2025, July 13:[/b[] Paris, France:
AS RECEIVED
Shukhar, the Didar went very very well. Mowlana Shah Rahim, Prince Sinan and Prince Irfan were all there. He gave many many blessings to everyone for happiness, fulfilment of wishes and that our burdens be lightened. He emphasised lightened (as Mawlana Shah Karim would say disappear). He particularly gave dua for murids in conflict inflicted areas and for mushkilasaan. He also gave dua for all Ruhani. He said he is always with us all the time. He spoke about many topics, including:
1. importance of giving back to the communities you live in, which will help with social integration. He said to speak the national language of the country you are living in (in addition to English).
2. He said he was happy to see everyone bring their kids and he wants his own kids to be exposed to the jamaat from an early age
3. He spoke about the rise of anti-immigration and anti-Muslim sentiment so it is important for us to help each other and think clearly, as others are not thinking clearly at the moment. Take interest in other peoples cultures, histories and personal stories as we should learn from one another since we have diversity in the jamaat. He wants us to be open to new immigrants as our history is one of migration and resettlement so we should help those who come after us to settle.
4. He spoke about Volunteerism and how he gives blessing for all the voluntary service
5. He talked about his ties to France and Switzerland (he still lives in Geneva) in particular and said to pursue a path to permanent residency and citizenship in France, Switzerland and Belgium since these countries value free expression and human rights
6. He spoke about wanting us to reach our full potential and prosper economically and spiritually. He said even though you may work hard, economic success is a blessing from Allah so you may be in financial difficulty through no fault of your own. But he wants us all to thrive spiritually and economically
7. He is investing in jamaat Khane spaces and the Ismaili centre in Paris. He is optimistic about the future of the jamaats
8. It makes him sad to know that there are lonely members of the jamaat, some elderly and that he wants to support the jamaat and their mental and physical health
9. He said he cannot put into words how happy this visit has made him, to see all our faces and he looks forward to seeing all his murids soon, but even without physical Didar, he is always with us
Paris France didar July 2025
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 429
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Re: Paris France didar July 2025
My Reflection on the Paris Didar — July 11–13, 2025
By M. Chatur | @chaturmahebub
⸻
“Mubarak, Mubarak!” — A Sacred Beginning
With these blessed words, a historic Didar began with prayers.
On 12th July at 16:00, Mawlana Shah Rahim, our 50th Imam, arrived accompanied by his sons, Prince Irfan and Prince Sinan. The air was electric. A wave of awe swept over all as He entered—a moment forever etched in our hearts.
⸻
Key Changes from the 11 Feb 2025 Didar (and before)
Notable shifts under the new Imamat:
• Hazar Imam sat in the front seat of the car.
• His car led the procession, and he opened his own door.
• He did not wear the traditional robe.
• Instead, he wore a newly designed chain of office.
• Didar prayer sequence remained the same.
See my video clips in tweets below.
• Imam’s Arrival & Blessing https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1944 ... 95754?s=12
• Giving a Farman https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1944 ... hqfO552USg
• Imam Leaving, Waving to Murids https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1944 ... hqfO552USg
• Didar Concludes https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1944 ... hqfO552USg
⸻
A Painful Contrast — The Exclusion of Murids
While the arrival was deeply moving, approximately 30–40 murids—some elderly, others who had travelled from far—were left outside and not allowed to enter, even the following day.
One murid travelled by road 15 hours from Afghanistan, pleading just to walk in, see, and leave. She was refused entry.
This was a heartbreaking example of Leaders institutional gatekeeping, directly contradicting Imam’s message of love, inclusion, and pluralism. Many murids shared their pain with me directly. So did some of the security.
That evening, I wrote a heartfelt open letter to all
“A Humble Appeal for Empathy, Inclusion, and Love for the Jamat.”
No murid should ever be excluded—physically or spiritually.
⸻
The Didar prayers & Ceremony Inside
Inside, the ceremony was reportedly luminous and deeply spiritual.
• Mawla sat on a simple, dignified white throne, flanked by smaller thrones for His sons.
• The Tilawat of Surah an-Nur—as also recited at the Diamond Jubilee Darbar in Dar es Salaam—evoked beautiful memories.
• A qasidah was recited.
• Mawla was moved to tears, His emotion visible and sincere throughout.
• Mukhi Saheb renewed our Bay‘ah—our sacred affirmation of love and allegiance.
⸻
The Farmans — A New Chapter Begins
From the podium, Hazar Imam began:
“My beloved spiritual children…”
Though the voice had changed, the Noor, the love, and the timeless wisdom remained.
Highlights from the Farmans:
•
On France:
“France has had a special place in the Ismaili Imamat for four generations now.”
→ New agreements have been signed with the French government, affirming this bond.
• On Syria and Suffering:
“France is committed to relieving the tensions… the conditions in Syria… I would like them to be only temporary for my murids.”
