Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin Delivers Inaugural Sermon of Ashara Mubaraka in Chennai

Chennai: The 53rd leader of the global Dawoodi Bohra community, His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, delivered the inaugural sermon of this year’s Ashara Mubaraka from Saifee Masjid on SMB Street in Chennai. The sermon marked the beginning of a 9-day spiritual gathering, which will conclude on July 5th, the Day of Aashura.

Syedna Saifuddin announced that this year’s sermons will revolve around a central theme of exploring the universe, planetary orbits, and celestial bodies. He drew parallels between the physical stars and planets and key personalities from Islamic history, highlighting the harmony between faith and science.

Syedna emphasized the importance of love and charity, saying that ‘mahabbat’, or love in Arabic, is a powerful force for good. He praised the Dawoodi Bohra community in Chennai for their commitment to serving their fellow citizens and promoting values of love, harmony, and humanity.

The sermon also recounted the sacrifices made by Imam Husain, the Prophet Mohammed’s grandson, and the tragic events that led to his martyrdom in Karbala. Syedna explained that remembering this tragedy empowers the community, increasing its empathy and dedication to universal values.

Approximately 43,000 Dawoodi Bohra community members have gathered in Chennai for the occasion, including 8,000 local residents and 35,000 guests from around the world. The sermons will be live-streamed to multiple centers across the city and beyond, allowing devotees to participate in the spiritual gathering.