Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the 49th Imam

Post by **Admin** » Thu Jul 13, 2017 9:45 pm

Photo: 11 July 2007 in Aiglemont in celebration of the Golden Jubilee - H.H. The Aga Khan with past and present leaders of his community.

10 years back, the Golden Jubilee, today Diamond Jubilee and in 10 years Platinum Jubilee Inshallah!

Post by **Admin** » Sat Jul 15, 2017 11:36 am

As received

LIF NOTES :

Account of the Homage ceremony from one of the past leaders.

Dear all,

Mubarakbadis to you all on the occasion of Diamond Jubilee. I am on the plane on the way back to New York. I had meant to write this email on the day of the Homage ceremony but with the time constraint, this was a challenge. I did want to share my experiences with you, however. I remembered everyone, including the Jamal's and prayed for all of us (Amen).

On the day of the homage ceremony, breakfast was served at 6.00 a.m., instead of the hotel's normal policy of 7.00 a.m. as we were required to board the bus for Aiglemont Secretariat at 7.10 a.m. for the start of the ceremony. It was amazing how many people came to the breakfast, all very upbeat and in good spirits and some of them already decked in their fineries.

We were assembled in four lines to board the bus, in the alphabetical order of our names. Once we arrive at the Secretariat (about half an hour ride), Shafik and Mahamoud Eboo were there to greet us. It was drizzling.

At the Secretariat, there were refreshments and opportunities to freshen up as well as a photo shoot for each delegate. We stayed there for around 45 minutes or so, mingling, etc. At around 9.20 or so, the lines for the procession started to be assembled. Each one of us had a number where we were to stand in the row/line. I was standing next to Aziz Tejpar and his wife and we had fun talking about past days. The rain had stopped.

It was such an amazing sight. In the front line were Mahamoud, Shafiqua, Zulie, etc. carrying the insignia of the Imamat (the Holy Quran, the Constitution, the Robe, the Crown, the Chain of the Office, the Inkwell, the Parasol, the Sword, the Banner). Along the lines you could see beautiful colours with specks of teal and gold for those wearing the regalia.
Most of the women were wearing colorful Bandhnis. It was a sight to behold. I will forever cherish that and felt particularly very blessed and prouThe procession once assembled started walking slowly to MHI's residence and on the way we passed performers who were reciting beautiful and melodious Qasidas and Ginans.

At the entrance of MHI's residence, there were a different set of performers and we recited Ya Ali Agisani. Mahmoud and Shafik went to bring the Noorani family and then we walked inside MHI's residence past beautiful tapestries and pictures of many leaders on the table, including Obama, etc. The Deedar hall was beautiful with fresh flowers and very elegant. We were seated at the hall according to our rows/numbers. I was again seated next to Aziz Tejpar on one side and a past ICAB member with me in my first term, Habibullah Kadwani (Naz Virani's cousin) on the other side. The aura was very spiritual. Once MHI arrived, he was presented with the Imamat Insignia of the Office.

Zulie was very happy as she was one of the presenters. Quranic -Ayat was recited including its translation, followed by Qasidas (Syrian, Iranian, Afghan and Tajk tradition) and Munajat and then Mahmoud's Homage and Loyalty Address (Mubarakbadis and Oath of Allegiance on behalf of the entire Ismaili community).

He then made a speech and subsequently also thanked the Noorani family. Hazar Imam was very emotional when he spoke and one could hear some in the audience crying.

MHI was subsequently presented with Mehmani on behalf of the global Jamal and He blessed the dried fruit and Abe Shafa. Mowlana Hazar Imam was then presented with mementos and Token Gift (a gold coin with the Diamond Jubilee logo with 60 diamonds around it was one of the token gift). The smaller version of the same type of gold coin was presented to the Imam's family. Each delegate at the ceremony will also receive a gold coin.

After the ceremonies, Mowlana Hazar Imam left the hall amidst salwats. We then went outside where delegates assembled according to their regions for a photo ceremony with Mowlana Hazar Imam. I was in the group of past National Council Presidents, LIF and ICAB. Noordin was sitting next to Mowlana Hazar Imam and Shamsh Bhaloo was in a special turbo wheel chair. After the photo was taken, Mowlana Hazar Imam went to Shamsh.

We then returned to the Secretariat where sherbet and microns were being served. This also gave delegates an opportunity to freshen up. The delegates returned to Mowlana Hazar Imam's residence for the lunch. This was a lunch directly offered by Mowlana Hazar Imam and the invitation was also from Mowlana Hazar Imam. Each delegate was seated according to a predesignated table. The lunch included chicken and vegetables samosas, green asparagus and langoustines, rack of lamb, chicken and vegetable biryani, strawberry coulis, mango and pistachio kulfi, baklava, etc. Each delegate was given a lovely souvenir of a paper weight in a beautiful box with Mowlana Hazar Imam's crest and Diamond Jubilee's logo. Princess Yasmin was sitting in the table directly in front of me and Princess Zahra was sitting immediately on the table next to me (on my left). The CEO of AKF thanked Mowlana Hazar Imam and his family.

