11 July 2016

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the occasion of Imamat Day:

“Today, we join Shia Ismaili Muslims in Canada and around the world to celebrate His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, who on this day in 1957 became Imam—spiritual leader—of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims.

“In the almost 60 years since, the Aga Khan has demonstrated a tireless and admirable dedication to the common good. His achievements and contributions toward improving the lives of some of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people are immeasurable.

“Above all, he has demonstrated the importance of being a good global citizen and the value of helping others, regardless of their origin or religion, to reach their full potential.

“The values promoted by the Aga Khan—pluralism, compassion, inclusion, respect for diversity, and human rights—are those that we as Canadians hold dear, and we are honoured to call him a friend, and to host here in Canada both the Global Centre for Pluralism and the only Islamic Museum in North America—the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto.

“On this day, we thank the Aga Khan for being a true humanitarian, and for inspiring us all to show more kindness and generosity of heart to others.

“Kushiali Mubarak.”

http://pm.gc.ca/eng/news/2016/07/11/sta ... imamat-day

******
Statement by Minister Joly on Imamat Day

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - July 11, 2016) - I join today with Ismailis in Canada and around the world to celebrate Imamat Day, the anniversary of the accession to the throne of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan as the 49th Imam of Ismaili Shiite Muslims in 1957.

I was honoured to meet Prince Karim Aga Khan on May 17 during his visit to Canada. In addition to being a spiritual leader, His Highness is recognized worldwide for his efforts to promote humanitarian assistance and development at the international level. We share the same basic values of solidarity and mutual assistance.

On the occasion of Imamat Day, I would like to offer my best wishes to His Highness, as well as to Canada's Ismaili community.

Khushiali Mubarak!
********
Imamat Day Mubarak Message from the Ismaili Institutions of Canada

On behalf of the Jamati Institutions in Canada, we extend our warmest Imamat Day Mubarak to you and your families.

Imamat Day is a time to reflect on how fortunate we are to have been guided by our Imam-e Zaman, Imam of the Time, in our spiritual and material lives, through intense political and economic changes, rapid technological advancements, and an accelerated rate of social change over the past 59 years.

In his citation during the recent ceremony bestowing an honorary degree upon Mawlana Hazar Imam, University of St. Michael's College President David Mulroney stated: “Let us celebrate today our own connection to His Highness, a champion of pluralism, a transcender of borders and barriers, and a great, wise and benevolent connector…”

As we celebrate and contemplate, let us express our humble shukrana for Hazar Imam’s care, love, and guidance and all his efforts for all of humanity.

We hope that this special occasion offers you, your families and loved ones an opportunity to pause and celebrate together. We wish you a joyous Imamat Day.



Zahir Bhatia
Mukhisaheb, Darkhana Jamatkhana

Dr. Kabir Jivraj
Chairman, Ismaili Tariqah & Religious Education Board for Canada

Amir Lakhani
Chairman, Grants & Review Board for Canada

Karim Sunderji
Chairman, Conciliation & Arbitration Board for Canada

Malik Talib
President, Aga Khan Council for Canada

******
Imamat Day Message from the Ontario Leadership

On behalf of the Jamati Institutions in Ontario, we extend our warmest felicitations and Mubarakbadis to every member of the Jamat on the auspicious occasion of the 59th Imamat Day of our beloved Mawlana Hazar Imam.

Imamat Day is an occasion to reflect, rejoice and express our immense gratitude to Mawlana Hazar Imam for His continuous guidance and blessings through which the worldwide Jamat's material and spiritual well-being continues to strengthen.

We continue to experience transitions in our Jamatkhana spaces. The Sudbury Jamat recently moved into a beautifully renovated Jamatkhana. 18 months after our weekend school halls transitioned into permanent Jamatkhanas, Inshallah, we will see our last Toronto weekend Jamatkhana, Downtown Toronto, transition to a daily Jamatkhana in the coming weeks. Changes in Jamatkhana spaces impact the Jamat, and we recognize these transitions are not always easy. We hope the Jamat will continue to embrace the beautiful permanent Jamatkhana spaces we continue to be privileged to enjoy, and that these spaces help to strengthen the sense of identity and permanency of our Ontario Jamat.

We take this opportunity to recognize and congratulate all Ontario athletes, coaches and supporters who will be heading to the Jubilee Games in Dubai later this month to represent Team Canada. As members of the Canadian delegation, our athletes and coaches will live up to the Imam's high standards and expectations of the Canadian Jamat and will have the chance to celebrate our diverse cultural, social, and linguistic traditions as a global Jamat.

Our Jamat is living in an increasingly challenging world. Seniors are experiencing age-related social and health challenges. Our students remain under multiple pressures in excelling academically and in other areas of their lives. Poverty and mental health issues appear to be on the rise. To help improve the quality of life of our Jamat, we have raised awareness to foster a stronger culture of Jamat helping Jamat, and to strengthen the bonds of community. Many of our platforms and infrastructure are being re-tooled to adapt to these many changes. Most recently, we have rolled out a Jamatkhana-based Quality of Life service-delivery program in all Ontario Jamatkhanas to help lift families out of poverty and to help improve the quality of our lives.

Programs and activities that benefit various segments of our Jamat rely on the time, commitment and leadership of our wonderful badged and unbadged volunteers. Our Jamat's capacity to execute on many initiatives is enhanced immensely from the contribution of these dedicated individuals. We respectfully express our appreciation and gratitude to all our volunteers and acknowledge what an honour it is to be serving alongside each of you.

We would also like to acknowledge the Jamat's consistent and ongoing support for Institutional programs and initiatives. The unity, diversity and talent of our Jamat continues to be strengthened and we look to the Jamat's continued support in achieving Mawlana Hazar Imam's vision for the Canadian Jamat.

On this Imamat Day, let us reaffirm our allegiance and gratitude to Mawlana Hazar Imam for His benevolence and guidance, and renew our commitment to the ethics of the faith. We pray for unity, barakat, good health, safety, and the spiritual and material success of the worldwide Jamat.

Imamat Day Mubarak.



