“One of the goals that I would like to accomplish this Diamond Jubilee year is to be more involved and probably make an impact in at least one person’s life, and fulfill one of my inspirations as an artist for Hazar Imam and the institutions,” said Nureen Bhimani from Atlanta Headquarters Jamatkhana.
She was one of the thousands who had gathered together across the Southeast region to celebrate Mawlana Hazar Imam’s 81st Birthday and the immeasurable impact he has had on the lives of millions.
The love for our Imam was front and center at the celebrations. Every member of the audience felt humbled to be a recipient of the 60 years of love and blessings that the Imam has showered on us. The evening began with a video montage of congratulatory messages from the global Jamat, dressed in their traditional attire and speaking their native languages. A visual treat in itself, the messages from across the world tugged at the heartstrings of the Jamat and many in the audience were reminded of their families elsewhere in the world.
Jamati members of all age groups and of different ethnic backgrounds could be seen enjoying the celebrations, which showcased stage performances, dinner, and live musical performances by the Flute Band and Orchestra.
The performers invested hours in rehearsals to proudly present impeccable musical performances that highlighted the diversity of the Jamat and the beauty of pluralism. Active and energetic engagement with diversity breaks down silos and creates an environment of brotherhood and camaraderie, which was witnessed in the profound happiness and joy throughout the evening.
Hundreds of volunteers worked tirelessly to make the Salgirah 81 celebrations a success and a joyous occasion for the Jamat. At the Northeast Jamatkhana, 68 year old Kamruddin Gillani said: “I started seva (service) when I was four years old. All my life I have done seva. I wear only one dress - my volunteer dress - because I don’t like wearing any other dress in Jamatkhana."
Janie Pandiya was one of the many interfaith family members who came to be a part of the Salgirah celebrations. She became emotional while sharing her experience of the mulaqat with Mawlana Hazar Imam during his Golden Jubilee. “As an Interfaith spouse, I had a great experience at the Golden Jubilee, and am really looking forward to the Diamond Jubilee celebrations. I am a volunteer with the transportation service and look forward to Hazar Imam’s visit and to serving his Jamat. I feel serving his Jamat is serving him.”
The senior members of the Jamat reminisced of their personal journeys since the Imam’s Takht-Nashini. Iqbal Aswani was all smiles at the event and said that “It already feels like Mawla is here with us. We really appreciate what Hazar Imam has done for us in the last 60 years and we pray for his long life.” He added, “we are all trying to follow Hazar imam’s guidance and be One Jamat. No fights, no arguments – only smiles”.
