Karim Kassim was the younger brother of Varas Bandali Kassim (1875-1956). He was born in 1878 in Karachi, where he acquired his formal education from Sind Madresa-tul-Islam School upto fourth class. He held a strong command in English, Gujrati and Sindhi languages. Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan was his classmate.
Karim Kassim left Karachi most probably in 1908 and made Hyderabad as his next home. He built a beautiful bungalow at Prince Aly Road, Hyderabad. The bungalow was an expensive and also an exclusive construction. Prince Aly Khan also stayed at the bungalow during his visit to Hyderabad. He had a vast flourishing leather business, and besides Karachi and Hyderabad he had its branches in Bombay, Delhi, Lahore, Agra, Kanpur, Quetta, etc. Karim Kassim was an owner of more than 100 acres of land on the bank of Phuleli river in Hyderabad, where he built beautiful gardens and residential buildings, decorated with latest swimming pools, known as Karim Bagh. He was the first in Hyderabad to introduce the motorcar and telephone.

Karim Kassim enjoyed prosperous and eventful life. He was a member of the Municipal Corporation in Hyderabad for 25 years and elected every year. He had cordial relations with the eminent individuals of his time, namely Nizam of Deccan, Sir Shah Nawaz Bhutto, Hakim Ajmal Khan, Sir Ghulam Hussain Hidayatullah, Sir Haji Abdullah Haroon, etc. He also had friendly relations with the feudal families of Sind, including Mir of Khairpur, Talpur, Mirs and others. He also had close contacts with influential British officers.

Karim Kassim was a dedicated social worker both inside and outside the community. The Viceroy of India also conferred upon him the title of Khan Bahadhur in 1918 for his meritorious services during the first world war.

On May 6, 1920, Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah said in the Kharadhar Jamatkhana, Karachi that, 'I appoint Karim Kassim as my Wazir. Wazir Karim Kassim will execute his office as a Wazir of all over Sind and I tell to all the jamats of Sind to follow the orders of Wazir Karim Kassim and assist him in the community affairs.' The Imam also told him, 'Wazir Karim Kassim, I congratulate for your office of the Wazir and bless you. Inshallah, you will work to enhance unity in the jamats.'

The Jamatkhana in Hyderabad was built in 1899, when there were about a hundred Ismailis in the town. The jamat increased after 25 years and reached upto 325. Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah donated Rs. 20,000/- for the new Jamatkhana. Varas Karim Kassim donated Rs. 10,000/- and other donors shared for Rs. 11,000/- The new plot was purchased for Rs. 18,000/- and Varas Karim Kassim laid its foundation stone on Tuesday, July 21, 1924. All the Ismailis, including Huzur Mukhi Hussain Alarakhia, Mukhi Rahmatullah Bana, Kamadia Vali Mohammad Suleman, Missionary Hamir Lakha, etc, attended the foundation ceremony.

Karim Kassim was appointed as the President of Khwaja Ismailia Sind School on January 20, 1926 and he was also the President of the Hyderabad branch of the Recreation Club Institute. He was also the first President of the Ismailia Association for Sind in 1928, formerly known as the Anjuman-e-Ishait-i Islam.

Karim Kassim also took active part to re-establish and re-settle a number of people who lived in the slum area in the interior parts of Sind. He extended his monetary support to set up and maintain small businesses for their livelihood. He also acted as the President of H.H. The Aga Khan Council for Hyderabad and Upper Sind, whose jurisdiction extended from time to time to Punjab and Frontier.

In 1941, the British India declared him as J.P. (Justice of Peace).

Karim Kassim is also credited to have arranged marriages in Sind and spent his own money in the ceremonies. Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah was so pleased with his noble service that he awarded him the special title of 'Commissioner for Marriages' with a silver casket and a letter of appreciation in 1949.

He married twice. His first wife was Danabai, who gave birth of a son, Hussain and a daughter, Zainab or Jenubai. Zainab married to Dr. Ghulam Ali Allana. She was the first Muslim lady in India to be appointed as a parliamentary secretary in 1931, a post that she held upto 1951 in the Sind Government. She was also elected as a member of the Sind Legislative Assembly in 1937 at the time of the separation of Sind from Bombay Presidency and continued to be M.L.A. upto 1952.

His second wife was originally a Hindu Rajput, called Khushali. She embraced Ismailism by the hands of the Imam and was named, Kulsoom. She was well educated and interested in the Islamic History. She also performed waez locally in Hyderabad, and was also the founder President of Ladies Committee. She died in Hyderabad on October 8, 1955. She was the mother of a son and six daughters.

Varas Karim Kassim died on December 8, 1958.

Saboo, the great grandfather of Varas Kassim Ali lived in Jerruk, Sind. His grandfather, Karmali and his family known as the Sabooani family migrated to Karachi and settled in the location of Kharadhar. The father of Varas Kassim Ali was Muhammad Jaffer (1856-1946), served as a volunteer, and supplied the vegetables and fruits daily in the Honeymoon Lodge for Imam's family. In 1920, he generously contributed funds in the building of the premises of the Baitul Khiyal in Kharadhar Jamatkhana.
Muhammad Jaffer died in 1946 at the age of 90 years. He had married twice and had no child from his first wife, called Virbai. He is reported to have sought permission from the Council with the consent of his wife for the second marriage. When he made a humble submission, the Imam asked the reasons. He said that he wanted children. The Imam conceded on a condition that as the children came; the wealth would disappear, what he would prefer? He gave choice for the children.

Muhammad Jaffer proceeded to Ahmednagar with his wife at the invitation of his close friend, Varas Dayabhai Velji (1870-1937). He married Fatimabai of the Sultania Orphanage. From this marriage, he was blessed with seven sons, Fateh Ali, Sadruddin, Shamsuddin, Kassim Ali, Ghulam Hyder, Ashiq Ali and Noor Ali; and four daughters, Khatoo, Malek, Gulshakar and Noorbanu. The most prominent personage among them under our review is Varas Kassim Ali Muhammad Jaffer.

Varas Kassim Ali, the sixth child, was born on January 26, 1925 at Janbai Maternity Home, Kharadhar, Karachi. During four years of secondary education, he remained as a boarder in Wazir Rahim Basaria Boarding, Garden, Karachi. He finished his MA from Bombay University in 1942. In 1944, when he was a member of the Aga Khan Band, his father preferred him to become a missionary, adding that he would serve him with a cup of milk with his own hands. Indeed, the achievements show that his father spoke symbolically and aimed for him much sweeter things than milk.

Kassim Ali joined as a religious teacher of Kharadhar Night School in 1942 till 1948. He was also a Cub Master of Kharadhar Cub Pack and was one of the leaders to take the cub band to Bombay to attend the Diamond jubilee of the Imam in 1946. He also joined the Waez Class Training Course in 1944 in Karachi for one year, sponsored by the Ismailia Association for India. On March 21, 1948, he emerged not only as an honorary missionary of the newly formed Ismailia Association for Pakistan, but also became its founder member. In 1950, Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah expressed a desire to have 500 waezeens instead of 5 waezeens. Varas Kassim Ali played an important role in organizing waezeen classes for both gents and ladies through out Pakistan. He also became the Honorary Joint Secretary and then Honorary Secretary of the Ismailia Association for Pakistan between 1953 and 1966.

Varas Kassim Ali is credited to have recited the Holy Koran during the Platinum Jubilee on February 3, 1954 in Karachi. He had also an honour of Tilawat-e-Koran during the Takhat Nashini of the Imam on January 23, 1958 at Karachi and Bombay on March 11, 1958. The Imam also promoted him in the Ismailia Association for Pakistan by appointing him its Vice-President (1963-1972). In 1972, he became the President of the Ismailia Association for Pakistan for eight years (1972-1980). During the time of his office as the Vice-President and President, various programs were organized, where the waezeens were trained for India, East Africa, Iran and Syria.

Varas Kassim Ali launched his first ex-Pakistan visit in East Africa on September 3, 1954, which was his personal visit. When he was returning, Count Lutaf Ali Merali Lalji, the President (1960-1963) of the Ismailia Association for Kenya requested him to extend his stay to deliver waez in different quarters in East African countries with his own expenses. He accepted it and visited different places with Count Lutaf Ali Merali Lalji and delivered waez. Count Lutaf Ali sent its report to the Imam in Europe and the Imam appreciated the services of Varas Kassim Ali in a message.

He returned Karachi via Bombay, where he also delivered waez and Rai Mahdi Hasan Ali, the Mukhi of Darkhana Jamatkhana presented him a gold ring.

On October 31, 1954, an assembly was arranged at Garden Jamatkhana to honour the invaluable services of Varas Kassim Ali Muhammad Jaffer in presence of distinguished leaders, such as Chief Mukhi Wazir Chagla Vali Muhammad (1885-1966), Huzur Wazir Ali Muhammad Macklai (1894-1971), etc. Wazir Dr. Pir Muhammad Hoodbhoy (1905-1956) mentioned his services in his speech and read following farman of the Imam:-

The President and Members,

Ismailia Association,

Karachi.

My dear President and Members,

I give my best loving blessings to Hon. Missionary Huzurmukhi Kassimali Jaffar for the good work he has done in Africa; also to yourselves for sending such an able member of your own Brotherhood there.

I give special blessings for his zeal and convincing preaching and all the trouble he took to travel by air, rail etc., to many different centres.

On that occasion, a copy of the above holy message in a frame was presented to him by the hands of Chief Mukhi Wazir Chagla Vali Muhammad.

With the request of the East African Ismailia Associations, he visited East Africa on April, 1959. He delivered waez for over 8 months in Kenya, Uganda and Tanganyika. On the eve of his departure from Nairobi, he was honoured in a banquet of the Ismailia Association for Kenya in Nairobi on Saturday, January 16, 1960 at the Diamond Jubilee Hall. It was attended by 250 guests. Wazir Lutaf Ali Merali, the President of the Ismailia Association for Kenya made an opening speech, enumerating his meritorious services for eight months in East Africa. In his speech, Count Kassim Ali Paroo said, 'Sometimes, I become tired listening to the waez of the missionaries, but Missionary Kassim Ali has sweetness in his eloquence and an art of presenting. The sweet echo of his melodious voice still lingers in our ears.' He left Zanzibar on January 18, 1960.

The Ismailia Association for Kenya sent a report of his waez to the Imam on January 18, 1960. In his reply, the Imam said:

My dear President and Members,

I have read your report of 18th January with much interest.

I am very happy with the good work you are doing, and I give my best loving blessings to all the members of the Ismailia Association for their devoted services.

Kindly convey my best paternal maternal blessings to Missionary Kassamali M. Jaffer and all those who accompanied him during his tour of East Africa, and offered travelling expenses.

Varas Kassim Ali Muhammad Jaffer also participated in Ph.D. scholars' deliberations to work out establishment of the Institute of Ismaili Studies and submitted its report in the World Ismailia Associations Conference chaired by the Imam in 1975 at Paris. He was also appointed as the member of the Review Committee of the Institute of Ismaili Studies Ltd., London in 1978 and was graciously blessed with the personal message of the Imam.

About 2700 Ismailis from 20 countries gathered to pay last tribute to the 48th Imam at Aswan, whose official resting of body was to take place in a mausoleum. Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in Cairo on February 18, 1959 and held a meeting with President Nasser of Egypt. In Aswan, a tent was pitched for a didar. Hazar Imam was to reach from Cairo to Aswan at 5.00 p.m. on February 19, 1959, but the train was late and reached at 9.30 p.m. The jamat was waiting anxiously in the tent from 6.00 p.m. On that occasion, Varas Kassim Ali delivered waez with the recitation of Holy Koran. The jamat waited anxiously till 11.30 p.m. then the Imam regretted for not coming for didar. The Imam visited the tent on next day at 8.30 a.m. and graced the didar. The bier of the 48th Imam was lifted on that day at 3.00 p.m. from Nur al-Salaam to the mausoleum on the hill. Varas Kassim Ali recited the verses from Holy Koran, including the verse from Sura Noor inside the mausoleum.

The Imam visited Goa for the first time on October 27, 1960. On that occasion, the Imam commanded him to recite Sura Ikhlas at the opening ceremony of the new Jamatkhana.

His honorary services were never confined to his homeland, and made several tours abroad to deliver waez on several occasions. He visited East Africa in 1954, 1959, 1965 and 1966, Syria in 1965 and 1972, Europe in 1984, a long tour of 75 days in United States of America and Canada in 1981, in 1989 for 72 days, in 1992 for 15 days, in 1994 for 20 days, in 1996, 1998, 2000 and lastly in 2002.

His long tour with Professor Jawad Muscati in 1965 was a historical. He left Karachi on February 24, 1965 for East Africa and visited various cities. He left East Africa on March 13, 1965 and reached Cairo, where he stayed for six days. He visited al-Azhar Mosque and the universities and he also held meetings with the famous scholars and professors on Islamic studies. He left Cairo on March 19 and arrived in Beirut for one day. He proceeded to Salamia, Syria on March 21, 1965 where he performed waez and arranged many gatherings. He left Salamia on March 26, 1965 for Khawabi. On the way to Khawabi, he took an opportunity to see the town of Masiyaf. After visiting Khawabi, he arrived in Damascus on March 29, 1965, and took visit of the universities and libraries. He returned to Beirut on April 1, 1965 and came in London on April 4, 1965. Then he proceeded to Paris on April 20, 1965. The Imam graced him an audience on May 4, 1965, where he submitted the report. He was fortunate to have another audience with the Imam on next day. On his way back to homeland journey, he also visited Lausanne jamat in Switzerland, and then reached Kuwait, where he stayed for five days and delivered waez, and finally returned to Karachi.

Varas Kassim Ali had an opportunity to make a trip of Chitral in the same year. It must be noted that he had four hours drive on 33 miles mountainous road along Kivu Lake, while going from Uganda to Congo and the view point at the height of 8170 feet. He had also been on Usumbara mountains while going to Lushoto in Tanzania and also travelled on Lebanon hills along Mediterranean as well as on the loftiest mountains of Khwabi in Syria. But his trip of Chitral in Pakistan surpassed in all respects. He started his journey from Peshawar on October 20, 1965 with a deputation headed by Varas Captain Amir Ali (1910-1978), who was commissioned by the Imam for the welfare of the Ismailis in Chitral. The deputation comprised of Professor Jawad Muscati, Itmadi Qamaruddin M. Hashwani and Akbar Allana for economic problems.

Varas Kassim Ali left Peshawar with the deputation on October 20, 1965 by jeeps and after travelling 150 miles via Mardan and Malakand, reached Dhir. Before reaching Darosh, they passed through Lawari peak, about 8000 feet high. They passed steep hilly tracks with scores of dangerous blind curves. They reached Chitral on October 21, 1965 and had a meeting with the ruler of Chitral on next day. On October 23, 1965 they resumed their journey and after passing a passage of 55 miles, they reached Buni in Mastuj Tehsil, and then returned back to Chitral on October 25, 1965. They also visited Lotku, about 30 miles from Chitral, 15 miles by jeeps and 15 miles on horses. They finally returned to Chitral on October 28, 1965 and then took return journey on next day.

The Imam made the visit of the East African countries on October 18, 1966. The Imam summoned him especially for translating the farmans into Gujrati before the jamat in East Africa. At the end of the tour, the Imam sent him following message on December 16, 1966 that:-

My dear Missionary Kassamali,

I was very happy indeed with your excellent work during my visit to East Africa. I send you my most affectionate paternal maternal loving blessings for your good work and devoted services.

With regards to all the problems you have referred to me, I will write to you again giving you my decisions, once I have been able to consider the matters.

Your work in East Africa was excellent and I could not have been happier with it.

It will be interesting to cite an incident that during his auspicious visit of East Africa between October 18, 1966 and December 11, 1966, Hazar Imam made many farmans against the degrading habits of drinking and smoking. Varas Kassim Ali was on his duty in East Africa, and when he returned, he explained the gist of the farmans in Aden and Karachi Jamatkhanas. He also emphasized upon those who were smokers and addicts of alcohol. His delivery struck the hearts of the listeners, and most of them abandoned the diabolic habits. Among them was an individual, an addict of drinking and smoking for 16 years. It was not so easy to give up old habit in an instant, but he was determined to give it up in view of Imam's orders. On fourth day following his abandonment, he suffered with a fatal heart trouble and expired. Varas Kassim Ali prepared a report of his tour of East Africa, Aden and Karachi and sent to the Imam on January 20, 1967, including the incident of the above person in particular. The Imam sent following message on January 24, 1967 that:-

My dear Missionary Kassimali,

I have received your two letters dated 20th January, and have read the contents with great interest.

I am very happy indeed with your good work, and I give you my most affectionate paternal maternal loving blessings for your devoted services.

I am happy to hear that you were able to stop in Aden on your way to Karachi and that my jamat in Aden was able to listen to your wa'z.

I give my most affectionate paternal maternal loving blessings to the deceased spiritual child mentioned in your report, and I pray that his soul may rest in eternal peace. I send him my special loving blessings for having given up his 16 years' old habit of drinking and smoking.

The Imam made a gracious visit of India for 23 days on November 5, 1967. The Imam intended that Missionary Kassim Ali should accompany him in the Indian tour for making translation of the farmans during the didar programme. The Imam sent following message to Varas Amir Ali Karim, the Estate Agent of the Imam in Pakistan on October 2, 1967 that:-

My dear Amirali,

I would like you to inform Missionary Kassamali to accompany me during my visit to India next month.

Missionary Kassamali should be available from 5th November to 28th November in India.

During his Indian tour, he also attended the grand waezeen assembly at Bombay on December 10, 1967, presided by Itmadi Ghulam Ali S. Morani, the President of Ismailia Association for India. On that occasion, he delivered a waez and explained the gist of the farmans of the Imam. The President sent its report to the Imam on January 10, 1968. The Imam sent following message:-

My dear President,

I have received your letter of 10th January, and have read your report with much interest.

I am happy to hear that the Waezeen Assembly held on the 10th December at Darkhana Jamatkhana, was well attended by my spiritual children and I give my best loving blessings to all beloved spiritual children who participated the Waezeen Assembly.

I give my best paternal maternal loving blessings to the following missionaries for their devoted services to my India jamat:-

Missionary Kassim Ali M.J.
Missionary Abu Aly
Missionary Noormohamed Rahimtoola
Missionary Noordin Amlani

In 1969, Varas Kassim Ali was one of the two well-informed waezeens who were desired by the Imam to attend the First World Ismailia Association Conference at Paris, and also attended the dinner reception hosted by the Imam. On that occasion, Hazar Imam introduced him to Begum Salimah and said, 'This missionary has travelled thousands and thousands miles with me to various countries.'

It was in the month of June, 1972 that Hazar Imam asked him to go to Damascus. He made the trip of the historical city, where he met Kamal Khan, the estate manager of the Imam. Kamal Khan escorted him to Salamia, where he stayed for a few days. He was also told to study the rites and ceremonies of the Syrian jamat and prepare its report. In those days, the final burial ceremony of Prince Aly Khan was also performed on July 10, 1972. He had an honour to recite the fatiha. Later on, he went to Sardinia with Kamal Khan to see the Imam. Kamal Khan returned and he alone met the Imam and submitted the report. He then introduced the changes recommended by the Imam for the Syrian jamats.

In 1988, Varas Kassim Ali was appointed the National Convenor for the Senior Citizens' Activities Committee under the Aga Khan Social Welfare Board for Pakistan in 1989.

In 1989, Hazar Imam mentioned to the jamat in Hyderabad, Sind for him that, 'He was the President, but I preferred to call him a Missionary.' It is indeed one of the pleasing and gracious remarks for him.

Varas Kassim Ali attained unique opportunities of translating the holy farmans during the didar programmes of the Imam in Rangoon, Pakistan and Goa (1960), India (1962 and 1967), East Africa at Commore Island and Madagascar (1966), London (1979), Portugal (1983), Singapore (1986), Bangladesh (1986 and 1993) and Pakistan (1964, 1970, 1976, 1989 and 1991). This is one of the privileged services of his career.