Dr. Moez Rajwani
Mukhisaheb, Headquarters Jamatkhana

Amir Mirshahi
Chairman, ITREB Ontario

Hussein Sunderji
Chairman, Grants and Review Board for Ontario

Karim Kurji
Chairman, Conciliation and Arbitration Board for Ontario

Sheherazade Hirji
President, Aga Khan Council for Ontario

http://iicanada.org/national/ontario-sp ... ly-11-2016

*****
Happy Khushali: A Celebration of 57 Years of Imamat (Religious Leadership) of His Highness, the Aga Khan.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mike-ghou ... 77420.html
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Test Your Knowledge With the Imamat Day Quiz!

http://iicanada.org/national/forms/mhi-quiz
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Mayor Crombie’s Statement on Imamat Day

For Immediate Release
July 11th, 2016

Mayor Crombie’s Statement on Imamat Day

“On behalf of the City of Mississauga and Members of Council, I join with our City’s Ismaili community to mark Imamat Day.

“Today is the anniversary of the accession of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV as Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community. As spiritual leader, His Highness has been an inspiration, having undertaken important work in humanitarian assistance, development, and the alleviation of poverty.

“Imamat Day is one of the many opportunities where we in Mississauga, and in communities across Canada, can celebrate the diverse cultures, faiths and shared values that flourish throughout our City.

“Once again, I extend my congratulations to High Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV and the entire Ismaili community on this auspicious occasion.

“Khushiali Mubarak.”

http://www.mayorcrombie.ca/mayor-crombi ... mamat-day/
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Imamat Day Khushali 2016 Nairobi, Kenya Opening Parade

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3C9i7bOXig
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http://thelinkpaper.ca/?p=60056

Saturday, December 10th, 2016

Ismaili Muslims Celebrate The Birthday Of His Highness The Aga Khan On December 13th

On December 13th Ismaili Muslims all over the world celebrate the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan. We join in their rejoicing and wish His Highness and his followers “Salgirah Mubarak”.

His Highness the Aga Khan became Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims on July 11, 1957 at the age of 20, succeeding his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan. He is the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims and a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) through his cousin and son-in-law, Ali, the first Imam, and his wife Fatima, the Prophet’s daughter.

The Aga Khan spent his early childhood in Nairobi, Kenya, and then attended Le Rosey School in Switzerland for nine years. He graduated from Harvard University in 1959 with a BA Honors Degree in Islamic history.

Like his grandfather Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan before him, the Aga Khan has, since assuming the office of Imamat in 1957, been concerned about the well-being of all Muslims, particularly in the face of the challenges of rapid historical changes. Today, the Ismailis live in some 25 countries, mainly in West and Central Asia, Africa and the Middle East, as well as in North America and Western Europe.

On November 12, 2015, His Highness the Aga Khan delivered the Samuel L. and Elizabeth Jodidi Lecture at Harvard University’s Weatherhead Center for International Affairs. Entitled “The Cosmopolitan Ethic in a Fragmented World”, his lecture covered the challenges to pluralism and cosmopolitanism.

His Highness highlighted that the success of societies and cultures is dependent not only on honoring our similarities but also honoring our differences and said that “a pluralist, cosmopolitan society is a society which not only accepts difference, but actively seeks to understand it – and to learn from it. In this perspective, diversity is not a burden to be endured, but an opportunity to be welcomed.”

His Highness the Aga Khan has established a number of institutions in Canada. The Ismaili Centre Toronto and Aga Khan Museum were formally opened in the presence of His Highness the Aga Khan on September 12, 2014. The two buildings are situated within a 6.8-hectare landscaped park. Japanese architect Fumihiko Maki designed the Aga Khan Museum, while Indian architect Charles Correa designed the Ismaili Centre. The park, which features a formal garden, was designed by architect Vladimir Djurovic of Lebanon.

The Aga Khan Museum is the first museum in North America dedicated to the arts of Muslim civilizations.It is dedicated to presenting an overview of the artistic, intellectual, and scientific contributions that Muslim civilizations have made to world heritage.

The Ismaili Centre Torontois part of a network of Ismaili Centres that includes Vancouver, London, Lisbon, Dubai and Dushanbe.The Ismaili Centres incorporate spaces for social and cultural gatherings, intellectual engagement, and spiritual reflection.

The establishment of these institutions in Canada reflects the Aga Khan’s longstanding relationship with Canada and his appreciation for the country’s commitment to pluralism and cultural diversity.Together, these global institutions will contribute to a better understanding among different communities and cultures.

We rejoice in celebrating the happy occasion of His Highness’ birthday alongside his followers in Canada and all over the world and wish them all “Salgirah Mubarak”.

Image
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Wishing the Aga Khan a Happy 80th Birthday

https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PL-3 ... EP5dAV55iA
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On Tuesday, His Highness the Aga Khan celebrates his 80th birthday.

Despite being a multimillionaire, an enigmatic businessman, philanthropist, sport enthusiast and spiritual leader to almost 15 million Ismaili Muslims worldwide, not much is known about him.

A man of few words, he gracefully bridges the gaps between the spiritual and the material; East and West; Muslim and Christian – which is no easy task for the best of us.

As he celebrates his milestone birthday, we bring you some interesting facts about the man, his impressive work and the epic year he’s about to embark on.

http://metro.co.uk/2016/12/13/who-is-ag ... y-6313312/
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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan

December 13, 2016


The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the 80th birthday of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan:

“Sophie and I offer our best wishes today to His Highness the Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims – a community that includes tens of thousands in Canada and millions around the world.

“For more than fifty years, His Highness has worked tirelessly to reduce hunger, poverty, disease, and illiteracy in developing countries. He is a beacon of acceptance and compassion, and an inspiration to both his community and the world.

“Canada has come to share a close relationship with the Aga Khan and bestowed honorary citizenship on him in 2009. I am proud to call His Highness both a mentor and friend. He has shown time and time again that no matter our faith, where we were born, what colour is our skin, or what language we speak, we are equal members of this world.

“Today, we salute the tremendous efforts that the Aga Khan has undertaken over his lifetime to help those most vulnerable, and wish him health and happiness on this special day.”
The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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Ismailis in Gilgit-Baltistan celebrate the 80th birthday of Prince Karim Aga Khan

Gilgit: Ismaili Muslims across Giglit-Baltistan are celebrating the 80th birthday of their spiritual leader, Prince Karim Aga Khan. The day is marked by festivity and celebrations, as the community members thank their Imam for his continued guidance and support in religious and earthly matters.