Prince Amyn Mohammed spoke next and then Mowlana Hazar Imam gave a beautiful speech.

After the lunch, we walked back to the Secretariat to pick up our juras with Abe Shafa and a beautiful, beautiful tasbih in a very elegant box. In the evening, most of the delegates went to Paris, where a hall was rented, to join the Paris Jamat to watch the homage ceremony and in celebrating the Diamond Jubilee Imamat Day celebrations.

I am so thankful and feel so blessed that I was invited to this very historic and dreamlike celebration, and to all if you for your friendship and support. My deepest appreciation and prayers to all of you.

Love.

Khurshid

Post by **Admin** » Sat Jul 15, 2017 2:02 pm

Post by **Admin** » Tue Jul 25, 2017 12:12 am

Beautiful Photos from the Homage Ceremony in Aiglemont on 11 July 2017

mahebubchatur · Post by **mahebubchatur** » Tue Aug 22, 2017 8:54 am

DIAMOND JUBILEE
HIS HIGHNESS THE AGA KHAN IV
[1957 – 2017]

The Diamond Jubilee

What is the Diamond Jubilee?

The Diamond Jubilee marks the 60th anniversary of His Highness the Aga Khan’s leadership as the 49th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslim Community. On 11th July, 1957, the Aga Khan, at the age of 20, assumed the hereditary office of Imam established by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family), following the passing of his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan.

Why is the Community celebrating His Highness the Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee?
The commemoration of the Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee is in keeping with the Ismaili Community’s longstanding tradition of marking historic milestones.
Over the past six decades, the Aga Khan has transformed the quality of life of hundreds of millions of people around the world. In the areas of health, education, cultural revitalisation, and economic empowerment, he has inspired excellence and worked to improve living conditions and opportunities in some of the world’s most remote and troubled regions.

The Diamond Jubilee is an opportunity for the Shia Ismaili Muslim community, partners of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), and government and faith community leaders in over 25 countries to express their appreciation for His Highness’s leadership and commitment to improve the quality of life of the world’s most vulnerable populations. It is also an occasion for His Highness to recognise the friendship and longstanding support of leaders of governments and partners in the work of the Imamat and to set the direction for the future. This would include laying foundations for and launching major new initiatives and programmes, founded upon partnerships based on the principles of ethics in action, peace and pluralism.

When will the Diamond Jubilee be commemorated?
This historic commemoration will begin on the 11th of July 2017 and conclude on the 11th of July 2018.

What are the major objectives of His Highness’ Diamond Jubilee?

Objectives for the Diamond Jubilee reflect His Highness’ continued commitment, demonstrated in landmark accomplishments over the past six decades, to improve living conditions and opportunities in developing countries in Asia and Africa, particularly for the most vulnerable and marginalized. Numerous new projects and initiatives will be launched during the Jubilee, encompassing coordinated programmes to alleviate poverty, increase access to finance for education, health and housing, early childhood development, and infrastructure (principally, water,
energy and telecommunications) projects in developing countries.

Additional resources and capacity will be added to the institutions of the Aga Khan Development Network, including the Aga Khan University and the University of Central Asia. It is hoped that the Diamond Jubilee will also provide occasion to improve understanding of Islam and Muslim civilizations, as well as the contributions of Muslim communities, historically as well as in contemporary times, and to foster collaboration between different peoples and faith communities around the world.

Why is this such an important event?

The Jubilee marks 60 years of the Imamat of His Highness the Aga Khan. Over the last 60 years, His Highness has guided the Shia Ismaili Community, the Muslim Ummah and the societies within which they live towards addressing key challenges relating to human development. He has enabled successful collaborative endeavours among Muslims, across different faiths, and between developed and developing countries. The past six decades have been a time of turbulent change for the countries in the developing world where the majority of the Shia Ismaili Muslim Community lives. Throughout this time, His Highness’ guidance and efforts have enabled the Ismaili Community to establish institutions and to work collaboratively with others, to assure the security, welfare and progress of its members and those of other communities they live amongst. He has guided the Community in the practice of its faith and has worked to improve the understanding of Islam by others.

His Highness the Aga Khan

Who is His Highness the Aga Khan?

The Aga Khan is the 49th hereditary Imam (Spiritual Leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. He is 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 Ali’s wife Fatima (the Prophet's daughter).

He is Founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), one of the world’s most comprehensive development organizations. Guided by the ethics of Islam and the Imam’s hereditary mandate and responsibility to improve the quality of life of his community and of those amongst whom they live, the Aga Khan has been at the forefront of innovation in development during his 60 years as Imam.

What is the role of the Imam?