•
On Artificial Intelligence:
“Pursue careers… in which human communication cannot be replaced by technology.”
→ Ethics and empathy must guide the age of automation.
•
On Ethics and Wealth:
“Make the ethics of your faith the centre of your material wealth.”
•
On Multifaith Families:
“Members of your families who practice another faith—or no faith at all—are part of our family.”
⸻
A Moment of Grief and Love
Later, Imam returned, visibly emotional, saying:
“These emotions are normal. I miss him very much, as I am sure you do too.”
And then, with hope:
“This marks the beginning of my visits to my Jamat… and I pray, Inshallah, that I will be able to meet you all individually. It is my hope.”
⸻
Ensemble – A Symbol of Unity in Diversity
The French Jamat presented an artwork titled “Ensemble – Together”, made from symbolic plants and fruits representing migration, heritage, and cultural pluralism.
Murids from multifaith families added handwritten messages of hope—a living expression of belonging.
⸻
Digital Testimonies — Live from the Heart
Through live tweets, I shared the unfolding of grace, devotion, and love. These moments are part of our faith — there is no separation between history, memory, and practice.
Key moments:
• Imam’s arrival and blessing
• Giving of the Farman
• Conclusion of the Didar - Imam and his children waving goodbye
In the final clip, Princes Irfan & Sinan turn and wave lovingly to murids waiting outside, as does the Imam, alongside the President of the French Council.
These are public testimony — an open, loving affirmation of the light, presence, and care of our Imam. Sadly the sane President and Shafik Sachedina are part of the group who are withholding Farmans and constitution
See link for more viewtopic.php?p=73786#p73786
⸻
Leadership Culture — Time for Truth and Reform
This Didar was more than a ceremony. It was also a turning point.
As Hazar Imam has reminded us:
“Our future is today.”
We must act with integrity, courage, and compassion — now.
Let Paris 2025 be remembered as:
•
A Didar where some murids were excluded, but their voices are being heard.
• A Didar where control culture among top leaders was exposed:
• At the farewell, Shafik Sachedina placed himself between Imam and the French President/Vice President.
• He attempted to direct Imam toward Prince Hussain — but Imam ignored the gesture and went directly to the official hosts.
• This was a public display of overreach, a continuation of past behavior:
• As seen with the elderly lady in a wheelchair, pushed aside.
• As seen in Maputo, where 3 murids were mistreated.
• A Didar where Imam’s love flowed freely—and with tears.
• A Didar that reminded us:
• Pluralism and ethics must guide our lives.
• The Ismaili Constitution and Farmans are still being withheld by leaders — despite Imam’s explicit reminder on March 18, 2025 to share them.
⸻
Let This Be a New Dawn - The First Didar of Hazar Imam
• No murid should ever be left outside during Didar.
In the past, Didars were held in open grounds.
• No Farman should be hidden.
Farmans and the Constitution belong to the Jamat.
• No soul should feel excluded or unseen.
⸻
Ya Ali Madad. Mubarak.
May this Didar be the light that guides us to a more just, loving, and united future — Ameen.
M. Chatur
By M. Chatur | @chaturmahebub
⸻
“Mubarak, Mubarak!” — A Sacred BeginningWith these blessed words, a historic Didar began with prayers.
On 12th July at 16:00, Mawlana Shah Rahim, our 50th Imam, arrived accompanied by his sons, Prince Irfan and Prince Sinan. The air was electric. A wave of awe swept over all as He entered—a moment forever etched in our hearts.
⸻
Key Changes from the 11 Feb 2025 Didar (and before)Notable shifts under the new Imamat:
• Hazar Imam sat in the front seat of the car.
• His car led the procession, and he opened his own door.
• He did not wear the traditional robe.
• Instead, he wore a newly designed chain of office.
• Didar prayer sequence remained the same.
See my video clips in tweets below.• Imam’s Arrival & Blessing https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1944 ... 95754?s=12
• Giving a Farman https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1944 ... hqfO552USg
• Imam Leaving, Waving to Murids https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1944 ... hqfO552USg
• Didar Concludes https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1944 ... hqfO552USg
⸻
A Painful Contrast — The Exclusion of MuridsWhile the arrival was deeply moving, approximately 30–40 murids—some elderly, others who had travelled from far—were left outside and not allowed to enter, even the following day.
One murid travelled by road 15 hours from Afghanistan, pleading just to walk in, see, and leave. She was refused entry.
This was a heartbreaking example of Leaders institutional gatekeeping, directly contradicting Imam’s message of love, inclusion, and pluralism. Many murids shared their pain with me directly. So did some of the security.
That evening, I wrote a heartfelt open letter to all
“A Humble Appeal for Empathy, Inclusion, and Love for the Jamat.”
No murid should ever be excluded—physically or spiritually.⸻
The Didar prayers & Ceremony InsideInside, the ceremony was reportedly luminous and deeply spiritual.