The day started with morning prayers in which the community members prayed for the good health and long life of their Imam, and thanked him for his visionary leadership spanning over six decades. Prayers were also offered for the solidarity and prosperity of Pakistan, and wellbeing of the Islamic Ummah.

Birthday cakes were cut in Jamatkahnas, and community feasts were held across the valleys in Ghizer, Gilgit and Hunza, where Ismailis live in large numbers. Ismailis in the neighboring Chitral district are also celebrating the day with religious zeal and enthusiasm.

The present Aga Khan, Shah Karim Al – Hussaini, was born on the 13th of December 1937 in Geneva Paris. He became the Imam of the Ismaili sect in 1957, after the death of his grandfather, Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah. 2017 is the Diamond Jubilee year of his Imamat, marking completion of 60 years of unparalleled leadership which has helped transform the lives of millions of Ismailis, and other communities, across the world.

Leaders of various political parties, and government functionaries, in Gilgit-Baltistan have congratulated His Highness the Aga Khan on his 80th birthday, and also shared good wishes with the Ismailis living in the region.

http://pamirtimes.net/2016/12/13/ismail ... -aga-khan/

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Salgirah Khushali 2016 Celebration in Moscow, Russia

VIDEO

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqkPmuK6yzI

*******
President Almazbek Atambayev wishes Prince Karim Aga Khan IV happy birthday


Bishkek, December 13 / Kabar /. Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev congratulated Prince Karim Aga Khan IV on his birthday.

The President congratulations says:

"Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on your 80th birthday! I have warm memories of our meeting in Bishkek during your recent visit to the Kyrgyz Republic. You belong to a number of eminent personalities, whose life and work is a manifestation of noble efforts in overcoming difficulties to address socio-economic problems, improve the living conditions of the most vulnerable layers of the population.

Undoubtedly, the projects implementing by the Aga Khan Development Network in the Kyrgyz Republic make a positive impetus to the ongoing development of our state.

Thanks to your personal contribution, recently University of Central Asia opened its first campus in Naryn. I express my firm conviction that the University will be a leading educational institution, not only in the Kyrgyz Republic, but also throughout the region.

On this special day, let me sincerely wish you good health, success in your noble work, family warmth and happiness."

http://kabar.kg/eng/politics/full/17781

*******
Justin Trudeau and Canadian Ismailis celebrate 80th birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan

http://dailyhive.com/vancouver/canadian ... thday-2016

Today, thousands of Canadians and millions of Ismailis around the world celebrate His Highness the Aga Khan’s 80th birthday.

The 49th hereditary spiritual leader of Shia Ismaili Muslims is no stranger to Canada.

In May 2010, he became the fifth person to be granted honourary Canadian Citizenship, in February 2014 addressed the Canadian Parliament, and in September was awarded the Adrienne Clarkson Prize for Global Citizenship.

*******
Premier Christy Clark extends birthday wishes to His Highness the Aga Khan

Premier Christy Clark issued the following statement on the birthday of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan:

“Today, Shia Ismaili Muslims in British Columbia and around the world celebrate the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan.

“For almost 60 years, His Highness has served as a humanitarian leader and philanthropist. A champion of ideals and noble causes, including economic, social and cultural development, he is committed to helping those less fortunate, notably through the charitable works of the Aga Khan Development Network.

“In April, I had the pleasure of visiting the Ismaili Centre in Burnaby and was impressed by the ongoing work of the community to promote equality, pluralism, education, civic engagement, volunteerism and charitable projects, including the annual Ismaili Walk.

“On behalf of all British Columbians, I extend warm wishes to His Highness the Aga Khan on his 80th birthday and wish him continued success in his efforts to make the world a better place.”

*******

https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B56RSpA ... pR/preview

December 13, 2016

A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER

On behalf of the Government of Ontario, I am delighted to extend warm greetings to members of the Canadian Ismaili community on the occasion of the 80th birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan.

It is an honour to join in the tributes being paid to the Aga Khan for his spiritual leadership of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, his outstanding humanitarian work, and for his lifetime of devotion to the values of diversity, pluralism, peace, tolerance and sustainable human and economic development — values that we so prize here in Ontario.

I would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the Ismaili community in Ontario. In becoming an integral part of our multicultural success story, members of this diverse and dynamic community continue to help make Ontario even stronger. I am grateful for their many enduring contributions to the social, economic and cultural life of our province.

Please accept my sincere best wishes for a memorable and meaningful

celebration.

Kathleen Wynne

Premier

*******
Statement by Minister Joly on the Birthday of His Highness The Aga Khan

GATINEAU, December 13, 2016

It is a pleasure to extend birthday wishes to His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, Imam and spiritual leader of the world’s Shia Ismaili Muslims.

For more than 50 years, the Aga Khan has devoted himself to the spiritual and worldly progress of Ismailis everywhere. As Minister responsible for multiculturalism, I had the distinct pleasure of meeting his Highness earlier this year. I thanked him for his passionate advocacy of peace, compassion and pluralism. He has helped build bridges across religious and ethnic divides around the world.

His Highness is also an inspiration to our country, as he was named an honorary Canadian in 2010. He led the creation of the Aga Khan Museum and the world's sixth Ismaili Centre, both opened in Toronto in fall 2014.

The Aga Khan’s global humanitarian efforts—including those undertaken through the Aga Khan Foundation Canada—have had a lasting impact on the developing world, bringing improved health, education and rural development to some of the most vulnerable communities in Africa and Asia.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage, I thank His Highness for all he has done to help those in need, and join with Canada’s Ismaili community in wishing him a very happy birthday. Khushali Mubarak!

http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid ... 1473446741

*****
CM Maharashtra

https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/the ... E3MjkzOTM-
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Sénatrice Mobina Jaffer - 2e lecture - Projet de loi C-16 - Loi modifiant la Loi...

Published on Dec 2, 2016

2016 12 01 - Sénatrice Mobina Jaffer - 2e lecture - Projet de loi C-16 - Loi modifiant la Loi canadienne sur les droits de la personne et le Code criminel.
http://www.parl.gc.ca/Content/Sen/Cha...

