UK Didar and visit, complete coverage

Dates, testimonies, articles, descriptions
mahebubchatur
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Re: UK Didar,

Post by mahebubchatur »

mahebubchatur wrote: Wed Feb 04, 2026 3:55 am Mubaraki to all

UK Didar – 3 February 2026 | ExCeL London

Testimony – Overview, & Calls to Action

On 3 February 2026, approximately 10,000 murids from the United Kingdom and Ireland gathered at ExCeL London for a sacred Didar — a religious gathering and worship in the presence of Noor Mawlana Shah Rahim Al Husseini Hazar Imam
The Ismaili has today published details of Gifts presented to Hazar Imam.

“ A series of three gifts were presented to the Imam. Members of the Jamat had collectively prepared an art installation—the Shukrana Mosaic—in which they reflect on the blessings in their lives, expressed through drawings, words, and colour.

More to follow after we have the 3 full Farmans or if more information is given regarding the Nazrana and a further gift personally to Hazar Imam if in addition to a mosaic by the Jamat

More at https://the.ismaili/gb/en/news/mawlana- ... -in-london
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Re: UK Didar, Testimonies 2026, February 2-3

Post by Admin »

Not sure if this is posted already

Youth Mulaqat 2
Highlights and Key Guidance (as per my memory)

Hazar Imam had a morning session with Youth (mostly London based). I was in the afternoon session (mostly Youth outside London). Hazar Imam had left the venue (Ismaili Center) after the morning session.

He returned in the evening to grace a Youth Mulaqat to the second group and the institutional reception. The Mulaqat was held in the Prayer Hall of the Ismaili Centre in London. For the morning session, Hazar Imam arrived earlier, but for the afternoon session, he was a bit late from schedule. The youth were very energetic and warmly welcomed Mawlana Hazar Imam with Salwat.

Hazar Imam entered the building and Salwat Recitation started. He was received by Jamati leaders after which he made his way upstairs to his room. After a while, Hazar Imam made his way to the Prayer Hall, where the Youth Jamat was desperately waiting for him. Outside the hall, He waved the volunteers in the cloakroom and shoe area.

Student Mukhi Kamadiya welcomed Mawlana Hazar Imam outside the prayer hall (we could see on the screens). And the next moment, Khudavind was walking amongst us all the way to the stage at the front. Hazar Imam's walking pace was fast, as he was on the stage in just a minute (or at least I felt so). Also the prayer Hall is not so big, so there was a very small distance from the entrance to the stage.

While Khudavind was walking through the Hall, Salwat Recitation continued aloud, until he sat on his Takht.

After he sat, Devotional Recitations were done from South Asian, Syrian and Persian traditions. After this Khudavind Imam-e-Zaman graciously made a Farman to us. Below are key points (in random order)

Hazar Imam was in a very Jolly mood and cracked jokes a couple of times.

He started Farman with: "My Dearest Jamat". He graciously wished us Good Afternoon. He gave blessings for Mushkil Aasan, Good Health, Success and Happiness and Barakaat, and said Khanavadan.

Hazar Imam said in the beginning of his Farman, that as our Imam, he is very much concerned about our education. Then he jokingly said that it's sometimes good to be able to skip school for a couple of days and he knows it very well being a father 😂.

* He said that he is very happy to be with the young members of the Jamat. When he sees us youth, he sees the future of the Jamat in our generation and the future ones.
* Hazar Imam spoke about Bayah. He said that each one of us has a permanent spiritual bond with our imam. He cares for us and loves us and wants us to know that we are always in his heart, in his thoughts and in his prayers.
*
* He said that meeting with youth in prayer hall of Ismaili centre is very meaningful to him. Whenever we return to this space or any other Jamatkhana, it will remind us of this special meeting with Imam.
* He advised to make good career choices which will help us throughout our lives.
* He wants his spiritual children to be happy and told us to smile. It makes him happy if the Jamat is happy.
* Hazar Imam spoke of global conflict and said that he anticipates that it will continue for some time. He prayed for the peaceful and equitable resolution of conflicts
* Hazar Imam spoke about the status and respect the elderly in the Jamat deserve. He said to learn from their experience. Their experience is invaluable and nowhere else to be found. He said sometimes we take them for granted and think that they hardly know how the world today works (and joked that wish his children would understand this 😂).
* Hazar Imam advised us to step out of our comfort zone and take on tasks which are difficult but will make you stronger. He said: Don't give up on something because it is hard. Take on challenges, they make you strong.
* He reminded the youth Jamat that they are here in the UK and Ireland because someone stepped out of their comfort zone - parents, grandparents or perhaps great grandparents. We should treat them with respect and care for them as they did when we were young.
* Hazar Imam told us to learn about the mosaic of different traditions of Jamat. Learn about your own culture, history and heritage. And see where your cultural heritage fits into greater Ismaili history.
* He stressed on the issue of social media redirecting us towards not so good things. He wants us to connect with each other in person and spend time with each other in the real world.
* Hazar Imam reminded that only soul is enteral. Just as our bodies need nourishment, so does our soul. So take time out from your routine and remember Allah, thank Him for all the blessings you have.
* When possible come together to pray in Jamatkhana and whenever possible for you, remember Allah.
* On Imamat Day, we are to receive a Tasbeeh from Hazar Imam, and he wants us to keep that as a reminder of this meeting and to use it to remember Allah.
* Hazar Imam graciously prayed for spiritual wellbeing, happiness, physical and mental health, Mushkil Aasan, Sirat-e-Mustaqim
* He reminded us of the ethics and values of our faith. Kindness, generosity, humility. We are a community known for our ethics and values.
* Keep the values central to your life.
* Let your life revolve around faith.
* He said that we will soon receive a copy of Farmans. He wants us to read and understand them.

