Institute of Ismaili Studies set up, Boards & Legal

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IIS-Strategic-Plan-January-2025

The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS) has now published, for the first time, its 10-year Strategic Plan (2025–2035). This is commendable.

According to the Director, the previous plan was in 2011, due for renewal in 2021, but delayed until now. Since her appointment in 2023, she has worked on this plan, which has now been formally approved. Although not stated explicitly, approval of such a plan, by virtue of the IIS’s governance, would necessarily come with the assent of Mawlana Hazar Imam

It is encouraging to see that the mission statement for the next decade explicitly states that the focus is on the “Ismaili Muslim community” including teaching them and their curriculum

I reproduce below the part of themission statement and all the guiding principles & values as published in the IIS Strategic Plan.

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Mission Statement

“… With a particular focus on Ismaili and broader Shi‘i studies, encompassing their historical and geographical contexts. Our mandate is international in scope, and it is informed by a commitment to addressing the relevant needs of the diverse Ismaili Muslim communities, which are inter-linked with those of the societies in which they live as well as the wider Muslim community..”

Guiding Values and Principles

• Adherence to the highest standards of ethics and integrity in all our endeavours, staff relations and organisational management as well as in our interactions with external individuals and agencies.
• The promotion and prioritisation of inclusivity, fostering a compassionate and supportive environment where respect, fairness, equity and equal opportunities for professional growth.
• Commitment to openness that ensures transparency, integrity and a spirit of inquiry, encouraging freedom of expression and greater understanding within the institution.
• Cultivating a learning culture that empowers individuals, promotes equal access to educational opportunities and strives for excellence in all endeavours.
• Recognising and valuing our people, ensuring fair compensation, fostering connection and care, and promoting a sense of responsibility and mutual respect.
• Protecting the intellectual space for the expression of a diversity of views whilst avoiding coercive, polemical, didactic, exclusionary or de-legitimising rhetoric.
• Assuring high standards of fiduciary and environmental responsibility and prudence in the management and use of financial resources.

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While these are stated, it should be acknowledged that the IIS’s primary guiding principles originate from the Ismaili Constitution and the Farmans- guidance of His Highness the Aga Khan. These sources are neither referenced nor credited in the Strategic Plan.

Moreover, it is notable that pluralism—a core ethic in Farmans. consistently emphasised and championed by Hazar Imam—is absent from the Strategic plan list, despite it being vital for our survival according to Farmans of Hazar Imam for 3+ decades

The strategic Plan - Link

https://www.iis.ac.uk/about-us/our-inst ... egic-plan/

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Further Reflections and Critical Analysis:
IIS 10-Year Strategic Plan and Conversation

Professor Zayn Kassam, Director of the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS), was interviewed by IIS Board Governor Karina Govindji.

Reflections

These are based on the Director’s responses to the Governor’s questions.

Notably, there were no questions about the successes or failures of the earlier 10 year plan - 2011–2021 and admitted failures

It is especially worth recalling that Karina Govindji has been in a similar interview before—this time with Amin Mawji (now AKDN East Africa Head, on the Boards of AKU and of the Ismaili Imamat).

In that earlier exchange, Govindji and Mawji admitted that the present Ismaili leadership is not reflective or representative of the community—a failure they themselves acknowledged. Mawji added that leaders must be held to account, quoting Hazar Imam. As President of the UK Council in 2009, he said he pioneered the “One Jamat” concept.

Link to note & that interview : viewtopic.php?p=71749#p71749

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Summary of Responses (Video Interview – 10 mins)
1. Why a New Strategic Plan?
• The last plan was from 2011, so this is overdue. The Director cited COVID-19 as one reason for delay.
• Purpose: to take stock of developments, reassess IIS’s plan & mission, relevance today and regroup for the next decade.
2. Curriculum Revisions
• Primary school curriculum (MTLIM), last updated 30 years ago, is now a priority.
• Secondary curriculum, expected to be completed 10–20 years ago, remains incomplete with two modules still pending.
• Early Learning Centres need to reconnect with the Jamat for real community benefit.
• Reasons for these delays and failures were neither asked nor volunteered.
3. Knowledge Production and Dissemination
• Use religious and historical materials on Ismaili identity to produce accessible resources.
• Expand videos, podcasts, and publications, including for those with limited digital access.
4. Technology and Inclusion
• Harness technology judiciously to ensure broad reach.
• Consider migration and diversity of Jamats as central to planning.
5. Stakeholder Engagement
• Consultation included ITREB, students, staff, governors, waezin, and LYAL.
• A new “master class” was created to address questions on the Imam’s role, lineage (silsila), and knowledge gaps.
6. Preservation, Production, Propagation
• Criteria for success:
• preservation of manuscripts and knowledge (including the Constitution and Farmans),
• production of new knowledge, and
• propagation to the Jamat.
• To date, much has been preserved, but little produced or shared widely.
7. Ethical Framework and Creativity
• The Director emphasised building an ethical framework and marshalling creativity to improve life and unite stakeholders.
• Yet, the plan does not reference pluralism, the Constitution, or the Farmans of Hazar Imam—where the core guiding principles reside.

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Critical Concerns

Positive Observations:
• Publicly publishing a 10-year plan is a step towards strategic thinking transparency & pluralism
• Prioritising curriculum, early learning, and digital inclusion shows awareness of needs for many decades. This is a top priority in Farmans
• Stakeholder engagement and “master classes” shows the needs failures & attempts to bridge the many knowledge gaps in the transition of who is Imam his role authority rites and ceremonies etc

Critical Concerns:
• Lack of reference to pluralism, the Constitution, Farmans and the admitted failures is a major serious omission.
• Decades of curriculum delays remain unexplained, raising accountability concerns.
• Preservation without production or propagation limits impact.
• The speed of approval and timing (shortly after the Imam’s succession) raises questions about full consultations and review.