VIDEO
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsCFzoA1w_4
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80th Birthday of H.H. The Aga Khan

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H.H. The Aga Khan celebrated his 80th birthday with his family on 13th December 2016. Later on 16th December, the LIF invited Mowlana Hazar Imam to a birthday party in Aiglemont. members of the Noorani family also attended: Prince Amyn, Prince Rahim, Princess Salwa, Prince Irfan, Princess Zahra...

A short video of the Concert and the Imam cutting the cake, was shown to the world Jamat .

VIDEO: http://ismaili.net/timeline/2016/vid-20 ... wa0001.mp4

Image



On that occasion, Mowlana Hazar Imam said:


Leaders and members of the Jamat, as you can tell I am emotional. But then who isn’t.(Hazar Imam was visibly touched and emotional)

Yes I have reached the age of 80, I am there, but I feel I am 40. Thanks to you all. (laughter). This has been a very very happy occasion for me and I would like to thank everyone who has participated in making this event happen.



I would like to thank our musicians for the wonderful performance and I would like to hope each of you will retain this evening as an occasion of happiness in your lives, that is certainly going to be in my case and for all members of my family who are here.



As I think of the past and I reflect where the Jamat has come from , where It is is today and where we are going in decades ahead . I think we can conclude, the Jamat today is a strong community it is a global community it is a community with strong institutions, & strong ethics and it is respected around the world.



What more can I wish for as the Imam of the time. You cannot give me a greater gift than the ability and the right to say the things I have just said



So to all the Jamat leaders past and present I say first of all on my behalf as Imam of the time, thank you (applause)



As I look ahead the Jamat is likely to be a more and more global community, but the essence of the Jamat, the ethics of our faith, the principles which we believe in and which we seek to practice in our lives is in essence of how our community will stay united, even as we become more and more globalised over the years



So I say to the leaders of the Jamat who are here this evening that my wish for the decades ahead is you must stand firmly by the principles and the ethics of our faith, wherever you are, whatever age you are, and whatever you are doing in your lives , it is essentially important to me that the ethics of our faith should be respected every day of your lives. This is my hope and this is my prayer



This evening I have had a especially happy 80th Birthday, and If had known it was so wonderful earlier, I would have made it to 80 much sooner, and I would have tried to multiply it. (Laughter)



I would like to thank you again for a most wonderful evening and for the particularly very beautiful 80th birthday present



I hope that in the decades ahead you will remember this occasion as one of special happiness, as I do , and I wish you happiness, long life, good health, unity in your lives and in your families



------------------

Salgirah Dinner

with Hazar Imam on Friday 16th Dec 2016



This was a special and an excellent evening in all respects. Thank you for sharing and thank you to Mukhi and Kamadia Sahebans, and to all murids who helped including, volunteers, & the BUI children,



The video included most and especially the speeches, Gift, devotional music, and Farman of Hazar Imam. This is overwhelming with inspirational guidance on what Imam wishes now, and in decades ahead.


Speech by President Liakat to the Jamat



Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim



Mukhi Saheb, Kamadia Saheb, Mukhiani Saheba , Kamadiani Saheba my brothers & sisters



I would like to say a few words, I mean a few words because after you see the film, you will probably not remember anything I have said (joke);



Last night I was extremely humbled to represent the whole of the UK jurisdiction Jamat. I was privileged to attend the celebration of the 80th birthday of our beloved Hazar Imam, which was hosted by LIF at Aiglemont.



Joining my wife and me was Gulamali Ramji, N Kheraj, chairman of AKF, and Shenul Kassam a board member of ICAB.



We arrived at Hazar Imam's house at 7pm, We walked through the front lit with lanterns. The first portrait we saw was Mawlana Sultan Muhammad Shah. We then walked through to the reception area.



The marquee was beautifully decorated in the colours of Ismaili centres around the world. Chairman Eboo and Shafik Sachedina received Hazar Imam



Chairman Eboo spoke on behalf of the global Jamats. The Food from different Ismaili's traditions and there was also devotional music from the many Ismaili traditions and countries.



Hazar Imam was very happy, constantly smiling and showing his appreciation.



Hazar Imam was presented with a gift on behalf of the global Jamat. This was a mosaic created by Gulji and commissioned in 1989. This reminded me of the mosaic from Gulji we have at the Ismaili centre here in London



Hazar Imam spoke with emotion and his words overwhelmed everyone. The Jamat will hear them in a few moments.



Thank you and Ya Ali madad.



Speech by Chairman Eboo (LIF)

on behalf of the Jamat world wide



Mawlana Hazar Imam, & members of Hazar Imam's family.



This evening is an extraordinary & a special occasion for members of our global Jamat and the leaders who are present here, representing the global Jamat.



Tonight we are blessed with the opportunity to say happy birthday personally to Hazar Imam in the multiplicity of languages and ethnicity of the global Jamat.



We say to you (He wished Imam happy birthday in various languages, incl. Eid Mawlid Saeed, Salgirah mubarak Janam Din mubarak, and a very happy 80th Birthday.



Khudavind we are immensely grateful that Hazar Imam has granted us this opportunity to be with Khudavind, and to convey our love, our prayers, our good wishes, our felicitations, from the entire Jamat from all the corners of the world.



We are also grateful to the Imam's family whose presence we deeply appreciate on this very special occasion in Hazar Imam's life. We are also grateful to Prince Rahim and Princess Salwa to allow young Prince Irfan to also join us today. This must be his first public appearance.



Khudavind your murids come from many different countries ethnicities and backgrounds. What binds us together is our submission to you. You are our Murshid and our spiritual father and in submitting our Bayah to you we are placing our life and destiny in your hands. We refer to you in all we do, in times of happiness , in times of difficulties, in times of success and challenges. Your benevolence and guidance inspires and protects us through our journey in life



We have observed 60 years of Khudavind’s inexhaustible work ethic, and working tirelessly night and day, without a break for our safety our progress and traversing the globe.