Mehmani was presented by Student Mukhi Kamadiya and Mukhiyani Kamadiyani of each Jamatkhana. Hazar Imam graced the dry fruits and sweets with his Mubarak blessing and blessed Mukhi Kamadiya and Mukhiyani Kamadiyani of each Jamatkhana placing his blessed hands on their shoulders.

Before leaving the Hall, Hazar Imam made a Farman.
* He said I accept your Mehmani and services
* Gave blessings to volunteers
* Gave blessings to who are a shoulder for someone in difficulty to lean on.
* Gave Dua Ashish for Mushkil Aasan, Unity and Barakaat, and graciously said Khanavadan.

When he left the Hall, he had a conversation with Students Mukhi Kamadiya and Mukhiyani Kamadiyani who were on stage with him.

He thanked them for being with him asked them about their studies, and education and whether they were born in the UK or somewhere else. Kamadiya Saheb went emotional while talking to Hazar Imam and MAWLA HUGGED HIM. He also blessed Mukhi Saheb by placing both His Mubarak Hands on Student Mukhi's both shoulders.

While making his way out, President Naushad briefed Hazar Imam about a Shukrana Painting (Different than the planned Mosaic). Hazar Imam then made his way towards Institutional Reception in the Social Hall.

Youth in the Hall were sooo happy and were happily greeting each other and sharing their experiences to each other (which was a bit noisy 😅, and Waezeen had to repeatedly shush us by saying on mic to us to be quiet and whisper 😂)

Everyone was soooo happy.

When coming out of Ismaili centre at about 8.45pm or around he waved the Jamat standing opposite road! Everyone was very happy.

Above is what I experienced and Remembered from the Mulaqat. Hazar Imam would also have spoken about some more things, but I might have unintentionally skipped them.

Shukar Mawla Bapa for gracing us with your Didar and making us feel close to you ❤️
Shukranlillah Walhamdulillah ❤️
kmaherali
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Re: UK Didar,

Post by kmaherali »

Royal Family LIVE: King Charles hosts private dinner, Princess Kate shares moving message, and more

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King Charles III with Aga Khan in the Grand Corridor of Windsor Castle in Berkshire

Black tie

The King and Aga Khan were pictured side by side in the castle’s Grand Corridor, with the King dressed in his distinctive Windsor Coat dinner jacket with scarlet collar and cuffs.

They were joined at the private dinner on the poignant anniversary by members of the Aga Khan’s family.

https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/8 ... yal-lodge/
kmaherali
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Re: UK Didar,

Post by kmaherali »

His Majesty King Charles III hosts Mawlana Hazar Imam at Windsor Castle

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Mawlana Hazar Imam and His Majesty King Charles III at Windsor Castle on 4 February 2026. Photo: IPL / Akbar Hakim

His Majesty King Charles III honoured Mawlana Hazar Imam with a dinner this evening at Windsor Castle, coinciding with the first anniversary of his ascension to the Ismaili Imamat. Hazar Imam was accompanied by members of his family.

Earlier in the day, Hazar Imam and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper signed a Memorandum of Understanding that builds on more than four decades of partnership between the Ismaili Imamat and the UK. Since 1973, institutions of the Ismaili Imamat have partnered with UK agencies on development projects in Africa, South and Central Asia, and the Middle East.

In 2018, King Charles, the then Prince of Wales, opened the Aga Khan Centre in London—a place for education, knowledge, cultural exchange and insight into Muslim civilisations. Each year, almost 50,000 people attend events and seminars on its premises, including some in collaboration with the King’s Trust and the King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts.

The Aga Khan Centre is home to The Institute of Ismaili Studies, the Aga Khan University’s Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations, and the Aga Khan Foundation (UK). Together the organisations work to bridge the gap in understanding about Muslim cultures and to improve the quality of life in the developing world.

Hazar Imam is the Global Founding Patron of the King’s Trust, a charity that empowers young people to learn, earn and thrive. This partnership aims to improve opportunities for education, employment and enterprise, including in countries where the AKDN has a long-standing presence.

As a Founding Partner of the Earthshot Prize, the Aga Khan Development Network works closely with The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales to support the global effort to protect and restore the natural environment.