In Islam’s ethical tradition, religious leaders not only interpret the faith but also have a responsibility to help improve the quality of life of their community and the societies among which they live. For the Aga Khan, this has meant a deep engagement with the concerns of the developing world and efforts to improve living conditions and opportunities through the agencies of the AKDN
.
What is the Imamat?

The Imamat is the institution (office) of the Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. In the Shia tradition of Islam, the Imamat is the hereditary institution of spiritual and moral authority established by Prophet Muhammad, when he designated and appointed his cousin and son-in-law Ali as the first Imam. With a history that spans over 1400 years, the Ismaili Imamat is a non-political transnational office, representing the succession of Imams since the time of the Prophet.

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN)

What is the Aga Khan Development Network?
The Aga Khan Development Network is one of world’s most comprehensive development organizations. It operates in over 30 countries, principally in Central and South Asia, Eastern and Western Africa and the Middle East.
Inspired by the Islamic ethic of compassion and responsibility to care for the needy, the AKDN works for the common good of all citizens, regardless of their gender, origin, or religion, to alleviate poverty and foster self-reliance. The Network’s individual agencies have mandates ranging from health and education to rural development, microfinance, disaster reduction, the promotion of private-sector enterprise, architecture and the revitalisation of historic cities—all of which are catalysts for development. Together, they contribute towards building a vibrant civil society that addresses the needs of vulnerable populations.
AKDN spends US$ 925 million dollars annually on non-profit social and cultural development activities and employs 80,000 people.

The Network works in partnership with international and multilateral organizations (including the World Bank and agencies of the UN), development agencies of governments globally (including Canada, Europe and the U.S.), leading universities and private development organizations around the world, and local, state and national governments as well as the spectrum of civil society in each country where the AKDN is active.

The Shia Ismaili Muslim Community

Who are the Ismailis?
The Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, known as the lsmailis, belong to the Shia branch of Islam. Like the wider Muslim world as a whole, the Ismaili Community encompasses a rich diversity of cultures, languages, and nationalities. Residing primarily in Central and South Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, North America and the Far East, members of the Community around the world are united in their spiritual allegiance to His Highness the Aga Khan as their 49th hereditary Imam.

Joint Press release By AKDN & TheIsmaili July 2017

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Tue Sep 05, 2017 3:24 am

A special event was held in Dhaka, Bangladesh to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Mawlana Hazar Imam, a 60-year period during which the Imam has dedicated efforts to improving the quality of life around the world.

Dhaka, 27 July 2017 — Members of the Jamat were invited to participate in an event hosted by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which brought together leaders of government and civil society, and representatives of the diplomatic community, for an evening of celebration and friendship.

Imamat Institutions have been present in Bangladesh since 1955, when Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah directed investments towards what became a thriving jute mill industry. Today, the AKDN works in the areas of early childhood development, pre-tertiary education, and financial services. Building upon the Protocol of Cooperation signed by Mawlana Hazar Imam with the government in 2013, the AKDN in Bangladesh is engaged with the government and a variety of development partners to help bring social and economic progress to all people of Bangladesh.

AKDN’s Resident Representative in Bangladesh, Mr Munir M. Merali, welcomed over 300 guests including the Chief Guest, His Excellency Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali, the Minister for Foreign Affairs. In his speech, Mr Mahmood Ali stated that, “The Aga Khan’s work is underpinned by an emphasis on Islam as a spiritual faith which cherishes the role of the intellect, teaches compassion and tolerance, and upholds the dignity of humankind.”

Mr Merali in turn remarked that the historic Jubilees of Mawlana Hazar Imam “serve as important milestones for His Highness to recognise the friendship and longstanding support of leaders of state, governments, and other partners in the work of the Imamat, and to set the direction for the future including the launching of major new initiatives and programmes that are guided by the social ethic of concern for those vulnerable in the society”

The Diamond Jubilee year, which began on 11 July 2017, also provides an opportunity to focus on a number of global objectives, including an emphasis on education through establishing new centres of learning and strengthening existing ones. One such endeavour is the Aga Khan Academies, a network of residential schools offering girls and boys an international standard of education from pre-primary to secondary levels with a rigorous academic and leadership experience, regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Each Academy also includes a Professional Development Centre, which aims at strengthening the profession of teaching in the respective region. Aga Khan Academies currently operate in Mombasa, Hyderabad and Maputo, while plans are in place for an Academy to open in Dhaka in the coming years.

Staff of the Aga Khan Academies and other AKDN agencies, including the Aga Khan Foundation and Aga Khan Education Services were present at the event to discuss their current activities in the region, along with leadership from the Ismaili Council for Bangladesh and other Jamati leaders, to explore the possibility of expanding programmatic activities for the ongoing support towards the development of Bangladesh.

https://the.ismaili/akdn-celebrates-maw ... bangladesh

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Wed Sep 20, 2017 6:53 am

Diamond Jubilee Polo Tournament underway in Yasin valley

Organized by the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board for Pakistan, the tournament is part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the current Aga Khan’s sixty years of Imamat (leadership).