• Mawla sat on a simple, dignified white throne, flanked by smaller thrones for His sons.
• The Tilawat of Surah an-Nur—as also recited at the Diamond Jubilee Darbar in Dar es Salaam—evoked beautiful memories.
• A qasidah was recited.
• Mawla was moved to tears, His emotion visible and sincere throughout.
• Mukhi Saheb renewed our Bay‘ah—our sacred affirmation of love and allegiance.
⸻
The Farmans — A New Chapter BeginsFrom the podium, Hazar Imam began:
“My beloved spiritual children…”
Though the voice had changed, the Noor, the love, and the timeless wisdom remained.
Highlights from the Farmans:
•
On France:“France has had a special place in the Ismaili Imamat for four generations now.”
→ New agreements have been signed with the French government, affirming this bond.
•
On Syria and Suffering:“France is committed to relieving the tensions… the conditions in Syria… I would like them to be only temporary for my murids.”
•
On Artificial Intelligence:“Pursue careers… in which human communication cannot be replaced by technology.”
→ Ethics and empathy must guide the age of automation.
•
On Ethics and Wealth:“Make the ethics of your faith the centre of your material wealth.”
•
On Multifaith Families:“Members of your families who practice another faith—or no faith at all—are part of our family.”
⸻
A Moment of Grief and LoveLater, Imam returned, visibly emotional, saying:
“These emotions are normal. I miss him very much, as I am sure you do too.”
And then, with hope:
“This marks the beginning of my visits to my Jamat… and I pray, Inshallah, that I will be able to meet you all individually. It is my hope.”
⸻
Ensemble – A Symbol of Unity in DiversityThe French Jamat presented an artwork titled “Ensemble – Together”, made from symbolic plants and fruits representing migration, heritage, and cultural pluralism.
Murids from multifaith families added handwritten messages of hope—a living expression of belonging.
⸻
Digital Testimonies — Live from the HeartThrough live tweets, I shared the unfolding of grace, devotion, and love. These moments are part of our faith — there is no separation between history, memory, and practice.
Key moments:
• Imam’s arrival and blessing
• Giving of the Farman
• Conclusion of the Didar - Imam and his children waving goodbye
In the final clip, Princes Irfan & Sinan turn and wave lovingly to murids waiting outside, as does the Imam, alongside the President of the French Council.These are public testimony — an open, loving affirmation of the light, presence, and care of our Imam. Sadly the sane President and Shafik Sachedina are part of the group who are withholding Farmans and constitution
See link for more viewtopic.php?p=73786#p73786
⸻
Leadership Culture — Time for Truth and ReformThis Didar was more than a ceremony. It was also a turning point.
As Hazar Imam has reminded us:
“Our future is today.”
We must act with integrity, courage, and compassion — now.
Let Paris 2025 be remembered as:
•
A Didar where some murids were excluded, but their voices are being heard.•
A Didar where control culture among top leaders was exposed:• At the farewell, Shafik Sachedina placed himself between Imam and the French President/Vice President.
• He attempted to direct Imam toward Prince Hussain — but Imam ignored the gesture and went directly to the official hosts.
• This was a public display of overreach, a continuation of past behavior:
• As seen with the elderly lady in a wheelchair, pushed aside.
• As seen in Maputo, where 3 murids were mistreated.
•
A Didar where Imam’s love flowed freely—and with tears.•
A Didar that reminded us:• Pluralism and ethics must guide our lives.
• The Ismaili Constitution and Farmans are still being withheld by leaders — despite Imam’s explicit reminder on March 18, 2025 to share them.
⸻
Let This Be a New Dawn - The First Didar of Hazar Imam • No murid should ever be left outside during Didar.
In the past, Didars were held in open grounds.
• No Farman should be hidden.
Farmans and the Constitution belong to the Jamat.
• No soul should feel excluded or unseen.
⸻
Ya Ali Madad. Mubarak.
May this Didar be the light that guides us to a more just, loving, and united future — Ameen.
M. Chatur
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 429
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Re: Paris France didar July 2025
Yesterday, Mawlana Hazar Imam graced the second half of the France jurisdiction Jamat with a didar and youth mulaqat, and met with multi-faith family members. In the afternoon, leaders of the Jamat hosted Mawlana Hazar Imam at an Institutional Lunch in Paris.
Prince Irfan and Prince Sinan accompanied Hazar Imam for each of the day’s events.
At the luncheon, Aiaze Mitha, President of the Ismaili Council for France, expressed gratitude to Mawlana Hazar Imam for his visit to the country.
“Because of you we feel more confident in our lives, we feel more anchored in this part of the world, and we feel inspired to do more for the Jamat and become better human beings,” he said.
In his address to guests, Hazar Imam conveyed his gratitude to the leaders and volunteers of the Jamat, past and present, and expressed his deep happiness with the visit. “I’m deeply happy—it has been a wonderful three days,” he concluded. “I could not have had a first official trip better than this one.”