For more than 60 years, the Jamat has worked closely with Royal organisations to promote peace, pluralism, and social progress in the UK and the Commonwealth.

https://the.ismaili/gb/en/news/his-maje ... sor-castle
mahebubchatur
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Re: UK Didar,

Post by mahebubchatur »

kmaherali wrote: Tue Feb 03, 2026 2:34 pm *From President!*
*UK Council*
*Tuesday February 3,2026*

Good morning and Ya Ali Madad

You and your Team made us proud yesterday!

Mawlana Hazar Imam was exceptionally happy with everything yesterday.

Shafik, Naguib and others had nothing but praise - they said yesterday’s Youth Mulaquat and Institutional Reception was the best they have seen by a mile! They couldn’t fault it.

Everything operated to a T and the whole place was buzzing with love from all the murids as well as all the volunteers and line ups.

I cannot thank you enough for all you have done!

You enabled Mawlana Hazar Imam to meet with His youth and His leaders and you enabled the youth and the leaders to meet their 50th Imam - this is a HUGE act of faith! Thank you 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼❤️❤️❤️

Remember today you are His murids - go to the Didar fulfilled and happy with what you’ve done yesterday - and experience His Nur, love, kindness and generosity.

Didar Mubarak!


Please pass on this message to your team.
“ Shafik, Naguib and others had nothing but praise - they said yesterday’s Youth Mulaquat and Institutional Reception was the best they have seen by a mile! They couldn’t fault it.”

Shafik Sachedina and Naguib Kheraj who President says praised the work done, are members of the LIF and in IIS AKDN & Ismaili Imamat

Link for more viewtopic.php?p=73599#p73599
Imranramjica
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Re: UK Didar,

Post by Imranramjica »

Did mowlana hazir imam not meet multi faith families?
kmaherali
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Re: UK Didar,

Post by kmaherali »

Imranramjica wrote: Thu Feb 05, 2026 11:23 am Did mowlana hazir imam not meet multi faith families?
He did! Watch the video Update part 3
kmaherali
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Re: UK Didar,

Post by kmaherali »

Mawlana Hazar Imam concludes visit to the UK

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Mawlana Hazar Imam and His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales at Kensington Palace in London on 5 February 2026.Photo: AKDN / Akbar Hakim

On the final day of his visit to the United Kingdom, Mawlana Hazar Imam met with His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales at Kensington Palace in London.

The meeting brought to a close a momentous week in which the global Jamat commemorated the first anniversary of Hazar Imam’s ascension to the Ismaili Imamat.

https://the.ismaili/gb/en/news/mawlana- ... -to-the-uk
kmaherali
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Re: UK Didar,

Post by kmaherali »

Mawlana Hazar Imam meets UK Prime Minister, signs partnership agreement with UK

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Mawlana Hazar Imam at 10 Downing Street in London on 4 February 2026.Photo: AKDN / Rahim Kara

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Mawlana Hazar Imam at 10 Downing Street on 4 February 2026.Photo: Office of the Prime Minister

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Mawlana Hazar Imam and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the United Kingdom and the Ismaili Imamat on 4 February 2026.Photo: AKDN / Akbar Hakim

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The agreement signed between the UK and the Ismaili Imamat marks a new chapter in a long standing institutional partnership.Photo: AKDN / Akbar Hakim

Mawlana Hazar Imam was welcomed to 10 Downing Street yesterday by Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Sir Keir Starmer. They discussed strengthening cooperation on international development and humanitarian initiatives, promoting pluralism and interfaith relations.

Earlier in the day, Hazar Imam and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper signed a Memorandum of Understanding between the United Kingdom and the Ismaili Imamat, marking a new chapter in a long standing institutional partnership.

Signed at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in London, the agreement renews our commitment to work together to tackle global priorities, including climate change, empowering women and girls, and driving economic growth, and establishes official representation between the two parties with a joint coordinating committee.

Since 1973, the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), a group of development agencies established by the Ismaili Imamat, has partnered with UK agencies, such as the FCDO and British International Investment, as well as organisations like The King’s Trust International, on development projects in Africa, South and Central Asia, and the Middle East. The institutions built through their collaboration positively impact more than 15 million lives annually.

Institutions of the Ismaili Imamat based in the UK include the Aga Khan Foundation (UK), established in 1973; The Institute of Ismaili Studies, established in 1977; and The Aga Khan University - Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations, founded in 2002. These organisations are based at the Aga Khan Centre in London, a place for education, knowledge and cultural exchange. Along with its library, gallery and public tours programme, the institutions at the Aga Khan Centre work together to bridge the gap in understanding about Muslim cultures, address the root causes of poverty, and connect the public to global development issues.

The Ismaili community has lived in the UK for more than 60 years and contributes actively to the strength and prosperity of the country.

https://the.ismaili/gb/en/news/mawlana- ... nt-with-uk
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Re: UK Didar, Feb 2026 4: Meeting Royals in UK

Post by Admin »

https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/8 ... yal-lodge/

Palace on Thursday. Aga Khan serves as the spiritual leader of the Shia Nizari Ismaili Muslims. This afternoon, the royal and his wife, The Princess of Wales are due to meet the new Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Sarah Mullally, at Lambeth Palace.