We give our Shukhrana to Hazar Imam. Khudavind to all the princes and princesses we offer our deep admiration and gratitude for what they do for you Hazar Imam



We are grateful to Hazar Imam for being gracious in allowing us to be here in Aiglemont in Hazar Imam s presence



We wish to demonstrate in Geomatrics (?); of the Marqee, the diversity of the Jamat and the inter linkages of the traditions and the ethnicities and of the 20 council around the world today, and reflecting and under khudavinds constant guidance



Hazar Imam you are very particular and observant , you will have noticed that the colours on the marquee are the colours of the 6 Ismaili centres around the world. The 20 (parts?) represents the 20 councils who are working towards the wellbeing of the Jamat.



We are offering today a menu of dishes from the many traditions of Ismailis from many countries, and also included are samosas, if Imam wishes to have them (laughter as Imam loves them).



There is also a specially composed fusion of music from the immense musical talent in the Jamat globally. And we will also be requesting Hazar Imam to do us the honour of cutting a cake.



Above all on this special occasion it is an opportunity to reaffirm our undying and unconditional love for our beloved Imam e Zaman , you are our guiding light and you hold our hand with kindness love and compassion forgiving our mistakes and guiding us. In celebrating khudavind,s 80th birthday we pray we are worthy of Hazar Imams love and care.



Above all Hazar Imam we submit our humble prayers for your good Health, happiness, long life and success in all Hazar Imams work and initiatives. And we pray for success in all Hazar Imams ambitions endeavours and aspirations.



Thank you Mawlana Hazar Imam



The GIFT



This was presented to Hazar Imam on behalf of the Entire Jamat - It is a beautiful mosaic of horses by Gulji commissioned in 1989. The reason for this is Hazar Imam and the families interest in Horses and historically by Imams in the past.
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VIDEO: Mawlana Hazar Imam’s milestone birthday celebration filled with happiness and affection - TheIsmaili

https://www.theismaili.org/news-events/ ... -affection

Mawlana Hazar Imam’s milestone birthday celebration filled with happiness and affection

TheIsmaili.org

19 December 2016

At the historic milestone of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s 80th birthday, Ismailis around the world gathered at Jamatkhanas this weekend to watch a special video of the celebrations that took place at Aiglemont, France on 16 December 2016. TheIsmaili.org is now pleased to be able to share a video of this momentous event online.

Aiglemont, 16 December 2016 — Mawlana Hazar Imam’s 80th birthday was celebrated by the Jamat and members of Hazar Imam’s family with love, music and felicity. Representing the entire Ismaili community in all of its diversity, Jamati and institutional leaders visited the Imam at his home on this milestone occasion to offer congratulations, express shukrana, and to reaffirm the Jamat’s bayyah to the Imam of the Time.

Mawlana Hazar Imam expressed his great happiness at the occasion, and took the opportunity to remind the Jamat of the importance of living by the ethics and principles of the faith.

“My wish for the decades ahead is that you stand firmly by the principles and ethics of our faith,” said Mawlana Hazar Imam. “Wherever you are, whatever age you are, whatever you do in your lives, it is essentially important to me that the principles of our faith should be respected everyday of your lives.”

“This is my hope and this is my prayer.”

Aitmadi Dr Mahmoud Eboo, Chairman of the Ismaili Leaders’ International Forum addressed Mawlana Hazar Imam on behalf of the worldwide Jamat: “This evening is an extraordinarily special occasion for the global Jamat and for the leaders who are here present tonight who are representing them.”

He wished Hazar Imam “a very happy 80th birthday” in several of the many languages spoken by Ismailis in the countries in which they live, and added, “we are immensely grateful that Hazar Imam has granted us this opportunity to be with Khudavind and to convey our love, our prayers, our felicitations and the good wishes of the entire Jamat from all corners of the world.”

Chairman Eboo also thanked Prince Amyn, Princess Zahra, Prince Rahim, Princess Salwa, Prince Hussain, Prince Aly Muhammad, Prince Irfan, and Princess Zahra’s children, Sara and Iliyan for their presence at the celebration.

The occasion brimmed with emotion and symbolism. The diversity and interconnectedness of the worldwide Ismaili community was represented in the specially designed marquee that housed the event, and the love, unity and yearning of the Jamat could be felt and heard in a unique musical performance.

The centrepiece of the marquee was a protective dome that signified the guidance and shelter that Hazar Imam constantly provides. The dome itself was inspired by an icosahedron — a geometric structure composed of 20 triangles. Each triangle symbolised one of the 20 national Ismaili Councils appointed by the Imam to oversee the Jamat’s well-being.

Singers and musicians from Ismaili communities in South Asia, Central Asia, Iran, Syria, East Africa, Europe, and North America collaborated in a special offering of music for Mawlana Hazar Imam. Touching hearts and stirring sentiment in the way that only melody and lyric can, their performance spoke harmoniously to the wealth of the Jamat’s diversity and the strength of its unity.

Visibly moved, Mawlana Hazar Imam thanked the musicians and all those who had organised the event. “As you can tell, I am a little emotional,” he said. “This has been a very, very happy occasion for me.”

Reflecting on the progress of the Jamat over the past several decades, Hazar Imam said, “I think we can conclude today that the Jamat is a strong community.”

“It is a global community. It is a community with strong institutions, with strong ethics and it is respected around the world.”

“What more could I wish for as the Imam of the Time? You could not give me a greater gift than the ability — than the right — to say the things that I have just said.”

Mawlana Hazar Imam thanked the leaders of the Jamat, both past and present. Looking forward, he said that the community is likely to become increasingly global.

“But the essence of the Jamat, the ethics of our faith, the principles which we believe in and which we seek to practice in our lives are the essence of how our community will stay united,” he said.

As Mawlana Hazar Imam cut a birthday cake presented on behalf of the global Jamat, he was serenaded by all those gathered with Happy Birthday sung in two languages. Hazar Imam was also presented with a gift of art — a mosaic of horses by the late Ismail Gulgee that was commissioned in 1989.

It was selected “because of Hazar Imam’s passion for horses, the history of horses within Islamic civilisation and the history even within Mawlana Hazar Imam’s own family,” explained Chairman Eboo.

Mawlana Hazar Imam expressed great happiness at the celebration of his 80th birthday. “If I had known it was going to be so wonderful, I would have tried to bring it forward,” he joked, “and I would have tried to multiply it!”

“I hope that in the decades ahead, you will remember this occasion as one of special happiness, as I do.”