After the luncheon, Jean-Christophe Peaucelle, the French government’s official representative to the Ismaili Imamat, and a delegation of Jamati leaders bade farewell to Mawlana Hazar Imam as his official visit came to a close.
Both days were full of emotion, happiness and provided an opportunity for the murids from across the jurisdiction to renew their bayʿa to our beloved Mawlana Hazar Imam. He showered blessings on the Jamat and reminded us of his immense love and affection for the Jamat.
Traduction française dans la section commentaires.
Photo credit: Akbar Hakim
By TheIsmaili https://x.com/theismaili/status/1944784 ... hqfO552USg
Prince Irfan and Prince Sinan accompanied Hazar Imam for each of the day’s events.
At the luncheon, Aiaze Mitha, President of the Ismaili Council for France, expressed gratitude to Mawlana Hazar Imam for his visit to the country.
“Because of you we feel more confident in our lives, we feel more anchored in this part of the world, and we feel inspired to do more for the Jamat and become better human beings,” he said.
In his address to guests, Hazar Imam conveyed his gratitude to the leaders and volunteers of the Jamat, past and present, and expressed his deep happiness with the visit. “I’m deeply happy—it has been a wonderful three days,” he concluded. “I could not have had a first official trip better than this one.”
After the luncheon, Jean-Christophe Peaucelle, the French government’s official representative to the Ismaili Imamat, and a delegation of Jamati leaders bade farewell to Mawlana Hazar Imam as his official visit came to a close.
Both days were full of emotion, happiness and provided an opportunity for the murids from across the jurisdiction to renew their bayʿa to our beloved Mawlana Hazar Imam. He showered blessings on the Jamat and reminded us of his immense love and affection for the Jamat.
Traduction française dans la section commentaires.
Photo credit: Akbar Hakim
By TheIsmaili https://x.com/theismaili/status/1944784 ... hqfO552USg
Paris France didar July 2025
2025, July 13: More News and Testimonies:
Mawlana Shah Rahim Aga Khan IV with Prince Sinan and Prince Ifrfan during the France Padramni this past weekend where the Jamat was so delighted in awe to see them, ending the video is the final departure of Mawlana Shah Rahim from the Institutional lunch held July 13, 2025
https://ismaili.net/timeline/2025/2025- ... ildren.mp4
Saturday July 12
1.30 pm arrival - I had some water, a cup of chai and then went into the Didar hall. Thankfully the air conditioning systems were on full-blast as it was approximately 28-30 degrees. This Didar on Saturday July 12 included the French Jamat from Paris, Nantes, Montpellier, Nice, etc. save for those from Lyon who had their Didar on Sunday with members from Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands and Côte d’Ivoire.
About an hour and a half prior to the entry of Hazar Imam into the hall, the community recited ginans and qasidas together - there were people who lead the recitations along with 2 video screens - one showing the meaning of the recitation in various languages (Farsi, Arabic, Urdu, French, English) and one screen with the follow-along lyrics.
Approximately a half hour before entry, the community was told that Princes Irfan and Sinan would be joining. 2 smaller white thrones were brought on stage and placed near a larger white throne. Thasbihs continued.
When Hazar Imam’s car entered the venue at Porte de Versailles, it entered upon an area filled with simple signage and lots of flowers including hydrangeas in blue and white and long stalks of sweet pea flowers in white, purple and pink.
Salwat continued to be recited until Mowlana Hazar Imam was seated on the throne followed by Princes Irfan and Sinan beside him.
Various recitations of Ginan’s Qasida’s and Thasbihs were given after a speech welcoming the Imam and thanking him for his presence.
The Mukhis from the various jamats presented trays of jura and water which Hazar Imam blessed.
Hazar Imam then gave a long firman. His manner was gentle but firm and his speaking clear and direct. Below are points he made but not in a particular order:
He spoke about conflict in the Middle East
- [ ] He sent prayers for the safety and peace of the region and especially for the Syrian Jamat.
- [ ] He is following the situation there closely
- [ ] He gave prayers for all ruhani members of the jamats from all over the world and also including ruhani members of the world at large.
Speaking on Multi-faith families
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam would like all non-Ismaili family members to be included in aspects of Jamati life including all activities and events except of course in main prayers
- [ ] He continued that as they are part of your families they are thus by extension my own (family).
Concerning learning and careers
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam stated that everyone should master AI (artificial intelligence) to the best of their ability - and that the youth who can and have interest should become leaders and developers of AI for the future (this feels very tied to ethics of the faith)
- [ ] He stated to go into jobs AI cannot replace in regard to the human aspect.
- [ ] He stated - At the end of the day do what you are talented at or love - but do it to the absolute best of your ability - (He said this the advice I am giving my own children too)
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam spoke a few times about the ethics and values of our faith and specifically stated that in business and other such jobs, (all jobs) that ethics should be a primary focus and not to make money in unethical manners.