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Conclusion

While the Strategic Plan and interview show effort, awareness, and a degree of reflection, the omission of pluralism, the Constitution, and Farmans—alongside admissions of leadership failure—suggest IIS is still struggling between institutional control by the same group for decades and adherence to the Imam’s Farmans guidance & constitution

For this 10-year strategy to be achieved & meaningful, pluralism and foundational Farmans must be explicitly integrated, as the very top priority, ensuring alignment with the Imam’s guidance & and enabling and empowering all the diverse, evolving Jamat to participate fully and meaningfully. Without this, the same centralised control that has long limited progress - change resisted - will continue to obstruct meaningful change in the 3 success imperatives of preservation production and especially proposition of knowledge which foundationally includes Farmans and our constitution

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Mawlana Hazar Imam has said:
“One of the great stumbling blocks to the advance of pluralism, in my view, is simple human arrogance. All of the world’s great religions warn against self-righteousness—yet too many are still tempted to play God themselves—rather than recognising their humility before the Divine.”

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Video: IIS Strategic Plan Discussion (10 mins)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j32rW3M5D9Y

Video: IIS Strategic Plan Discussion, 10 mins

X formally tweeter https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1956 ... hqfO552USg

[mahebubchatur]

Further Letter regarding the Nur of Imam e Zaman and the teaching of the Jamat by IIS & ITREBs & the Leaders in control for decades

Dear All, including IIS ITREBS LIF AKF & Noorani Family

Thank you, Taz, for sharing this material & Farman from Simerg

You are absolutely right—this not only adds to, but also affirms what the Institute of Ismaili Studies have now confirmed on 9 August 2025 and the IIS strategic 10 year plan.

I am therefore sharing the following summary and reflections, and taking this opportunity to remind both IIS and ITREB of their responsibility to respond to the requests for confirmation, and to act in accordance with the Imam’s Farmans.

This includes making available the Ismaili Constitution and incorporating these essential teachings into the IIS curriculum for the Jamat and Leaders.

We now know that the Primary Curriculum has not been updated for over 30 years, and that the Secondary Curriculum, even after 30 years, remains incomplete. This was confirmed by the Director of IIS in her recent interview regarding the new 10-Year IIS Plan (2025–2035).

This highlights the failure of the Leaders who have been in control for decades, in not achieving the IIS mandate for over 30 years.

Will this, or can this be achieved in the next 10 years with the same group of Leaders who have been and are in control for decades

Read more at Link: Tweet

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1956 ... hqfO552USg

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Comprehensive Summary: Didar – For Ismaili Muslims, Life’s Ultimate Purpose

The following reflections and analysis of Part Two of the Simerg series (“The Didar: Life’s Ultimate Purpose” by Imam Mustansir-Billah, 15th Century) are interconnected with the essence of the waez-session delivered on 9 August 2025 by the Institute of Ismaili Studies (Head of Global Waezeen).

The meaning and significance of the Imam’s Didar (vision) as the highest form of worship, and the ultimate purpose of human life, is to be blessed with the Light and Enlightenment (Nur) of the Imam.

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1. The Ultimate Purpose of Life
• Imam Mustansir-Billah emphasizes that “the ultimate purpose of human life” is to come into the presence of the Imam of the time and be blessed with enlightenment (Didar) from the Nur of Imam.
• This Light is spiritual—manifesting within the soul and extending to the physical person—allowing one to recognize and experience true light and enlightenment from the Imam.
• Through this, the Imam’s guidance becomes both a spiritual (batini) and an exoteric (zaheri) reality and experience.

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2. Zaheri and Batini Experience of Blessings & Guidance
• Exoteric (Zaheri): Traveling to see the Imam physically (e.g., at his residence). The Imam embodies and represents the gateway to God’s mercy, blessings, and guidance.
• Esoteric (Batini): Achieved through sincerity of intent, pious actions, worship, zikr (remembrance of God), and charity—by internalising and upholding the Imam’s blessings, guidance, and Light at all times.
• Together, these realities fulfill the ultimate purpose of human life.

Quote from Imam Mustansir-Billah:
“All believers are urged to come into the presence of the Imam and to see him with their own eyes. Thus, the esoteric (batini) vision, realized through pious works and the constant remembrance of God during the nightly vigil, as well as the exoteric (zaheri) vision, achieved by travelling to the Imam’s residence and beholding the gateway of God’s mercy, becomes the ultimate purpose of human life.”

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3. Acknowledgement of the Jamat’s Devotion – Bay‘ah

The Imam recognizes the sacrifices and devotion of the Jamat, including:
• Giving up property and even risking their lives.
• Observing religious duties, nightly prayers, and acts of charity.
• Traveling long distances for knowledge and religious assemblies.

Their dedication embodies sincere acknowledgment of the Imam’s divinely ordained authority to convey Allah’s will.

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4. August 9 Session: Didar as the Highest Form of Worship

The Institute of Ismaili Studies session on August 9 emphasized that:

“Looking at the face of the Imam is the highest form of worship.”

• This underscores that Didar is not merely physical but a profound spiritual encounter.
• The Imam’s presence embodies love, mercy, and blessings, allowing murids to experience divine Light and enlightenment.
• The ultimate purpose of life is thus both to seek the Imam’s guidance, mercy, and blessings and to receive spiritual illumination from the Nur of Imam.