On first day of the tournament, Chitral dominated, by defeating polo teams from Hunza and Gilgit. Team Hunza couldn’t score a single goal against Upper Chitral’s 9 goals, while Gilgit was able to score one goal only, against Lower Chitral’s 9 goals.

The opening ceremony of the tournament was attended, among thousands of others, by MLA Raja Jahazaib and Shahmez Mukhi, the Chairman of AKYSB,P.

http://pamirtimes.net/2017/09/09/diamon ... in-valley/

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Sat Sep 30, 2017 11:47 pm

THE.ISMAILI | 27 September 2017| GLOBAL

Celebrating progress in Mozambique

A reception was hosted by the Aga Khan Development Network at the Polana Serena Hotel in Maputo, to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee year of Mawlana Hazar Imam.

Vazir Nazim Ahmad, AKDN Diplomatic Representative to Portugal and Mozambique, welcomed over 200 guests to the Serena, including the official Representative of the Government of Mozambique, the Vice Minister of Education and Human Development; President of the Supreme Court; Vice President of the Assembly; Deputy Attorney General; and the Vice Minister of Energy. The event was also attended by members of the diplomatic community, including representatives from countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North and South America. Officials of bilateral and multilateral agencies of co-operation were also in attendance.

The reception was hosted in collaboration with the Ismaili Council for Mozambique, while leaders of Jamati and AKDN institutions were present to discuss development projects, which contribute to improving quality of life in the region. Nazim Ahmad took the opportunity to deliver a speech detailing the work of the Ismaili Imamat and goals of the Diamond Jubilee year in general, and the work of AKDN in Mozambique in particular.

AKDN agencies have been present in Mozambique for a number of years, working towards achieving the considerable potential for progress and socio-economic development in the country, specifically in the areas of tourism, agriculture, education, health, civil society and infrastructure. Projects include the rehabilitation of the Polana Serena Hotel, one of Africa’s grandest colonial era hotels; and the Coastal Rural Support Programme supporting entrepreneurship and skills development in the country’s poorest northern districts. In addition, the Aga Khan Academy, Maputo has been in operation since 2013, providing an international standard of education to an increasing student body; and the Moztex garment factory employs over 500 employees, of which 90% are women, trained in-house. More recently, the Aga Khan Foundation Mozambique is managing and upgrading a vocational secondary school in the northern province of Cabo Delgado – the Agrarian Institute of Bilibiza – with over 500 students.

Mr Ahmad also explained to guests the landmark agreement to establish the global Seat of the Ismaili Imamat in Lisbon, Portugal, signed in 2015. This is the first such accord in the modern history of the Imamat, and it is hoped the agreement will provide an enabling framework to bring visible benefits especially to Lusophone countries, including Mozambique.

In his remarks, the Representative of the Government of Mozambique, Professor Armindo Ngunga stated “I have the honour and privilege of taking part in the celebrations of Imamat Day during the Diamond Jubilee year of His Highness the Aga Khan … and would like to address our fraternal and cordial congratulations to the global Ismaili Community.” Professor Ngunga went on to say: “I would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation and recognition for the important contribution that the AKDN has made in our country in improving the well-being and living conditions of Mozambican.

https://the.ismaili/news/celebrating-pr ... mozambique

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Wed Oct 18, 2017 11:57 pm

Diamond Jubilee lecture entitled Mediation: Pluralistic Discourses

On Wednesday 18 October, The Ismaili Centre, London will host its inaugural Diamond Jubilee lecture entitled Mediation: Pluralistic Discourses. Guests will be addressed by Dr Christophe Bernasconi, the fourth Secretary-General of the Hague Conference on Private International Law. Dr Bernasconi will consider how mediation can take into account different legal systems and laws in today’s interconnected world. This event will be broadcast online, commencing at 20:15 BST (GMT+1).

Mediation Awareness Week 2017 runs from 14 to 20 0ctober in the UK. The aim is to spread awareness of mediation as an effective method in settling disputes and avoiding further conflict. Groups across the UK will be hosting different events to promote mediation and considering the benefits to individuals, communities and sectors, from healthcare to architecture. For further information visit mediationawarenessweek.uk.

Dr Bernasconi will be joined by Jean Ayoub, Secretary General and CEO of The International Social Service, Marian Roberts, a social worker, barrister and guest teacher at LSE, Dr Yasmin Dhanji MBE, Chairman of the National Conciliation and Arbitration Board for the UK and Shainul Kassam, a corporate lawyer. The event will be moderated by lawyer and author Dr Mohammed Keshavjee.