- [ ] He said to support each other and to support talent in our community
- [ ] He said to come to the major events and that he would like to make art sport and culture more prominent within the community.
Concerning community and Jamati Institutions and France
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam talked about France as having a good quality of life, great education, and a very good health care system. He continued about the upholding of human rights in France and stated Paris as a world class city and one of his favourite places in the world.
- [ ] He spoke to new Ismailis in France and stated if you do not have citizenship- work towards that and learn French fluently. He continued - This is an excellent country and settle down properly here.
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam talked about the creation of a new Ismaili centre in Paris at the wishes of his father Mowlana Shah Karim .
- [ ] He spoke about the signing of 3 documents on the day prior including one to help with the rebuilding of Syria, with France.
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam talked about the great culture of volunteerism within our community and how he wishes that we continue to volunteer to help within our own community as well as within the countries in which we live and work.
Faith
- [ ] Speaking to faith, Hazar Imam spoke of how half of faith is prayer and going to Khane, but how
- [ ] Half of faith is kindness and helping people individually, again within our community and outside
Jamat
- [ ] Hazar Imam finally touched on how he plans to visit all Jamats around the world fairly quickly now
- [ ] And his wish to personally meet all members
Upon finishing the firman, Hazar Imam sat back down and was thanked heartily by the Jamati leadership of France on behalf of the French Jamat. Hazar Imam then stood to exit the room - thasbih was recited - he stopped to visit community members who are very sick and gave them all blessings. He continued into the hall next door to be received by the youth between ages 15 to 25 for the Youth Mulaqat
During the entirety of the Didar the Princes were extremely quiet and well behaved.
-------------------
Yam, au Didar Hall, le dimanche, on a offert un Manuscrit sur l'Imam Ali à Mowla, et des appareils photos et caméras aux princes pour explorer le monde.
Après, au déjeuner, on leur a offert des telescopes
J'ai demandé à Farana au jk. Mowla bapa est resté trop longtemps avec les couples mixtes, ils ont déjeuné vers 15h.
Mawlana Shah Rahim Aga Khan IV with Prince Sinan and Prince Ifrfan during the France Padramni this past weekend where the Jamat was so delighted in awe to see them, ending the video is the final departure of Mawlana Shah Rahim from the Institutional lunch held July 13, 2025
https://ismaili.net/timeline/2025/2025- ... ildren.mp4
Saturday July 12
1.30 pm arrival - I had some water, a cup of chai and then went into the Didar hall. Thankfully the air conditioning systems were on full-blast as it was approximately 28-30 degrees. This Didar on Saturday July 12 included the French Jamat from Paris, Nantes, Montpellier, Nice, etc. save for those from Lyon who had their Didar on Sunday with members from Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands and Côte d’Ivoire.
About an hour and a half prior to the entry of Hazar Imam into the hall, the community recited ginans and qasidas together - there were people who lead the recitations along with 2 video screens - one showing the meaning of the recitation in various languages (Farsi, Arabic, Urdu, French, English) and one screen with the follow-along lyrics.
Approximately a half hour before entry, the community was told that Princes Irfan and Sinan would be joining. 2 smaller white thrones were brought on stage and placed near a larger white throne. Thasbihs continued.
When Hazar Imam’s car entered the venue at Porte de Versailles, it entered upon an area filled with simple signage and lots of flowers including hydrangeas in blue and white and long stalks of sweet pea flowers in white, purple and pink.
Salwat continued to be recited until Mowlana Hazar Imam was seated on the throne followed by Princes Irfan and Sinan beside him.
Various recitations of Ginan’s Qasida’s and Thasbihs were given after a speech welcoming the Imam and thanking him for his presence.
The Mukhis from the various jamats presented trays of jura and water which Hazar Imam blessed.
Hazar Imam then gave a long firman. His manner was gentle but firm and his speaking clear and direct. Below are points he made but not in a particular order:
He spoke about conflict in the Middle East
- [ ] He sent prayers for the safety and peace of the region and especially for the Syrian Jamat.
- [ ] He is following the situation there closely
- [ ] He gave prayers for all ruhani members of the jamats from all over the world and also including ruhani members of the world at large.
Speaking on Multi-faith families
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam would like all non-Ismaili family members to be included in aspects of Jamati life including all activities and events except of course in main prayers
- [ ] He continued that as they are part of your families they are thus by extension my own (family).
Concerning learning and careers
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam stated that everyone should master AI (artificial intelligence) to the best of their ability - and that the youth who can and have interest should become leaders and developers of AI for the future (this feels very tied to ethics of the faith)
- [ ] He stated to go into jobs AI cannot replace in regard to the human aspect.
- [ ] He stated - At the end of the day do what you are talented at or love - but do it to the absolute best of your ability - (He said this the advice I am giving my own children too)
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam spoke a few times about the ethics and values of our faith and specifically stated that in business and other such jobs, (all jobs) that ethics should be a primary focus and not to make money in unethical manners.