His contributions in the literary field are equally fruitful. Apart from compiling different articles for the Ismaili periodicals, he also composed 'Precious Pearls' (1954) and 'Precious Gems' (1959) the holy farmans of Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah and Hazar Imam in 1954. In 1955, he wrote a thesis on the Imamate entitled, 'Ever Living Guide' duly approved by Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah. He is also well versed in the study of the ginans and compiled the selection from 'Saloko Moto', 'Saloko Nano' and 'Anant Akhado'. In 1993, his another work, 'Jawahir-e-Ginan' was compiled with different themes, and the compilation of over 350 verses sorted over 17 chapters with introduction and explanation on each chapter in Urdu based on Holy Koran in 1986. The Ismailia Association for Pakistan published all these works.

Varas Kassim Ali made an excellent attempt of the English rendering of the 'Moti Venti' of Pir Hasan Kabiruddin with meaning, and also started the English rendering of 'Jawahir-e-Ginan.' In August, 1995, he compiled subject-wise 250 verses of the Holy Koran, entitled 'Guidelines from Holy Quran,' spread over 14 chapters on fundamental concepts, practices, ethics, etc. with introduction of each chapter. Pre-published copies of the three precious works have however been distributed to colleagues and friends world over.

In conclusion, the services of Varas Kassim Ali Muhammad Jaffer in the field analyzed above, are so invaluable and worth-mentioning that it is beyond words to elaborate in details. He has continued his services without respite till today.

He was vested the title of Huzur Kamadia and Alijah, he was later blessed with the titles of Rai and Itmadi. Varas Kassim Ali was vested with the title of Varas on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee of the Imam in 1983.

May Mawlana Hazar Imam grant him longer life, health and courage to serve the world Ismaili community more and more till his last breath, Amen.

In 1852, Haji Paroo and Jaffer Paroo, two brothers emigrated from Bhuj, Kutchh and settled in Zanzibar. The son of Jaffer Paroo was Hasham Paroo, whose son was Rajab Ali. The son of Rajab Ali was Count Kassim Ali R. Paroo.
Count Kassim Ali Paroo was born on October 31, 1906 in Bagomoyo, Tanganyika. His whole family migrated to Mombasa, Kenya in 1913. He joined Government School in Mombasa (1911-1916). There weren't any facilities for higher education in Mombasa till November, 1918, therefore, he joined Gharashia College (1917-1920). He also was admitted in Torfield School, Eastborn, England (1920-1922), and in Gondoal, Kathiawar in India, and finally in Saint Paul School (1922-1924).

His father, Rajab Ali worked several years as a General Manager in the firm of Alidina Visram. Later on, he established his own business in 1922. Upon completion of his education, Count Paroo returned to Mombasa and joined his father's business in 1924. Besides being associated as the Director with his own business concerns namely R.H. Paroo & Sons Ltd. and Jubilee Hardware Ltd., he also became the Managing Director of Diamond Jubilee Investment Trust Ltd., and the Jubilee Insurance Co. Ltd. He also managed a Company in 1962 under the name of Coastal Bottlers Ltd. and acquired the franchise of Coca-Cola products for the Coastal Region in Kenya.

His first contact with a public institution was with the Social Service League, Mombasa (1927-1946) as a member and he was four times as its Chairman (1932, 1936, 1940 and 1946) and again (1982-1998). He rendered his valuable services as an Honorary Secretary of Indian Sports Club (1929-1931) in Mombasa, and eventually became its President (1932-1936). He was one of the founder members of the Rotary Club of Mombasa in 1944, and its Honorary member again in 1980.

Kassim Ali Paroo was the Chairman of Indian Merchants' Chamber, Mombasa (1937-1945), the member of Indian Merchants Chamber Federation (1940-1945), the member of the Hindi Association for Mombasa (1928-1947), and the member of Kenya Legislative Council (1942-1945). He also represented the Indian National Congress of East African every year in India. He was also the member of East African Muslim Society in 1945, the trustee and treasurer of Pandya Memorial Clinic Society in 1944 and the Chairman of Muslim Electors Advisory Board in 1952.

He also served Kenya Government on various responsible posts between 1942 and 1945. At one time he held as many as 25 important posts in the various Government departments and committees. Kassim Ali Paroo was also the member of East African Production & Supply Council. He was Copra and Coconut Oil Controller and one of the delegates of East African Governments Trade Delegation to India in 1944. He was also one of the members of Daudi Bohra Education Society.

He was the member of H.H. The Aga Khan Provincial Education Board (1933-1936), Chairman of H.H. The Aga Khan Central Education Board for Kenya (1937-1945), the member of the Ismailia Provincial Council (1943-1946), the President of Ismailia Provincial Council (1943-1946), the member of H.H. The Aga Khan Federal Council in 1954, the Managing Director of Diamond Jubilee Investment Trust Ltd., and Jubilee Insurance Co., etc. Kassim Ali Paroo also served the Supreme Council from 1954. He was also a General Inspector of the Ismaili Corporation and Cooperative Building Society. He was also the President of the Ismaili Council for Mombasa.

Kassim Ali Paroo travelled between 1917 to 1992 to Pakistan, India (11 times), Nepal, Cairo, Hong Kong, Japan, Burma, South Africa, Madagascar, Mauritius, England and Europe (14 times), Belgium Congo, Middle East and Syria, Canada and United States, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania (many times).

Kassim Ali Paroo was a literary person and studied different religions. He also started a separate Study Group of 17 young members at his residence in July, 1953 with the approval of the Ismailia Association. He was a good speaker and became one of the renowned missionaries in East Africa. In appreciation of his incomparable services, Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah conferred upon him the title of Honorary Missionary in 1953.

In appreciation of his meritorious services, he was invested the title of Alijah in 1943, Rai in 1948 and Wazir in 1953. In recognition of his outstanding services in religious field, Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah bestowed on him the title of Count and cabled its message on September 8, 1954 that, 'I have much pleasure in giving you the title of Count for your devoted services with best blessings, but the highest title you have is that of Honorary Missionary.' He is reported to have lectured in 70 Jamatkhanas in East Africa and 44 Jamatkhanas in other countries.

In July, 1952, the Imam summoned the Avian Conference in Europe for making necessary amendments in the Constitution of the African Councils. Count Kassim Ali R. Paroo attended it as the President of the Ismaili Council for Mombasa. Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah's health was not good and he confined to bed. Even in this state of health, he spared five complete days to hear the verbal and written reports and had a total sitting of 18 hours with the delegates. At the end of the Conference, the Imam sent following cable message:-

Aixles Bains

Very glad to hear various excellent resolutions Evian Conference carried out in spirit and letter. All those who help receive double blessings. Very glad ladies intend when new clothes ordered have western fashion economic material clothes made as Burma for all unity with new western African ideals. For economic reasons old fashioned clothes should be worn till used up by time and age when new clothes ordered new fashion should become general

It is said that once Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah held a conference in London, where he found Count Paroo absent. The Imam asked, 'Why is Count Paroo not present in the conference. It will be postponed if he does not participate.' He was summoned immediately from Africa by a telegram, and then the conference started in his presence.

The Imam performed an opening ceremony of the Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi on September 10, 1958 in presence of Sir Evelyn Baring, the governor of Kenya. The Imam noticed an absence of Count Paroo He was called on telephone to participate in the ceremony.

Count Kassim Ali Paroo had been in Karachi on March 13, 1959 and in Bombay on March 23, 1959, where he was accorded a befitting welcome by the Ismailia Associations to appreciate his valuable services. He emphasized upon the young missionaries to deliver waez on scientific method, based on new interpretations.

The Imam arrived in Beirut on July 25, 1959 and proceeded to Damascus on July 26, 1959 after staying for three days. The Imam visited Salamia on July 29, 1959, Khwabi on July 31, 1959 and returned to Beirut on August 1, 1959. During the visit, the Imam worked out a plan to establish a bank with an investment of 35,00,000 shillings. The Imam deputed Count Paroo to Syria to open an Ismaili Council of 11 members, the Educational Board of 7 members and a Welfare Society of 40 members. He was also told to make a survey for an opening of a bank in Salamia for the benefit of the Ismailis. He left Mombasa on August 9, 1959 and returned on August 27, 1959. During his visit, he also handed over the cheques of the donations, which the Imam had made donations to. For instance, 2,00,000 shillings for Damascus University, 1,10,000 shillings for Municipal Corporation of Salamia, 20,000 shillings for Damascus Museum, 54,000 shillings for Syrian Police Department, 7000 shillings for Beirut Police Department, 1,25,000/- shillings for T.B. Hospital of Beirut, etc.

In the meantime, the Syrian government passed a resolution in September, 1959, claiming that any one who opened a bank in Syria, would have to invest a minimum amount of 60,00,000/- shillings, whose 70 percent shares should belong to the citizen of United Arab Republic. This new rule became a hindrance in the opening of a new bank. The Imam sent Count Paroo once again to make further investigation. He arrived in Beirut on November 21, 1959 and held meetings with the officers of Arab Bank Ltd., Istra Bank and Banku al-Ahlina Bank and discussed that when a new bank was opened in Salamia, whether they would open their branches. He came to Damascus on November 23, 1959 and then proceeded to Salamia on November 25, 1959. He returned to Beirut on November 27, 1959 and resumed his discussion with the bankers. He prepared a final report and left Beirut for Adis Ababa on December 1, 1959 and came to Mombasa on December 4, 1959. He submitted his report to the Imam along with his suggestions.

Count Kassim Ali Paroo married in 1929 and when his wife expired in 1944, his second marriage took place in 1947. He had five daughters and one son. His second wife died in 1997.

Only three days before his death, Count Kassim Ali Paroo performed a cake cutting ceremony at the Rotary Club in Mombasa. He died on Saturday, June 10, 1998 at the age of 92 years. His final advice was:-

'I shall pass through this world but once, any good therefore that I can do or any kindness that I can show to human being let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.'

Count Kassim Ali R. Paroo served Kenya and its people in different fields and also to the Ismaili jamat with remarkable integrity and devotion, courage, zest and zeal. He had been for many years a leading and pleasing personality in Mombasa. He was a resourceful person with robust, realism, wealth of experience and wisdom, sense of judgement, cheerful attitude. His legacy to all of us was the spirit of love and service and the fruitful work he left behind.

Khuda Baksh Talib's forefathers came from Talhar, Sind who migrated to Lasbela via Karachi, then Ormada and made Gwadar finally as their home. His grandfather Karami had four sons, namely Talib, Pir Baksh, Fazal and Datoo. Talib's main source of income was in the dealing of dried fish. He had five sons, Nasir, Ghulam Hussain, Fakir Mohammad, Abdul Hussain and Khuda Baksh. Khairibai, the mother of Khuda Baksh was a renowned lady missionary.
Khuda Baksh Talib was born in Gwadar in 1890, where he obtained his formal education, and also learnt Arabic, Persian and Gujrati. He had a deep interest in the literature and regularly read the Ismaili Satpanth Prakash, (Bombay), published by Mukhi Laljibhai Devraj. His interest in literature can be judged from the instance that The Shia Imami Ismaili Mitr Mandal had published a book, 'Qaumi Chitr' by Ghulam Ali Lalji in 1919. Khuda Baksh went through it and wrote his observations on September 4, 1919, which were published in the Ismaili Satpanth Prakash (September 25, 1919). He wrote, 'If all the Ismailis may read this book, there will be no distinction between those who have a firm belief and those who don't in our community.' He also quoted the farman of the Imam in his letter that, 'No complaint in the hearts of the poor, and no pride in the minds of rich will prevail.'

Abdul Hussain Talib, the elder brother of Khuda Baksh was an enthusiastic social worker. He was also a devoted missionary, having good command in Arabic, Persian, Sanskrit and Gujrati. He was also well versed in the mathnawi of Rumi. He was also a Mukhi of Baitul Khiyal and Chand Raat Panjibhai Brotherhoods. It appears that he was a prolific writer and published few articles in the 'Ismaili Sitaro' in 1911 in Khojki. When Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah made a visit of the Khoja Panjibhai Club in Karachi on February 17, 1912, he had a photograph with four eminent missionaries, viz. Abdul Hussain Talib, Hussaini Pir Muhammad of Karachi, Juma Bhagat of East Africa and Sharif Shivji of Kathiawar. On October 21, 1918, there was an outbreak of influenza in Gwadar, resulting 13 casualties in the Ismaili community within 15 days. Abdul Hussain was one of those victims, and died on October 30, 1918.

Khuda Baksh married in 1912 and was employed in the firms of Kamadia Ibrahim and Kamadia Alibhai Rehmatullah in Gwadar. He could not concentrate in his job, because his restless mind was in quest of some purposeful pursuit, which could make his life meaningful. After the death of his brother, Abdul Hussain Talib, he came to Bombay with his wife, Zawer at the end of 1919 and resided at Hasanabad. He was employed in a firm in the Bombay bullion market at first, and also began to take interest in religious study. He studied Hindu literature and came into the contact of the renowned missionaries.

He is reported to have helped Ibrahim Jusab Varteji during the compilation 'Vedic Islam' in 1921 for verifying the Koranic quotations. He is mentioned and given credit in the preface of the book.

On February 8, 1921, Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah ordered the Recreation Club that, 'You open an orphanage in Anand for 75 to 80 children of depressed class, for children over five years. Employ a native doctor for which a grant of one thousand rupees have been approved.' Accordingly, an institution, called Naklank Ashram was raised in Anand, near Ahmedabad to exhort the tenents of Ismailism to the new converts. Khuda Baksh also worked in the Naklank Ashram with Missionary Haji Muhammad Fazal. His mode of presentation was so lucid and effective that thousands of people were impressed and waited for his waez. He was well rooted in Hindu literature and presented Islamic message to the Hindus masses. On those days, his health deteriorated in Anand. The Imam was notified of his illness in Bombay on March 27, 1922. The Imam asked, 'Have you appointed a native or English doctor in Anand?' To this, the Imam was told that a doctor had been hired. The Imam said, 'Who is he?' The Imam was told that he was a Christian doctor. The Imam said, 'Don't appoint such doctor. Appoint an expert one or a native doctor.' When he recovered, the Imam enjoined upon him to train Ali Mohammad Vali Najar as a missionary.

In one Gujrati article, 'Saru Sahitiya Surshti-ma Sumitr' by Rahim Karim Varteji, published in the weekly 'Ismaili' on February 18, 1934, it sounds that Khuda Baksh Talib was in Karachi in 1923 and propagated the need of the periodical in the community. He also made an appeal as a chief guest in the functions of the Kharadhar Library, Karachi in this context. He also brought new subscribers for the newly published 'Ismaili' weekly of Bombay.

On October 24, 1923, a grand function was organized in the hall of the Kharadhar Jamatkhana, Karachi. It was presided by Varas Muhammad Remu Mawji. It was attended by a large gathering, including Alijah Alidina Ali Muhammad, Dr. Haji, etc. On that occasion, Khuda Baksh Talib lectured on 'The aims of Recreation Club and the duties of the Ismailis', which was destined to be his first public oratory.

The Recreation Club Institute organized a Missionary Conference between September 28, 1923 and September 30, 1923, in which a Subject Committee was formed under Ali Mohammad Jan Mohammad Chunara. It added 20 members, including Missionary Khuda Baksh Talib. He put his proposal in the Subject Committee on September 30, 1923 seconded by Haji Mohammad Rahmatullah and I.J. Varteji, Nur Mohammad Zaver, Kara Ruda, Mukhtar Nanji and Hasan Datoo. His proposal was acceded and resolved that, 'The need of creating new missionaries is acutely needed, a centre for it must be opened around the location of Bombay, where necessary training may be given to the young boys of above 14 years of age.'

Khuda Baksh Talib also visited Rangoon, Burma for about 15 days, where he performed waez and lectured in the assemblies. He participated in the 10th Annual Majalis in Rangoon on 6th to 8th December, 1923. He delivered waez with Missionary Rajab Ali Khan Mohammad and Missionary U Kan Gyi Nanji. On that occasion, the Mukhi and Kamadia of Gondia jamat arrived to raise funds for a new Jamatkhana. Khuda Baksh made a humble appeal to the jamat to share in this noble cause. The jamat contributed a big fund for the Gondia Jamatkhana. On December 10, 1923 he also presided the function of the Ismaili Religious Library and spoke on the importance of the libraries in the community. He also visited Thazi, about 306 miles from Rangoon. He returned to Madras on December 24, 1923 where he stayed for 8 days and went to Banglore.

After the completion of his historic visit of Jamnagar, Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah reached Sidhpur by a special train on February 14, 1924 for the didar programme. Kuda Baksh Talib was specially commissioned for waez. These four days of waez were one of the most memorable occasions of his life. Facing the open site of the bungalow of Mulla Muhammad Ali Shaikh Sarf Harerwala, an eminent Bohra leader, a grand tent was pitched, where five thousand Ismailis from twenty villages around Sidhpur, strained their necks to catch a glimpse of the young missionary. He delivered waez so forcefully and lucidly that no one stirred. He prepared a tight schedule of waez and started four days in advance. It took two hours at evening and one hour at midnight and one hour before morning prayer. The people from Bohra community were also allowed to listen his waez. They too came in a large numbers dressed in their traditional golden turbans and they stood around the congregation.

On the second day, the Imam arrived in the camp at 10.30 a.m. Khuda Baksh Talib introduced a Harijan family before the Imam, saying that they were professing Ismailism in secret for one year, and now they wished to embrace Ismailism publicly. He also implored the Imam to bless them with new Islamic names. The six members of the family, comprised of a husband, a wife and four children and they were asked to come near the Imam's chair. The Imam showered best blessings upon them. The man was given the name of Safar Ali and his wife as Rehmat. The Imam told them to get the names of the four children from the Mukhi of the jamat.

In Sidhpur, some prominent members of local Bohra jamat, namely Mulla Ghulam Ali Jivanji Essaji Madraswala and others arranged a tea-party in Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah's honour at evening on February 15, 1924 at Mohibi Bagh. They warmly welcomed the Imam and presented a big plate of silver coins. They insisted suavely that Khuda Baksh Talib must address exclusively their community in their mosque. The permission was granted, and Imam told to Khuda Baksh Talib, 'Listen, whatever knowledge you possess, make it exhorted.' He went to Bohra mosque on next day. Thousands of Bohras heard him for about two and half hours in engrossed attention. He explained the continued series of the Imamate and emphasized upon the need of the Imam in every age. His arguments were irrefutable and based on historical facts, touching the audience to great extent.

It is learnt that some people of other community hated Khuda Baksh Talib's association with the Naklank Ashram. His opponents befriended him at first and hatched a plan to poison him through covert friendly means. He however warded off the danger, and became sick for three days. When it was brought to the attention of the Imam, he said that, 'The poison was so fatal that he could not have survived, but I removed the poison when it was being poured.' In the meantime, the Imam curtailed the activities of Naklank Ashram in 1925.

Khuda Baksh Talib led a simple life, having peaceful and polite nature. He ate simple food and was a strict observer of the principles. His voice was so sweet that he won the hearts of million peoples. His life was devoted to a cause, an implicit and unwavering loyalty to the Imam. He was a brilliant speaker. To listen to him, when he opened the treasure-box of his knowledge, was to lose count of time. From his inexhaustible storehouse he would pick out treasures one after another, dress them in moving and vivid styles and keep the audience riveted to their seats for hours. He was most dutiful and his greatness can be judged from an example referred to by the President, Wazir Ghulam Hussain Thavar, during the 19th conference of the Ismailia Association for India on October 29, 1951-- once Khuda Baksh Talib's duty was issued in Hasanabad, Bombay, where he was told, 'The attendance of the jamat is only 20 to 25 persons and it will perhaps not suit you. We should recite the ginans instead'. He replied, 'I may not have thousand people present, but will still deliver a waez for these 20-25 persons. I will perform waez if there are only two listeners. If no one will come to listen me, I will go to jungle and stand before a tree and perform waez.'