The session will explore the benefits of pluralistic discourses in mediation – in approach, culture, methodology and demographics. The speakers will consider some of the universal ethics informing the practice of mediation, from compassion to tolerance, as well as how a non-adversarial approach towards dispute resolution plays a significant role in improving quality of life.

The lecture will also mark the 30th anniversary of the Conciliation and Arbitration boards of the Shia Ismaili Muslim Community.

This event will be broadcast online, commencing at 20:15 BST (GMT+1).

https://the.ismaili/diamond-jubilee-lec ... discourses

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Fri Oct 20, 2017 5:17 pm

Video: Diamond Jubilee Time and Knowledge Nazrana

In a speech at the Canadian Parliament in 2014, Mawlana Hazar Imam spoke of the contributions made by Time and Knowledge Nazrana (TKN) volunteers and said “The importance of contributing one’s individual energies on a voluntary basis to improving the lives of others is not a matter of philanthropy, but rather of self-fulfilment... their impact has been enormous in helping us to achieve best practice standards in our institutions and programmes”

https://the.ismaili/diamond-jubilee/vid ... ge-nazrana

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Sun Oct 22, 2017 10:36 pm

Glimpses of Diamond Jubilee Sports Festival

VIDEO
https://www.facebook.com/pamirtimes/vid ... 354807617/

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Sat Oct 28, 2017 10:39 pm

Ismaili artists worldwide will unite to showcase talents through Jubilee Arts

Jubilee Arts is a new international programme to be established during the Diamond Jubilee year to celebrate the Jamat’s vast artistic skills and cultural traditions.

Whatever your creative passion — painting, architecture, filmmaking, dance, or musical performance — Jubilee Arts will unleash these talents and celebrate them in countries all over the world. If you are an established or aspiring artist or performer, Jubilee Arts is an opportunity for you to exhibit your talents in front of your peers, in celebration of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Diamond Jubilee.

Celebrations will take place across the world over the course of the Diamond Jubilee Year, and global digital platforms will be used to share and showcase these artists on a global stage. More details including entry requirements will be shared with the Jamat in the coming weeks. Updates will be posted on the.ismaili.

https://the.ismaili/artists-worldwide-w ... bilee-arts

Post by **Admin** » Mon Nov 20, 2017 12:56 am

2017-11-20

In Montreal, it has been days after days of celebration after Jamatkhana ceremonies with food, music parties, live music, Rasra, Dandia, dance and happiness till midnight with the participation of all Jamats from different background.. One day to go for the much anticipated Didar!

In Toronto, our Imam said that nothing makes him happier than to see a smile on the face of his Jamat. Smile Montreal, tomorrow is your day!

Old and young, the ladies have put Henna (Mehendi) on their hands!

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Thu Nov 23, 2017 11:30 pm

Diamond Jubilee Cycling Rally held in Upper Hunza
Report: Ali Saeedi

VIDEO

https://www.facebook.com/pamirtimes/vid ... 837302617/

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Mon Dec 04, 2017 7:39 am

Prince Amyn graced an Imamat Day reception on 23 November at the Ismaili Centre Lisbon, held to honour Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Diamond Jubilee.

The event was hosted by the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat to Portugal in collaboration with the Ismaili Council for Portugal, and was attended by leaders of Jamati and AKDN institutions, members of government and the diplomatic corps, development partners, and members of the Jamat. Prince Amyn was welcomed to the Ismaili Centre by Portugal’s Ismaili Scouts group. While there, he officially opened the Ethics in Action exhibition, a Diamond Jubilee initiative.

Addressing the gathering, Prince Amyn remarked that the Ismaili community was fully integrated into the life of Portugal, noting that the activities of the Ismaili Imamat are based on shared values and that joint efforts are being made toward creating a more pluralistic outlook. “At a time of conflict and sectarian tension, what we are doing, shows we share a common culture and that we are all brethren, whether born here or elsewhere” he said.

At the event, Prince Amyn also announced the contribution of €100,000 made by members of the Ismaili community, towards the reforestation of Leiria’s ‘mata nacional’ — one of the areas worst hit by the forest fires in October that devastated large amounts of land and claimed the lives of several people, and forcing others to flee from towns and villages.

The donation will allow the clearing of over 75 hectares of land located in the northern part of the National Forest of Leiria in the region of Pedrógão Grande, and the subsequent planting of close to 200,000 trees. The commitment follows an earlier contribution announced by Mawlana Hazar Imam of €500,000 last June, towards the support of victims of the deadly forest fire in Pedrógão Grande in central Portugal.

Nazim Ahmad, Diplomatic Representative of the Ismaili Imamat to the Portuguese Republic, also delivered a speech to guests. In his remarks, Mr Ahmad detailed the long and deep relationship between the Ismaili Imamat and the Portuguese Republic. “The unique and likeminded values in development, underpinned in a relationship of deep dialogue and understanding, has led to the establishment of several agreements towards the improvement of quality of life, culminating in the agreement for the establishment of the Seat of the Ismaili Imamat in Portugal.”