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5. Historical Confirmation: Imam al-Mahdi at Sijilmasa
• The unveiling of Imam al-Mahdi after generations in hiding illustrates the living, real presence of the Imam and the recognition of his spiritual authority.
• The followers’ devotion in that moment—falling at his feet—symbolizes the continuum of the Nur of Imam.

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6. Continuity of the Imam of the Time
• The Light of all Imams is the same, forming a spiritual continuumacross history.
• Recognizing and seeking the Imam’s eternal presence affirms the living authority of the Imam in every age.
• This continuity is reflected in historical moments like Sijilmasa, in the Qur’an, in Farmans, and in contemporary confirmations—such as the August 9 session by IIS.

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Therefore:
• The ultimate purpose of life is to seek the Imam’s guidance, blessings, mercy, and spiritual Light, which manifests from the will of Allah.
• Didar is the highest form of worship, through which one experiences divine love, mercy, blessings, and guidance.
• Historical examples and contemporary confirmations together illustrate the eternal, living presence of the Light and authority of the Imam, granted by Allah through our Prophet and the Qur’an.

M Chatur

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Transparency and Planning 10 Years Ahead

IIS, Global Centre for Pluralism, LIF & AKDN – All under the Ismaili Constitution

The publication of the 10-year Strategic Plan by the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS) is commendable. Coming after 47 years, it marks an important step toward transparency, accountability, and alignment with the Imam’s guidance and the Ismaili Constitution.

Yet, serious gaps remain.

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Annual Spending

Over the last three years, IIS expenditure has ranged between £22–25 million annually. These audited accounts are published only because UK law requires them. No forward budgets, corporate plans, or 3–10 year financial strategies have been shared with the Jamat.

By contrast, the Global Centre for Pluralism (GCP) publishes not just audited accounts, but also Corporate Plans outlining objectives, strategies, and the coming year’s budget. While they do not release their 3-year or 10-year OSBs (Objectives, Strategies & Budgets), such plans undoubtedly exist — as they do for all entities under the Ismaili Constitution.

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End-of-Term Reports (ETRs) and OSBs

Every three years, under the Constitution, each National Council prepares a detailed End-of-Term Report (ETR). These cover wellness, financials, strategies, achievements, and challenges. Reports are consolidated nationally, reviewed by the International Forum (LIF) — a constitutional body of presidents and senior leaders — and coordinated globally.

At the end of each cycle, detailed Objectives, Strategies and Budgets (OSBs) for the next 3, 5, and 10 years are prepared, coordinated by the executive of LIF, and submitted to Mawlana Hazar Imam. These OSBs include:
• requests for specific guidance - Farmans from the Imam
• a list of names recommended for top positions by the current incumbents

The Imam provides direction — but these reports, including his guidance, are not shared with the wider Jamat, even in summary. Instead, they remain tightly controlled by national presidents, who also sit on LIF.

The ETR/OSB framework includes:
1. Main challenges at the start of the term
2. How challenges were addressed
3. New opportunities/needs and responses
4. Key accomplishments
5. Shortfalls
6. Institutional strengths and weaknesses
7. Challenges for the next term & mitigation strategies
8. Jamat surveys for each portfolio
9. Handover tools for successors
10. Areas where guidance from Hazar Imam is requested

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What is Missing – IIS

IIS itself prepared a 10-year plan in 2011. The corresponding OSB for the next 10–15 years is missing from public view. The current plan would have included a review of past performance, achievements, and variances, and would have been presented to the Imam for his guidance.

Yet, none of this has been disclosed. Even in the recent IIS interview, while the plan was highlighted, there was no mention of Farmans or the Imam’s guidance — which are central to the process, and which traditionally project guidance 10, 15, and even 25 years ahead.

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Conclusion

At present, IIS provides only the bare minimum required by law. But under the Constitution — and in the spirit of the Imam’s guidance on transparency, accountability, and inclusion — the Jamat is entitled to more.

IIS, LIF, and all Councils and entities under the Constitution should share openly with the Jamat:
• End-of-Term Reports (ETRs) every 3 years
• OSBs (forward budgets & strategies) for 3, 10, and 15 years
• The Farmans and guidance sought and given

The Ismaili Constitution and Farmans are still being withheld, despite clear instructions and reminders from Hazar Imam.

True leadership means acting in accordance with the Imam’s directives. Respecting one’s Bay‘ah of allegiance requires transparency, participation, pluralism, and inclusive governance — values the Imam has consistently called for in his Farmans and our constitution

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Dear All including LIF IIS ITREBS AKF AKDN & Noorani Family

On 9th August, I shared with you the recording and session in detail of the Head of the Global Waezeen Programme of the Institute of Ismaili Studies and ITREBS.

He outlined 7 divine attributes of the Light of the Imam of the Time, emphasizing that gazing at him during Didar is the highest form of worship.


Link to full details & recording: viewtopic.php?p=74011#p74011

I raised fundamental requests to IIS, ITREB, LIF, and all Leaders — asking you to also confirm, clarify, and reaffirm that this represents a landmark change, and that it will now be taught and added as part of the curriculum, including primary and secondary religious education.

To date, there has been no response. This silence is troubling and goes against the Farmans.

The matter is simple yet extremely weighty:

Since you now accept and preach that all Imam’s guidance (Farmans) are divine, equivalent to Qur’anic guidance — the Will of God conveyed through the Nur of the Imam — then no individual, scholar, or leader has the legal, moral, or religious authority to withhold them. Hazar Imam has repeatedly instructed that they must be shared with the entire Jamat

To continue withholding them is not only contradictory to the Imam’s explicit instructions, but also undermines the very principles, commitment, and Bayah of Leaders to obey and implement the Farmans without question.