- [ ] He said to support each other and to support talent in our community
- [ ] He said to come to the major events and that he would like to make art sport and culture more prominent within the community.
Concerning community and Jamati Institutions and France
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam talked about France as having a good quality of life, great education, and a very good health care system. He continued about the upholding of human rights in France and stated Paris as a world class city and one of his favourite places in the world.
- [ ] He spoke to new Ismailis in France and stated if you do not have citizenship- work towards that and learn French fluently. He continued - This is an excellent country and settle down properly here.
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam talked about the creation of a new Ismaili centre in Paris at the wishes of his father Mowlana Shah Karim .
- [ ] He spoke about the signing of 3 documents on the day prior including one to help with the rebuilding of Syria, with France.
- [ ] Mowlana Hazar Imam talked about the great culture of volunteerism within our community and how he wishes that we continue to volunteer to help within our own community as well as within the countries in which we live and work.
Faith
- [ ] Speaking to faith, Hazar Imam spoke of how half of faith is prayer and going to Khane, but how
- [ ] Half of faith is kindness and helping people individually, again within our community and outside
Jamat
- [ ] Hazar Imam finally touched on how he plans to visit all Jamats around the world fairly quickly now
- [ ] And his wish to personally meet all members
Upon finishing the firman, Hazar Imam sat back down and was thanked heartily by the Jamati leadership of France on behalf of the French Jamat. Hazar Imam then stood to exit the room - thasbih was recited - he stopped to visit community members who are very sick and gave them all blessings. He continued into the hall next door to be received by the youth between ages 15 to 25 for the Youth Mulaqat
During the entirety of the Didar the Princes were extremely quiet and well behaved.
-------------------
Yam, au Didar Hall, le dimanche, on a offert un Manuscrit sur l'Imam Ali à Mowla, et des appareils photos et caméras aux princes pour explorer le monde.
Après, au déjeuner, on leur a offert des telescopes
J'ai demandé à Farana au jk. Mowla bapa est resté trop longtemps avec les couples mixtes, ils ont déjeuné vers 15h.
Re: Paris France didar July 2025
Welcome to our final, very special edition of The Ismaili Update. This weekend, the Jamat of the France Jurisdiction were blessed with didar. Mawlana Hazar Imam graciously granted the didars in Paris, where he also met with multi-faith families, followed by an Institutional lunch.
Video: https://youtu.be/2CXSJ8yMceI
Bienvenue à notre dernière et très spéciale édition de The Ismaili Update. Ce week-end, le Jamat de la juridiction de France a été béni par un didar. Mawlana Hazar Imam a généreusement accordé ces didars à Paris, où il a également rencontré les familles multiconfessionnelles suivi d’un déjeuner institutionnel.
Video: https://youtu.be/2CXSJ8yMceI
Paris France didar July 2025
2025, July 13: More testimonies for Paris Didar.
YA ALI MADAD my dear family members. One of my friend Ghulam sir Panjwani he is on HAZIR IMAM’s assignment since many years he sent me some important informations about MHI’s recent visit of France, I am sharing with my dearest family. Please read carefully. During Deedar Hazar imam said “I am giving each one of you a Tasbih”
As part of Juro every member of the Jamat present was given a Tasbih, Abe Safa and dry fruit Hazar Imam said “my beloved father’s shoe are too big for me to fit, I am still learning “ “All the protocols that I signed yesterday is the work of many years of my beloved father, this is his legacy who worked very hard for his Jamat” Prince Irfan said “I am not allowed much screen time and also not allowed many games but I do like to play Lego” A girl name Khadija from Northern Pakistan now living in Switzerland wrote on a leaf “I love you Mawla Bapa and want to hug you “
When she met Mawlana Hazar Imam she asked “Mawla Bapa can I kiss you” and Hazar Imam said “ sure you are too sweet “ then she kissed on Hazar Imam’s hand murids who have been living in isolated areas of Europe and who are married in multi faith asked Hazar Imam what faith their children should follow. Hazar Imam said any faith as long as they understand and follow the ethics then when they grow up they will decide their own faith Hazar imam said to young murids “read books, don’t spend too much time on screen, I am telling my kids to do the same, read books and not too much time on screen”
Testimony 2: Multi faith Didar:
FORWARDED AS RECEIVED Multi-faith family session and Sunday afternoon
On Sunday morning we headed back to Porte de Versailles and went to Pavillon 6 where we were told to take the elevator up to the green house - “La Serre” in French.
We and a few others had some issues with our badges but finally that was resolved. Phones were locked into Phone lockers.
“La Serre” is a beautiful space with a roof top garden, an out door patio area and an indoor area filled with plants and under a sun roof.
The patio had a bar area offering juice, water, coffee and good chai. And to eat there were fruits, pastries and cookies.