Zawer, the wife of Khuda Baksh Talib, expired all of a sudden at Bombay on Monday, March 23, 1925 at the age of 30 years due to the skin disease. When the news of her death spread, his relatives, friends and well-wishers from abroad sent him a bulk of letters of condolence. Khuda Baksh himself was highly shocked and was not feeling well. He received numerous letters of condolences from his friends, family and well wishers, and since he could not reply each one individually, he published his statement in the weekly 'Ismailis' on March 29, 1925 that, 'My wife expired on March 23, 1925. It is my duty to reply these telegrams and letters, but due to my impairing health, I cannot do that. I am thankful through this paper from the core of my heart to all brothers who have sent me their messages.'

The Arya Samaj celebrated the anniversary of Dayanand on April 9, 1925 in Bombay, inviting the Muslims, Hindus, Parsi and Christians to participate in the programme. Dr. Kalyandas J. Desai, the Convenor of the Arya Samaj of Bombay, offered Dayanand to preside over the function. Dayanand said that it was a conference of all the religions, but no Muslim, Parsi or Christian participated. The eyes of the people dilated narrowly in wonder when one young man of slim physique, wearing a Turkish cap, stood up boldly and exclaimed, 'I am a Muslim present over here.' Dr. Kalyandas asked his name. He said, 'Khuda Baksh Talib Gwadari' and asked for a permission to speak. He was asked, 'What do you want to speak?' To this, he said, 'I will first discuss about Arya Samaj, then I will divulge my faith before the audience.' He was asked 'Will you speak on six handy topics.?' He said, 'I am ready to speak on the topic prescribed for me.' Dr. Kalyandas talked with some other pandits and let him to prepare his written topic to be read for 30 minutes on next day.

On April 10, 1925, Khuda Baksh came and asked three questions from the book, 'Satyarth Prakash' to Pandit Ramchandra. The pandit sought advices from other pandits, but failed to reply in the given five minutes. The pandits admitted that they knew nothing about the creation of the universe. On that occasion, the pandits could not withstand and terminated the function.

During the celebration of the 48th Salgirah of Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah, the Merchant Club of Bombay at Fazal Ladha Building organized a grand function on Tuesday, May 26, 1925. The prominent and the distinguished guests were Mukhi Laljibhai Devraj, Ali Muhammad Macklai, Ghulam Hussain Bandali Samji, A.J. Chunara, etc. The function was presided by Manji Ghulam Hussain. On that occasion, Khuda Baksh Talib lectured on 'Ismailism'. He began his lectures with these words, 'My today's lecture deals with what is Ismailism? I will declare that I have recently joined the mission works. It is a tradition in Islam that one who is a learned, he can lead the prayers. But the tradition in our religion is different, where a child can lead the prayers in presence of the elders. Likewise, my status before you is same.' Then he spoke on the Ismailism and its origin with full confidence and impressed the audience. This was fated to be his last public lecture.

The Imam started his visit to East African countries and reached Nairobi on February 9, 1925. He sent a telegraphic message through Wazir Rahim Basaria to Huzur Wazir Ali Muhammad Macklai that, 'Send Missionary Khuda Baksh in Africa, where his services are urgently needed.' Huzur Wazir Ali Muhammad Macklai was in his chamber, puzzled with the telegram. How would convey the Imam's desire, especially at this time when Khuda Baksh was so distraught over his wife's death and the added responsibility of his children. Huzur Wazir Ali Muhammad Macklai and Alijah Hasan Ali Devraj conveyed him the Imam's massage. Khuda Baksh Talib responded it promptly.

He left behind his four sons and a daughter. The elder Amir Ali was 13 years old. The second son, Aman Ali was 9 years old, the third son Didar Ali was 4 years, the fourth son Yaqub Ali was the youngest among them, while his only daughter, Mariam was hardly 7 years old. The officers of the Recreation Club came at sea-port to bid him farewell. It was the time for the steamer to sail and it gave its first signal. The visitors started dismounting, but the children of the missionary did not get down and remained embraced with the breast of their father. When the second signal came on the hooter, the officers of the Recreation Club began to part the weeping children till the third final signal was heard. He lovingly patted his children and said, 'Khuda Hafiz my dear children.' None perceived that it was destined to be their last meeting. The father and the children suffered terribly the pangs of separation.

He left his children on the mercy of God. His children lived few days with Ali Muhammad Macklai till their aunt, Kulsoom came from Gwadar to look after them.

Missionary Hussaini Pir Muhammad Asani, Sayed Munir, Juma Ismail, Lalji Dossa and Muhammad Abdullah, etc. were active in their mission at that time in the different centres of East Africa.

Khuda Baksh Talib sailed for Africa in the company of Missionary Alibhai Nanji. He reached Zanzibar on October 11, 1925 and began to deliver his impressive waez in the different jamats. He had to travel into the villages where it was difficult to travel. Sometimes he travelled 500 to 1000 miles to complete a round of duty.

There was only one private Boarding in Africa under Bhagat Mohammed Premji of Junagadh. It was necessary to raise a Boarding with a school on community level, therefore, the Imam told to the Council on February 16, 1925 to work out its plan. Accordingly, Khuda Baksh as a representative of the Ismaili Council for Dar-es-Salaam and Varas Mukhi Karam Ali Daya, the member of the local Council were consigned to search a suitable location for the Ismaili Central Boarding and School in the territory of Tanganyika. It was announced in the Council's meeting, 'Who will accompany Khuda Baksh Talib?' Varas Mukhi Karam Ali Daya was the only one to volunteer to accompany Kudha Baksh Talib. The Council made their itinerary from Dar-es-Salaam to Kilosa and then Mwanza.

Few words must be added for Varas Mukhi Karam Ali Daya. He was a businessman in Dar-es-Salaam, and was invested the title of Varas in 1914, and his name is also mentioned in the book of the Farmans for Zanzibar. He was also the Mukhi of Dar-es-Salaam Jamatkhana, and served as a President of local council. He continued his services as a member of the Supreme Council in 1925. He was also the President of the local Aga Khan School. In Kilosa, Huzur Mukhi Megji Visram built a school, whose opening ceremony was also performed by Varas Mukhi Karam Ali Daya on May 18, 1925. He was very generous with his wealth, and he donated a large amount for the library in Dar-es-Salaam. He left behind his wife and four daughters. He was an ex-President of the local Indian Association, therefore, he was paid a glowing tribute upon his death and the report of the resolution was also published in the local newspapers.

Both Khuda Baksh Talib and Varas Mukhi Karam Ali Daya started their journey on November 21, 1925 and visited many villages in search of a location for the project. They arrived at Kilosa, where Mukhi Bhimji Hamir honoured them. Then they had to proceed to Iringa, and then back to Dar-es-Salaam. Kilosa is a district, producing best quality of cotton in Tanganyika. It is comprised of three main villages, viz. Kilosa Bomani, where only 150 Ismailis lived at that time, Kilosa Kotani, where 45-50 Ismailis resided and Kilosa Morogoro, where hardly 15 to 17 Ismailis lived. Khuda Baksh Talib and Mukhi Karam Ali Daya had been in Kilosa Bomani, about 150 miles west of Dar-es-Salaam.

On the other hand, according to the report of August 17, 1924, no missionary had visited Iringa for last 20 years due to bad transportation. There was a railway line between Dar-es-Salaam and Kilosa, but no proper route existed between Kilosa and Iringa. Most of the people had to travel for 10 days from Kilosa to Iringa on foot through bush roads, which were quite dangerous. On June 28, 1924, Missionary Jairaj Merali reached Iringa after facing many hardships, where he stayed for 8 days. He had to go Kilosa and was not familiar with the routes, therefore, Lalji Ladha Punjani escorted him for Kilosa.

It was the same Lalji Ladha Punjani, who came from Iringa to take Khuda Baksh Talib and Mukhi Karam Ali Daya to Iringa. Nothing is known about Lalji Ladha Punjani. There was no school in Iringa, the jamat raised a fund from 18 donors, amounting 20,010 shillings, in which Lalji Ladha Punjani shared for 210 shillings. When Khuda Baksh Talib and Varas Mukhi Karam Ali were in Kilosa, Mukhi Motilal Patel in the Jamatkhana of Iringa made an announcement, 'Who will voluntarily go to Kilosa to bring Khuda Baksh Talib and Varas Mukhi Karam Ali?' None came forward, because of the bad weather and heavy rain. It was Lalji Ladha Punjani alone who willingly offered his services. The Mukhi gave him a car to bring them to Iringa.

Lalji Ladha Punjani managed to reach Kilosa during the heavy rains. Then the three of them started from Kilosa on December 12, 1925. On account of heavy raining, the main road was badly damaged, and after a slow driving of three hours, their car unfortunately skidded into a deep trench of water. The accident proved fatal victimizing all the three of them. The local villagers in the jungle had seen the car falling into the trench, and they rushed back to Kilosa to report it. Before the Ismaili leaders and workers reached, they were all found dead. With the help of the local people, the three dead bodies were lifted from the pit and taken back to Kilosa for burial.

The tragic news spread rapidly in Tanganyika, and it was mourned by all the different communities. The Ismailis closed their business and transactions. M.O. Abbasi, the editor of the weekly 'African Comrade' published a special report of the accident. The Supreme Council for Dar-es-Salaam routed an urgent telegram to the Imam on December 15, 1925, which received a prompt reply that: 'Those who have sacrificed their life for Allah and religion are in first rank of Shahids. Keep the photographs of the desceased persons in all the Jamatkhanas of Africa.' The text of the telegram was engraved in a marble plate, and placed where the accident took place. In his another cable message on the same day from Nice, the Imam said, 'Three victims accident gave their lives as martyr heroes for Master and Religion. Their place is with the martyrs who died for religion. All honour this funeral occasion. My thoughts are with them. The Imam also said in another telegram on December 19, 1925 that, 'Inform that these Shahids are close to my thoughts. Their photographs should be kept in all the important prayer-halls.'
It is worthwhile to know that the Imam had made a meaningful farman to the missionaries during his last visit to East Africa, about ten months before the above incident that, 'You are the missionaries and have offered me your bodies and wealths. The meaning of the missionary is that, he should offer his body and wealth' (Zanzibar: 18/2/1925). And, this is exactly what happened with Lalji Ladha Punjani, Kudha Baksh Talib and Varas Mukhi Karam Ali.

The wise old men relate that it was the oft-repeated words of Shahid Khuda Baksh that, 'The valiants always cherish desire for the field. If one dies, he must die in the field rather than on the bed in illness. It is better to die in the services than in the suffering.'

In the meantime, the Gents and Ladies Volunteers Corps for Dar-es-Salaam also submitted individual services to the Imam for the departed souls.

Khuda Baksh Talib remained in Africa for about 61 days and died as a shahid. In Tanganyika, a fund was established for the welfare of his children.

Paying a rich tribute to Khuda Baksh, Ismail M. Pradhan of Zanzibar in his article in the 'Ismaili Satpanth Prakash' (Bombay, 10:4, 1925) writes that, 'An excellent diamond in the mine of the Recreation Club, which came into being by the grace of the Imam, was deputed for us. Alas! there must be a shortfall in our deeds and trials. Comparing Islam and Ismailism, the Koranic translation and the style of his delivery with unrelenting power were so significant that we tried to find out his shortcoming, but we failed. It needs a great adoration to equal him. It is our prayers from the core of our hearts that Mawla may create missionaries like Khuda Baksh.' Rajab Ali S. Bhanani, the editor of 'Ismaili Satpanth Prakash' (Bombay, 10:4, 1925) paid his tribute in these words: 'Missionary Khuda Baksh Talib was not rich or millionaire, he was a missionary. God knows best that what sort of attraction embodied in a slim person of 80 pounds that all the persons associated with him are mourning today.'

On July 16, 1927, a grand function was organized by Alidina Datoo Patel in the location of the library in Dar-es-Salaam, attended by Kanji Nanji, the President of the Council and many other prominent individuals. Dhanani, the head-master of the Ismailia School made an opening speech and spoke on the past services of the great Ismailis heroes and concluded with few words for Khuda Baksh Talib. Another speakers, Major Murji and Mukhi Akbar Ali Ratansi Kanji, followed him. The latter made a humble appeal to the audience to build a musafarkhana in Dar-es-Salaam, or make a new floor of the existing one in loving memory of Khuda Baksh Talib. In conclusion, it was announced that the Imam had been apprised through the Council of a memorial in loving memory of the three shahids, including the collection of the welfare funds for the children of Khuda Baksh and Lalji Ladha in Tanganyika with the effort of the Mukhi Akbar Ali Ratansi Kanji. In reply, Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah blessed the jamats of Tanganyika for this noble initiative.

Eventually, in 1932, a monument was erected in the Ismaili grave-yard of Dar-es-Salaam in memory of these three fidais. Alijah Mukhi Kanji Nanji, the President of the Ismaili Council for Dar-es-Salaam, performed the opening ceremony of the memorial.

In 1947, missionary Alibhai Nanji published, 'Chirag-i Sirat al-Mustaqim' which he dedicated in loving memory of Shahid Khuda Baksh Talib and Pir Sabzali.

It will be befitting if we may call him as Sayed Shahid Khuda Baksh in view of the Imam's farman, who said in Bombay on March 27, 1922 that, 'He is a Sayed, who dies for the Recreation Club.'

Missionary Khuda Baksh's children became orphans within 8 months and 17 days. His eldest son, Amir Ali however continued to follow his father's footsteps and became a missionary. He also went to East Africa under Ismailia Association, and then he visited India several times. He died in 1959. The other three sons of Shahid Khuda Baksh Talib and a daughter settled in Canada with their families.

Sayed Imam Shah (d. 1520) is said to have launched a brisk mission in Gujrat. He converted a certain Khoja Jiva in Khambat, Gujrat. Khoja Jiva was well rooted in Ismailism and he himself converted large number of Kanabi caste of the Hindus, notably Motilal, Daya Ram Nathu, etc. The descendant of Motilal migrated to Surat during the time of Imam Nizar II (1585-1628), who deputed Sayed Abdul Nabi in India, whose tomb is in Kankara Khadi, near Surat. He was followed by the vakils, Hasan Pir (1652-1715), Sayed Ghulam Ali Shah (d. 1792), etc.,
Motilal, the ancestor of Kassim Ali H. Javeri practiced Ismaili faith in the mantle of a Hindu, and his descendants lived in various cloaks, shaded with the Hindu social custom for a long period, and they became known as the guptis. They performed the religious service in the house of Jedas Prabu for 75 years in Surat. Later on, the house of the forefathers of Kassim Ali H. Javeri was used for 45 years as the Jamatkhana, where Imam Aga Ali Shah is reported to have visited for five times.

The gupti Ismailis of north Gujrat abandoned the scarf of concealment, cutting down the Hindus customs, and revealed themselves as the Muslims with the orders of the Imam at the end of 1914. Bhagat Ramji Shivji Mehr Ali (1844-1919) arrived in Surat with an expressed farman of the Imam for the gupti. Meanwhile, a local newspaper in Surat, called 'Deshi Mitra' propagated against the gupti Ismailis. It gave the guptis strength and courage to reveal their true identity in public. The first group comprising of 70 individual came forward and introduced themselves on June 10, 1915 and Islamitized their names. Among them, Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri (Hindu name Chhabildas Harkisandas Javeri), and his brothers, Didar Ali Hasan Ali Javeri (Hindu name Dayabhai Harkisandas Javeri), became the Mukhi and died in 1919, Nuruddin Muhammad Hasan Javeri (Hindu name Nanabhai Harkisandas Javeri), who died in 1954; and Karamali Hasan Ali Javeri (Hindu name Kalidas Harkisandas Javeri) became distinguished as the Ismaili Muslims and abandoned the Hindu customs. They also published their Islamic names in the Government Gazette and placed a sign board on their Jamatkhana, designating it as the Shia Imami Ismaili Jamatkhana.

Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri was born on May 12, 1877 in Surat. His surname was Dhupelia as his father Hasan Ali's (1844-1924) profession was in the incense, a kind of fragrant substance, called dhup. Soon afterwards, his surname became Javeri for his business in jewellery. His father Hasan Ali died on March 29, 1924 at the age of 80 years. Kassim Ali was a leading trader of the diamonds in Bombay. In 1897, when the first marriage of the Imam solemnized in Poona, the gupti Ismailis of Surat administered an excellent arrangement and became familiar among the Ismailis.

In 1900, Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri went to Europe on his mercantile trip and lived in Paris, where he and his brother, Alijah Nuruddin Muhammad Hasan Javeri (d. 1954) erected M/S D.N. Javeri & Co. He made a Jamatkhana in his residence with Murad Ali as Mukhi and Ashad Ali Haji as the Kamadia. His brother, Alijah Nuruddin Muhammad served as the Mukhi between 1907 and 1909.

Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri returned to India in 1908 during the Haji Bibi Case and produced a letter which was 120 years old in the court. Imam Shah Khalilullah Ali had bestowed it upon his two ancestors, namely Shivlal Prabu and Waja Mulji, and clarified that the tithe and offerings presented to the Imam, absolutely belonged only to the Imam. He also refuted that the growth of Ismailism was not originated before 50 years.

He again went to Paris and returned to India in 1914 and lived in Surat. He began to serve the jamat with his efficiency and ability, and settled finally in Bombay since 1920.

In 1922, he was appointed the Kamadia of Darkhana Jamatkhana of Bombay. He also became a Private Secretary of the Imam in 1926. In 1930, Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah sent him to Syria as his special commissioner. In 1932, the Imam appointed him as a Chief Mukhi.

Muhammad Ali, the son of Chief Wazir Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri, Bar-at-law, became the first Ismaili to obtain the degree of LLB (Hon.) in London in 1933.

It is beyond power to express his valuable services he had extended during the Golden Jubilee in 1936, and was awarded a Gold Medal with Chevron and Straight Bar.

Lady Aly Shah left for Iraq in January, 1938. Special arrangement were made for her comfort, and for that reason the Imam took with him Hussain Ali, the son of Chief Wazir Javeri by air to Basra, where he made all possible arrangements for her quiet and peaceful landing.

The first meeting of The Aga Khan Legion was held on December 12, 1940 at the residence of Joint Mukhi Rai Kassim Ali Manji Nathu of Darkhana. It was presided by Prince Aly Khan to review the arrangements and the funds for the Diamond Jubilee. Chief Wazir Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri presented his diamond ring of Rs. 6000/- with enormous cash to Prince Aly Khan, making it an auspicious initiative.

He also attended the first Ismaili 'Mission Conference' held in Dar-es-Salaam on July 20, 1945.

He was consigned to manage the tour of Europe to arrange the diamonds and bring them safely to India for the Diamond jubilee in 1946 with Wazir Abdullah Sumar Shivji (d. 1960). It was indeed a perilous assignment, which he accomplished after some initial problem. The diamonds from London Diamond Syndicate made a five thousand mile journey from England in H.M.S. Derbyshire. He was a veteran leader, so was a great social worker. Whenever the Imam made his tour of didar in India, he took all responsibilities of the arrangements on his shoulders.

He bore the title of Chief Wazir in November, 1949 and became the first to be graced with this honorific conferment, and none else merited till this day. The Council, jamats of Darkhana, Kandi Mola and Hasanabad, the Ismailia Association and other institutions honoured him in a grand reception. The Ismailia Association also gave him a reception, and President Alijah Ghulam Hussain S. Thaver explained his services in his speech. The World Head of the Ismailia Association, Huzur Wazir Ali Mohammad Macklai spoke in his speech that, 'I knew him when I was eight years old. The Jamatkhana of the guptis existed at C.P. Tank, where our Institution started its initiative works. He still looks the same today, as he did then, 50 years ago. The Imam commanded the guptis to reveal themselves in 1914. Kamadia Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri did not hesitate, but overcome the situation instantly and responded the Imam's call at once. I never found him loosing his temperament.'

He also rendered his invaluable services to the citizens of Bombay. The Bombay government vested him the title of Khan Bahadur in appreciation of his services.

Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri was also a member of Bombay Council, and the founder member of the Federal Council for India. His services during the Platinum Jubilee were beyond measure. He also rendered his services to the Diamond Jubilee Trust and Platinum Jubilee Investments Ltd. He served the Ismaili jamat in different capacities for about 50 years.

Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah summoned a conference of the Ismaili delegates in Cairo to review the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee upon the completion of 70 years of his Imamate. Chief Wazir Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri also attended on behalf of the Indian jamats. The delegates discussed mutually in the morning and met the Imam in the evening on March 15, 1951 in Hotel Semiramese. The Imam emphasized that the program should be worked out on the pattern of Golden and Diamond Jubilees to improve the social and economical conditions of the Ismailis. The Imam, Mata Salamat and Prince Aly Khan invited them on next day for a lunch at Mohamedali Club and graced them with a photograph.

The Imam visited India after independence to see the jamat in 1950 and 1951. Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri's health was impaired, nevertheless, he stood in Imam's service actively.

In 1946, the Imam formed a Diamond Jubilee Trust. Later on, some members stood against the Trust in 1953. Muhammad H.H. Premji and his colleagues filed a suit against the Trust in Bombay High Court. The Chief Justice and Justice Tendukar probed the issue, and dismissed the case and gave verdict in favour of the Trust on September 14, 1953. Chief Wazir Kassim Ali Javeri played a vital role in its prosecution. The Imam sent a message to the Council for his admirable role on September 17, 1953 that, 'For the best reconciliation in Diamond Jubilee Case, I am very happy. All the Ismailis in India will remember him for ever for the result of reconciliation.'

It is to be noted that some irresponsible individuals raised some unbearable doubts in Poona. Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri delivered a long speech in Narangi Bagh Jamatkhana to clear the doubts. The gist of his speech was published in the 'Platinum Jubilee Bulletin' (Bombay, January 15, 1954), in which he said, 'The glory of Imam Aga Shah Khalilullah was like an emperor. The daughter of the Iranian king was the wife of Imam Hasan Ali Shah, who inherited enormous ornaments and massive wealth in dowry. Due to some disputes, Aga Hasan Ali Shah came in India and brought his wealth with him. The belt of the Imam was embedded with diamonds and pearls of million rupees. The big diamond stubbed in the buckle of another belt cost lac of rupees and I have seen a like belt worn by Pir Shihabuddin Shah. The treasure of Aga Hasan Ali Shah was inexhaustible and full of gold. These are the facts of my own experience. He was so generous that the gold bars were given away in charity all the times. In past, the Ismailis in India were not as refined as they are now, when hardly 75 Ismaili families resided in Bombay. The Imam guided and financed them in business fields. He established schools and other welfare organizations. Today, these Ismailis hold a front rank in all fields as a progressive community because of his guidance. Besides, they have become great traders in other countries. The Imam would visit the Jamatkhana on every Saturday in Poona long before 50 years. The Ismailis of Bombay also came in Poona for didar and blessings. They stayed in a compound just opposite the railway station. They were fed daily from the kitchen of the Imam, called as anbar, spending Rs. 50,000/- per month. Each two individuals were given enough food that would be enough for twelve people. The Imam spent colossal amounts for his followers. The royal charity of the Imam irrespective of cast and creed is well known in the world. His financial assistance is continued in health and education fields for the welfare of the followers. The Ismailis must realize these facts and be not misguided in the current propaganda and keep their faith firm.'

Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri was also invited to Cairo to attend the token ceremony of the Platinum Jubilee on February 20, 1955. The ceremony was held in the Cleopetra Hall of Hotel Semiramese, attended by 62 delegates. It was a solemn ceremony of 20 minutes. The Ismaili leaders most humbly presented 70 gold ginnies to the Imam, which was graciously accepted. Imam Sultan Mohammed Shah presented the same gold ginnies to the delegates. Besides, the Imam also presented it to Chief Wazir Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri and Wazir Abdul Hamid Ali.

His invaluable and unstinted services can be judged from the following message of the Imam, which was mailed to him on February 1, 1956 that:-

My dear Kamadia,

You spent your whole life serving me and if I am to give you blessings, I have to do it all days and every day for the rest of my life. But I tell you how very much I appreciate your life long service.

You had the luck to be born about the same time as myself. So you served me every day of my life almost I have to write this to you because otherwise I would have to write often my blessings to you.

Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri visited Cairo to see the Imam and presented services on behalf of the Indian jamats. The Imam sent following message through the Federal Council for India on February 11, 1956 that:-

LT AGAFEDERAL

Bombay

My Chief Mukhi Vazier Kamadia Kassamali presented services and dastboshi all Bharat jamats. I send my most loving best paternal maternal blessings to all. My beloved spiritual children of all Bharat ever in my thought and close to my heart.

The marriage of Rahmat Banu, the daughter of Itmadi Hussain Ali Javeri, the son of Chief Wazir Kassim Ali Hasan Ali Javeri was performed by Amir Ali, the brother of Count Abdullah Hashim Gangji of Africa, on March 4, 1956 at Vallabhai Patel National Stadium, Bombay. Prince Aly S. Khan attended the wedding.

During the last days of his life, his health deteriorated and needed much care. He at last died on Tuesday, May 28, 1968 at Bombay. The Imam sent following telegraphic message:-

Geneva: June 1, 1968

Was much grieved to hear of sad demise Chief Vazir Kassum Ali Javeri. I send my most affectionate paternal maternal loving blessings for the soul of late Chief Vazir Kassum Ali Javeri and pray for eternal peace rest his soul. Late Chief Vazir Kassum Ali served my India jamat well and loyally for many years and will be greatly missed by my jamat and myself. I send my best loving blessings to Javeri family for courage and fortitude in their loss.

His sons Itmadi Hussain Ali and Itmadi Hashim Ali continued to serve the community on the footprints of his father.

Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan (d. 1864), the ruler of Hunza State in the northern area of Pakistan, was succeeded by his son, Mir Muhammad Ghazan Khan I, whose successor Mir Safdar Ali Khan had taken refuge in Shagnan during the British invasion in 1891. The British commissioned his half-brother, Mir Muhammad Nazim Khan as the ruler of Hunza. Mir Muhammad Ghazan Khan II and then Mir Muhammad Jamal Khan followed him.
The entire area including Gilgit, Hunza and Baltistan was known as the Gilgit Agency till October, 1947. Sandwiched between the high peaks of Hindukush and Karakorum on the north and those of western Himalaya on the south, is now called as the Northern Areas of Pakistan, which should also be called the Trans-Himalaya Districts of Pakistan, covering an expanse of about 27,188 square miles, thickly populated by the Ismailis.

Major General, Hilal-e-Pakistan, Hilal-e-Juraet, Ghazi-e-Millat, the President and Personal Representative of the Imam in Central Asia, Muhammad Jamal Khan was the prominent Ismaili ruler of an enchanting valley of Hunza, situated in the remotest northern corner of Pakistan bordering with China and Russia. The high fascinating mountains surround the valley.

Muhammad Jamal, the ruler or the Mir of Hunza was born on September 23, 1912. He was educated in Gilgit and mostly at home and succeeded his father, Mir Ghazanfar Khan, C.B.E. in April, 1945 at the age of 33 years. His grandfather, Sir Mir Muhammad Nazim Khan. K.C.S.I., K.C.I.E., who ruled in Hunza for 79 years, was a prolific writer and wrote the history of Hunza. It was in his days that Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of British India, visited Hunza and described it as 'the ultimate manifestation of mountain grandeur.'

In 1947, he visited Kashmir to convince the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir to join the dominion of Pakistan. In October, 1947, he and his Ismaili subjects of Hunza state declared their accession to Pakistan and rendered meritorious services in the struggle of the liberation of Jammu and Kashmir, and crowned with the title of Ghazi-e-Millat.

In 1951, the Imam formed 64 local councils in the Northern Areas of Pakistan, and the Mir of Hunza executed as the President of H.R.H. Prince Aga Khan Ismailia Supreme Council for Hunza State, Gilgit Agency, Chitral State and Central Asia and also acted as the Personal Representative of the Imam in Central Asia.

The Italian Government awarded him the 'Order of the Grand Official' for his valuable help to the Italian mountaineering expedition to K-2 peak in 1962. This award was meant for persons assisting the Italian Government in cultural field.

In recognition of his yeoman services to his people, Mir Jamal Khan was also awarded high civil and military titles, viz. Hilal-e-Pakistan and Hilal-e-Juraet by the President of Pakistan. In December, 1964, the Government of Pakistan promoted him to the rank of Honorary Major General.

It is to be noted that the Ismailis from 20 countries gathered at Aswan to pay their last tribute to the 48th Imam, whose official resting of body was to take place in a mausoleum on Friday, February 20, 1959. There was a distance of 1600 feet between the Imam's bungalow, called Nur al-Salam and the mausoleum on a hill. According to the expressed will of the 48th Imam, the bier was lifted from the front left side by Mawlana Hazar Imam and Prince Sadruddin on front right side. Prince Amyn Muhammad was on back side from left and Mir of Hunza on back from right side. It was lifted and carried from Nur al-Salam to the mausoleum in 45 minutes.

The Ismailis of Gilgit and Hunza were submerged in the ocean of immense mirth and joy when they had seen Hazar Imam for first time in their territory on October, 1960. During the grand darbar held on October 24, 1960 at the Polo Ground of Baltit in Hunza, the Mir of Hunza presented a welcome address and said that, 'Mawlana Hazar Imam is the first Ismaili Imam, who visited Hunza.'

He also was invited in Paris with his wife to attend the marriage ceremony of the Imam with Begum Salimah on October 28, 1969. Soon after the ceremony, he and his wife showered down 49 pearls at the feet of the Imam in reverence.

In May, 1973, he represented a delegation of 12 members from Hunza, Gilgit and Chitral and had an audience with the Imam in Paris. They held discussion with the Imam on the socio-economic development programmes for the jamats. It was a historic occasion for the Ismailis of northern area of Pakistan, as no such delegation ever travelled abroad and was first ever international conference.

The Mir of Hunza lived in a newly built modern styled two-storied palatial castle, known as the 'Jamal Palace' situated on a 8000 ft. high mountain peak in the village of Karimabad, the state capital. The Jamal Palace overlooks the whole of settled valley for several miles in each direction. The Palace is built and furnished in a European style, but is embellished with an assortment of oriental carpets, ornaments and paintings. There are life-size portraits of previous rulers on the walls of the lounge, and remarkably enough, a piano stands in the Palace. The Mir proposed to make a small museum in the castle and to house the big collection of old arms and munitions, manuscripts and photographs.

Mir Jamal Khan was extremely hospitable. He entertained his guests with the music of a band and male dancers. The band, consisted of a tudak (flute), sutar (banjo) and drums, beat out a penetrating rhythm, which seemed to fit so well into the mountain setting. The ensuing performances in the castle ground were watched from comfortable lounge chairs on the balcony.

Short by Hunza standards, sturdy and squarely built with fair complexion, Mir Muhammad Jamal Khan was a benevolent ruler. He was like a likeable man, self-educated to a high standard. He travelled widely to Europe and the United States. He loved his people. Each morning, he met his Council of Elders, none under 65 years old, and his grand vizir to decide the day to day problems of his mountainous state. Each matter was put to votes. By his own decree, the Mir's vote normally counted no more than any other did. In an emergency, he could veto his Council, for he was an absolute monarch. But in fact, he ruled entirely as a wise and respected mediator. He travelled the length and breadth of his land at least once a year, accompanied by his wife. Each winter, he was called upon to perform a mass wedding ceremony in Hunza.

The Mir of Hunza expired on March 18, 1976 at his residence in Hunza. He married to a princess of Nagar State in 1934 and had 2 sons and 3 daughters.

Missionary Muhammad Murad Ali Juma, known as Bapu, a term of respect for an elderly man; was born in Bombay in 1878. His mother expired when he was hardly a year old. His father did not marry a second time for the sake of his son.
Nothing is known of his formal education. It however infers from his literary output that he must have acquired higher education. He was in the service of Imam Aga Ali Shah during his small age with his father. His father frequently took him on hunting excursions of the Imam. One day he took the rifle of the Imam and knocked its trigger accidentally, resulting his all ten fingers blown up.

He loved songs and himself was a good singer, and also played harmonium with songs. He won the hearts of multitudes with the virtue of his sweet and polite tongue. He was very cool-minded, soft by nature with a high moral character. None had ever heard him shouting or talking aloud. He was very simple in attire and food. He loved having people over for meals. He would pick up any friend or person from another town, and take him to his house for lunch or dinner.

He joined the Recreation Club Institute as a regular missionary and served the jamat for about 50 years. His attractive eloquence in preaching would move many listeners to tears. He also visited all parts of India, East Africa and Burma. During his African visit, he had a privilege to perform the first hoisting ceremony of the Ismaili Flag in Kindu Bay Jamatkhana on May 25, 1934. He rendered his valuable services to the Ismailia Association, which started the training of the volunteer waezeens in 1950. He was also the Principle of the Mission Centre in Bombay. The Imam invested him the title of Alijah in appreciation of his inestimable services.

He was also a trenchant writer and compiled many useful books. He also wrote many articles for different periodicals.

He was generous, unsparing, humane and charitable to the destitute and infirm. There are so many examples of his philanthropy. One day he was on a tour of waez when an old woman approached, asking him to help her in the wedding of her daughter. She needed some money, which he could not afford. He however did not frustrated her and removed the gold chain around his neck and gave her.

His health shattered for few days before the shadows of death closed upon him. He expired in Bombay on February 4, 1966 after bridging a long span of 88 years. The Imam paid glorious and well-deserved tribute in following message on February 14, 1966 through President Ghulam Ali S. Morani of Ismailia Association for India that: -

I have received your letter of 11th February, and was much grieved to hear of the sad demise of missionary Mohamed Muradali Bapu.

I send my most affectionate paternal maternal loving blessings for the soul of late missionary Mohamed, and I pray that his soul may rest in eternal peace. Late missionary Mohamed's long devoted services to my jamats of India will always be remembered.

Kindly convey my most affectionate loving blessings to the family of late missionary Mohamed for courage and fortitude in their great loss.

I grieve greatly the loss of one of my most devoted spiritual children. His services were above reproach and he was a Candle of Light and example to my jamats. He has my deepest and most loving thoughts and blessings.

Missionary Alijah Muhammad Murad Ali Juma left behind a widow, Rehmatbai. He had three sons, Ramzan, Jaffer and Shamsuddin and a daughter, called Taj Bibi who married to the famous Missionary Abu Aly A. Aziz.

His wife Huzur Mukhiani Rehmatbai extended her full cooperation in the mission of Missionary Muhammad Murad Ali. She also served for several years in the Ladies Volunteer Corps in Darkhana, Bombay as a member, Secretary and the member of the Managing Committee. In appreciation of her meritorious services, she was invested the title of Huzur Mukhiani. She was an active, sincere and zealous worker, and died on Friday, October 4, 1968 at the age of 80 years.

His forefathers hailed from Lakhpat, Kutchh, and hence they migrated towards Gwadar. His father Bhagat Remu Mawji was a trader of cotton, wool, fish, rice and ghee, and also dealt the business of shark fins and fish maws with the Chinese merchants. Remu Mawji sprang from a family well known for their piety. He visited Bombay several times. He was the Kamadia of Gwadar Jamatkhana since 1892. He and Merali, the father of Alijah Datoo Meru laboured in the construction of the Jamatkhana. When the next stage of the construction was completed in 1894, his name was engraved on the wall as a Kamadia. In the period of Mukhi Muhammad Pirwani and Kamadia Remu Mawji, the Imam made his first visit to Gwadar on December 10, 1894.
Gwadar is an open-roadstead and port in Makran, about 290 nautical miles west of Karachi. It was ruled by the Khans of Kalat and was handed over by Nasir Khan I to Sultan Saeed, the brother of the ruler of Muscat. It had since remained with about 300 square miles of the adjoining region, in the hands of Muscat. The only industry in Gwadar was fishing, on which the bulk of population subsisted.

Remu Mawji had seven sons, but none survived. He reverently requested to Imam Hasan Ali Shah in Bombay for having a son in his house. The Imam gave him a sacred thread to tie on the hand of his wife and said, 'You will be endowed with a son, whom you name Muhammad. He will be talent and enough fortunate.' He was certainly blessed with a son in 1860, who was named Muhammad, and became known as Muhammad Rehamtullah or Muhammad Remu. Remu Mawji had a daughter, who died before her puberty. In the meantime, his wife expired. He married second time with a woman, named Daulat, who begot a daughter, Kaisar and a son, Khimji. When Daulat expired, Remu Mawji married for a third time to Ratan, who begot two sons, viz. Ali and Ibrahim.

It implies that Varas Muhammad Remu had three foster-brothers and a foster-sister, whose marriage was solemnized with Alijah Datoo Meru (1868-1939), the right hand of Varas Muhammad Remu in all affairs.

lang=EN-US style='font-family:'Bookman Old Style''>He played a key role in the building of Gwadar Jamatkhana. On January 6, 1912, the Imam graciously presented the shawls in Karachi to those persons who assisted in the construction of the Gwadar Jamatkhana, viz. Varas Muhammad Remu, Kamadia Datoo Meru, Mukhi Muhammad Abdullah and Bandali Hamirani.

He had intimate terms with Mahomed Jaffer (1874-1918), the elder brother of Pir Sabzali (1884-1938). Mahomed Jaffer sent Pir Sabzali in Gwadar for his necessary training. Gwadar was the actual nursery for Pir Sabzali, where he learnt religious education and proficiency in business in the company of Varas Muhammad Remu. Later on, he made Pir Sabzali his agent in Pasani, then in Ormada to supervise his business. Pir Sabzali passed 20 years in Gwadar, Pasani and Ormada, where he served the jamats and conducted the business of Varas Muhammad Remu. The credit to make him a great missionary, social and devoted worker undoubtedly goes to Varas Muhammad Remu.

When the Imam visited the Panjibhai Club in Karachi on February 17, 1912, he showered his compliments with blessings to Varas Muhammad Remu and other donors, who donated in the construction of the new premises of the Baitul Khiyal for Kharadhar Jamatkhana, Karachi.

He also took prominent role in his father's business and accelerated it to a steady progress. He was first the trader in Gwadar to export tin packed dried fish on large scale to Colombo, which became a leading market of Gwadar.

In those days, the British India Steam Navigation (BISN) dominated the marine lines from Persian Gulf to Colombo via Muscat, Gwadar, Pasani, Ormada, Karachi and Bombay. Its agent in Gwadar was a certain Dwat. Varas Muhammad Remu merited the agency of BISN after Dwat. On the other hand, Taymur bin Sayed Faisal (1913-1932), the Sultan of Muscat and Oman appointed him as a Custom Collector in Gwadar in place of a certain Bashu and Rehmat Ali, who were hired on contract basis. The British empire put pressure on Varas Muhammad Remu to withdraw his mercantile terms with the Sultan of Muscat and Oman. It was not possible for him to take a haste decision since he had lent three lac rupees to the Sultan of Muscat and Oman.

It is to be noted that after the death of Sultan Turki of Muscat and Oman in 1883, his son, Taymur, succeeded his son Sayed Faisal, who died in October 3, 1913. He inherited the indebtedness that his father had let accrue. The economical condition of his government marred due to the loans of the merchants of Oman, Muscat, Gwadar and Pasani.

In 1916, Varas Muhammad Remu enjoyed the control of the custom of Muscat, and became a Director General Customs, where he employed many Ismailis.

His Highness Taymur bin Sayed Faisal, the Sultan of Muscat and Oman presented him a gold crescent on Friday, the 1st March, 1918 in a special function to appreciate his valuable services at the B.I. Office in Gwadar.

When the British pressure thickened, he came to Bombay in 1919 and submissively referred to the matter to the Imam for guidance. The Imam told him to follow the British, because he held British citizenship. Soon afterwards, he requested to the Sultan of Muscat to relieve him from his services due to the strain of works. Thus, he quitted his mercantile transactions with Muscat and also retired from the post of Custom Collector of Gwadar in 1920, and obtained the British agency.

In the meantime, the Sultan Taymur realized that it would be appropriate to negotiate one major loan to enable him to liquidate the old debts of the merchants. The only body able to respond to his request was the British India, which agreed to lend him the required amount to free himself from his debts provided it would be repaid in 10 years. Taymur received a colossal loan and refunded the debts of all the merchants in 1920, including Varas Muhammad Remu.