I therefore again call upon LIF, IIS, ITREB, and all responsible Leaders, Mukhis, and others to unambiguously:
• Confirm that this is now the formal and official teaching of IIS, the Tariqah & Religious Education Boards, and Huzur.
• Ensure that the seven attributes listed and explained in detail on 9th August are taught in full to all murids, including in religious education classes and by all Waezeen.
• Release the Farmans and the Ismaili Constitution, which are still withheld from the Jamat, so that they may be accessible electronically to all members.

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Attached Notes: Jamati Seminar, Kenya — 20th August 2025

By Alwaez Shafin Verani

Gazing on Ali is Ibada
Didar is the chance to gaze on Ali.
Those who can gaze enter the gateway to see the Nur.
The Didar hall becomes paradise.
All ceremonies are for connecting with the Imam.

Chain of Authority
Symbolizes continuity of the chain of Imamat and his guidance in this life and the next.

Quranic Ayat
About light — light of the Imam and Allah, guidance, and mercy.

Ginan
When I see you, all worries disappear — physical and spiritual hurdles removed; Surah 9:128 is echoed here.

Bayah
Reaffirming Bayah as the body in which the Nur resides. Permanent spiritual bond, as affirmed in Paris.

Farman
Listening to Farman is the ibadat of the ears. All five senses engaged — Sufism.
Talim: teaches ethics, blessings, and planning.
Tawil: reveals hidden messages of the Quran — “jewels” for reflection.
Salwat recited when Imam stands; Ameen spoken loudly. No clapping — dignified occasion.

Mehmani
Presented by all 19 Mukhis & Kamadias. Expression of love; Imam as honored guest; reciprocal blessings.

Nazrana
Offered purely from the heart on historical occasions; one promise to Imam.

Adaab — The Etiquettes
Think and prepare: dress, attitude, silence. Afghan Jamat example of respecting Imam’s presence.

Zaheri Adaab
Participate silently during Mehmani; shoes aside; remain aware of spiritual presence.

Batini Adaab
Leave ego outside; cultivate humility.

Anant Na Vivah
Metaphor: spiritually, the Jamat as bride to the Imam, receiving his blessings and angels.

Final Thoughts
Come with love and Intezari; leave with blessings in soul and heart; live guided by these blessings.
Rumi: Noor enters through the wound of the soul — the yearning for the Imam.

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Al Waezeens — Contact Information
• Alwaez Shafin Verani: +254 733 983 226
• Alwaez Azam Samanani: +254 733 262 272
• Alwaeza Habiba Manji: +254 733 333 370
• Alwaez Farukh Amiry: +254 797 655 970
• Alwaez Shayne Premji: +254 719 599 804
• Alwaez Alykhan Peermohamed: +254 707 000 955
• Alwaez Zakir Mohamed: +254 733 800 044
• Alwaeza Dilshad Murji: +254 705 468 761
• Alwaeza Azmina Jamal: +254 733 700 532
• Alwaeza Yasmin Kurmaly: +27 833 219 980
• Alwaeza Fatima Hemani: +254 720 415 531

We encourage all members of the Jamat to reach out for guidance and clarification.

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Closing:
I look forward to your response and the confirmation that these teachings and guidance will now be formally integrated in the curriculum and all programs including pluralism and made accessible to the entire Jamat.

Warm regards,
M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All, including the Noorani Family,

The Institute of Ismaili Studies and the Ismaili Tariqah and Religious Education Boards (ITREBs) have now reaffirmed that the Noor of Hazar Imam is:

The Gate of Allah’s Knowledge

The Face of Mercy — to look upon Hazar Imam is to experience mercy

The Essence of Faith — to love Hazar Imam is our faith

Read and see:

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1960 ... hqfO552USg
More here:

viewtopic.php?p=74092#p74092
For decades, these essential truths were not taught in our curricula by IIS and ITREBS . Now that they are clearly reaffirmed, since 9 August 2025, it is vital that they are incorporated without delay into the teaching curriculum of all students — across every ITREB, at every level of our religious education, and in all study materials by IIS - including the updating of the curriculum not fully done for 30 years - see links above

Ya Ali Madad,

Mahebub Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All, including Noorani Family

I am sharing below a recent post on X (formerly Twitter) made by Mr. Gerald Bitok, Director of Public Communication at the State House, Kenya:

*“H.E President @WilliamsRuto hosts His Highness Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V.

The new leader of the Shia Ismaili Imamat was awarded Kenya’s highest civilian honour, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.), for the great impact the organization has had on the nation’s socioeconomic sphere for decades.”*

While we are deeply grateful for the recognition shown to our Imam and the Imamat’s historic contributions to Kenya, I wished to respectfully clarify, for broader awareness and understanding, that:
• The Ismaili Imamat is a constitutional entity in international law, distinct from community institutions or organizations.
• Divinely ordained Hazar Imam, of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, conveys Allah’s will & guidance to the Jamat globally, and the AKDN operates under this mandate through the Ismaili Constitution
• Accuracy and clarity in communication are particularly important in Kenya, where the Nation Media Group (the largest in East Africa, founded by Mawlana Shah Karim - Hazar Imam) has long stood for independence, reliability, and professionalism & clarity in media.

The original statement appears to reflect a lack of precision in distinguishing between Hazar Imam, His mandate, the Imamat, and its mandate & institutions.

I therefore responded directly and respectfully to Mr. Bitok, in the spirit of constructive dialogue, to help ensure clarity in future communication.