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Re: UK Didar, Feb 2026 4: Meeting Royals in UK

Post by Admin »

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Re: UK Didar, Feb 2026 4: Meeting Royals in UK

Post by Admin »

Image
Same photo in Holla Magazine
ChristinZ
@ChristinsQueens
The Prince of Wales received HH the Aga Khan at Kensington Palace.

📸 Andrew Parsons // Kensington Palace
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Re: UK Didar, Feb 2026 4: Meeting Royals in UK

Post by Admin »

https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/13911 ... nniversary
The News International
Royals
King Charles honours Aga Khan V at Windsor Castle on accession anniversary
King Charles hosted private dinner for Aga Khan V at Windsor Castle to mark his accession anniversary
By F. Qureshi
February 05, 2026


King Charles honours Aga Khan V at Windsor Castle on accession anniversary

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King Charles hosted a private dinner at Windsor Castle to mark the first anniversary of Rahim Al-Hussaini’s accession as Aga Khan V.

The palace dropped a photo from the dinner on their official social media as Charles welcomed the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims and his family.
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Re: UK Didar, 2026, Feb 2-3

Post by Admin »

Tuesday 3 February 2026 `London Didar

The Didar was really powerful and very future focused. He spoke strongly about the importance of mental health for everyone, especially the elderly, and stressed more than once that there is no shame in getting support or being checked.
He warned about AI, fake news, and misinformation, saying we need to be careful about what we believe and share, including things we see on Social media (WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram) and even content that appears to be shared from jamatkhana He said some people here ( in our Jamath) are bending truth to push political narratives or hate, and that this must stop.
He emphasised pluralism and unity, saying diversity in jamatkhana should go beyond culture and background, and that all partners are welcome. He encouraged us to help one another, use our networks, and lift each other up.
He spoke about the importance of ethical work, building businesses and projects that inspire, and using our community to build and network and bringing what we build back to strengthen the jamat. Entrepreneurs and community builders were described as essential.
He also spoke about the need to better explain our faith to others, especially at a time when there is a growing divide between East and West.
We will receive a tasbi in khane tomorrow
Imamat Day will be marked at Windsor Castle with King Charles and the Prince of Wales
Overall, his message was very modern, compassionate, and focused on care, responsibility, unity, and the future. One thing worth mentioning is that the Didar felt a little overwhelming at moments. There were times when a lot of people rushed forward and surrounded him, which briefly felt unsafe. He handled it with warmth and humour, even joking at the end that he couldn’t meet everyone and asking people to remain seated though many were understandably emotional and didn’t fully listen. The cameras were briefly stopped twice during this while he was mobbed a bit.
Despite this, he was incredibly kind with the children lifting some up, accepting drawings and envelopes, and taking time to acknowledge people as he moved through. As he was leaving, I waved to him and he smiled and waved back, which was a really special moment for me.
Overall, there was so much love in the room. At the same time, it felt like a gentle reminder for us as a jamat about respect, calm, and care, especially around elders and children, and about modelling that behaviour for the next generation.
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Re: UK Didar,

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🌹🌹 Forwarded as Received from Medical Bay Volunteer: Ahh it was a humbling experience. Our day started quite early as my co volunteer and I had to check in about 7am.

Once we got there it was full on. I was put in charge of my own bay of patients, I had six other volunteers with me. One of our Team Leads was the big boss- coordinating all the ambulance arrivals with us. We made good team. It was rush to get everyone organised and settled and we just made it.

Hazir imam is very patient and generous with his time. He shook hands with a lot of people and kids gravitated towards him and he picked them up and hugged them. It got a bit crowded at times but I guess that’s a lesson for the security team to learn. In terms of his Firmans- I felt it was quite current, he touched on trying to educate ourselves and using our skills to help our wider communities . He also touched on AI and social media and avoiding using social media to spread hate and discord amongst the wider community. He came to the medical bay and spoke to all the patients one by one. His team wanted to rush him but some of the murids who were missing out reached out to him so he came
Back to bless them all.

He walked past the volunteers, hands distance from us. Thanked us for our service and offered blessings.