Varas Muhammad Remu retained the agency of British India Steam Navigation Company and British India Dominance Insurance Company. He also extended his mercantile influence in Iranian coast, Pasani and Ormada.

Varas Muhammad Remu had great proclivity towards Ismailism since childhood. He daily spread carpets in Gwadar Jamatkhana and burnt the loban (benzoin). He also became the Mukhi of Khoja Panjibhai Club in Gwadar.

Varas Muhammad Remu led a pious and saintly life and was regular in his nocturnal worship since 1893. In 1894, the Imam is said to have told him to promote the notion of midnight worship in Gwadar jamat. In pursuit, he introduced 15-16 members in 1898, and the first Brotherhood of Baitual Khiyal started in Gwadar, and he was appointed its first Mukhi (1898-1920).

He raised a fund of Rs. 3000/- for the first school in Gwadar in 1904. He visited Bombay with some leaders and revealed his plan to the Imam, who said that it was insufficient for a school and assured that he would approve necessary grant on next year. In 1905, the Imam sent a telegraphic message to Gwadar jamat not to come in Bombay from Gwadar. Varas Muhammad Remu sent the telegram to Pir Sabzali in Pasani, requesting him to visit Bombay on behalf of Pasani jamat and make a humble request for a didar. Pir Sabzali travelled for Bombay, where the Imam told him at Valkesar Palace that, 'Sabzali, you inform the Gwadar jamat of my arrival.' The Imam visited Gwadar on April 1, 1905 and formed a School Board with Varas Muhammad Remu as President, Mukhi Mohammad Piru as Vice-President, Kamadia Datoo Meru as Hon. Secretary and Danidina Vali as a member. The services of Ali Mohammad Ladha of Bombay had been acquired as a teacher. The Imam also sanctioned a handsome grant for the school.

Varas Muhammad Remu destined to be the first President of the Ismaili Council for Gwadar in January, 1905, where he served for 19 years.

During the visit of Gwadar on April 1, 1905, the Imam said in the mehmani of Varas Muhammad Remu on April 15, 1905 that, 'God shall grant you benedictions. You have been serving me at all times. You must always serve in this manner. One who is deceived by the shaitan in the jamat, you must redeem him from deception.' The Imam also blessed him and graciously gifted him a shawl and a gold-watch in double case and said, 'Keep it in the pocket and remember me when you looked it.'

'The Imperial Gazetteer of India' (Calcutta, 1908, p. 186) writes that Gwadar was an open roadstead and port in Makran, about 290 miles from Karachi, with a population of 4350 persons in 1903. It is also learnt from the Ismaili journals of Bombay that the population of the Ismailis in Gwadar was about 500 around 1905.

In 1909, a certain Abdullah Paroo, resided in Garden, Karachi arrived in Gwadar, pretending to be a missionary. He procured considerable confidence in the jamat and formed his own group. Later on, he claimed to have been enlightened and elevated to a high spiritual stage. He eventually equated his status with Pir Sadruddin. It resulted two groups in the jamat. It was soon reported to the Imam in Bombay, who displeased with Abdullah Paroo and sent message through Varas Muhammad Remu in unequivocal words to hold not a little intercourse with him. Varas convinced the group of Abdullah Paroo, who sought forgiveness from the Mukhi. Abdullah Paroo fled from Gwadar, and nothing was heard of him.

On January 4, 1912, the Imam said to the Muscat jamat in Karachi that, 'I have appointed Muhammad Remu of Gwadar as a high leader. You follow what he commands.'

Soon afterwards, the Imam declared him as his Varas for Gwadar, Makran coast and Muscat on January 18, 1912 in Karachi.

He visited Chahbar with Alijah Datoo Meru in August, 1918 from Karachi, and then returned to Gwadar on camels. He suffered with diabetes, and a pain on his back-side caused him to reach Gwadar after two days. Dr. Sharif Hussain of Punjab diagnosed a tumor in his upper backside. The doctor advised for an operation. Unfortunately, its surgery was not possible due to the shortage of chloroform in the clinic. He forced the doctor to perform his operation without chloroform. He also told his brother, Khimji to inform him two minutes before the operation. When informed, he engrossed in deep meditation, and the doctor operated in such state. The doctor marvelled beyond measure and said that he found not a little movement of his body as he was quite immovable like a stone. 'He was like an angel', said the doctor.

The inflation was at its worst during the first world war. He opened for the first time in Gwadar a department on September 2, 1918 to supply the grains, domestic and other commodities in the Jamatkhana at reasonable rates. Mukhi Tajar, Mukhi Muhammad Peru and Missionary Abdul Hussain Talib were consigned its control. This scheme aimed to provide the necessary items to the Ismailis on no profit motive. On October 21, 1918, the epidemic of influenza raged with greater violence in Gwadar, resulting 13 casualties in the jamat within 15 days. It badly shook the economy of the Ismailis. To stem the tide of this dreadful scourge, Varas Muhammad Remu hurled into the field as a warrior to the rescue of the stricken humanity with no distinction of cast and creed. He once again restarted the supply of the necessities of life for six months on non-profit motive for giving some relief to the down-trodden people. He entrusted the work to Mukhi Tajar Mukhi Muhammad Peru. He also imported large quantity of medicines and other items from Karachi with the co-operation of Wazir Col. Ghulam Hussain Khalfan (1887-1967).

His business also extended in Karachi, where he had to stay several times, therefore, he built his building in 1917 at Rampart Raw, Karachi, known as Mohamedbai Reimoo Mawji Building on plot no. J.T. 1/21/1. He was also the director of the newly formed The Khoja Ismaili Trading Co., Karachi in 1918.

Varas Muhammad Remu was a munificent donor for numerous causes. When the first Ismaili Religious Library was established in Bombay, he contributed a handsome donation, which was spoken in the speech of the President, Ali Muhammad Nassurbhoy in presence of the Imam on March 24, 1905. On October, 1918, he donated Rs. 15,000/- for the construction of the Jamatkhana in Chahbar, a seaport on the coast of Gulf of Oman, on the south-east of Iran; but the Imam did not permit for any Jamatkhana in the region of Iran, where Murad Mirza had rebelled against the Ismailis.

In the Persian Gulf, the oldest Jamatkhana situated in Makran was worn out. Varas Muhammad Remu renovated it at the cost of Rs. 10,000/-. He also made a donation to the newly formed The Young Ismaili Vidhiya Vinod Club, Bombay on April 1, 1918. On April 21, 1919, he donated a handsome amount to the newly formed The Young Khoja Ismailia Kathiawadi Mitr Mandal, Kharadhar, Karachi.

The religious night school was closed for over three months in Gwadar due to influenza. Varas Muhammad Remu propagated in the jamat and re-started it on February 16, 1919. Mukhi Tajar conducted the class.

In the meantime, his younger daughter, Manni expired in Gwadar on April 14, 1919, who was 14 years old.

During his visit, the Imam said on May 6, 1920 in Kharadhar Jamatkhana, Karachi that, 'Wazir Muhammad Remu has served me exceedingly well. Wazir Muhammad, I am much happy with you, and give you more and more blessings.'

Varas Muhammad Remu presided several functions in Karachi and Bombay and made impressive speeches. He was not a missionary; but is reported to have performed a waez in the newly built Jamatkhana at Amir Pir, Sind on December 17, 1920. With his efforts, the Panjibhai Club of Gwadar gained a new lease of life, and was named as the H.H. The Ismailia Volunteer Corps in 1920, whose first President was Mukhi Tajar. He also started a library in Gwadar in 1921, which also issued a hand-written journal, called Gohar-i Gwadar and a Gwadar Pani Company in 1922.

In the end of 1921, the cholera raged with greater violence in Gwadar, whose population at that time was hardly 12,000 persons. Four Ismaili children became the victims of a catastrophe. Varas Muhammad Remu arranged specific medicines from Karachi and Bombay and distributed free of cost to the stricken humanity irrespective of cast and creed.

On March 27, 1922, the Imam said in the gathering of the Recreation Club at Bombay to Varas Muhammad Remu, 'You work among the Zikris (in Baluchistan). You have nothing to do there, no other work. The Zikris, who are perfect, you may give them secret solemn word. If you (the Varas or Wazir) are absent, vest its authority in other.'

On April 15, 1922, Varas Muhammad Remu presented 75 new converted Zikris before the Imam on the upper floor of the Garden Jamatkhana, Karachi. The Imam said, 'Mashallah! I am much happy to see you and bless you. I am delighted that you had surmounted the hurdles and embraced. You remain steadfast on the faith and become like angels. Alhamdulillah! Keep up high courage. Ismailism is a reality in Islam. Islam is a foundation and Ismailism stands seventh in rank of its reality.' The Imam graciously gave sugar to five to six persons among them. The Imam also blessed Varas Muhammad Remu and Ghulam Hussain Datoo for their noble mission.

In April, 1923, he was in Bombay when his two close associates, Pir Sabzali and Alijah Datoo Meru were on the eve of the departure for their special missions. This was certainly a matter of pride for him. Pir Sabzali departed on April 7, 1923 for Central Asia and Alijah Datoo Meru left for Iran on April 19, 1923 by sea. On both occasions, Varas Muhammad Remu was present to see them off. He also sent urgent telegrams to Karachi and Gwadar Councils to accord befitting honour to Alijah Datoo Meru.

The health of Varas Muhammad Remu Mawji was impaired in October, 1924. He was taken to Karachi for treatment with Alijah Datoo Meru on November 2, 1924, where he expired on November 5, 1924 at the age of 65 years. The Ismailis in Gwadar closed their business when heard the news of his sad demise.

The news of his sad demise was urgently routed to the Imam in Paris, who also sent following telegraphic message on November 6, 1924:-

;Paternal blessing Sind Coast good spiritual children. Very sorry Coast President after life of service gone heaven. All honor his memory and family.

In another message, the Imam said:- 'Regret Mohomed Remoo expired. Ask Karachi and Coast give full honors his memory. Appoint after full consultation Karachi Council and Coast new President in his place till I come India.'

Lady Ali Shah in those days had been in Iran for seven months and returned to Karachi on November 15, 1924. When she was reported the sad demise of Varas Mohammad Remu, she was highly shocked and blessed his soul for eternal peace. She then proceeded to Bombay on February 6, 1925.

On January 26, 1938, the Imam said in Karachi during the marriage ceremonies of Rahim and Issa, the grandsons of Varas Muhammad Remu that, 'I am much delightful to attend the marriages of the children of late Wazir Muhammad Remu. Varas Muhammad Remu had served me too much. He is like a member of Ahl al-Bayt just as Wazir Basaria and Wazir Rahim had become (members of) Ahl al-Bayt. If their children will follow the religion and truth, they will lead good (prosperity) in their lives, and will be prosperous in the world.'

Varas Muhammad Remu left behind two sons, Hussain and Karim; and five daughters. Hussain was the father of Ruknuddin and Nuruddin, while Karim had three sons, Rahim, Issa and Tajuddin. Varasiani Mukhiani Tharabai, the wife of Varas Muhammad Remu expired on July 3, 1934 at the age of 55 years due to paralyse. She served as a Mukhiani for 4 years.

The
predecessors of Pir Sabzali hailed from Mundra, Kutchh. In his ancestry we find
a certain Sabzali Hansraj, the grandfather of Pir Sabzali, a small trader in
Kutchh. He was a dedicated social worker. His son Ramzan Ali (d. 1886) had
three sons, Mahomed Jaffer (1874-1918), Rahim (1880-1929), Pir Sabzali
(1884-1938) and three daughters, Fatimabai, Jainabai and Sonbai. Ramzan Ali had
come to Bombay, where he started his own business and was also a social worker
in the community.

Different
dates of the birth of Pir Sabzali sound in written and oral traditions, such as
1871 or 1873. It ensues from a legal document of Bombay Court (1915) that he
was born in 1884. He was two years old when his father died in Bombay. His
mother, Maghbai (1850-1945) brought up her children and instilled in them the
impulse of services to the Imam and jamat.
She was a frequent visitor to Lady Aly Shah at Wadi, Bombay. Lady Aly Shah
liked the bread of millet, which she got prepared from Maghbai.

It
appears that Pir Sabzali took no interest in his formal education. He would
wend his unwilling way to school. He would often play truant in company with
others of same frame of mind. This slipshod schooling continued for about
couple of years mainly under the pressure of his elder brother. When Mahomed
Jaffer was convinced that his younger brother was not literary genius and the
futility of forcing him to continue his schooling, he thought out plans for
him. And it dawned upon him that Pir Sabzali had wasted the most precious
period of his early life in vain wandering.

Varas
Muhammad Remu (1860-1924), the most versatile genius in Gwadar was a frequent
visitor to Lady Ali Shah and the Imam in Bombay. Close intimacy and friendship
subsisted between him and the family of Maghbai, who always arranged his
lodging in Hasanabad. In 1897, Maghbai and Mahomed Jaffer, the elder brother of
Pir Sabzali invited Varas Muhammad Remu at a dinner, where they expressed their
worries for young Pir Sabzali. Varas Muhammad Remu offered them to send him in
Gwadar, assuring to look after him. Another view sounds that the Imam told to
Maghbai to send Pir Sabzali in Gwadar under Varas Muhammad Remu. In sum, he was
sent to Gwadar in 1898 when he was 14 years old. By this time he had scarcely
finished four books of Gujrati and only two of English. He came in Karachi with
an Ismaili trader, and thence proceeded to Gwadar in a dhow.

Gwadar
faced scanty of water and was to be procured in the well lying outside the town.
The Ismaili workers brought water in water-skins for the Jamatkhana on every
morning, and an old blind woman, called Sonabai washed the utensils and swept
the Jamatkhana. Once Pir Sabzali entered the Jamatkhana in the morning for
drinking water. Sonabai heard the noise and asked, to which he identified
himself. She said, "Sabu! you have made the glass impure. I will have to
wash it again." Being asked, how the glass polluted, she said, "I
have heard that you smoke and your impure lips have touched the glass."

Her words struck him deeply. To quote him, "These words absolutely touched
my heart. I began to hate myself and resolved to abstain from smoking ever
since." This was the first stage of change in his life, which transformed
him in religious awakening.

He
imbibed religious training by sitting almost daily at the feet of Varas
Muhammad Remu. Simultaneously, he also learnt the mechanism of fish business.
This was the second stage of the changes in his life and the latent tendencies
emerged very soon in his personality.

When
Varas Muhammad Remu satisfied with his aptitude, sincerity and sense of
responsibility, he posted him in Pasani to look after his firm. He also
appointed him the Kamadia of the Pasani Jamatkhana in 1904 with Khuda Baksh Rahmatullah as a Mukhi. In
the absence of the missionary in Pasani, he himself performed waez on many occasions. When Imam Sultan
Muhammad Shah visited Gwadar for the second time on April 1, 1905, he
graciously presented him a shawl in
Gwadar on April 15, 1905 and told him, “You live like the jamat of Gwadar.” In 1907, he was appointed the Mukhi of Pasani
Jamatkhana with Muhammad Meruani as
Kamadia.

The
Gwadar Council deputed him in Ormada from Pasani in January 6, 1909 to
propagate the importance of education. He delivered his speech in Ormada
Jamatkhana and moved the listeners. The leaders of Ormada soon launched a
scheme of a school and wrote the Gwadar Council for its permission. Thus, the
first school in Ormada inaugurated in February, 1909 with 40 students in a
grand function presided by Mukhi Ghulam Ali Mohammadi. On that juncture, Pir
Sabzali recollected his early days he passed in wandering in Bombay, and wept
profusely as the wheel now ran on reverse side that he was propagating for it.

He
conducted the business of Varas Muhammad Remu as his agent in Pasani and served
the jamat as a Mukhi till 1912. In
1912, Varas Muhammad Remu promoted him as his agent as well as the Mukhi of
Ormada jamat. Ormada is located at
the shore of Arabian sea, 140 nautical miles west of Karachi and at the same
distance east of Gwadar. This was the third stage of change in his life, making
him quite a responsible person. He became an expert merchant, a missionary and
a devoted social worker. He is noted for organizing functions, inviting the
parents and distributed sweets and prizes to the students. The last function
held on August 5, 1918 was a historic for the Ormada jamat. It appears from different versions that he would take flying
visits of Karachi from Ormada several times and cemented contacts with the
leaders of Karachi.

He
passed about 20 years in Gwadar, Pasani and Ormada. He was an ordinary worker
in the firm of Varas Muhammad Remu, and then became his agent, earning Rs.
700/= per month. He had so deep respect for Varas Muhammad Remu that in
speaking of him, he always called him “my
father” and authorized him to take the initiative in every affair and bring
to a conclusion. He referred to him in terms of admiration and gratitude and
acknowledged his debt for the initiation he had received from him.

He
reached the stage when he could carve out his own career, and resolved to start
his own business in Karachi. In the meantime, his elder brother, Mahomed Jaffer
expired in Bombay on October 27, 1918, who lived in Valkesar, Bombay. He was a
trader and generous and made a will to build a sanatorium in Panchgani at the
cost of one lac rupees. He went to Bombay for few months. He took an
opportunity to perform his waez in
Bombay and Kathiawar for the first time and impressed the jamat. He returned to Karachi and started his business of fish in
1919. Very soon, he also became an exporter of cotton yarn of Sind to Bombay.

In
Karachi, he was also the director of the newly formed the Khoja Ismaili Trading
Co. in 1918. He was a generous and provided furniture and fixture to the
Ismaili institutions. He also shared his donation to The Young Ismaili Vidhiya
Vinod Club since its existence on April 1, 1915.

He was
appointed the President of The Ismailia Library of Kharadhar, Karachi between
1919 and 1921 with Ghulam Hussain
Rahmatullah as Hon. Secretary. He was once again appointed its President on
April 1, 1927.

In
1919, a fierce storm raged among the Ismailis in Karachi whether mixed public
meetings of men and women were not mischievous innovation in the community,
fraught with immense possible social harm. Pir Sabzali came forward to shake
the stronghold of orthodoxy, for he had organized one such meeting for the
first time in Kharadhar Boy's School in Karachi. He invited an eminent accomplished
Ismaili lady to preside over the joint gathering. Something seemed to be on the
verge of happening. But the only thing that happened was that the
oppositionists were loudly clapping, and the sceptics were converted the
wonderful oration that Pir Sabzali delivered at the beginning of the meeting.
The house gave it its unstinted support.

He also
encouraged the newly formed The Young Khoja Ismailia Kathiawadi Mitr Mandal,
Kharadhar, Karachi on April 21, 1919 with handsome donation.

The
Imam visited Zanzibar between July 15, 1914 and August 6, 1914 and made some
strict farmans to abstain from
alcohol and smoking, and emphasized to lead simple life within the resources.
Pir Sabzali published the selected farmans
in March, 1920 in Karachi, entitled “Nasiat-i
Imam” and distributed its ten thousand copies in India and Africa.

Pir
Sabzali had close ties with N.M. Budhwani, the editor of the Ismaili Aftab of Dhoraji, Kathiawar. On
March 21, 1923, he went to Dhoraji and visited the Girls School with Budhwani.
In a prize distribution function on March 28, 1923, he gave away cash prizes to
106 students, and declared that he would award gold watch to the winner who
would deliver good lecture in the Jamatkhana during the 43rd Salgirah of the Imam. On that occasion,
N.M. Budhwani called him in his speech, the “Champion of Religion”
vide “Ismaili Aftab” (Dhoraji, July,
1927, p. 37) During his visit, he delivered penetrative waez that the people of
Dhoraji remembered it for a long time.

Imam
Sultan Muhammad Shah arrived in Karachi on April 10, 1920 for 27 days. On April
29, 1920, Chief Mukhi Rahmatullah Lutf Ali (1914-1928) said to the Imam, "Mawla, we gained much with the advent
of Bhagat Sabzali over here." The Imam became happy and said smilingly
that, "I know all this. Not only in
Karachi, but he had worked hard in Bombay, Kathiawar and Makran."