AKDN agencies have been present in Portugal since 1983, with the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) working in the areas of early childhood education, social inclusion, and urban poverty. Across all of its activities, AKF has sought to help communities drive their own progress, connecting people from all walks of life, and working with them to help identify and realise their aspirations.

https://the.ismaili/news/imamat-recepti ... d-portugal

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Sat Dec 16, 2017 6:51 pm

UGANDA JAMAT's - SHORT VIDEO GREETINGS - Most awaited video

VIDEO
https://www.facebook.com/RaheemDhananiPhotography

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Sat Jan 13, 2018 3:34 pm

THE.ISMAILI | 10 January 2018| GLOBAL

AKDN West Africa celebrates Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Diamond Jubilee in Abidjan

AKDN West Africa commemorated the Diamond Jubilee of Mawlana Hazar Imam with a diplomatic reception in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire on 8 December, 2017.

The event was attended by leaders of the community and civil society, including ambassadors accredited in Côte d’Ivoire, government representatives, senior representatives of AKDN’s development partners, regional directors of AKDN agencies, and members of the Jamat.

The event was hosted by the AKDN Diplomatic Representative in West Africa, Mr Ferid Nandjee. In his speech, Mr Nandjee highlighted the significant work done to improve the quality of life of millions of people worldwide during the past six decades, through development activities in the areas of health, education, cultural revitalization, and economic empowerment.

Imamat Institutions have been present in West Africa since 1965, at a time when Côte d’Ivoire’s first president was looking for effective ways to manage his country’s resources and Mawlana Hazar Imam was exploring innovative solutions to help African countries build their industrial capacity, as a pathway to development. Industrial Promotion Services (West Africa), an arm of the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development, was thus created and turned this shared aspiration into reality.

With their complementary aims and shared vision, economic development activities have expanded to four countries in West Africa (Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Mali, and Senegal) and, since 2004, have also grown to include social and cultural development activities, jointly implemented by the Aga Khan Foundation, the Aga Khan Agency for Microfinance, and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture.

Senior leaders of AKDN agencies present for this commemorative event met the following morning, to discuss continued collaboration among the AKDN agencies and to broaden the ongoing support from the AKDN Representative Office.

https://the.ismaili/akdn-west-africa-ce ... ee-abidjan

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Tue Jan 23, 2018 5:33 pm

A SPLENDID COLLECTION OF PHOTOS OF THE AGA KHAN’S VISITS TO DUBAI AS ISMAILIS IN UAE PREPARE FOR DIAMOND JUBILEE MULAQAT

“THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE SMALL TRADING PORT THAT WAS ONCE DUBAI INTO A VIBRANT METROPOLIS HAS PARALLELED ITS DEMOGRAPHIC GROWTH AND COSMOPOLITAN EVOLUTION. THE INTERMINGLING OF CULTURES THAT SO ENLIVENS THIS THRIVING CITY IS ONE OF THE STRENGTHS ON WHICH DUBAI HAS BUILT ITS RENOWN AS A POINT OF GLOBAL CONVERGENCE” – HIS HIGHNESS THE AGA KHAN, FOUNDATION LAYING CEREMONY OF THE ISMAILI CENTRE, DUBAI, ON SATURDAY, 13 DECEMBER 2003.

More...
barakah.com/2018/01/14/a-splendid-collection-of-photos-of-the-aga-khans-visits-to-dubai-as-ismailis-in-uae-prepare-for-diamond-jubilee-mulaqat/

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Fri Feb 09, 2018 1:14 pm

Watch highlights from the opening ceremony of Pakistan’s Diamond Jubilee Sports Festival National Games. And stay tuned for more coverage of the competition!

#DiamondJubilee #AgaKhan #Ismaili #OneJamat #DJSFPakistan #UnitedWeWin

https://www.facebook.com/theismaili/vid ... 896941078/

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Fri Feb 16, 2018 12:52 pm

Jubilee Concert UK

World-class musicians will take the stage at London’s Royal Albert Hall on Wednesday 20 June in a unique concert to honour the Diamond Jubilee of Mawlana Hazar Imam. It will celebrate the diversity, richness and vitality of Muslim musical heritage in a contemporary expression.

World-class musicians will take the stage at London’s Royal Albert Hall on Wednesday 20 June in a unique concert to honour the Diamond Jubilee of Mawlana Hazar Imam. It will celebrate the diversity, richness and vitality of Muslim musical heritage in a contemporary expression. Tickets will go on sale on Friday 16 February.

Jubilee will feature Master Musicians of the Aga Khan Music Initiative and special guests Kronos Quartet and Bassekou Kouyaté in a performance of newly-created compositions that demonstrate the way musical creativity has historically developed from the meeting of different cultures.