It was a busy day but it was humbling. Felt very fortunate to have been able to contribute Dear all
Hope you are well and in good health.
Sorry for the late text message and response. We just got back home from excel .
I guess I felt I had no head space to respond last evening as it was full on and has been for the last 1 month .
Shukar as a Team, we all worked unitedly and delivered this humbling and prestigious seva .
Cannot express how happy and proud I feel of all of us . We delivered to the best of our ability to the very ill and sadly those who were terminally ill . Shukar 🙏🙏
Hazar Imam recognised that and he spent quality time with each patient in the acute medical care .
He offered so much and more of his blessings to everyone and everyone in the medical bay . Shukar . Let’s say job well done . 👏
The prayers and blessings that we received I radiate to each and everyone of you and our Global Jamat. You were all in our thoughts and prayers at all times 🙏🙏
We had tears and at the same time immense happiness in our hearts 🙏 Mubaraki and Shukhar
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Re: UK Didar, 2026, Feb 2-3 Testimonies

Post by Admin »

What Happened , Stated Fully and Truthfully
I am sharing this exactly as it happened, because without the full context, it does not make sense.
During the UK visit, I tried for days to simply have a Didaar of the Imam. I was given 3 possible airports, all far apart. I chose one and waited there the entire day. Nothing happened. Later, I saw a video online showing that He had arrived at a different airport and had waved to the Jamat there.
That moment broke me.
I remember standing there thinking I had failed in understanding. I prayed only for forgiveness and said from my heart: I only wanted to see You. If this was my mistake, forgive me.
Physically, I was not well. The cold was intense. I was dehydrated, shaking, and close to panic. Still, something inside me kept saying: Don’t give up.

I went to the Ismaili Centre, later in evening hoping only for a blessed sight . He was inside for a long time. I waited outside in the cold, struggling to stand. I asked a volunteer for water, but with the growing crowds, it never came.
At some point, I moved away from the crowd to breathe. As I stood there, I noticed a sealed bottle of water lying on the roadside, not empty, not discarded. I picked it up and drank it. In that moment, the relief was immediate. All I could think was: Thank you. my Lord 🙏
That water allowed me to steady myself and continue waiting.
Later, His car passed. I saw Him wave and smile. My eyesight vision is not quite the same it used to be and car was fast . Shukhar Mowla at least I saw You ❤️

The next day was harder.
It was raining heavily and bitterly cold. I went to His hotel, no sign of anything then to ExCeL, walking aimlessly for over an hour, searching, failing, and finally giving up completely. I remember saying in my heart: Enough. This is not meant to be.
Still, something pulled me back to the hotel. There was no shelter. My family and I stood outside for hours in the rain, soaked and freezing, praying quietly. I was shaking uncontrollably. At that point, I stopped asking to see Him. I asked only one thing: Please hold my hands. I cannot bear this cold.
We eventually decided we would leave. We had accepted that nothing would happen.
At that exact point , when we were no longer hoping, waiting, or positioning ourselves, the car door opened.
He stepped out!
He did not wait for the cars to move. He did not go straight inside. He walked directly toward us in the rain. He had no one around Him , no umbrella . We did not move forward. We did not call out. We froze !
He came to us, took our hands, and told us to get warmth because it was too cold. I was shaking so badly I could barely stand or shake His hand . I was blabbering something I can’t recall except could hear my family say Khushiyali Mubarak and Him saying Thabk you so much nothing more did I hear … My mind went completely blank. I remember only warmth and care. I still can’t recall my blabber . It felt like He was in no hurry to go to with security who my family told me later they seemed unprepared and were rushing to hold umbrella over Him ….

That was the first miracle not seeing Him, but being met after complete surrender.
The following day, on Imamat Day, 4th Feb 2026, we passed by the hotel again. Other murids were present. Another family stepped forward first. We remained behind them.
As hands were being shaken, He extended His hand again towards us from behind this family and shook ours firmly. This was not initiated by us. He said words I heard clearly: “Good to see you again.”
Two days.
Two unasked moments.
Both after I had already accepted that nothing would happen.

That is why this is a miracle to me.
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Re: UK Didar, 2026, Feb 2-3

Post by Admin »

Interfaith Mulaqat experience

Ya Ali madad. Dear all I am taking this opportunity to share my experience of the inter faith mulaqat that my husband and I were so thankful to have had and had been anticipating with joy.

◦ The hall was full as we waited in anticipation of mowlas arrival. It was intimate, exceptionally dignified and one of the most pivotal moments of my life.
◦ The MC were 2 non Ismaili spouses which was commendable. They hosted with integrity, humility and humour
◦ Mowla entered the hall and straight away made us laugh. He was tired but so excited and very relaxed. He spoke to us for around 40 minutes and at times it felt just like an informal conversation with so many laughs that made us feel so happy.
◦ He spoke about many topics including nikkahs, funerals , how to raise our children and how our spouses were part of our family and jamat.
◦ He explained his role as our present İmam and explained the historical journey over the last 1500 years. He spoke about his father and grandfather with the utmost respect.
◦ Mowla spoke about how no one should ever feel excluded in his community with reference to our non Ismaili families.
◦ He made jokes about married life and how he was super excited to meet the king !
◦ He was very very happy and relaxed. He highlighted the importance of working together to uplift the jamat and institutions and wanting to see our spouses take up posts in his institutions and places like AKDN.
◦ Mowla thanked our partners for the seva they quietly do.
My husband who is a Sunni Muslim said to me,
‘ he is an amazing amazing imam ‘ and had tears in his eyes, it was a very special moment for us.