Pir
Sabzali also presented his mehmani on
the same day. The Imam said to him, “You
are working hard. You are living in Kharadhar, therefore you perform here waez and exhort the spiritual meaning of
becoming fana fi’lillah, and also go
to Garden among the Kutchhi brethren and deliver waez, Khanavadan. I give
you much blessings.” Varas Bandali Kassim, Varas Rahim Basaria and Alijah
Alidina Ali Muhammad were also present, who reported the Imam that Missionary
Sabzali had worked excellently.

The
Imam put his blessed hand on his shoulder, and tendered his congratulations.
Dr. Suleman Ghulam Hussain Haji (d. 1924) submitted a humble service that,
"I have invested a title of Tuti-i Sind to Missionary
Sabzali." The Imam said, "But
I give him a title of Tuti-i Bagh-i
Bahisht instead of Tuti-i Sind."

The Imam again graced his compliment to him. Sonibai, the wife of Pir
Sabzali stood with a gold chain in hands. The Imam blessed her and took the
gold chain from her hand and put it on his own neck and blessed her.

On May
6, 1920, the Imam said to him, “Sabzali,
you continue to perform waez in the
Jamatkhanas of Karachi and Sind as usual. You have been appointed a member of
the Council for Makran, but the jamat
of Karachi insists that you reside in Karachi.”

It is
learnt that when the Imam arrived in Bombay on March 2, 1920, the Panjibhai
Club had arranged a grand assembly at Hasanabad with the help of Sahitiya
Utejak Mandal, Vidhiya Vinod Club and other institutions. The Mukhis, Kamadias
and the leaders, including Pir Sabzali, attended it. Alijah Alidina Ali
Muhammad of Karachi presided the assembly. The house resolved to summon the All
India Khoja Ismailia Conference for the welfare of the Ismailis. When the Imam
was in Karachi and graced a group photograph with the members of the library on
Thursday, May 6, 1920, Pir Sabzali as the President of the library sat on the
right side of the Imam. He took an opportunity and revealed the plan of above
conference. The Imam said, “Well, you
arrange the first meeting of All India Khoja Ismailia Conference in Karachi,
because Karachi is my birth-place, it should be instituted from here. Pir
Sadruddin also arrived from Uchh Sharif and operated proselytizing mission from
Karachi at first. You inaugurate the conference in Karachi. The conference is
necessary.” When Pir Sabzali asked to propose the date of its inauguration,
the Imam said, “Navroz is an ideal
occasion. You arrange its first meeting on next Navroz. Then the conference
should be held in Bombay, Kathiawar, Rangoon and other places.”

It
appears that the Imam bequeathed much responsibilities to Pir Sabzali between
1920 and 1924 and had to make extensive tours, therefore, the plan of the conference
could not be materialized.

During
the auspicious visit of the Imam in Karachi in 1920, Alijah Shahban Mohib
declared his donation of a house of Rs. 5000/- for the school in Ormada. The
Imam accepted it graciously and blessed him. On that occasion, Pir Sabzali also
gave donation of Rs. 1000/- and a plot of Ormada of equal cost. He also
collected a fund of Rs. 1000/- from different individuals for the school.

The tug of the first World
War (1914-1919) had badly shaken the business in India for many years. In 1920,
the British reserved the railway wagons for the military even after an end of
war. Thus, a huge bales of cotton of Pir Sabzali was lying in the railway
godowns, and worried for its transportation. On that day, Wazir Rahim Basaria
(1885-1927) informed him the gracious wish of the Imam to go on the trip of
Punjab and the Northwest Frontier as a Special
Commissioner of the Imam. Pir Sabzali did not speak his business worries
and obeyed it servilely. He girded up his loins when the call of duty beckoned
him for action. He left his merchandise at railway yards on the mercy of the
Imam and left Karachi on next morning at 7.30 a.m. by Quetta Mail on October 6,
1920.

Soon after the visit of
Lahore and Multan in 1911, the Imam seems to have determined that the gupti Ismailis in Punjab should expose
and subscribe to the Ismaili faith openly. He wished that his gupti followers should purge non-Islamic
elements, which had quietly crept in their social milieu. He sent several
messages and prepared them mentally for the action. The extreme orthodox class
among them however delayed to shed off the old tendencies embodied in their
society. On January 14, 1920, the Imam summoned some eight prominent leaders of
the gupti in Poona and ordered them
to cut down the old girdle of Hindu tendencies to immerse in Islamic
traditions, and come up palpably without fear. The Imam also gave an audience
to 300 gupti Ismailis on January 23,
1920, and commissioned them the promulgation Imam’s message in the villages of
Punjab. When the news spread among the Hindus, their leaders came into the
action. Seth Bhawani Das Narayan Das Motiwala and Dr. Kalyan Das J. Dessai sent
a telegram to the Imam, appealing to withdraw his orders for the interest of
the Hinduism. Later on, Zaver Chand Amatha Chand, the Vice-President of Arya
Samaj and Manilal Bakor Viyas with Damodar Das Chunilal Dalal hatched
widespread propaganda against the exposition of the gupti Ismailis. Sri Radha Krishna, the leader of the Arya Samaj,
had a vein of animosity in his character for the Ismailis, and put many hurdles
and hitches. It resulted the chaotic condition of the Ismailis. Imam Sultan
Muhammad Shah sent Pir Sabzali in Punjab to cope with the situation. In order
to thwart the bitter opposition of Arya Samaj, Pir Sabzali deliberated with
indomitable talent along with other learned Ismailis, who were vigorous in
their cogent arguments. Missionary Varasiani Ghulam Fatima of Gujranwala also
operated proselytizing mission with Pir Sabzali in Punjab. She was the first
Ismaili lady to deliberate with trenchant arguments in public with the
propagandists of the Arya Samaj. He weathered the storms and returned to
Karachi and submitted his report to Wazir Rahim Basaria. On January 6, 1921,
the Imam sent a telegraphic message from Canes that, “Happy congratulations to all. Inform Sabzali happy upon receipt of good
report of Panjab. Coming India soon.”

On
February 8, 1921, the Imam told to the members of the Recreation Club in Bombay
that, “You now operate the proselytizing
mission in Punjab.” The Imam also told to Pir Sabzali to make another trip
in Punjab during the majalis, and
inspect a suitable location for the Orphanage and School.

In
1922, the Recreation Club branch of Karachi sent him to Gwadar for waez, and by now onwards, he also began
to reside in Bombay.

The
H.H. The Aga Khan Bombay Volunteer Corps came into existence in 1919 and soon
afterwards, it passed through some hitches, and it was almost on the verge of
liquidation. It was only Pir Sabzali’s good offices that saved the volunteer
corps from a critical situation. He
made the gloomy clouds disappeared hovering upon the volunteer corps and
bravely weathered the storm with sincere intermediary. Lt. Col. Pir Mohammad V.
Madhani writes in “Ismaili Volunteers,
Scouts and Guides Souvenir” (Bombay, 1954) that, “We take this opportunity
to thank late Pir Sabzali, whose timely arrival at Bombay before the auspicious
arrival of H.R.H. The Prince Aga Khan made the cloud of gloom disappear from
over the volunteer corps. His favors are unforgettable and it is impossible for
us to repay same much as we may try to do so, because, unfortunately he is no
more with us.”

In
1922, he was appointed the President of the Provincial Committee for Punjab on
behalf of the Recreation Club Institute, Bombay.

During
the meeting of the Recreation Club in Bombay on March 2, 1923, the Imam formed
a committee for Punjab and appointed Pir Sabzali as its President with Karam
Hussain as Hon. Secretary. On March 27, 1923, the Imam told to Hussain Sherif,
Merali Pirbhai, Gangji Kurji and Pir Sabzali that, “When I passed through the
Deccan state, I have seen many destitute people with no clothes. You give them
looms and watch them on every six months and report to the Central Board.”

We now arrive
to the part which can be claimed the crowning glory of his service career in
the community, and that is his historical itinerary in Central Asia. On March
7, 1923, the Imam graced didar to the
Ismailis of Badakhshan in Poona. Pir Sabzali was also summoned on that
occasion. The Imam said to him, "I
shall be very happy if you prepare to go on a journey to Central Asia."
To this, he bowed his head in reverence, exhibiting his palpable acceptance.
The Imam said, "Well, you go to
that region, and I will give you my talika."

Pir
Sabzali rejoiced beyond all bounds and measures in his selection for an
adventurous service, and began to pass his days as if years. The news of his
journey spread rapidly in public. He was however told that the region of
Central Asia was mountainous with dangerous routes and too appalling to travel.
He also heard that not a single Indian language was spoken there except the
Persian. Hearkening the dreadful informations, he was engulfed in deep
thinking, the most striking feature of his worries was the language problem. He
did not know Persian, and never heard or read about the Central Asia. In sum,
the people from all walk of life set before him the most awful image of Central
Asia. The galaxy of leaping thoughts revolved in his mind and fastened him all
around. For the happiness of the Imam, he determined tenaciously to venture in
awesome regions, why not it cost him his life.

On
those days, some Ismailis of Badakhshan had arrived in Bombay from Poona after
taking the didar and lodged at
Hasanabad. Pir Sabzali started to see them at every night, and tried to
converse with them in Persian. Sometimes he slept with them due to late night
hours. He chatted in Persian, and collected latest news of the Central Asia.
The frightful picture of Central Asia however continued to wander in his
thoughts. His heart beat more than normal motion and passed sleepless nights,
and ate little. He however did not show a little sign of his inner worries on
his face, and procured assurance in the words of the Imam. He now refrained
from hearing anything to cause heart breaking, and centered his attention in
the preparations of the journey.

During
his stay at Bombay, the Imam summoned him several times and gave necessary
instructions. The Imam also asked one of his entourages to prepare necessary
papers of his journey. It seems that there was a certain amount of inertia in
preparations of papers. When the Imam tended to ask for it, he was told that
Sabzali was nerveless. The Imam called
for Pir Sabzali and asked, "Are you
really frightened to this journey? Don’t be fearful and bound for it"
Gently but firmly he answered, "Not at all! I am ready. The late
preparation of the papers is the main reason of my delay.”

The
Imam told to Aga Rukh Shah, the son of Imam's uncle Akbar Shah to execute the
documents and papers of Pir Sabzali. The papers were made ready on very next
day.

The
Imam said to him, "Are you appalled
Sabzali?" He replied negatively. To this, the Imam said, "Listen, I had deputed three dais in that part of the world, i.e.
Nasir Khusaro, Pir Shams and Pir Sadruddin. They were also human beings like
you, but I represented their tongues. Don’t be afraid and bound for it."

Pir
Sabzali had come in Bombay from Karachi since December, 1922. He made a programme
to go to Karachi first to see his family and consign his business to someone,
and then start for his journey. Meanwhile, the annual majalis in Sialkot was about to be organized, the Imam told him on
April 5, 1923 while delivering him his special talika into Persian for the jamats
of Central Asia that, "You go from
here to Sialkot to attend the majalis,
and thence you proceed for your journey." He dropped his programme of
Karachi, and resolved to go Sialkot from Bombay.

On
April 6, 1923, the Imam visited the Jamatkhana in Bombay before leaving for
Europe. While the Imam was getting out from the elevator, he turned to Pir
Sabzali and said, "Are you
frightened to go alone? Listen, one has nothing to care who goes on my
behalf." Pir Sabzali received much potency afresh and his worries
disappeared and gained a natural vigour and courage. The Imam also told to the
Ismailis of Badakhshan who accompanied him that, “Listen, I consign you Sabzali. Bring him here in the same state as you
took him with you.”

On
April 7, 1923, the Recreation Club Institute accorded him a party at late
evening. The President, members, the leaders of Bombay Council and the officers
of the jamat attended the farewell
party. Huzur Wazir Ali Muhammad Macklai, the President made a speech and wished
his success and garlanded him. With the termination of the party, almost all of
them joined with Pir Sabzali at the Bori Bunder Station to bid him farewell.
The party of Pir Sabzali departed by Delhi Express at 9.00 p.m. for Lahore.
Alijah Ramzan Ali Alibhai, Huzur Mukhi Ghulam Ali Arab (1906-1983), Sayed Murad
Ali, who sat in the car of the Imam, Gulu Kurban and other four to five
Ismailis of Badakhshan accompanied him. There were also seven Badakhshani
Ismaili passengers going to Peshawar. The Imam had given them a talika into Persian, and Gulu Kurban was
assigned to read it before the jamats

of the Central Asia. The Imam authorized Pir Sabzali to accept the tithes and
offerings of the jamats and the dastboshi
on behalf of the Imam. They also took with them a box containing sugar cubes to
be given to the jamats. He had
prepared a red robe and a turban of filigree as per Imam's instructions. It is
related that Nasir Khusaro had foretold to the people of Central Asia that an
ambassador of the Imam would arrive, attired in red robe and a turban of
filigree.

The
historical caravan departed from Bombay on April 7, 1923 by Delhi Express and
on that day, the Imam also left for Europe. Pir Sabzali reached Lahore and then
in Rawalpindi and finally proceeded to Sialkot. The members of Sialkot jamat and volunteers received him at the
station. He attended the majalis for
three days and delivered waez. The
Arya Samaj had created some troubles in Pind Dad Khan, therefore, Pir Sabzali
left Sialkot on April 14, 1923 and arrived in Pind Dad Khan, where he stayed
for two days and restored peace.

He
arrived in Rawalpindi with his colleagues on April 17, 1923 for a day.
Missionary Hakim Ali also joined him till Peshawar, where they arrived on April
18, 1923. This marked with exactitude the date of commencing his journey.

He also
sent a message to Ahmad, the son of the Kamadia of Garhi Kapura in district
Mardan to buy few necessary items and reach at Dir, where he would collect
them.

To have
dared the dangers of rushing torrents in the impenetrable hilly tracks, the
freezing cold of merciless winters of Central Asia, the steep and snow-covered
mountains, etc. is no mean a great achievement. His historical journey wrought
a miracle in the Central Asia. Within a short time since he set foot on that
region, where he had never been before, the territory of Central Asia was
breathing and pulsating with life and spirit. It procured a close link between
the followers of that region with the Imam.
He had also executed some jamati
organizational works in Central Asia and established Council Committees and
built Jamatkhanas. Later on, the Imam appointed Mir Muhammad Jamal Khan, the
ruler of Hunza, as the President of Central Asian Ismaili jamats. After an end of their journey, they returned in Peshawar on
December 12, 1923, which suggests that the span of his itinerary was for 8
months and 5 days.

He went
to Karachi on December 12, 1923 from Punjab to see his relatives, while Ramzan
Ali and others reached Bombay on December 12, 1923. When he reached at Karachi,
he was warmly greeted at the station. The Council of Karachi accorded him a
reception at the Wadi in Garden area and presented him the befitting welcome
address written on a hand-woven cloth in a silver casket. The Young Khoja
Ismaili Volunteer Corps, The Saddar Bazar Khoja Panjibhai and the Recreation
Club's branch in Karachi feted a dinner party in his honour.

Pir
Sabzali reached Bombay on December 29, 1923 by a Mail Steamer, where he was
well received by the leaders. Seth Abdullah Kassim Mevawala and Seth Navroz Ali
Hirji jointly honoured Pir Sabzali and Alijah Ramzan Ali, a grand party in the
hall of the Recreation Club, presided by Mukhi Laljibhai Devraj (1842-1930).
The Recreation Club also honored them on January 6, 1924 in presence of 150
guests. He conceived highest respect for Varas Muhammad Remu. No sooner did he
see him in the gathering than he bowed down his head servilely and earned his
blessings.

In the
meantime, the Imam arrived at Bombay from Europe on Sunday, January 13, 1924.
Pir Sabzali presented the report of his journey. The Imam was delighted for
this noble venture and blessed him. The Imam crowned him with the title of Alijah at Poona on January 29, 1924
with an award of a gold medal and silver medals to his associates. Upon receipt
of the title, the Recreation Club hosted him a warm reception on February 18,
1924, which was presided by Varas Muhammad Remu.

The
accounts of his journey to Central Asia appeared in the weekly "Ismaili" (Bombay) between February
17, 1924 and October 12, 1924. The "Platinum
Jubilee Bulletin" (Bombay) also published the accounts of his journey
from July 15, 1953 to October 1, 1953. The weekly "Ismaili" once again published it on March 21, 1967 to October
6, 1967. The weekly "Ismaili
Crescent" (Dar-es-Salaam) published it between January 8, 1967 and
April 21, 1968. It was reproduced in the fortnightly "Paigham" (Karachi) between February 15, 1967 and April 15,
1970. In the meantime, Alijah Sultan V. Nur Muhammad compiled the accounts of
Pir Sabzali's journey to Central Asia through Ismailia Association for India,
Bombay on 1968, entitled "Pir
Sabzali'ni Madhiya Asia'ni Musafari", whose materials are not reliable
and contrary to the original version. For its full detail, vide “Voyage of Pir Sabzali in Central Asia”

(Karachi, 2001)

Pir
Sabzali gained considerable informations of the Ismailis in different centers,
he was consigned the Foreign Department of the Recreation Club on April 1,
1924.

It
sounds that he had become an adventurerous itinerant. He made a personal tour
of Europe and Middle East with Varas Chhotubhai, Habib Rawjee, Abdullah Kassim
Mevawala and Hasan Ali Mukhi Megji. Huzur Wazir Muhammad Macklai honoured them
a farewell party in Taj Mahal Hotel, Bombay on May 23, 1924. They sailed from
Bombay by Mail Steamer, Caledonia of
P & Co., and visited England, Italy, France, Austria, Hungary, Switzerland,
Germany, Syria and Egypt.

When he
arrived in Syria, he was warmly hailed in Salamia and was accorded the Guard of
Honour in presence of Mir Mirza Haji Kamadia Mustapha and Haji Musa bin Jiraf.
Varas Mir Suleman, Mir Mirza Haji Kamadia Mustapha and Ali Jindi made excellent
lodging arrangements for Pir Sabzali and his associates.

After
having a successful tour, they returned to Bombay on Wednesday, November 5,
1924. The Recreation Club Institute arranged a grand party, presided by Kadar
Hussain Mehr Ali Manji, who in his opening speech paid rich tribute to late
Varas Muhammad Remu of Gwadar, and expressed brief account of the tour of Pir
Sabzali. On November 9, 1924 and November 16, 1924, the weekly "Ismaili" covered a brief
report of his journey and his interview of 21 questions.

He also
delivered a long lecture on his historical journey to Central Asia, Europe and
Syria in the hall of the Recreation Club Institute on November 9, 1924. It was
attended by huge crowd of the Ismailis and the leaders and earned their
appreciations for getting rare informations of the Ismailis living in other
parts of the world.

He left
Bombay for Karachi on November 10, 1924 and offered fatiha at the grave of Varas Muhammad Remu, who expired on November
5, 1924. He also made a flying visit of Gwadar to see the family members of
Varas Muhammad Remu.

He made
his first East African visit with Wazir Rahim Basaria (1885-1927), Missionary
Hamir Lakha (1881-1963) and Missionary Hussaini Pir Muhammad (1878-1951), and
sailed from Bombay on January 7, 1925. The Imam arrived in Zanzibar for didar on February 9, 1925. Kamadia Mulji
Nazar Ali had built a new Jamatkhana in Moshi for 35,000/- shillings. The jamat humbly invited the Imam to perform
its opening ceremony, but the Imam could not go and asked Pir Sabzali to
represent him. Pir Sabzali performed the opening ceremony of Moshi Jamatkhana
on March 24, 1925. The jamat
presented a shawl and gold ring
to Kamadia Mulji Nazar Ali. Pir Sabzali
also gifted him a gold watch. Missionary Hamir Lakha and Itmadi Jivan delivered

waez. Pir Sabzali left Moshi for
Nairobi on March 25, 1925, where he also delivered waez. He returned to Bombay
with Hamir Lakha on April 18, 1925.

He
played a key role during the incident of the Patadi Murder Case. On July 10,
1925, a son of the Kori in the village of Patadi, Gujrat disappeared. The
enemies of the Ismailis propagated that the Ismailis had killed the child. The
dead body of the child however was found on July 12, 1925, but the stimulated
gang harassed the local Ismailis. They damaged the Jamatkhana and destroyed the
religious books. The enemies charged that Magan Alibhai and Somji Kassim were
responsible and prepared fictitious witnesses against them. On October 28,
1925, the hearing of the case began in Fatehwadi, near Ahmedabad. Muhammad Ali
Jinnah was the pleader of the Ismailis. The next hearing began on December 7,
1925 and lasted for six days. In its verdict, the court acquitted the accused
ones. Between July 10, 1925 and December 7, 1925, Pir Sabzali was in Patadi and
adroitly tackled the situation and restored peace within the jamat.