We circulated around after having some chai and started to meet some other multi faith couples from all over France and also from Belgium, Switzerland and the Netherlands.
Around 11.30 am they asked everyone to come into the indoor area where there were cocktail tables set up and a small stage area. A woman named Sabrina spoke between French and English and stated that Hazar Imam would be arriving soon and what to expect:
- In the room 200 multi faith couples (400 adults and a few babies) - 100 couples from Ile de France - Paris and surrounding - 50ish couples from other parts of France and 50ish couples from Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Ivory Coast
- That the Ismaili spouse should refer to Hazar Imam as such and that non Ismaili spouse should refer to Hazar Imam as His Highness
- That Hazar Imam would like to circulate amongst the crowd rather than speak to everyone together. Thus to place ourselves around the 10 cocktail tables in groups of approximately 20 persons.
- That Hazar Imam would be coming from the morning Didar session with the Jamats from Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland and Ivory Coast, and the subsequent second youth Mulaqat. That he would spend 20 minutes to 30 minutes circulating.
We arranged ourselves around the tables which were in a long U shape down the narrow but long room.
Mowlana Hazar Imam entered with Princes Irfan and Sinan. He and they began circulating while talking to about 2-4 people per grouping.
The princes went ahead; Prince Irfan is fluent in French and English - easily switching between the two languages as he interacted with many adults in a bold and bright manner. His little brother Prince Sinan trailed behind much quieter but very observant.
Michel had the chance to interact with the Princes and with Prince Irfan 2 times - they had a small discussion about the tree mural that he really liked, Michel later asked him how he was doing. The Princes again went ahead.
When Mowlana Hazar Imam reached our group, he shook the hands of approximately 2 people and talked to 2 people who asked more intimate questions about interfaith family dynamics in JK such as - if for example I have a baby that is under 2 years and half way through a longer Khane session I need to relieve my wife - but I can’t go into the Khane to get the baby - what am I supposed to do? - apparently that was a question that was asked numerous times and a question that Mowlana Hazar Imam will further address in the future. He did state that he’s thinking about things like that and although places like France are more open it would be hard to introduce in Pakistan for example.
When Mowlana Hazar Imam was discussing with the next group, the princes came to hurry Mowlana Hazar Imam along as he had promised to be done in 20 minutes but had gone over. They pulled at his vest as most kids do with their parents.
In all Mowlana Hazar Imam spent approximately an hour with the multi faith families.
As an aside - We had gone to get more water after Mowlana Hazar Imam was done speaking to our group and upon reentering the room we saw Prince Irfan approaching a snack table to get sweets - some on asked something like no one fed you anything and Michel was like it’s ok - take them (referring to the sweets) - he smiled largely stated he looooved sweets and proceeded to stuff his inner coat pockets with boiled sweets
and then took an apple also - it was lovely to see the lighter side of the Princes.
Organisation wise it was great to see everything that got done within less than a month, everyone was a bit stressed but overall everything went smoothly except for minor problems (example - for us it was waiting 1h in the heat to get the pass or 40 min blocked at the entrance because they didn’t have an updated list)
After that session Michel and I stood and talked with a few more people and then headed to Pavillon 1 for lunch - mini rotli with carrot pickle and raita which was very nice - and vegetarian biryani with lentils (I didn’t eat that due to allergies, but Michel said it was delicious)
After lunch there was a musical program with some preformed dances and then an Afghani DJ with very upbeat tunes followed by more rasera style music. Many people were wearing traditional dress from Syria, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and then the Koja population in lenghas and sari. Everyone was happily dancing or clapping along. And then they opened the area near the lounge for Mowlana Hazar Imam so that people could come see the tree mural. There was also a mendhi station and thasbih making station for the children.
As they did not wish the flowers to go to waste - members of the Jamats were welcomed to take them home and some went to the council offices as well. The tree mural was cut off the wall as is now in storage until Mowlana Hazar Imam gives direction on what to do with it, where to put it.
..
YA ALI MADAD my dear family members. One of my friend Ghulam sir Panjwani he is on HAZIR IMAM’s assignment since many years he sent me some important informations about MHI’s recent visit of France, I am sharing with my dearest family. Please read carefully. During Deedar Hazar imam said “I am giving each one of you a Tasbih”
As part of Juro every member of the Jamat present was given a Tasbih, Abe Safa and dry fruit Hazar Imam said “my beloved father’s shoe are too big for me to fit, I am still learning “ “All the protocols that I signed yesterday is the work of many years of my beloved father, this is his legacy who worked very hard for his Jamat” Prince Irfan said “I am not allowed much screen time and also not allowed many games but I do like to play Lego” A girl name Khadija from Northern Pakistan now living in Switzerland wrote on a leaf “I love you Mawla Bapa and want to hug you “
When she met Mawlana Hazar Imam she asked “Mawla Bapa can I kiss you” and Hazar Imam said “ sure you are too sweet “ then she kissed on Hazar Imam’s hand murids who have been living in isolated areas of Europe and who are married in multi faith asked Hazar Imam what faith their children should follow. Hazar Imam said any faith as long as they understand and follow the ethics then when they grow up they will decide their own faith Hazar imam said to young murids “read books, don’t spend too much time on screen, I am telling my kids to do the same, read books and not too much time on screen”
Testimony 2: Multi faith Didar:
FORWARDED AS RECEIVED Multi-faith family session and Sunday afternoon
On Sunday morning we headed back to Porte de Versailles and went to Pavillon 6 where we were told to take the elevator up to the green house - “La Serre” in French.