It was an unprecedented event that we will never forget. To acknowledge the contribution of our non Ismaili families was a recognition I value with all my heart. I want to take this opportunity to thank the team’s involved for making us all feel so valued, heard and acknowledged. Your hard work was exemplary, may mowla bless you all for giving us this momentous experience.Amen.

Nadia and Aftab
Sent with kamadiasahebs permission
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Re: UK Didar, 2026, Feb 2-3 Testimonies

Post by Admin »

Didar for United Kingdom’s of England, wales, Scotland, Northern and Southern Ireland.

Observer report: -

We had a really nice didar in London yesterday. I wanted to share some details. These are obviously things how I remember them. I believe the farmans will be circulated in due course.

He was dressed in a navy blue suit, without any robes or adornments. He didn’t have an entourage with him. As he entered and walked the red carpet, many children and even some adults got up to shake his hand and give him letters. He didn’t discourage this and was slowed down many times because children would want to shake his hand or hug him.

When he sat down, his chair was not fancy throne. Just a nice looking chair.

He was visibly emotional when he sat down.

The imam spoke to us about

1. Being kind, generous, honest, helpful and ethical - by doing so, we practice our faith.
2. ⁠He said when we feel hopeless, stressed, or are in a bad way, that going to JK gives strength, and power. This is also true for when things are going well.
3. ⁠He emphasized the importance of mental health, our physical health and the health of our soul. Contemplation and physical exercise are necessary.
4. ⁠Hazar Imam spoke about helping others. He mentioned this especially in light of the economic conditions, that it is our duty to help those who need it. We are one Jamat. He also said we need to look after our elders.
5. ⁠He mentioned he was really happy to be in the U.K. and his visit has been very special. He blessed those in attendance and those not present, and blessed everyone around the world.
6. ⁠He acknowledged the diversity of the Jamat, especially in the U.K. where the Jamat comes from 80 countries.
7. ⁠He spoke about AI and how with AI, everyone can get to the mediocre part very quickly. So he advised being on the edges (to be better) and more people focused. Forgive the vagueness here.
8. ⁠He said his family was in town and on the 4th, his family and Jamati leadership were being hosted at Windsor Castle by King Charles and the Prince of Wales.
9. ⁠He accepted the nazrana offered, and accepted the allegiance of all murids.
10. ⁠He said “you are all in my heart, my thoughts and my arms and I love you all”
11. ⁠He said I will gift each of you a tasbih which you will receive in jamatkhana tomorrow (today). Please carry this with you.

Throughout his speech, he called us by “My dear Jamat” instead of “My dear Spiritual Children”

Before leaving, he said that while he wished he could shake everyone’s hand and hug everyone, he couldn’t, but that he hoped that if he lived long enough, he would. I’m paraphrasing of course. It could mean a couple of things: either that he was happy to shake hands of some people but couldn’t do everyone as physically impossible - or - that people should stop doing this. I found it a bit unclear and rather abrupt. It was the last thing he said as he stepped off the stage. Of course he was again “accosted” by children and some adults. But he responded to this positively, so I’m thinking he doesn’t mind.

Genia and I then attended the Interfaith Meeting. He apologised for being late. He was very relaxed and good-humoured and was standing at the podium the whole time. There were 1500 people in attendance sitting auditorium style.

He playfully congratulated those present on being married.

He had received some questions from the Jamat in the past. So he answered some of them.

He said if non-Ismaili’s feel unwelcome, that we (the imam, the Jamat, the institutions) need to do better.

He acknowledged that becoming an ismaili was not an easy process and that he had taken a decision to make it easier and this would happen over the next few months.

He also said all spaces of our Jamat Khana other than the prayer hall were open to non-ismaili spouses and partners. As such in the future, nikkah’s would be held in the social hall so non-Ismailis could attend.

He stressed that interfaith families are part of “the ismaili family”.

Regarding the prayer hall, he said there is nothing secretive going on there. However it is a space where Ismaili’s share a special blond with the imam. Everyone burst out laughing. He smiled and then said I’m tired and corrected himself. It is a space where Ismaili’s shared a special BOND with the imam.

Someone had asked if they could be buried next to their ismaili spouse. His response was funny - if after all these years you still want to spend more time with your spouse - you’re welcome to it. We were all in stitches.

Someone else had asked - my children are 17 and 19. What should they study? His response was I am not qualified to answer that question. Children will do whatever they will do and we need to be open.

Someone else had said - my child is constantly working. Doesn’t spend time on anything other than work. The Imam said “we need to slow down to speed up”. He shared we are not “useful” as people if we don’t take care of our health and our soul. He shared that he needs to go for a run every day or he cannot be productive. So, meditation/contemplation and exercise are indeed part of being productive.

He spoke about AI, social media etc, and is worried about their impact on our children. He said he is glad some governments are starting to do something about it but we don’t need to wait for that in order to take action.

He was asked why he doesn’t comment or take a strong position on wars and conflicts. His response was brilliant. He said I cannot take a position because it is my responsibility to look after our ismaili communities in those countries. We have Ismailis in 70 countries and we are a minority in every one of them. He remarked with a twinkle in his eye “Do I like working with all of the governments? No one asked me that question so I won’t answer”.