The
power of creating permanent and indelible impressions upon the people was one
of the striking feature in the personality of Pir Sabzali. We find in his life
a person who had not only an immense capacity for constructive work and service
to the community, but also that spark of greatness, which every one recognized,
which evades description. He was a brilliant speaker. Those who heard him on
the platform in his vigor and hey-day are conscious of the brilliance of his
unmatched oratory. He was truly an ambassador of peace, unity and love for the
Ismailis of the world. He brought light and love where previously darkness and
hatred subsisted. Whenever he intervened, the breach was easily healed. None
could perish in fractional quarrels, when confronted by his sincere intermediary.

He was
not only an accomplished and fluent orator, but also rendered many other
services in the community. Sometimes, he offered nikah of the Ismaili couples in presence of the Imam. He acted also
an interpreter between the Imam and the followers during the mehmanis. He could also speak Persian
and the dialects of the Central Asia, and served as an interpreter when the
Ismailis from Central Asia visited Bombay.

To listen to him, when he
opened the treasure-box of his varied personal experiences culled from an
eventful life and travels in scores of land, was to lose count of time. For,
from his inexhaustible storehouse he would pick out treasures one after
another, garb them in moving and vivid language and keep his listeners reverted
to their seats for hours on end. Sometimes, he became so engrossed in his
delivery that he rose emotionally on the bending fingers of his legs.

He was
famous for having a loud and sweet voice. The Imam joined him in the didar programs in different areas for
reciting his farman loudly before the

jamat. He was also commissioned to
convey the written messages of the Imam for the didar programs in different parts of India.

He also
won the hearts of the Ismailis of Kutchh, whom he showed and exhorted the
rules, regulation and constitution of the Ismaili community. Once he told to
Missionary Hamir Lakha that, "Kutchh is the land of our forefathers. We
must work for those who are misguided".

He
laboured hard to collect donations (amount of Rs. 4000/-) in October, 1924 for
the construction of a new Jamatkhana in Sialkot. It was built under the
supervision of Karam Hussain of Multan, and upon completion in 1926, Pir
Sabzali performed its opening ceremony. On that occasion, he also formed H.H. The Aga Khan Ismailia Volunteer Corps
for Sialkot.

Pir
Sabzali submitted his papers to contest the election of the Municipal
Corporation on April 9, 1927 in Karachi. He was suggested to withdraw in ward
no. 2. His withdrawal paved a way for Alidina Ali Muhammad and Walji Alarakhia
to become successful.

To test
his talent out of the community circle, Dr. G.Allana, the Secretary of the
Seerat Committee of Karachi, offered him to speak on the life of the Prophet
Muhammad in the year 1927. It was just a few hours before the function was to
commence in Hindu Gymkhana. Pir Sabzali readily accepted with no sign of fear.
About ten thousand Muslims, squatting on the ground, strained their necks to
catch a glimpse of the speakers as they came on the stage one after the other.
All were hushed in silence, for one speaker just finished. The President
announced the name "Janab Sabzali Saheb" as the next speaker. He
appeared on the stage and spoke so forcefully and lucidly on the life of the
Prophet that, as he sat down, all else for a full few minutes was drowned in a
crescendo of full-throated cries of "Allah-o-Akbar."
In sum, the gymkhana shook with the cries that thundered from Muslim throats.

The
credit to start the annual majalis in
Sialkot goes to Pir Sabzali. It instituted in 1921 with a view to unite the
scattered Ismaili jamats of Punjab.
Gradually, the annual majalis began
to be organized on the pattern of the majalis
of other parts of India. Pir Sabzali cordially invited Varas Dayabhai Velji of
Ahmednagar, the President of All India Majalis Committee, and Alijah Hasan Ali
Devraj to attend the majalis on 6^th,
7^th and 8^th May, 1928 and make their observations on the
management. On May 13, 1928, the weekly “Ismaili”

(pp. 13-14) published its report and the noble services of Pir Sabzali that,
“The Ismaili jamats in Punjab were
absolutely isolated from one another. Alijah Sabzali united them with his
genuine efforts. He put his business aside and worked for the jamats. He spent thousand of rupees for
it. He passed sleepless nights to reconcile the diverse communal matters,
making arrangements for food and delivering waez.
The leaders of Bombay appreciated his services.”

In
1929, Sind experienced a flood due to heavy rain of 30 inches. The Ismailis
became homeless and their cattles were swept into water. At once, he wrote
abroad, appealing the donors to share in the noble cause. He collected massive
funds for the welfare of Ismailis.

Essa
Ragat, one of the notorious persons had a vein of animosity in his character
for the Ismailis in Gwadar. On March 24, 1929, he killed Khimji Remu, the elder
foster brother of Varas Muhammad Remu on the account of baseless rumours against Ismailis. The
Ismailis closed their business and harbored in the Jamatkhana for about two weeks, and were threatened with fatal
attacks on their lives. The Imam was sent a report of the tragic incident in
Bombay, who contacted the Viceroy of India about it. The Viceroy ordered Taymur
bin Faisal, the Sultan of Muscat to prevent further casualties, insisting to
establish peace in Gwadar. The Sultan neglected in his measures. Meanwhile, he
abandoned the throne in favour of his son, Sultan Saeed on February 11, 1930.

The
dismay yet prevailed in town, where the Ismailis were yet insecure. Essa Ragat
once again attacked on an Ismaili, called Bana Ibrahim on January 5, 1930 and
cut down his shoulder with a sword. The nerveless Ismailis once again sent a
report to the Imam in Bombay. The Imam deputed Maulana Shaukat Ali (1872-1938),
Mukhi Itmadi Hoodbhoy Shaluani (d. 1937) and Pir Sabzali in Gwadar on January,
1930 to cope with the situation, which was going from bad to worse. They held a
grand gathering of about 2000 people from all walk of life, and made effective
speeches on the Muslim brotherhood and unity. The principal speakers were Maulana
Shaukat Ali, Muhammad Irfan, Mir Muhammad Baloch, Maulvi Uthman and Pir
Sabzali. Their mission created salutary effect upon people, and appeased the
flames of animosity kindled against the Ismailis.

When a
dispute arose in the jamat of Agra in
1930, Pir Sabzali went there and brought an amicable reconciliation in the jamat. With his piercing personality and
aptitude, he also dispelled differences in Calcutta.

On
February 13, 1931, a conference of the Ismaili officers of the Punjab jamat held in Sialkot under the
presidentship of Pir Sabzali to discuss the measures for accelerating the
economical and social conditions of the Ismailis in Punjab and Frontier
Provinces. The draft of the proposals was submitted to the Imam for approval.
After a thorough study, the Imam approved it. In Raiwand, the Imam said to the
Ismailis of Punjab jamat on January
24, 1938 that, "I have given approval of the laws and regulations, the
constitutions of the local and supreme councils for your progress."

The
second session of the historical Round Table Conference of the Indian political
leaders was held on September 7, 1931 in the Picture Gallery at Buckingham
Palace in London. On those days, the Imam had summoned Pir Sabzali in London,
where he stayed for a week. He was also
present when the Imam and Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1947) held a historical meeting
in Ritz Hotel.

The
Masalawala Co-operative Bank Ltd. formerly known as The Ismaili Masalawala
Sahakari Mandal Ltd. came into existence in 1929 by a handful grocers of
Bombay, and registered it on September 3, 1930. On November 13, 1931, a grand
gathering was held in the hall of the Recreation Club under the presidentship
of Ahmad Fazalbhoy Karimbhoy. Pir Sabzali was invited in special case to
deliver an impressive lecture on the importance of the Ismaili Co-operative
Bank. He vehemently appealed to the audience to become its members. It infused
an impulse in the Ismailis and evinced keen interest in this venture.

Prince
Aly S. Khan visited India on November 21, 1931. Pir Sabzali made excellent
arrangements with other leaders to accord warm welcome in Bombay. He remained
with Prince Aly Khan during the visit.

In
1932, he had been appointed the Mission Secretary of Recreation Club Institute
for the year 1932 and 1933.

On
April 5, 1905, the Imam established a Committee for 18 councils in Kutchh with
Varas Moledina Megji (1854-1926) as
its Chairman, who was followed by his son, Varas Ghulam Hussain (d. 1973). The
Committee was void of a comprehensive constitution, and executed its working on
old rules and customs. On the other hand, Varas Ghulam Hussain was occupied in
his business in Bombay since 1929, and could not regularly attend the community
affairs in Kutchh. He referred his problems to the Imam in Bombay and proposed
Pir Sabzali to make constant visits in Kutchh for about two years to deal with
the affairs. The Imam commissioned Pir Sabzali to visit the villages of Kutchh
from time to time. It deemed desirable that the affairs of the jamats in Kutchh be managed and
conducted regularly and systematically. On October 22, 1932, Pir Sabzali held a
meeting in Nigar, attended by 150 leaders representing different villages. It
was broadly discussed for two days to ordain a constitution of the Council, a
resolution was passed to this effect. The next meeting was held in Bharapur
after two months under Pir Sabzali, where further amendments were included in
the resolution of the first meeting. Finally, they unanimously approved a
resolution regarding the constitution of the Council to be enforced in Kutchh,
and it was forwarded to the Imam for final approval in the beginning of 1933.
When it was approved, the President published the rules and regulations of the
Council in February, 1934. Accordingly, the Council Committee was divided into
two parts i.e., the District Committee and the General Committee. The District
Committees were set up in six places, i.e., Mundra, Bharapur, Bhuj, Anjar,
Wagad and Abdasa. Alijah Hasan Ali Devraj was appointed the President of the
Council Committee with Mukhi Hashim Bhimji as Honorary Secretary, both belonged
to Bombay.

On
February 15, 1933, Prince Aly Khan left Bombay for Gwadar, accompanied by Pir
Sabzali and Hashim Hood. The airplane landed at Gwadar airport at 11.30 a.m., where the Ismailis accorded a
rousing welcome to him. He stayed for one hour only, and returned to Europe.
Pir Sabzali returned to Bombay via Karachi.

The
Gwadar jamat sent a humble letter to
the Imam in London on September 12, 1933 for making a gracious visit of Gwadar.
The Imam sent his message on September 21, 1933 as follows:-

Ismaili Council,

Gwadar

Best loving blessings for your letter of 12^th
Sep. and entertainment. Make Gujrati as a second language in Persian regions
and teach only Persian and Urdu in future under your supervision.

Nay, in
the mehmani of Gwadar jamat in Bombay on December 19, 1933,
the Imam said, “Make friendship with the Baluchis. Don’t teach Gujrati in your
school and teach Persian and Urdu. Baluchistan will now liberate. Teach Urdu to
the children”

With
the above guidance, the Imam also asked Pir Sabzali in December, 1933 to
propagate the notion of Urdu in Gwadar in place of Gujrati in the school. The
Imam also advised Pir Sabzali to arrange talented Urdu teachers from Punjab.
Pir Sabzali was an influential figure in Punjab and recruited few teachers,
viz. Muhammad Uthman, Shamsuddin Mukhi Ali Muhammad and his wife, Asghar Ali
and his wife, Hussain, Fazal Illahi, Muhammad Yaqub, etc. He also fixed their
stipends with free accommodations in Gwadar.

The
Imam was in Delhi in 1934. Pir Sabzali also arrived on February 20, 1934. The
enemies waged propaganda in Delhi against the Imam and the Ismailis. Pir
Sabzali was certainly sensitive to the baseless charges of irreligiously
levelled against the Ismailis by some extremists. He broached the doctrines of
the Ismailis in a press conference with Wafi Ahmad, the President of the
Sialkot Council, Karam Hussain and few other African missionaries. He clarified
that the Ismailis followed the principles of Islam and there was no distinction
between Ismailis and Muslims. Nay, it was a Muslim community, exhorting to
revere all religions and Islamic sects, and was therefore tolerant towards all
and inimical to none.

Pir
Sabzali toured in Burma between March 7, 1934 and March 16, 1934 with the Imam.
He also made his second visit to Burma in 1935 for raising funds for the Golden
Jubilee celebrations.

He had
gone to Punjab to attend the first meeting of the Imami Ismaili Supreme Council
for Punjab on April 7, 1934, whose first President was Wafi Ahmad of Jamu, K.
Nazar Ali of Multan as Vice-President and Barkat Ali of Talwandi as Hon.
Secretary. The President forwarded the report of the meeting to the Imam, and
received the following telegraphic message:

Cannes : April 13, 1934

Wafi Ahmad

Ismailia Council, Sialkot

Best blessing all Punjab spiritual children inaugural
occasion Council.

He also
arrived in Gwadar by air on April 19, 1934 and was well received by Major
Bramner, the present political agent and the consul of Muscat. He stayed at the
bungalow of Mr. Thomson and left for Karachi by the steamer “Baroda” on April 22, 1934 and delivered
waez in his three days visit. In the
same year, he made a trip to Europe with his wife, Sonibai and Varasiani
Ghulshakarbai, the wife of Wazir Rahim Basaria.

He had
been commissioned a campaign in East African countries as a Special
Commissioner of the Imam, which was his second visit. In his telegraphic
message released from Paris on May 17, 1934, the Imam stated: "Most paternal affectionate thoughts for all
in Africa. I have sent Alijah as special commissioner on my behalf to bring
message of my paternal constant thoughts and my particular desire of careful
useful cooperation in worldly and religious matters amongst all Ismailis during
these hard times of crisis of world depression."

Accordingly,
he landed at Tanganyika and started his activities emphatically. Shafique
Literary Society gave him a reception on September 18, 1934 at H.H. The Aga
Khan Girls School in Dar-es-Salaam. Varas Abdullah Sharif, the President of the
Supreme Council, attended it with the members of the local council, the members
of Educational Board, Mukhi Zaver Karshan, Kamadia Abbas Moledina, Ramzan Ali
and Vali Virani, the barristors, Mr. Habib Jamal, Alijah Moloo Alarakhia, and
the members and patrons of Shafique Literary Society.

He was
on his flying visit of Dodoma and presided over the general function of the
local library on October 2, 1934 at the Girls School.

In
October, 1934, he gave an interview to “Tanganyika
Herald” in Dar-es-Salaam and said that, “The principal topics of my waez are to exhort the importance of
improving economical condition, competition in business and education. I have
visited almost in all the countries in the world. I was also present during the
meeting of the Aga Khan and Gandhi (1869-1947) in London on the issues of the
community. The objective of both leaders was to create unity between Muslims
and Hindus. But some impudants laid hindrance in it. It is natural that the Aga
Khan is a leader of the Muslims, the Islamic spirit emanates in his
personality. But I will say with great confidence that he has an equal regard
for all the communities. The status of Banaras Hindu University in his list of
charity and his recommendation for the sacrifice of the cow in the Muslim
Conference in Delhi, are the unique examples for it.”

He
arrived at Tanga on October 17, 1934 by Mira
Steamer. He was feted warm welcome by the jamat
at the port, and was brought to the city in a procession. He lodged at the
residence of the President Ismail Jetha. He delivered waez and raised a yearly donation scheme on monthly payment of one
hundred shillings for the welfare of the poor Ismailis. He also emphasized to
establish a volunteer corps in Tanga jamat,
and as a result, about 40 men and 38 women offered their services in this
context.

He
arrived at Mombasa on October 21, 1934 from Tanga by car. Alijah Kassim Khimji,
the President of the Council arranged his stay at his bungalow at Niyalina
Bridge. He stayed 15 days in Mombasa and delivered an impressive waez
thrice every day. With the efforts of Ghulam Hussain and Missionary
Megji Merali, a Mission Center was planned to be set up by the Council in
Mombasa, to train about a hundred young students. Pir Sabzali gave important
advices and suggestions for the Mission Center. The Council honored him in a
reception on October 27, 1934. The volunteers, ladies committee, ladies
volunteer corps and other institutions also gave him parties. The Recreation
Club Institute honoured him at a reception on October 28, 1934 in the Assembly
Hall of the H.H. The Aga Khan High School, Mombasa. President Jaffer Ali
Mohammad and Honorary Secretary Noorudin Ali Merali gave him a warm honour with
other leaders.

He left
Mombasa on November 5, 1934 for Moshi. He was escorted at Voy, about 100 miles
from Mombasa by the Council’s President, Alijah Kassim Khimji, Honorary
Secretary Hussain Vellani, Kassim Suleman Damji, etc. He performed waez at Voy and Matati for one day and
then arrived at Moshi and Taweta. He then proceeded to Kisumu in November 22,
1934, where he reorganized the ladies and gents volunteer corps. He had an
honour to lay the foundation of the building of Rehmatullah Punja in the new
market of Kisumu. The local leaders gave him a grand reception in presence of
500 guests. On behalf of the Council, Seth Mohammad Kassim Lakha made a speech
to admire his exceptional services in the Ismaili world for last 29 years. He
visited Uganda on November 29, 1934, where he delivered waez in the Jamatkhana of Kampala and visited the Ismaili
institutions. He then proceeded towards Masaka and Mwanza.

In sum,
he returned to Bombay on December 29, 1934 and was greeted at Belardpier by
Haji Mohammad Juma Jan Mohammad, Alijah Ismail Mohammad Jaffer, Hasan Datoo,
Kamadia Chatoor Bhanji, Missionary Hamir Lakha, Missionary Alidina Mukhi Mamu,
etc. In his productive campaign, he collected five lac shillings in East Africa
as a Special Commissioner of the Imam. The Imam arrived in Bombay on January 3,
1935 from Europe. Pir Sabzali submitted his report of East African tour to the
Imam.

On
October 16, 1935, a meeting was held in Poona, presided by Lady Ali Shah, for
the formation of All India Golden
Jubilee Celebration Committee with its President Sir Ibrahim Rahmatullah
(1862-1942) and the Vice-President as Ghulam Ali Merchant. To make a concerted
drive for the collection of funds in India, a Working Committee was launched
under Pir Sabzali’s wing. Accordingly, he started his noble campaign on October
23, 1935 from Kathiawar and delivered his very impressive waez first in Dhoraji. He then proceeded to Junagadh, Manawadar,
Rajkot, Jamanagar, Viraval, Una, Majewadi, Jetpur, Virpur, Supedi, Vadwan,
Chotila, etc. In other words, he made his trip in 17 villages and collected
85,000 rupees in Kathiawar, Gujrat and Kutchh. The local jubilee committee of
Dhoraji Division, in the meantime, sent a report to the Imam. The Imam sent
them a telegraphic message from London on December 13, 1935 as under:-

Give most paternal loving blessings for the service. I
am much happy to know the detail of the
funds collected by the committee for the celebration of my jubilee. I give my
blessings to each donor.”

He then
proceeded to Sind and Punjab and other parts of India and collected a colossal
fund for the Golden Jubilee celebration. His mode of collection can safely be
compared with that of the Imam, who collected three million rupees for the
Aligadh University.

It may
be noted that all the preparations were given a final shape for the celebration
of the Golden Jubilee of the Imam during the completion of 50 years of Imamate.
For this celebration, Pir Sabzali received much response from the jamats more than expected, who flooded
money and ornaments before him. When the collection reached upto five lac of
rupees, a special meeting of the Golden Jubilee Celebration Committee was held
on December 8, 1935 at the premises of the Central Board. President Ghulam Ali
Merchant read the telegraphic message of the Imam and also announced the
collection of five lac rupees. The members hailed the report in jubilation. On
that occasion, Pir Sabzali put a proposal not only to celebrate the occasion of
the golden jubilee, but the Imam should be weighed against the gold. N.M.
Budhwani supported his proposal and it was unanimously resolved also in the
meeting. The Ismailis gaped with wonder with the news that the occasion of the
Golden Jubilee hit would weigh the Imam in gold for the first time the
headlights of newspapers.