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Ismailis in Gilgit-Baltistan celebrate the 80th birthday

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http://pamirtimes.net/2016/12/ 13/ismailis-in-gilgit-baltista n-celebrate-the-80th-birthday- of-prince-karim-aga-khan/

Ismailis in Gilgit-Baltistan celebrate the 80th birthday of Prince Karim Aga Khan

Gilgit: Ismaili Muslims across Giglit-Baltistan are celebrating the 80th birthday of their spiritual leader, Prince Karim Aga Khan. The day is marked by festivity and celebrations, as the community members thank their Imam for his continued guidance and support in religious and earthly matters.

The day started with morning prayers in which the community members prayed for the good health and long life of their Imam, and thanked him for his visionary leadership spanning over six decades. Prayers were also offered for the solidarity and prosperity of Pakistan, and wellbeing of the Islamic Ummah.

Birthday cakes were cut in Jamatkahnas, and community feasts were held across the valleys in Ghizer, Gilgit and Hunza, where Ismailis live in large numbers. Ismailis in the neighboring Chitral district are also celebrating the day with religious zeal and enthusiasm.

The present Aga Khan, Shah Karim Al – Hussaini, was born on the 13th of December 1937 in Geneva Paris. He became the Imam of the Ismaili sect in 1957, after the death of his grandfather, Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah. 2017 is the Diamond Jubilee year of his Imamat, marking completion of 60 years of unparalleled leadership which has helped transform the lives of millions of Ismailis, and other communities, across the world.

Leaders of various political parties, and government functionaries, in Gilgit-Baltistan have congratulated His Highness the Aga Khan on his 80th birthday, and also shared good wishes with the Ismailis living in the region.
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http://kabar.kg/eng/politics/f ull/17781

President Almazbek Atambayev wishes Prince Karim Aga Khan IV happy birthday

Bishkek, December 13 / Kabar /. Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev congratulated Prince Karim Aga Khan IV on his birthday.

The President congratulations says:

"Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on your 80th birthday! I have warm memories of our meeting in Bishkek during your recent visit to the Kyrgyz Republic. You belong to a number of eminent personalities, whose life and work is a manifestation of noble efforts in overcoming difficulties to address socio-economic problems, improve the living conditions of the most vulnerable layers of the population.

Undoubtedly, the projects implementing by the Aga Khan Development Network in the Kyrgyz Republic make a positive impetus to the ongoing development of our state.

Thanks to your personal contribution, recently University of Central Asia opened its first campus in Naryn. I express my firm conviction that the University will be a leading educational institution, not only in the Kyrgyz Republic, but also throughout the region.

On this special day, let me sincerely wish you good health, success in your noble work, family warmth and happiness."
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Other messages of felicitations by prominent people to H.H. The Aga Khan on the occasion of his 80th Birthday

Justin Trudeau and Canadian Ismailis celebrate 80th birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan

http://dailyhive.com/vancouver /canadian-ismailis-his- highness-the-aga-khan-birthday -2016

Today, thousands of Canadians and millions of Ismailis around the world celebrate His Highness the Aga Khan’s 80th birthday.
The 49th hereditary spiritual leader of Shia Ismaili Muslims is no stranger to Canada.

In May 2010, he became the fifth person to be granted honourary Canadian Citizenship, in February 2014 addressed the Canadian Parliament, and in September was awarded the Adrienne Clarkson Prize for Global Citizenship.

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Premier Christy Clark extends birthday wishes to His Highness the Aga Khan

Premier Christy Clark issued the following statement on the birthday of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan:

“Today, Shia Ismaili Muslims in British Columbia and around the world celebrate the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan.

“For almost 60 years, His Highness has served as a humanitarian leader and philanthropist. A champion of ideals and noble causes, including economic, social and cultural development, he is committed to helping those less fortunate, notably through the charitable works of the Aga Khan Development Network.

“In April, I had the pleasure of visiting the Ismaili Centre in Burnaby and was impressed by the ongoing work of the community to promote equality, pluralism, education, civic engagement, volunteerism and charitable projects, including the annual Ismaili Walk.

“On behalf of all British Columbians, I extend warm wishes to His Highness the Aga Khan on his 80th birthday and wish him continued success in his efforts to make the world a better place.”

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https://docs.google.com/file/d /0B56RSpAKvxXddEFNSllQaTZKVHgw VVc4emVRTWp2Uk5tM1pR/preview

December 13, 2016

A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER OF ONTARIO

On behalf of the Government of Ontario, I am delighted to extend warm greetings to members of the Canadian Ismaili community on the occasion of the 80th birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan.

It is an honour to join in the tributes being paid to the Aga Khan for his spiritual leadership of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, his outstanding humanitarian work, and for his lifetime of devotion to the values of diversity, pluralism, peace, tolerance and sustainable human and economic development — values that we so prize here in Ontario.

I would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the Ismaili community in Ontario. In becoming an integral part of our multicultural success story, members of this diverse and dynamic community continue to help make Ontario even stronger. I am grateful for their many enduring contributions to the social, economic and cultural life of our province.

Please accept my sincere best wishes for a memorable and meaningful celebration.

Kathleen Wynne

Premier

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Statement by Minister Joly on the Birthday of His Highness The Aga Khan

GATINEAU, December 13, 2016

It is a pleasure to extend birthday wishes to His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, Imam and spiritual leader of the world’s Shia Ismaili Muslims.

For more than 50 years, the Aga Khan has devoted himself to the spiritual and worldly progress of Ismailis everywhere. As Minister responsible for multiculturalism, I had the distinct pleasure of meeting his Highness earlier this year. I thanked him for his passionate advocacy of peace, compassion and pluralism. He has helped build bridges across religious and ethnic divides around the world.

His Highness is also an inspiration to our country, as he was named an honorary Canadian in 2010. He led the creation of the Aga Khan Museum and the world's sixth Ismaili Centre, both opened in Toronto in fall 2014.