You may read my response here:

My clarification reply on X https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1960 ... hqfO552USg

This was done with respect and with the intention of contributing to clear, accurate, and informed communication, in line with the principles of media integrity that Mawlana Hazar Imam has always emphasized in Farmans

More at - Hazar Imam re Nation Media

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CF2u3 ... tid=wwXIfr

Warm regards,

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All including IIS ITREBS & Noorani Family

Today The Ismaili - IIS posted this Ginan as a part of Didar today in Kenya - further affirmation - of Imam’s divinely ordained Noor - light. Mercy blessings and guidance

Link
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1960 ... hqfO552USg

[mahebubchatur]

Mubaraki

Dear All, including the Noorani Family IIS ITREBS LIF & All

The Didsr in Kenya, has just completed and the cavalcade has left the Hall where the Didar was conducted by Hazar Imam with prayers and worship to Hazar Imam

The following account - Farman has been shared by some individuals who were present inside. It is therefore shared here as received, subject to verification and confirmation. More who—God willing—will share the authenticated version soon.

As you know, myself included, we have long requested that the leadership share Farmans and our Constitution transparently, yet these continue to be withheld.

In His Farman, Mawlana Hazar Imam gave very clear guidance that every Ismaili must live truthfully and be recognised for their honesty: “If an Ismaili has spoken, it must be true. If an Ismaili has committed, it will be reliable.” This leaves no room for withholding or concealing what belongs to the Jamat. Including Farmans and our constitution

Truthfulness requires that our leaders also uphold this principle by sharing Farmans and the Constitution openly and faithfully, as these are the Imam’s Farmans conveyed for the entire Jamat, - not to be withheld by a few select group

Here is a summary of the gist as received, followed by the full text below:

Full Farman and analysis to follow as soon as possible

M Chatur

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Summary (as received)

• Mawlana Hazar Imam was deeply joyful and emotional, repeatedly blessing the Jamat and accepting their bay‘ah.

• He reminded that bay‘ah is a lifelong bond, and emphasized truthfulness, ethics, dignity, and service as the hallmarks of an Ismaili life.

• He spoke with pride about the Ismaili history in Kenya, as well as Princess Zahra’s decades of service and national recognition.

• He encouraged the Jamat to engage in sports, build new skills, and adapt to change for prosperity and happiness.

• He expressed concern for loneliness among youth and elderly, urging the Jamat to bring them back into the community.

• He emphasized prioritizing health through regular check-ups, even for the less privileged, and called for resources to be used responsibly.

• He reminded the Jamat to welcome and include members of multi-faith families, granting full access to facilities, except during private moments of prayer.

• With deep emotion, He dedicated all Nazrana to Kenya’s Jamat, instructing that it be used to support education and healthcare for those in need.

• He assured the Jamat that even though the physical Didar is brief, “I look for you. I care for you. I am always with you, and you are always with me.”

• Before departure, Mawlana Hazar Imam blessed the sick and bedridden, accepted a child’s drawing, and departed in joy, leaving the Jamat uplifted.



Quote

Gist of Farman for Jamat on 27th August 2025 morning.

My Beloved Spiritual Children,

Today has been a day of immense happiness. Mawlana Hazar Imam was visibly joyful, smiling and waving lovingly to the children as He walked along the red carpet—pausing again and again to acknowledge them with affection.

The gathering began with the recitation of Ginans and the Giryazari tasbih. The Mukhi of Darkhana pledged bay‘ah on behalf of the Jamat, following which the President recalled the long and historic bond between the Imamat and Kenya. She reminded the Jamat how Mawlana Sultan Muhammad Shah celebrated His Jubilee in Kenya, how Mawlana Hazar Imam graced the Takht Nashini, the Silver Jubilee, the Golden Jubilee, and the Diamond Jubilee, and how He has visited the country many times. She recalled with emotion how Mawlana Shah Rahim Hazar Imam had first come with Shah Karim when He was only ten years old, and how that memory has remained fresh in the hearts of the Jamat.

When Mawlana Hazar Imam came to the microphone, He paused for several moments in silence. With great emotion He said: “I need to pause, because this is a deeply moving moment.”

He began His Farman by bestowing blessings upon the Jamat, especially those within the Kenya jurisdiction who were unable to be present that day. He accepted the bay‘ah of the Jamat, reminding everyone that the bay‘ah is a lifelong bond between the Murid and the Imam.

Mawlana Hazar Imam noted with joy that He recognized many familiar faces—friends who had worked with Him over the years. He shared that Prince Irfan and Prince Sinan had returned to school, joking that they were quite happy!!! about it.

He recalled with pride that His late father had been honoured by the Government of Kenya, and that He Himself had also received same recognition. He expressed happiness that Princess Zahra’s three decades of dedicated work had also been recognized with a national award, and He shared how proud He was of her service and public recognition made Him happy.

Mawlana Hazar Imam spoke warmly of Kenya as a country, describing it as a place very special to His late father who spend His childhood in Kenya and his children too likes to be in Kenya He promised that He would return again with His children. He reminded the Jamat that the Ismaili presence in Kenya spans more than a century, with schools, financial institutions, and community services established and serving society for generations.

Mawlabapa shared that yesterday wherever I had been, I heard good things about My Jamat. I am happy that My Jamat is well recognised and I emphasized that the conduct of every Ismaili should be such that others may say: “If an Ismaili has spoken, it must be true. If an Ismaili has committed, it will be reliable.”

Mawla shared that we have to take an example of Nabi Rasul (SAS) – peace be upon Him – how He lived His life exemplarily and treated people well.