It
cannot be disputed that the credit for raising a massive fund for the Golden
jubilee within a short period of three months from all over India goes to Pir
Sabzali. The scaptics who were diffident of success began to rub their eyes in
wonder. He paved the way and the impossible had been made possible. They did
not know what unfathomable depths of dynamic and infectious energy Pir Sabzali
possessed.

In appreciation of his unstinted services, the Imam awarded him Gold
Medal with “Straight Bar” in 1936
during the historical occasion of Golden Jubilee.

He
launched his third and last itinerary to the African countries from January 5,
1937 as a Special Commissioner of the Imam, where he exhausted six months to
remove off the old customs of the community. He prepared a report and published
duly approved by the Imam.

He also
attended the Golden Jubilee of the Imam in Nairobi on March 1, 1937. He is
credited to have put the gold bars into his hands and addressed to the audience
on microphone and spoke the importance of the occasion.

On that occasion, he had been invested the
title of Itmadi by the Imam, and was
also awarded the gold medal with “Chevron” and “Straight Bar.”

During
the Golden Jubilee at Nairobi, the Economic Conference in accordance with the
guidance of the Imam drew up the plans for the economic welfare of the
community. Huzur Wazir Ali Muhammad R. Macklai was appointed its Chairman. Pir
Sabzali however presided the Economic Conference in Nairobi as an Acting
Chairman.

During
his visit, he established four Co-operative Societies and most important was
the establishment of an Insurance Company.
It was his last visit to East Africa and is reported to have said to the
jamat in his waez that, "When the
Diamond Jubilee of the Imam will be celebrated, the Africa will be so
prosperous that the Ismailis will easily weigh the Imam in diamonds without any
hurdle."

The
year 1937 was revolutionary for East African Ismailis, as it was then that the
target or first stage of their progress in economic fields was set. Among them
was Jubilee Insurance Co. Ltd., which took its birth from the historic occasion
of the Golden Jubilee. The growth and success of the company are to be
attributed to the keen interest, hard work and foresight of the stalwarts like
Dewan Ghulam Hussain Jindani (1891-1983), Count Paroo, Count Fateh Ali Dhala,
Dewan Sir Eboo Pirbhai, Count Hasan K. Lakha, Count A.G. Abdul Hussain and
other directors. The initial honor however must go to Pir Sabzali who, at the
command of the Imam, took upon himself the onerous task of enlisting the new
company's shareholders as well as business, and travelled widely through the
length and breadth of Africa. He arranged to raise a capital of 2 million
shillings and also brought the insurance business for about 20 million shillings.
He deserved an official privilege of the commission for shillings 40,000, but
he did not claim for it. It will be not exaggerated to write that Lord Michel,
the governor of Kenya performed an opening ceremony of the modern edifice of
the Jubilee Insurance Co. Ltd. at Mombasa on September 10, 1951. The occasion
marked an important milestone in the progress of the Company. Count Paroo
(1906-1998), the Managing Director spoke in his address that, “The Aga Khan,
the Spiritual Leader of the Ismailis had stressed before 15 years to venture in
the insurance business for sharing in the economic building of the country
which they had accepted as their motherland. This is the best outcome of his
guidance. This Insurance Company came into existence with the constant efforts
of late Pir Sabzali. In 1937, its capital was 25000/- pounds, and now it
reached to 8 million pounds.”

On June
21, 1937, he had also attended the first session of the Ismailia Supreme
Council for Africa in Zanzibar. It was presided by Count Abdullah Sharif.

He stayed in Africa for 23
months. He visited Pemba-Wete on May 10, 1938 and delivered waez for five days. With the help of
Wazir Ghulam Hussain Dharas, the President of the Provincial Council, he sold
2000 shares of the Jubilee Insurance Company. In Tanga, he made an opening
ceremony of the Ismailia Cooperative Society. The Aga Khan’s Ismaili Ladies
Committee organized a fair in Tanga to entertain the children on June 16, 1938,
which was presided by him. He also was destined to open the newly built
Jamatkhana of Masuka. Kisumu was destitute of an Ismaili dispensary since long.
During his visit, he tenaciously made an appeal to the donors to come forward
for this noble project. A certain Motibai Kurji Vali was deeply touched with
it. She donated 5000 shillings for the dispensary to the Aga Khan Provincial
Council, which she had saved for many years.

When Nuruddin, the son of
Alijah Datoo Meru was leaving Bombay for Nairobi, Sonibai, the wife of Pir
Sabzali gave him a message for Pir Sabzali that it had taken much time to him
in Africa, so he should return to Bombay. When Nuruddin delivered her message
to Pir Sabzali in Nairobi, he said, “Are you not the son of Alijah Datoo Meru?
You must know how one can curtail his services. The community’s service is my
life-blood, which I cannot put aside uncompleted.” It is also related that once
he told to the Imam, “Mawla! you pray that I succeed in the work whatever you
consigned me.” The Imam is reported to have blessed him.

His health became none of
the best and shattered by the heavy strain of work and ceaseless tours from one
to another village. He bound for Bombay for treatment in November, 1938. He
left behind word to the African jamats
to come back within three months. He hardly breathed a sigh of relief in three
days when the Imam’s telegram received, informing his gracious arrival in
Bombay from London. He rejoiced beyond all bounds and came into the action and
delivered an impressive speech in the Kandi Mola Jamatkhana, Bombay for ten
minutes. This was fated to be his last public oratory. He visited the room of
Recreation Club Institute, where after 30 minutes, he felt acute chest pain and
fainted nimbly. He was taken to the bungalow of his close relative, Wazir
Muhammad Ibrahim Muhammad Rawjee (1900-1965) for treatment.

The
Imam visited Bombay and when he heard of the health condition of Pir Sabzali
impaired, he went to see him on December 10, 1938. The Imam caught his hand for
ten minutes while standing, then put his blessed hand on his forehead and gave
him a chhanta. The tears streamed
from his eyes. The Imam said, "Sabzali, do you feel pain?"

"Mawla! not at all,” he answered, “rather feel happiness. Alas! you came
to my house, but I cannot set myself erect to welcome you. This is the only
reason of tears bursting in my eyes." The Imam soothed him, quieted him,
and cast his merciful eyes upon him. Who can know what bounty was then
conferred on him? If the words which the Imam in that moment addressed to him
should fall upon the ears of night, night would cease to be night, night would
become day radiant as dawn.

After
two days, he passed away on December 12, 1938 at 8.25 a.m. His sudden demise
occasioned deep grief among all classes and communities. The fifty-five years
of his life was packed with accomplishments, which shall always remain a source
of pride to the Ismailis. He strove to advance the interest of the community at
every available opportunity. He piloted the ship with skill and courage and
brought it safely ashore. He left behind an enviable record of services.

On
December 14, 1938, the Imam said to the Bombay jamat that, "Itmadi
Sabzali has reached God's mercy. I give my blessings for him. His name will
always remain immortalized in history. He was a chief dai of the present jamat

like the dais of the past, and
glorified the Ismaili faith in Africa, Sind, Punjab, Gwadar and India.

Itmadi Sabzali has revealed his spiritual power to the
thousands of people and also to other sister communities. He has exhorted the tariqah of our religion to other
communities. During the occasion of Golden jubilee, he had visited one to
another city and imparted our jamat
and other communities.

Itmadi Sabzali was the standard bearer of the haqiqi momins. He departed from the
world, putting the world in great loss. He has gone into the real bliss. It is
a matter of happiness that he has no worldly problem till last breath of his
life."

On
December 15, 1938, the Imam said, "The
photo of late Itmadi Sabzali be placed in the Jamatkhana. His photos also be
kept in the Jamatkhanas of Karachi, Punjab and Sialkot."

On the
occasion of the unveiling ceremony of his photo in the Recreation Club
Institute on January 18, 1939, the Imam made the following historical
announcement: -

"Itmadi Sabzali has served me in such a manner that
after his death, I honor him the title of a Pir. If others would render such
services, they too shall secure a like status. During the stretch of 54 years
of my Imamate, to only one Pir Sabzali, I honor such a status."

Sonibai
(d. 1946), the daughter of Jaffer Bhanji was the wife of Pir Sabzali, having no
child. In 1927, they had adopted Fatima (1925-1950), the daughter of Mukhi
Muhammad Ali, when she was hardly three years old. The marriage of Fatima was
solemnized with Alijah Hussain Ghulam (1918-1981) in Karachi. Pir Sabzali also
adopted another girl, called Nurbanu Hussain Nanji.

Bhagat Hira was a devoted Ismaili goldsmith in Punjab. His son, Ghulam Sadruddin had a strong proclivity towards Ismailism and conducted the religious school at his own residence in Multan. He translated 'Si-Harafi' of Sayed Ahmad Shah into Urdu. He and his forefathers were the gupti Ismailis, who subscribed to the Ismaili faith openly in 1912 in accordance with the instructions of the Imam. Ghulam Sadruddin served as a Mukhi of Multan Jamatkhana and a member of the district Council for Multan. He had four sons and three daughters. Hyder Ali who died young. Rehmat Ali and Mubarak Ali dwelt in Karachi as well known jewellers and bullion merchants. Mubarak Ali was the President of Ismaili Council, Multan Cantt, and was also the President of All Pakistan Shroff (bullion merchants) Association. The fourth son Aziz, known as Aziz Mukhi Sadruddin, or Rai A.M. Sadruddin was most famous among them. His two of three daughters were the first to qualify as trained teachers in the community.
Mukhiani Mariambai, the wife of Mukhi Ghulam Sadruddin (.d. 1926) died in Karachi on September 9, 1951 at the age of 71 years, who served as a Mukhiani in Multan Jamatkhana for over 25 years. The Imam in a cable message to Rai A.M. Sadruddin, conferred upon her a posthumous title of Lady Mariam.

Rai A.M. Sadruddin was born on June 19, 1906. He did his matriculation from the Government High School and joined the Government College, Multan. He was interested to study Ismailism since childhood.

Rai A.M. Sadruddin possessed poetical faculty. He versified his first poem at the age of 10 years, namely 'Haqq' without proper metres. It was meant to be published from Lahore, supporting the Allied cause in the First World War in 1916. He then compiled 'Shajra' (genealogy) of the Imam in Urdu in 200 pages in 1922 at the age of 16 years. He also compiled,'Gur'ki Pichhan' at the end of 1922. He also wrote several important articles, notably in the papers, 'Zamindar', 'Inkilab', 'Ismaili', etc.

On those days, Pir Sabzali had come from Karachi to Punjab in 1920 as a Special Commissioner of the Imam. His father took him to Pir Sabzali and asked to accept him as his pupil, and a small traditional ceremony was performed and sweetmeats distributed in the jamat. He acquired adequate religious education from Pir Sabzali, who was his real religious tutor. In 1921, he was invited in Bombay for a lecture. It was his first lecture when he was 15 years old before the grand gathering, presided by Pir Sabzali. Huzur Wazir Ali Muhammad Macklai awarded him a gold medal. He also lectured in the Recreation Club on December 28, 1922 on the 'Need of the Imamate' for two hours, which was advertised in the foremost Bombay daily 'Sanj Vartman.'

In Bombay, he gave a public lecture on July 21, 1923. On July 29, 1923, Huzur Wazir Ali Muhammad Macklai appointed him as a member of Recreation Club Institute by a special circular. In 1923, he also became an Hon. Secretary of Punjab Ismailia Mission Club in Multan, whose President was his maternal uncle, Karam Hussain. His booklet 'Qandil-i Rah-i Rast' Part I was written at the end of 1923, which he dedicated to Pir Sabzali. Its second volume appeared in 1924, which he dedicated to Manji Ghulam Hussain Padamsi.

The 'Shajra' was the first book he had compiled in Urdu, covering 200 pages of school copies. Pir Sabzali managed to show his book to the Imam at Bombay in 1922 with his father. He could not go to Bombay due to a matric examination. The Imam asked, 'Where is the boy who wrote this book? Will he translate the ginans in Urdu?' The Imam also told to get it printed at his own expenses. His father returned to Punjab. He overjoyed when heard the Imam's remarks on his book. So, he set on his writing career. He printed several books, including two ginans translated in Urdu with the help of his family members. His book 'Shajra' remained yet unpublished. Pir Sabzali told him in 1923 to see Huzur Wazir Ali Muhammad Macklai, while he himself proceeded on his tour of Central Asia. Huzur Wazir Ali Muhammad Macklai subsequently directed him to see A.J. Chunara, who was in Poona. He went to Poona and showed him his book. Later on, the Press and Publicity Department of the Recreation Club translated it into Gujrati. Meanwhile, he returned to Punjab and his historical book faded out. It however was well studied by Hasan Ali Rahim Nathani (d. 1962), who derived its materials for the 'Nurun Mubin' of A.J. Chunara. Rai A.M. Sadruddin justifiably has always proudly claimed that the 'Nurun Mubin' was born out of his unpublished 'Shajra.'

He was under-graduate when his father expired in 1926. He left his studies and joined the teaching line. He married to Rabia, the daughter of Mukhi Mubarak Ali.

On June 14, 1927, he gave a lecture on 'Ismailism and Historians' in the grand assembly of the Recreation Club, Bombay, presided by Missionary Mohammad Abdullah. He quoted rich historical evidences in his lecture. In course of which he read out a bibliography of over 250 books and articles of Arabic, Persian, English and Urdu. This probably was the first scholarly bibliography of Ismailism ever to be compiled. He scholarly examined the works published from Leiden, London and Paris. He spoke on the Ismailis and its origin, the need of the Imam, the Fatimid Imams, and the Nizari Imams down to the Aga Khan period. He also discussed the Fatimid genealogy and the peerless personality of Hasan bin Sabbah.

On the occasion of the unfurling ceremony of the Ismaili banner, My-Flag for the first time in the Thana Jamatkhana on June 19, 1927, he was fortunate to attend it.

In 1929, Rai Sadruddin came in East Africa, and became the Headmaster of the Tanga Ismailia School and the member of the Mombasa Religious School. In July, 1931, when he was on holiday from Africa, as a Chairman of the Punjab Ismailia Protest Committee, he addressed to the Viceroy of India and the Governor of Punjab, the resolutions passed by the jamats of Punjab against the Arya Samaj newspaper, defiling Ismailism in hyperbolic terms. In 1932, he became the Headmaster of Dar-es-Salaam Religious School, and also started the first religious periodical, known as Shafiq from Dar-es-Salaam in 1934. He sent its copy to the Imam in India and received a gracious message, ending with the words, 'Nothing can help more than writing.' Soon afterwards, he started the first bilingual weekly, namely Ismaili Voice from Dar-es-Salaam in 1936.

Rai Sadruddin then moved to Nairobi in 1937, where he published a quarterly periodical, Zahur in 1939. It was hailed in the community and continued for several years. He also attended as a delegate of Dar-es-Salaam Mission Society in the first Mission Conference held in Mombasa on December, 1945 and was elected its General Secretary. He was also appointed the Chairman of Nairobi Ismailia Mission Society (1941-1943). In 1946, he published The Diamond Jubilee Souvenir. The Imam sent him a personal message by his own hand-writing in 1946 that, 'Mr. Sadruddin is of particular interest to me as he is one whose family was converted by me personally. I am glad to see the good work he has done for our faith. I have followed his work and career with great interest. I give him my blessings and best wish for a life of success. '

He was the Chief Publicity Officer of the Grand Victory War Fete (1944), publicized the Prince Aly Khan War Fund and the Palestine Relief Fund, and also the Publicity Officer of the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations in Africa in 1946, also the Chief Publicity Officer of Victory War Fete. He also became the Chief Organizer of the Ismailia Education Week and Students' Rally. He was also appointed the Chairman of The Aga Khan's Public Affairs Committee in 1947.

He was a member and an officer-in-charge of libraries, mission, religious education and publicity at various times in the Ismailia Association for Kenya, first appointed in 1948 to 1950, re-appointed in 1951 to 1953 and 1968 to 1971.

In 1953, he was appointed Chairman of the Provincial Committee of the Ismailia Association for Kenya, and became the General Secretary of the Ismailia Political Committee for Kenya in the same year. He was also a member of H.H. The Aga Khan's Provincial Council (1954-1962). He was the founder Convenor of Nairobi Ismailia Study Group in 1955. He also became the Honorary Secretary of Platinum Jubilee Hospital Interim Management Board in 1957, and the Chairman of the Economic Committee in 1961.

Rai Sadruddin was also appointed by the colonial government as an Information Officer of the Indian Section of the Kenya Information Office and was responsible for two weekly wartime official News Bulletin in Urdu and Gujrati. As well, he founded the Hindustani Radio Programme Services of 7LO Nairobi after the end of War. Being an Information Officer, he was able to remain in touch with the editors of East African newspapers and journals, and gained rich experience. It must be known that the journalism had been his first love, it had never been his profession or means of livelihood.

He was a member of the Government India High School Committee (1943-1946), and also of the Advisory Council & Standing Committee of the Asian Education in Kenya. Her Majesty the Queen of England awarded him the Coronation Medal for his education services in 1953. He was also a member of the Government Nairobi Area Schools' Committee (1946-1951), and became Chairman of this committee (1951- 1955 & 1957-1959). He was also the Chairman of Government High School Committee, Eastleigh (1960- 1964), and the member of the Kenya Advisory Council on Asian Education (1945-1948 & 1951- 1963).

For 23 years he had been a member of the Important City Education Body, the Nairobi Evening Continuation Classes Management Committee (1947-1970). He also became the Chairman of the Government Indian School Scholarship Committee (1945-1950), the member of Asian Overseas Bursary Committee (1952-1956), Multi-Racial Bursary Selection Board (1957-1959), Central Bursary Committee (1960-1963). He was also a member of the Joint-Committee of the Legislative Asian Elected Members and the Asian Advisory Council on Education (1957-1958), Government Adult Education Committee (1952), University College Extra Mural Studies (1957-1958), Approved School Board (1958-1961), Joint-Committee on Religious Studies University of East African (1967-1970), University Departmental Committee of Philosophy and Religious Studies (1970), etc.

He also took keen interest in the field of libraries, and became the President of Asian Library in Kenya and of Desai Memorial (1951-1953 & 1963-1967). He also became a member of Government Central Reference Library Committee in 1952 and Development of the Public Libraries Committee (1959-1963).

He also got involved in political bodies. For instance, he became City Councilor and Member of the Building Control Board (1946), Senior Vice-President of the Anjuman Himayat Islam of East Africa (1949-1950), Vice-President of Sayed Abdullah Shah Memorial Fund (1950), President of the Muslim Parents' Association (1952), Honorary Secretary of the Kenya Muslim League (1954-1956), etc.

The Imam appointed him as a member of the Publicity and Research in the Advisory Board of the Ismailia Association for Kenya through a message on September 19, 1968. The Imam said, 'I give you my best paternal maternal loving blessings to the newly appointed members of the Advisory Board.' The inaugural meeting of the Research Section of the Ismailia Association was held on August, 1970, which came to be known as the Friday Forum.

Rai Sadruddin was invited to attend the 28th International Congress of Orientalists held in Canberra, Australia between 6th and 12 January, 1971.

He was appointed as an Estate Secretary with H.H. The Aga Khan Estate Department for Africa in 1952, and after serving for 20 years, he retired in 1972.

In 1972, he became the Honorary General Secretary of the Ismailia Association for Kenya and continued to serve as an honorary editor of the 'Africa Ismaili'

He proceeded to Canada in 1974 with his family and settled in Vancouver. The Imam appointed him the member of the Review Committee for the Ismaili Research Centre in London. He attended the meeting of the Review Committee in London, where his death occurred by heart failure on July 9, 1980 at the age of 74 years. The Imam sent a message to the family of Rai A.M. Sadruddin and bestowed blessings to the departed soul.

Raid Sadruddin had three sons, viz. Mumtaz Ali, Sarfraz Hussain and Ejaz Hussain; and three daughters, Mehrunissa, Firdaus Ara and Dr. Zubeda.

'The happiest week of my life was in 1957 when I travelled with the Aga Khan IV as his Secretary during his first tour as an Imam in East Africa' was an oft-repeated word of pride of Rai Sadruddin.