Wednesday 20 June 2018, 8pm
Royal Albert Hall

To purchase tickets visit: https://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets ... 18/jubilee

https://the.ismaili/jubilee-concert-uk

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Fri Feb 16, 2018 1:04 pm

Reception to launch special exhibition "Ethics in Action" at the Consulate.
Ethics in Action is an international exhibit, assembled as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of His Highness the Aga Khan. The objective of EIA is to expose the community (both Ismaili and external) to the work of the Imamat, specifically that of the AKDN through

https://www.flickr.com/photos/139925452 ... 0293802242

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Mon Feb 26, 2018 1:16 pm

ASIA SCENE: Ismaili Kenya arts festival

A unique festival that is designed to encourage a deeper appreciation of the artistic expressions within the Ismaili community has captured the imagination of our culturally awake showgoers in the past couple of weeks.

The Ismaili Kenya Arts Festival 2018 has been launched as the community commemorates 60 years (Diamond Jubilee) since His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan became the 49th hereditary Imam.

Ismaili artists and performers from the regions that fall under the jurisdiction of the Kenya Council — namely Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, Namibia and South Africa — have for the last couple of weeks been engaged in auditions at local level for the grand Talent Showcase.

More...
https://www.nation.co.ke/lifestyle/life ... index.html

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Mon Feb 26, 2018 4:15 pm

WOW! INDIA’S ISMAILIS CELEBRATE THE AGA KHAN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE VISIT WITH SHOW OF SPECTACULAR COLOURS

barakah.com/2018/02/23/wow-indias-ismailis-celebrate-the-aga-khans-diamond-jubilee-visit-with-show-of-spectacular-colours/

Post by **Admin** » Tue Feb 27, 2018 3:21 pm

H.H. The Aga Khan, Mowlana Hazar Imam stayed at the Hyatt in Ahmadabad for 4 days from 23rd to 26th February 2018

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Thu Mar 08, 2018 5:23 pm

Aga Khan Music Initiative artists thrill guests in Mombasa

Excerpt:

The Aga Khan Music Initiative is on a tour to Kenya to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of His Highness the Aga Khan.

The music initiative supports musician it has identified as tradition-bearers who are revitalising important musical repertories.

They ensure transmission of the Asia’s endangered musical heritage to a new generation of artists and audiences.

The music concert in Mombasa was held in conjunction with the National Museums of Kenya.

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https://www.nation.co.ke/news/Aga-Khan- ... index.html

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Mon Mar 12, 2018 12:13 pm

Communications National Task Force elevates skills

https://the.ismaili/usa/communications- ... tes-skills

Writers, photographers, and videographers from across the country attended a training workshop in Dallas, in preparation for providing quality content for the newly launched The.Ismaili website and The Ismaili USA social media channels.

The Diamond Jubilee year has led to tremendous growth across various Jamati institutions, giving Jamati members the opportunity to help tell their fellow Ismailis’ stories through innovative forms of communication. At the forefront of these changes: The newly launched The.Ismaili and various social media channels, which have given Jamati leaders new platforms to engage with the Jamat online and to archive its rich history through readily accessible platforms.

In response to the need for volunteers to create this quality content for the new publication channels, the Council for USA rolled out the Communications Hub for hundreds of writers, editors, audio visual specialists and photographers who will apply their various skill sets to document the experiences and accomplishments of the American Jamat. Nearly 200 talented volunteers from all seven regions in the United States gathered in Dallas in January to prepare for the rest of the Jubilee year. Many of them had participated in the Imamat Day celebrations, talking to hundreds of Jamati members about the launch of the Diamond Jubilee. The January meeting gave volunteers a chance to network and learn from each other.

“This is a wonderful time in our lives, and all of us are here to ensure we can capture the Jamat's emotions visually, and tell their stories,” remarked Dr. Shaheen Kassim-Lakha, National Member for Communications and Publications, to kick off the meeting. She went on, “We have incredible talent gathered here, and the more we can refine our skills, the better we can reflect and record these moments as part the US Jamat's history.”

Addressing the group, Celina Shariff, Convener of the Jamati Programmatic Activities Task Force, said, "It is important that the Communications teams are aware of our priorities and upcoming events so that opportunities for collaboration between Task Forces and institutions can be considered, and resources used efficiently. “ She added, "There are a number of unique programs planned, and themes that will be addressed in the coming months, that the workshop participants will capture for posterity. This is an exciting time for all of us."

The group included professional journalists, photographers and videographers working for national news outlets. Even those who work in unrelated fields— soldiers who served our country in Afghanistan, for example—have found a place in the Communications Hub to showcase and develop their hobbies.

Participants also got a sneak preview of creativity in action, by watching the trailer of a video of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s December visit to Pakistan. The stunning images of volunteers preparing the mountainous regions of Northern Pakistan for the Imam’s visit and heartfelt testimonials from eager Jamati members left Communications Hub volunteers thousands of miles away in tears, reiterating to them the power of storytelling. The group then dispersed into smaller groups for some skills-specific trainings.