We and a few others had some issues with our badges but finally that was resolved. Phones were locked into Phone lockers.
“La Serre” is a beautiful space with a roof top garden, an out door patio area and an indoor area filled with plants and under a sun roof.
The patio had a bar area offering juice, water, coffee and good chai. And to eat there were fruits, pastries and cookies.
We circulated around after having some chai and started to meet some other multi faith couples from all over France and also from Belgium, Switzerland and the Netherlands.
Around 11.30 am they asked everyone to come into the indoor area where there were cocktail tables set up and a small stage area. A woman named Sabrina spoke between French and English and stated that Hazar Imam would be arriving soon and what to expect:
- In the room 200 multi faith couples (400 adults and a few babies) - 100 couples from Ile de France - Paris and surrounding - 50ish couples from other parts of France and 50ish couples from Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Ivory Coast
- That the Ismaili spouse should refer to Hazar Imam as such and that non Ismaili spouse should refer to Hazar Imam as His Highness
- That Hazar Imam would like to circulate amongst the crowd rather than speak to everyone together. Thus to place ourselves around the 10 cocktail tables in groups of approximately 20 persons.
- That Hazar Imam would be coming from the morning Didar session with the Jamats from Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland and Ivory Coast, and the subsequent second youth Mulaqat. That he would spend 20 minutes to 30 minutes circulating.
We arranged ourselves around the tables which were in a long U shape down the narrow but long room.
Mowlana Hazar Imam entered with Princes Irfan and Sinan. He and they began circulating while talking to about 2-4 people per grouping.
The princes went ahead; Prince Irfan is fluent in French and English - easily switching between the two languages as he interacted with many adults in a bold and bright manner. His little brother Prince Sinan trailed behind much quieter but very observant.
Michel had the chance to interact with the Princes and with Prince Irfan 2 times - they had a small discussion about the tree mural that he really liked, Michel later asked him how he was doing. The Princes again went ahead.
When Mowlana Hazar Imam reached our group, he shook the hands of approximately 2 people and talked to 2 people who asked more intimate questions about interfaith family dynamics in JK such as - if for example I have a baby that is under 2 years and half way through a longer Khane session I need to relieve my wife - but I can’t go into the Khane to get the baby - what am I supposed to do? - apparently that was a question that was asked numerous times and a question that Mowlana Hazar Imam will further address in the future. He did state that he’s thinking about things like that and although places like France are more open it would be hard to introduce in Pakistan for example.
When Mowlana Hazar Imam was discussing with the next group, the princes came to hurry Mowlana Hazar Imam along as he had promised to be done in 20 minutes but had gone over. They pulled at his vest as most kids do with their parents.
In all Mowlana Hazar Imam spent approximately an hour with the multi faith families.
As an aside - We had gone to get more water after Mowlana Hazar Imam was done speaking to our group and upon reentering the room we saw Prince Irfan approaching a snack table to get sweets - some on asked something like no one fed you anything and Michel was like it’s ok - take them (referring to the sweets) - he smiled largely stated he looooved sweets and proceeded to stuff his inner coat pockets with boiled sweets
and then took an apple also - it was lovely to see the lighter side of the Princes. Organisation wise it was great to see everything that got done within less than a month, everyone was a bit stressed but overall everything went smoothly except for minor problems (example - for us it was waiting 1h in the heat to get the pass or 40 min blocked at the entrance because they didn’t have an updated list)
After that session Michel and I stood and talked with a few more people and then headed to Pavillon 1 for lunch - mini rotli with carrot pickle and raita which was very nice - and vegetarian biryani with lentils (I didn’t eat that due to allergies, but Michel said it was delicious)
After lunch there was a musical program with some preformed dances and then an Afghani DJ with very upbeat tunes followed by more rasera style music. Many people were wearing traditional dress from Syria, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and then the Koja population in lenghas and sari. Everyone was happily dancing or clapping along. And then they opened the area near the lounge for Mowlana Hazar Imam so that people could come see the tree mural. There was also a mendhi station and thasbih making station for the children.
As they did not wish the flowers to go to waste - members of the Jamats were welcomed to take them home and some went to the council offices as well. The tree mural was cut off the wall as is now in storage until Mowlana Hazar Imam gives direction on what to do with it, where to put it.
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