The Aga Khan’s global humanitarian efforts—including those undertaken through the Aga Khan Foundation Canada—have had a lasting impact on the developing world, bringing improved health, education and rural development to some of the most vulnerable communities in Africa and Asia.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage, I thank His Highness for all he has done to help those in need, and join with Canada’s Ismaili community in wishing him a very happy birthday. Khushali Mubarak!

http://news.gc.ca/web/article- en.do?nid=1168819&tp=980&_ga=1 .3253680.1269738351.1473446741
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Re: 80th Birthday of H.H. The Aga Khan

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Admin wrote: I would like to thank you again for a most wonderful evening and for the particularly very beautiful 80th birthday present

Hazar Imam was presented with a gift on behalf of the global Jamat. This was a mosaic created by Gulji and commissioned in 1989. This reminded me of the mosaic from Gulji we have at the Ismaili centre here in London

The GIFT



This was presented to Hazar Imam on behalf of the Entire Jamat - It is a beautiful mosaic of horses by Gulji commissioned in 1989. The reason for this is Hazar Imam and the families interest in Horses and historically by Imams in the past.
See the depiction here:

Artist:
Ismail Gulgee (Pakistani, 1926–2007)
Title:Horses , 1989 Medium:lapis lazuli mosaicSize:120 x 108 cm. (47.2 x 42.5 in.)

http://www.artnet.com/artists/ismail-gu ... IaIvUMCVg2
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Post by kmaherali »

Harmony and service elevate birthday celebration to the global stage

Aleem Karmali

http://www.theismaili.org/community-ser ... obal-stage

24 December 2016

The milestone celebration of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s 80th birthday engaged artists from the diverse traditions of the Ismaili community in “a musical and cultural conversation.” And ensuring that within hours of the event, the worldwide Jamat could witness the celebration in a multiplicity of languages, was no minor feat.


Also see:
» VIDEO: Mawlana Hazar Imam’s milestone birthday celebration filled with happiness and affection
» GALLERY: Mawlana Hazar Imam's 80th birthday celebration

What does the song of a united global Jamat sound like? What notes, rhythms and lyrics do musicians compose when they come from all corners of the globe; when they are bringing together the heritage of diverse Ismaili Muslim traditions?

And — most importantly — how do they join in harmony to perform a musical offering for the Imam of the Time, on the occasion of his 80th birthday, and on behalf of all of his murids around the world?

Making music as one

“We came together not with the intention to present music from the North, or music from the South, or the West, or the East,” says Hussein Janmohamed. Nor to “present a palette or buffet of international sound that we could all taste and go home.”

Janmohamed served as the musical director and also performed alongside fellow artists from the Jamats of Afghanistan, East Africa, Europe, North America, Iran, South Asia, Syria and Tajikistan at the celebration of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s 80th birthday, which took place at his residence at Aiglemont, France on 16 December 2016.

Rather than simply have the artists perform pieces from each tradition, the goal was to find a way to bridge the unique musical traditions in a creative and collaborative manner.

“What we are trying to do here is to increase our understanding of what it means to be part of one Jamat, united by our allegiance to, and love for, the Imam of the Time,” explains producer Nina Hirji Kheraj. “By bringing musicians from around the world — broadly representing six geographic regions — to make music together, we engaged in a musical and cultural conversation.”

“We’re not playing: Syria plays, Afghanistan plays, Tajikistan plays, South Asia plays,” she continues. “We were playing together. We allowed ourselves to be curious about each other and we found a new language and way of being, We’re in a musical and cultural conversation.”

Engaging in that conversation drew the group together. Many of the 20 artists had not previously met — their encounters and collaboration began via remote video connection only three weeks prior to the event. Arriving in France on 9 December gave them a few days to get to know one another and to find their harmony in person. Each individual brought a unique voice, a different sound and a depth of talent.

“We were trying to work with each other, and at times this was not easy,” recalls Soibegim Davlatshoeva, a singer from Tajikistan, who is a member and artistic director of the Badakhshan Ensemble. But “music is in the heart, and there are similarities in our music. And from each we have picked a flower and created a bunch of flowers.”

“What we saw was laughter, what we saw was joy, what we saw was creativity,” she says.

In her remarks introducing the performance to Mawlana Hazar Imam, his family and all those who were present, Nina Hirji Kheraj spoke of the lessons and the rewards in the group’s journey towards musical pluralism.

“We learnt that talking about pluralism is not the same as engaging with it,” said Hirji Kheraj. “We had to learn to cede ground, to be fluid and flexible, to be open-hearted and open intellectually. We learnt to extend the generous hand of friendship and brotherhood, and we learnt that it takes effort. It is not always easy, but the rewards are sweet.”

The struggle to find unity made the end result that much more meaningful for the performers, according to Samidha Joglekar, a singer from Canada.

“If there is a moment of unity or harmony in the music you really appreciate that more when there’s been cacophony before that,” Joglekar says. “I think that’s a metaphor for, maybe, our existence. You can’t have unity unless you go through that.”

Delivering to the world

While the artists endeavoured to find their music, another group of equally dedicated volunteers grappled with a daunting technical challenge: capturing and transmitting the entire birthday celebration to the Jamat around the world — in record time!

Screenings of a video of the event had been organised to take place the following day in Jamatkhanas around the world, with each gathering expected to draw hundreds or even thousands of viewers. There was no room for disappointment, and little time to spare.

The Friday birthday celebration finished after 11:00 PM in France. The production involved not only the live filming of the event, but also pre-producing several features, and a very tight window to edit and turnaround the final product. Due to the time zone difference, the first Jamats in New Zealand and Australia were due to show the video less than 12 hours later.

The Jamat was appreciative. Salma Premji, a member of the Sydney Jamat, felt moved at witnessing “the Noorani family with global Jamat leaders together celebrating our Imam’s birthday.” Especially, she says “knowing his entire adult life has been dedicated to us.”

Abdul Tejani, also from Sydney, was glad to have the chance to experience the event together with the rest of the Jamat. “It was great to see Mawlana Hazar Imam celebrating,” he says. “His speech was very inspiring and touching, with his love for his murids splashed all over it.”

Eliminating language barriers

Delivering the video to Jamats in time was one challenge, but it also had to be subtitled in 10 different languages.

For the Ismaili community, such a massive translation effort was a first. Videos of momentous Imamat occasions had been turned around quickly for the global Jamat in the past, notably the Inaugural Ceremony of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Golden Jubilee on 11 July 2007. But never before had subtitles been added — even in one language, let alone 10.