He quipped “I feel like I’m name-dropping but I’m being hosted by King Charles, and Prince of Wales tomorrow. I’m really looking forward to it.”

I’m sure I’ve missed a lot, have the order of what he said wrong and have probably slightly misquoted things. But wanted to share the special experience. The generational difference in our new Imam is abundantly visible.
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Re: UK Didar,

Post by kmaherali »

Image

Yesterday, Mawlana Hazar Imam met with the UK’s Prime Minister, signed a Memorandum of Understanding between the UK and the Ismaili Imamat, and attended a dinner hosted by His Majesty King Charles III at Windsor Castle. He concluded his visit by meeting His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales at Kensington Palace this morning.

Watch now https://ismaili.us13.list-manage.com/tr ... 802765515c
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Re: UK Didar, 2026, Feb 2-3 Testimonies

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Forwarded as received: Hazar Imam was in Hall for 2 hours. Hall looked very serene and full of Light both spiritual and worldly. Firman on good ethics, helping all, parents should limit social media time for children, follow Islamic ethics, do not use social media to slander others. Hazar Imam was looking like a beacon of light, hope and Noor as he walked on every red carpeted area. He informed the jamat that King Charles had invited him and all Noorani Family for diner at Windsor Castle tomorrow night. Mawla spent considerable time in the Medical section. He told the jamat he would like to shake hands with all and give high fives but he would do that next time. As Mawla walked towards exit doors some children and adults stood up trying to shake his hands, kiss his feet etc. Mawla passed by the Seniors sitting on chairs and beamed at all of them. Shukhar Alhamdulila🤲. Deedar Mubarak. We thought of our global jamat and kul ruhanis during the deedar
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Re: UK Didar, 2026, Feb 2-3 Testimonies

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Interfaith Mulaqat experience

Ya Ali madad. Dear all I am taking this opportunity to share my experience of the inter faith mulaqat that my husband and I were so thankful to have had and had been anticipating with joy.

◦ The hall was full as we waited in anticipation of mowlas arrival. It was intimate, exceptionally dignified and one of the most pivotal moments of my life.
◦ The MC were 2 non Ismaili spouses which was commendable. They hosted with integrity, humility and humour
◦ Mowla entered the hall and straight away made us laugh. He was tired but so excited and very relaxed. He spoke to us for around 40 minutes and at times it felt just like an informal conversation with so many laughs that made us feel so happy.
◦ He spoke about many topics including nikkahs, funerals , how to raise our children and how our spouses were part of our family and jamat.
◦ He explained his role as our present İmam and explained the historical journey over the last 1500 years. He spoke about his father and grandfather with the utmost respect.
◦ Mowla spoke about how no one should ever feel excluded in his community with reference to our non Ismaili families.
◦ He made jokes about married life and how he was super excited to meet the king !
◦ He was very very happy and relaxed. He highlighted the importance of working together to uplift the jamat and institutions and wanting to see our spouses take up posts in his institutions and places like AKDN.
◦ Mowla thanked our partners for the seva they quietly do.
My husband who is a Sunni Muslim said to me,
‘ he is an amazing amazing imam ‘ and had tears in his eyes, it was a very special moment for us.

It was an unprecedented event that we will never forget. To acknowledge the contribution of our non Ismaili families was a recognition I value with all my heart. I want to take this opportunity to thank the team’s involved for making us all feel so valued, heard and acknowledged. Your hard work was exemplary, may mowla bless you all for giving us this momentous experience.Amen.

Nadia and Aftab
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Re: UK Didar, 2026, Feb 2-3 Testimonies

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Ya Ali Madad,
I would like to share our Mulaqat experience with Mowla.
Hazar Imam came to Maa's bed and blessed her. He held Maa's hand and Maa said to him “He's my son”, and Mawla said “What ?” Maa was speaking quietly so the third time she said and, I said to Mawla, “Khudavind, Maa is saying I am her son, but Khudavind, I am her son-in-law.” Then Mawla gave me a hug, shook my hand, and he kissed my hand and I kissed his hand. I couldn't stop crying and Mawla said, “Be strong and have courage.”
He said to Maa, “He's a handsome man.”
Mawla asked me if there was anything else. I said, “Please,Khudavind, give Mushkil Aasaan to them.” Mawla raised his hand, waved to all those in acute care and those outside in the hall. He said, “I give Mushkil Aasaan to all.” He waved his hand around, Shukhar Mawla Alhamdulillah. Then Shafiq Sachadina asked Mawla to go, and he left.
Alhamdulillah 🤲 🤲 🤲
Shukhar Mawla 🙏 🙏
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Re: UK Didar, 2026, Feb 2-3 Testimonies

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FORWARDED AS RECEIVED A PERSONAL ACCOUNT OF DEEDAR FROM MURID WHO RECITED QASIDA: YAM Abbas, Imamat Day Mubarak to you and all your family . May this blessed memory remain alive in our hearts for a lifetime.