When you remember Allah, observe around you His creation. Remember Prophets, remember Imams.

Mawlana Hazar Imam extended abundant blessings to the Volunteers, recalling the words of His Grandfather, that when the Imam is happy, He gives opportunities for service, and when He is even more happier, He gives greater opportunities for service.

He spoke with deep concern about loneliness among both the elderly and the youth, saying that such isolation saddened Him greatly. He urged the Jamat to bring such individuals back into the community by engaging them, and to make them feel part of the community, for this too is a noble form of service.

He encouraged the Jamat to be active regularly for sometime, to play sports, and to make use of the community facilities. He emphasized that sports strengthen both physical and mental health, and that these facilities should not remain unused.

Mawlana Hazar Imam reminded the Jamat that kindness, treating people with dignity, helping those in need, and supporting and caring for one another are all fundamental expressions of faith.

He stressed the importance of ethics, urging the Jamat to earn through honest and lawful means. He cautioned against spending resources recklessly: “Do not live as though there is no tomorrow. Tomorrow will sure come"

He encouraged to learn new skills and not to be afraid of adapting to change. He said: “I want my Jamat to prosper, to live in comfort, and to be happy.”

He reminded Jamat that even the economically less privileged must first prioritised health. Regular medical check-ups should not be neglected until illness strikes.

Mawlana Hazar Imam also spoke about multi-faith families, urging the Jamat to be inclusive and welcoming, granting full access to community facilities, except during the time of prayers, which remain a private spiritual bond between Imam and Murid.

Mawla blessed and prayed for spiritual upliftment, peace, unity of the jamat.

After the Nazrana and a gift were offered, Mawlana Hazar Imam, before departure, spoke once again with great emotion: “If earlier I was emotional, I am even more emotional now.”

He dedicated all the Nazrana to the Jamat of the Kenya jurisdiction, directing that the funds be used to support those unable to afford medical treatment and educational expenses. He asked the Jamat to cherish the memory of this Didar, reminding them that though the physical encounter is brief, the Imam is always with His Jamat, and the Jamat is always with Him. “I look for you. I care for you.”

As He departed, Mawlana Hazar Imam once again delighted the children, stopping to shake hands with many of them along the red carpet. One child offered Him a small drawing on a piece of paper. Mawlana Hazar Imam bent down to accept it personally, and held it with Him until His departure.

He also met each and every Jamati member who were unwell and bedridden, speaking with them and their families, and bestowing blessings upon them.”


Mahebub Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All, including Noorani Family 

I attach here a video clip of the monthly update issued through our community media, The Ismaili. In this update, leaders — including the Institute of Ismaili Studies — state that the Farmans in France will be made available soon, though no explanation is given for the delay.

At the same time, there is no reference to the Farmans recently in Kenya or to the Ismaili Constitution, a Farmans- , both of which Mawlana Hazar Imam has directed must be made available to the entire Jamat.

The update further advises murids to read Hazar Imam’s Farmans so that we remain fully aware of his guidance. Yet the contradiction is stark: for decades, leaders have urged us to read the Farmans, while at the same time withholding them & releasing them selectively. This includes the Ismaili Constitution itself, which remains inaccessible , despite Imam’s explicit & repeated Farmans that it be provided.

The monthly update also contains factual inaccuracies. -an award to a community member in Pakistan is presented as if it occurred last month, when in reality it was conferred in 2016. Such errors undermine the credibility of these communications and risk confusing the Jamat about what is current and what is historical.

For the sake of transparency, accuracy, and respect for Hazar Imam , it is essential that the Farmans and the Constitution be made fully available to the entire Jamat without further delay.

The video for the record and reference.is on TheIsmaili

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1962 ... hqfO552USg

Ya Ali Madad,
M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

A question and conversation in Reddit & my response

Any further related information from IIS to add to this Fc clarify with the related Farmans and the full Ismaili Constitution will be appreciated

The Question

“Ya Ali Madad, I was wondering if we have missionaries that still convert and introduce ideas of ismailism in the world. I know Pirs did that, but as our Pir is the Imam he doesn’t obviously go around converting people and I recall a waez where the missionary said SMS told the missionaries at the time to stop fighting and arguing with the Sunni Muslims and that he would handle that and he’d rather have them go to small villages to convert the people there. Is this still the case?”

Link to My response, and others

https://www.reddit.com/r/ismailis/s/vqP15HYK0P

[mahebubchatur]

An invitation has been issued for a Post-Didar Reflection Session hosted by the Institute of Ismaili Studies in collaboration with the Aga Khan Ismaili Tariqah & Religious Education Board for Kenya.

Two members of the global Al-Waez team in Kenya will be leading the reflections on the blessings and highest form of Worship during Didar and how these blessings can be integrated into our daily life.

At the 9th of August session, it was clearly affirmed by them that Farmans are divinely ordained and given by the Imam to the entire Jamat.

They should not be withheld by anyone.

It follows that scholars entrusted with teaching and reflection—such as those now leading these sessions—should have access to and share the full Farmans.

If they do not, they should request them.

The ongoing withholding of Farmans, and even of the Constitution, by leadership in control for decades is contrary to the Imam’s mandate authority and Farmans. This practice will and should now change since 9 August 2025

During these reflections, every participant—scholars and murids alike—should be provided with the verbatim text of the Farmans delivered in Kenya. This will allow the Jamat to study, internalize, and truly benefit from the Imam’s full guidance, rather than relying only on a Leaders selected parts or generalized commentary.