An array of people worked tirelessly to make it happen. The video team consisted of 10 people, including directors, camera operators, and editors. Five camera operators filmed the ceremony, with direction and editing taking place in a live control room. The live-edited video was then combined with the pre-produced opening and other features to provide the Jamat with an even better understanding of the evening, and the story behind it.

Speeches were quickly transcribed and reviewed before being sent to translators around the world. Once the final video was completed with its English audio, the team worked into the hours of the night to add subtitles in Arabic, Dari, English, Farsi, French, Gujarati, Portuguese, Russian, Tajik, and Urdu.

After approximately 20 hours of continuous and demanding work by the team, the entire global Jamat had received videos in their relevant languages. The impact was felt in Jamatkhanas around the world, where screenings were already underway.

“That the Jamat in Iran could view the film at the same time as the global Jamat, so quickly after the event, and in subtitles was a unique and unprecedented experience,” says Nacim Pak-Shiraz, who served as a translator and liaison with the musicians. “This shared experience, without language barriers, created a sense of connectedness with the global Jamat and being part of one community.”

The hard work and dedication of all the organisers and volunteers, whose tireless efforts helped make the celebration of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s birthday a success, was rooted in the historic tradition of loving and devoted service by the Jamat for the Imam of the Time.

“This has been a very, very happy occasion for me,” said Mawlana Hazar Imam during his birthday celebration. “I would like to thank everyone who has participated in making this event happen. I would like to thank our musicians for their wonderful performance and I would like to hope that each one of you will retain this evening as a moment of special happiness in your lives.”
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http://rdnewsnow.com/article/565262/aga ... ts-trudeau

On Aga Khan's birthday, Christmas holiday controversy still haunts Trudeau
By The Canadian Press
December 13, 2017 - 3:00pm

OTTAWA — When Prime Minister Justin Trudeau planned his holiday trip a year ago, he would have had no reason to fear that the Ghost of Christmas Past would still be haunting him a year later.

Trudeau, his family and some friends, including MP Seamus O'Regan, now the minister of veterans affairs, spent their 2016 Christmas vacation on a private island in the Bahamas owned by the Aga Khan, the billionaire spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims.

The Prime Minister's Office initially tried to play down the trip, refusing to say where Trudeau would spend the holiday. When it came out early in the new year that he spent the vacation in a Caribbean hideaway owned by the wealthy philanthropist, the opposition pounced.

They asked why Trudeau accepted a free vacation from a rich man whose charitable organizations, in some cases, relied on Canadian government help. The prime minister tried to brush things off, saying the Aga Khan is an old friend of his family — indeed, Trudeau wished him a happy birthday Wednesday — as well as a leader and a partner in the fight against world poverty.

He also pointed out that the Aga Khan is an honorary Canadian citizen and an honorary Companion of the Order of Canada, but none of that carried any weight with his political foes.

The saga has lingered to this day — when the government announced a new ethics commissioner earlier this week, it rekindled memories of the controversy, since Trudeau and his officials had to recuse themselves from the selection process, since he was the subject of an inquiry.

Wednesday's statement surely didn't help, either.

"I am proud to call His Highness both a friend and a mentor," Trudeau said in his birthday wishes. "Canada and the world are stronger and richer because of his commitment to diversity and inclusion, and to finding common ground.

"Today, Sophie and I thank the Aga Khan for all that he has done to help those in need, and wish him continued health and happiness for years to come."

Trudeau had flown most of the way to the Bahamas on a government aircraft, but did the last leg on a private helicopter owned by his host — a no-no according to government rules that prohibit ministers of the Crown from using private aircraft except when no other options exist.

Trudeau insisted that the helicopter was the only way to reach the hideaway, but then it emerged that some of his technical staff reached Bell Island on another aircraft.

The costs climbed in fits and starts as various expense accounts were reported.

The opposition kept the issue going, dragging its ghostly chains through question period for weeks.

The Conservatives complained to Mary Dawson, the federal ethics commissioner, that Trudeau's trip crossed the conflict of interest rules. She eventually agreed to look into the matter and Trudeau agreed to answer any questions she might have.

That investigation has dragged on for months. Dawson won't comment on investigations and routinely asks that those involved in such matters keep quiet until she reports.

The sanctions involved are minor, little more than a tap on the wrist, even if Dawson found a breach of the rules, but a finding against the prime minister would give the opposition more material to work into their effort to portray Trudeau as a wealthy dilettante out of touch with ordinary folks.

The latest twist to the tale comes with the appointment of Mario Dion, the current head of the Immigration and Refugee Board, as the new ethics commissioner. Opposition MPs fret that Dion has refused to commit himself to following through on existing complaints, including those involving Trudeau and his trip.

While the Ghost of Christmas Past lives on in the ethics commissioner's files, the Prime Minister's Office seems to have learned a lesson.

His office is happy to tell askers that Trudeau and family plan to spend this holiday on Canadian soil — part at the prime ministerial retreat at Harrington Lake north of Ottawa, and part in the Canadian Rockies.

The Canadian Press
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http://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/st ... 76773.html

Statement by the Prime Minister on the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan

News provided by
Prime Minister's Office

08:00 ET



OTTAWA, Dec. 13, 2017 /CNW/ - The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement marking the birthday of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan:

"Today, we celebrate the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims – a community that includes tens of thousands in Canada and millions around the world.

"The Aga Khan is a global humanitarian leader dedicated to the promotion of pluralism and peace. He is an inspiration to millions, including myself.

"I often say that Canada is stronger not in spite of its differences, but because of them. For half a century, the Aga Khan has shown that about the world.

"His Highness has worked tirelessly to reduce poverty, promote diversity, and advance gender equality, particularly in developing countries. He is a beacon of compassion and acceptance, who has always stood by those most vulnerable.

"In recognition of his noble work, he was named an honorary Canadian citizen and an honorary Companion of the Order of Canada. I am proud to call His Highness both a friend and a mentor. Canada and the world are stronger and richer because of his commitment to diversity and inclusion, and to finding common ground.

"Today, Sophie and I thank the Aga Khan for all that he has done to help those in need, and wish him continued health and happiness for years to come."

This document is also available at http://pm.gc.ca

SOURCE Prime Minister's Office
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