What immediately caught attention of the visitors at the exhibition was the beautifully fabricated and lit canopy, signifying the ‘Chatra-Chaya’ (protective shelter), symbolising security and blessings for the Jamat through the present and living Imam and the protection and shelter for those whom AKDN serves. With its caption “Experience, Explore, Engage”, the exhibition sought to give its visitors a multi-sensory experience.  Ambassadors-volunteers in action- engaged the visitors with the understanding of the eight ethics with stories of lives touched by the development projects.  An interactive map to help the visitors understand the places where AKDN is operational or plans to operate in future also captivated the visitors. The exhibition also included display of artefacts created by beneficiaries of AKDN institutions. For instance, there were diaries designed by an all women self-help group, Insha-e-Noor, from Nizamuddin Basti in New Delhi. Guests at the exhibition got to learn about the intricate jaali  work used by these women and also got to see other articles from countries such as Kenya, Tajikistan and Egypt as well!!

Both children and adults were enthralled by the virtual reality tour which informed them about the AKDN endeavors while walking through the project space virtually!!

“The interactive map gave many insights to my child. Even I learnt today that there is an app which gives me more information about the amazing work that Imam is doing”, said Simran who visited the exhibition. Another visitor expressed her ‘aha-moment’ when she found out places where AKDN is operating globally and expressed that she never imagined that the AKDN would be present in places without any Ismaili population.

Look out for the exhibition in your area and don’t miss it as it travels to Hyderabad with the Jubilee Concert on the 24th of March 2018!!!