Even now, I am still trying to process this moment and truly understand my emotions, but honestly, I cannot stop crying.

What happened was witnessed by everyone.

When I stood on the line after reciting the Arabic Qasida, my body could no longer carry me. With every step I took toward receiving blessingsfrom MHI, my awareness of Mawlana’s greatness grew stronger, and I felt an overwhelming mercy radiating from his face. My body and soul stopped obeying me. I entered a state of humility and surrender that I cannot fully describe in words.

When I finally reached Mawlana Rahim and bowed before him as he began saying blessings and prayers, I felt as if my heart flew straight to him.

After Mawlana finished, I tried to move my steps and walk away, but I couldn’t. Mawlana Rahim sensed this, he gently placed his hand on my shoulder again and whispered words I can only partially remember, something like “ be calm”

I then spoke to him and said, “Mawla…”
He replied, “Tell me.” That what I remember

With a trembling voice and tears still flowing, I said:

“I carry a message from my mom and from the Ismaili Jamat of Salamiyah and Syria. They want you to know that they are safe and sound because of you. They love you so much , Mawla, and they thank you for everything you have done to them.”

Mawlana kept his hand on my shoulder and softly said:

“Look at me, I looked at his face and I sow tears in his eyes then came closer to me and whispered: tell my Jamat in Salamiyah and Syria, and tell your mom , that I will visit them soon, Inshallah. They are in my prayers, in my mind, and in my heart. And tell them that I love them very much.”

Khan Wadan, Khana Wadan, Khana Wadan.

Still with his hand on my shoulder, I said,
“Shuker, Mawla… shuker Mawla

Then I left, and his hand remained on my shoulder.

I truly felt how touched and happy he was by the message. I wanted to carry to him the feelings of the Jamats in Syria who could not meet him to let him hear their gratitude, their love, and their appreciation.

I wanted him to know that without him, many of us as Syrian minorities might not even be alive today.

This moment will live inside me forever.

Thanks Abbas for all your efforts and it was really pleasure meeting you.
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Re: UK Didar and visit, complete coverage

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https://www.khaama.com/king-charles-hos ... niversary/

King Charles Hosts Aga Khan at Windsor Castle to Mark First Accession Anniversary
By
Fidel Rahmati
February 5, 2026

King Charles hosted the Aga Khan at Windsor Castle, marking one year since the spiritual leader assumed leadership of global Ismaili Muslims.

King Charles welcomed the Aga Khan V to Windsor Castle for a private black-tie dinner marking the first anniversary of his accession as spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims worldwide.

Rahim Al-Hussaini became the 50th hereditary Imam on February 4, 2025, following the death of his father, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, the Aga Khan IV.

The King granted the new Aga Khan the title “His Highness,” continuing a long-standing tradition between the British monarchy and Ismaili leadership. Members of the Aga Khan’s family also attended the anniversary dinner.

The Aga Khan serves as the spiritual leader of millions of Ismaili Muslims and is regarded by followers as a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, often treated as a head of state.

Relations between the British royal family and the Aga Khan’s family span decades, with Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles maintaining close ties with the late Aga Khan IV, including shared interests in philanthropy and horse racing.

King Charles last met Prince Rahim in 2023 at Buckingham Palace through his work with the Aga Khan Development Network and its humanitarian projects across developing countries.

The royal dinner highlighted both personal ties and continued cooperation between the British monarchy and the Aga Khan institutions active in global development efforts.

The Windsor Castle gathering reaffirmed historic relations between the British royal family and the Aga Khan leadership while marking a new chapter under Aga Khan V.
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Re: UK Didar and visit, complete coverage

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/13911 ... ton-palace

Prince William welcomes The Aga Khan to Kensington Palace
King Charles hosted a dinner for the Aga Khan at Windsor Castle on Wednesday night
By The News Digital

February 05, 2026

Prince William on Thursday welcomed His Highness The Aga Khan to Kensington Palace, said a statement issued by the royal family.

The palace also released a photo of the future king with the Aga Khan.
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Re: UK Didar and visit, complete coverage

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https://www.tatler.com/article/king-cha ... -accession

King Charles III hosts the Aga Khan V for private black tie dinner marking the anniversary of his accession

It was a dapper occasion at Windsor Castle as King Charles invited the Aga Khan V, a close family friend, for a celebratory meal
By Stephanie Bridger-Linning
5 February 2026

King Charles III hosted the Aga Khan V for a private dinner at Windsor Castle last night to mark the first anniversary of his accession.

Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini, 54, inherited the title of the hereditary spiritual Imam of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims on the death of his father, Prince Karim al-Husayni, the Aga Khan IV, on 4th February 2025.

The late spiritual leader and billionaire philanthropist had been a close friend of Queen Elizabeth II and was considered one of the world's most well connected royals. When the Aga Khan IV passed away aged 88, King Charles shared a personal statement to say he was ‘deeply saddened’ and reached out to the Prince's family to offer his condolences.
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