Genuine reflection of this Worship must be rooted in the Imam’s actual words, not filtered or limited by Leaders interests, as has too often been the case in past decades.

Here is the official announcement:

*::: KENYA DIDAR 2025 :::*

*Post-Didar Reflection Session*

Join us for a virtual Session as we explore:
“How we can integrate the blessings of Didar into our daily lives?”

Tuesday, 9 September 2025
9:00 pm –10:30 pm (EAT)
Virtual via Zoom

Let’s come together to deepen our gratitude, share insights, and nurture ongoing spiritual growth.

*Register here:* https://tinyurl.com/itrebsession-09092025

[mahebubchatur]

Letter to ICAB, IIS, EPB, LIF, and Members of the Noorani Family

Dear ICAB, IIS, EPB, LIF, and Members of the Noorani Family,

Executive Summary

This letter respectfully raises concerns and questions regarding the newly published Guidelines for Ethical Wealth Transfer and Inheritance Planning, issued by ICAB in collaboration with IIS. While the intentions of the Guidelines are noble, there are important contradictions, institutional concerns, and unresolved matters:
• Farman Transparency: The Guidelines state they were issued “at the direction of Mawlana Hazar Imam,” yet the full Farman or directive has not been shared with the Jamat.
• Institutional Mandate: ICAB’s mandate is conciliation and arbitration, not economic or ethical guidance. Why was ICAB tasked with this instead of EPB or IIS?
• Withholding of Farmans & Constitution: ICAB, IIS, and LIF continue to withhold Farmans and the Ismaili Constitution from the Jamat, despite repeated requests.
• Contradictions & Inconsistencies: The Guidelines cite a 1998 speech but not more recent Farmans, including those of 2025. They affirm gender equality but do not address conflict with national legal frameworks.
• Accountability & Appeals: ICAB state they will not act on complaints against themselves or long-standing leaders. Will murids be free to seek independent legal recourse?
• Transparency & Consultation: No process has been shared for murids to give feedback before the Guidelines are finalized and submitted to the Imam.

Clarity on these issues is essential for murids to follow Imam’s guidance with confidence.

⸻

Full Letter

Ya Ali Madad.

I write with respect and with a sincere wish for clarity regarding the recently published Guidelines for Ethical Wealth Transfer and Inheritance Planning issued by the International Conciliation and Arbitration Board (ICAB) in collaboration with the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS).

The Guidelines emphasize fairness, equity, and ethical responsibility in inheritance planning. They remind murids that wealth carries a social and ethical value, and they cite Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Irshad Mubarak in Shugnan, Tajikistan on September 25, 1998:

“Wealth and power are not objectives in themselves, but are to be used in the service of others.”

The intention of these Guidelines is noble, but several important questions arise which merit clarification for the Jamat:

⸻

1. Farman and Direction
• The Guidelines state that they were prepared “at the direction of Mawlana Hazar Imam.” Could ICAB, IIS, or EPB please provide the Jamat with the full text of this Farman or directive, so that murids may understand the precise guidance of the Imam?
• Why do the Guidelines cite a 1998 speech, but not more recent guidance, including the most recent Farmans of 2025?

⸻

2. Institutional Mandate
• Why was ICAB, whose core mandate is conciliation and arbitration, tasked as claimed by Hazar Imam with producing wealth transfer and inheritance guidelines?
• Why was this not the responsibility of the Economic Planning Board (EPB), whose remit includes financial and economic matters, or the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS), which provides ethical and educational guidance?
• If there is a new institutional division of responsibility, could this please be clarified for the Jamat and accompanied by the relevant Farman?

⸻

3. Ethical and Legal Consistency
• The Guidelines affirm that “males and females are to be treated equally” in inheritance planning. This is deeply aligned with the Imam’s vision. Could you clarify how these Guidelines will be reconciled with differing national legal frameworks that do not uphold gender equality?
• The Guidelines encourage resolution of disputes through ICAB.

Will murids who disagree with certain provisions or interpretations be free to seek independent legal recourse, or will referral to ICAB be mandatory?
• ICAB have stated they will not act in complaints against themselves or other leaders in position for many decades. How will accountability be ensured in such cases?

ICAB are still witholding and not providing all the ICAB constitutional rules and regulations & Farmans of ICAB and NCAB - as a Part of the full Ismaili Constitution which they also withhold from the Jamat

⸻

4. Transparency and Accessibility
• Given the weight of these Guidelines, could they be accompanied by explanatory notes from IIS or EPB, to help murids understand both the ethical and practical implications?
• Are there opportunities for murids to provide feedback on these Guidelines before they are reviewed by ICAB in its next term of office and before they are submitted to Hazar Imam for guidance - Farmans

⸻

5. Still Withholding of Farmans and the Ismaili Constitution
I must also respectfully remind ICAB, IIS, and LIF that murids have repeatedly requested access to Farmans and to the Ismaili Constitution, which remain withheld. Without access to the Imam’s guidance and our own Constitution, murids are left unable to fully understand or implement new directives such as these Guidelines. This practice of withholding contradicts the very principles of fairness, equity, and transparency that Hazar Imam has asked in Farmans

⸻

Conclusion
Respectfully, these clarifications are essential for all murids to understand the Imam’s Farmans & direction, to engage with these Guidelines fully, and to apply them in ways that are both aligned to Farmans which include ethics and pluralism

I trust that ICAB, IIS, EPB, LIF, and the Noorani Family will provide the Jamat with clarity on these matters, so that murids everywhere can approach inheritance and wealth transfer with confidence that their actions are fully aligned with Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Farmans - not selective claims or views of the Leaders in control

If any of the above is incorrect please clarify and share all the related information the full constitution and Farmans

With prayers for unity, clarity, and guidance,

https://the.ismaili/us/en/news/guidelin ... planning-2

Ya Ali Madad,
M Chatur

Reference: Guidelines for Ethical Wealth Transfer and Inheritance Planning (PDF)
https://the.ismaili/us/en/news/guidelin ... planning-2

[mahebubchatur]

Dear IIS ITREBS & All, including our Noorani family

Thank you all for sharing, as Hazar Imam has asked all leaders & Jamat to share — including to share our Constitution, which is still being withheld by the Leaders in control .

