Bohras in Mumbai mark leader’s 99th bday

Thousands of Dawoodi Bohras gathered on Thursday to participate in their spiritual leader’s 99th birthday celebrations, a four-day event which will culminate with the Dai’s birthday on April 4. His Holiness Dr Syedna Mohammed Burhannuddin blessed the crowd at Bhendi Bazaar, the 1 million strong Muslim subsect’s epicentre.

The buildings in the area were decked with lights of different colours as a stream of followers passed through the temporary stage between two Bohra mosques on Tahera street — Raudat Tahera and Saifee Masjid — from where Syedna blessed his followers who had come from the Middle East, North America, Europe and Africa. Syedna is recognised as Ambassador of Peace from India by various governments.

Bands, processions by various trusts, handicapped in wheelchairs being pulled by security guards, floats with children, motor cycle pilots, horses and tongas, and those that represented his fondness of deer passed through as the leader blessed them. Each delegation comprised 99 people with scout bands following them. The celebration begins on the birthday of Prophet Mohammed, and culminates on Burhannuddin’s birthday.

“We come to pay our respects and seek blessings. Celebration goes on for weeks and a community meal is held twice,” said Abdey Manaf, a participant.

Chants of ‘Allah ho Akbar’ and long live Syedna, along with the reciting of Qaseda (prayers of affection) in Arabic filled the air. People peeped out from windows, while and some stood on the parapets of their building since 6.30pm, when Syedna appeared in public for the blessings. Almost all wore the traditional three-piece white dress with white jari caps. Women wore colourful Rida capes. “We pray for the long life of our leader on this day, and pay obeisance,” said Abdullah Saifuddin, who had come from Madanpura.

A multitude of events such as medical camps, seminars on healthcare, trade exhibitions, launch of low-cost housing schemes, mass marriages, programs of social, educational and economic development are also conducted in over 700 community centres across the world.

“Some important upliftment schemes and community projects will be announced by him on Sunday. He will be praying for peace, brotherhood and love,” said Qureish Raghib, the community’s public relations in-charge.