In the writers’ room, The Ismaili USA Magazine Editor, Nazim Karim, highlighted the value of The.Ismaili website and other Jamati platforms. “We are writing our own history,” he said, “and we are creating an Ismaili identity. We are representing the Imam’s US Jamat to the world.”

"The website, along with our new suite of digital communications channels, will enable the Institutions to reach the Jamat through a multitude of avenues like never before," added Imran Hasni, member of the Communications National Task Force. "These assets also help us create an avenue to share the Jamat's contributions in our communities and situate us as an integral part of this nation's fabric," he added.

“The outcomes were incredible in every measure,” said Shehzad Manjee, National Audio-Visual Lead for the Communications Hub. He added: “Our youngest participant was 15 and our oldest attendee was 70. One third were women and we had representatives from all seven regions. Pretty impressive for an inaugural workshop. The feedback we have received from the participants has reassured us that there is an appetite for this type of collaboration and professional development amongst the creative professionals within the Jamat.”

Nausheen Habib attended the writer’s workshop. She said she walked away from the meeting inspired. “This weekend was truly inspiring— to see so many quietly dedicated individuals serving our community and global initiatives,” she said. “I learned valuable information that I can apply in all areas of my life.”

Activities were more hands-on for the photographers and videographers. After getting a refresher on content of shots, angles, and other techniques, they were split into groups to take photographs and videos, on which they were then given feedback.

A participant in the audio-visual trainings said, “I wonder what kind of content we will create now that we are all on the same page and properly trained.”

The Communications Hub will continue beyond the Diamond Jubilee year, to work on covering the various events the Jamat participates in across the United States, as well as to tell the stories of the American Jamat— our history, our successes, our ethics, and our experiences.

https://the.ismaili/usa/communications- ... tes-skills

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Mon Mar 12, 2018 3:18 pm

Video: Mawlana Hazar Imam's Diamond Jubilee visit to the UAE

If you missed the showings in Jamatkhana, the film of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Diamond Jubilee visit to the United Arab Emirates is now available online. This 25-minute film recounts the preparations by the UAE Jamat, and the programme undertaken by Mawlana Hazar Imam during his four-day visit.

https://the.ismaili/diamond-jubilee/vid ... -visit-uae

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Mon Mar 12, 2018 6:40 pm

Pakistan holds National Games to celebrate Diamond Jubilee

Pakistan’s Diamond Jubilee Sports Festival (DJSF) recently reached its apex with an iconic National Games at the Jinnah Complex in Islamabad. Over 1,300 athletes from eight regions in the country competed for medals in 17 different sports, cheered on and supported by thousands more.

Events at the National Games ranged from perennial favourites cricket and football, to taekwondo and basketball, which were included for the first time in a Jamati Games in Pakistan.

Sport and wellbeing have long played an important role among the Jamat of Pakistan, with the country capturing second spot in the medals table at the international Jubilee Games held in Dubai in 2016. DJSF, spread over many months, has also encompassed a marathon, a polo competition, and a cycling rally. The qualifying rounds began at Jamatkhana level and progressed to local and regional levels, with nearly 50,000 athletes participating, and watched by a total of over 160,000 spectators. The National Games featured the top 1,300 athletes from all over Pakistan, competing for medals and distinction for their regions.

The opening ceremony of the National Games featured the first Ismaili Olympian, Ahmed Ali Khan, as torch bearer. A boxer originally from Hunza, Ahmed represented Pakistan at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.

The opening ceremony also featured chief guests Jahangir Khan and Nazir Sabir. Nazir, also an Ismaili, is an accomplished mountaineer. He is the first Pakistani to have climbed Mount Everest and has also climbed four of the five 8,000 m peaks in Pakistan, including the world's second highest mountain K2 in 1981.

https://the.ismaili/news/pakistan-holds ... nd-jubilee

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Mon Mar 19, 2018 12:00 pm

Merchants of Bollywood: Superstar brothers Salim and Sulaiman tour Canada for global concert series

You may have never heard of them but two of Bollywood’s biggest musical stars are touring Canada for a very special occasion.

Brothers Salim and Sulaiman Merchant (who go by Salim–Sulaiman) have produced and sang songs for hundreds of hit Bollywood movies, and are currently performing in Canada for the Jubilee Concerts series, in commemoration of His Highness the Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee.

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http://dailyhive.com/vancouver/salim-su ... nd-jubilee

kmaherali · Post by **kmaherali** » Tue Mar 20, 2018 10:39 am

Diamond Jubilee 2018 - 7 Shades of Celebration

Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_cont ... p5FowL6nYk

www.ismaili.net

Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the 49th Imam

Diamond Jubilee start - Joint press release July 2017