They are clearly not respecting their Bayah - commitment - to Hazar Imam or to the Jamat they say they represent and respect - 11 Feb 2025.

Here are the key guidances and reminders conveyed by Mawlana Hazar Imam, which originate from the Quran & Allah’s Will:

• Spiritual Bond
• The Bay’ah has been accepted and reaffirms the eternal bond between the Imam and the Jamat. This is a two-way commitment: Murids are to obey, and Farmans must be shared as directed by Hazar Imam — not withheld.
• Even when the Imam is not physically present, the spiritual connection with the Jamat is alive, transcending time and space. Imam assures us of his divinely ordained Nur and mandate from Allah.
• Continuity & Change
• “As Imam of the Time, I will continue to build on the legacy of the Imams who came before me.” (continuum, as Imam also affirmed on 11 Feb 2025).
• The Imam will guide the Jamat and institutions in today’s context, and prepare them for the future.
• The Jamat should not fear change, but embrace and adapt to it as needed.
• Faith & Values
• The principles of Islam remain constant: respect, dignity, kindness, generosity, integrity, and care for others.
• These values are not separate from life — they should guide all our daily interactions.
• Keep Allah’s remembrance close, with gratitude in your hearts; remember the Prophet and the Imams for peace, stability, and happiness. Imam affirmed Murids must sends their prayers to Hazar Imams.
• Unity & Community
• Praying together in Jamatkhana strengthens individuals and the community as a whole.
• Modern isolation weakens society — the Jamat must resist this by fostering unity and togetherness. Leaders have not done this as they should.
• Care for the elderly, the lonely, and the young by drawing them into community life and Jamati events — another goal yet to be achieved.
• Everyone has a role in improving the lives of others. If Leaders fail, then the Jamat itself must act.
• Economic Guidance
• Africa, and Kenya in particular, offer long-term opportunities — the Jamat should benefit prudently and ethically.
• Always act with integrity, honesty, and reliability in business and personal dealings.
• Prepare for global instability by being prudent with resources, saving for the future, and avoiding wasteful spending.
• Continuously update skills and knowledge to adapt to changing job markets and ensure long-term prosperity.
• Health & Wellbeing
• Prioritize health at all ages: regular check-ups, daily movement, and physical activity are essential.
• Prepare for longer life expectancy by ensuring financial, physical, and mental wellbeing into older age.
• Facilities in Kenya and worldwide should be available to ALL - & actively used by ALL Jamat for sports, learning, and community activities.
• Voluntary Service & Ethics
• Service is one of the Jamat’s greatest strengths, putting into action the Qur’anic ethic of helping others.
• Every form of service — time, skills, or resources — is deeply valued and blessed.
• Imam emphasized that integrity, generosity, and trustworthiness should be hallmarks of every Ismaili, as exemplified by the Prophet, known as Al-Amin (the trustworthy).
• Inclusion & Family
• The Jamat should warmly welcome and include interfaith family members in Jamats community life, except during congregational prayer in the prayer hall which is for all those who have given their Bayah
• This openness within Jamat will reflect the Jamats spirit of hospitality and pluralism.

If any of the above is incorrect can IIS ITREBS clarify and share the related Farmans & constitution

Meaning and significance of Bayah allegiance

http://ismaili.net/timeline/2025/bayah.pdf

Mahebub

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All including IIS LIF AKDN AKF & Noorani Famoly

A powerful reminder from Hazar Imam to AKDN AKU - Leaders in control

Ismaili Constitution STILL not provided by Leaders to the Jamat, despite reminders from Hazar Imam !! Why ? When will you respect Hazar Imam’s Farman & reminders

Video - Another Goal still not achieved !

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1966 ... hqfO552USg

[mahebubchatur]

After years IIS @ismaili_studies & the Association of Ginans (ASG) are now collaborating on research & sharing of #Ismaili Ginans — which include and are a part of Farmans - recited in daily prayers & also Didar, - the highest form of worship of Ismaili Muslims
ASG conference #AgaKhan

ASG Board Includes senior members of the Institute of Ismaili studies including Zayn Kassam Hussain Jassani Tazim Kassam - full Board

https://www.asginans.com/board-of-governors

[kmaherali]

Ginān Studies Conference,
AKC Dates: 22nd - 23rd September 2025 Time: 9:30 am – 6:00 pm GMT+1 (Both days)
Venue: Aga Khan Centre (AKC), 10 Handyside Street, London N1C 4DN,

UK Association for the Study of Ginans is pleased to organise the inaugural Ginān Studies Conference in collaboration with The South Asian Studies Unit at the Institute of Ismaili Studies and The School of History, Religions and Philosophies at SOAS, University of London. This will be a hybrid conference, broadcast on Zoom as well. Guests wishing to attend in person at AKC, please use the link below to register:
https://www.asginans.com/events-1/ginan ... erence-akc

Guests wishing to attend online on Zoom, please use the link below to register: https://www.asginans.com/events-1/ginan ... nce-online Please email asginans@gmail.com for registration help