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Top 10 Celebrities Embracing Dawoodi Bohra Roots

The Dawoodi Bohra community is a sect of Shia Islam that originated in Yemen and later settled in various parts of the world, including India, Pakistan, and East Africa. Over the years, several individuals from the Dawoodi Bohra ethnicity have gained fame and recognition in various fields. Here are ten notable celebrities and influential people from the Dawoodi Bohra community:

  • Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin: He was the 52nd Dai al-Mutlaq, or spiritual leader, of the Dawoodi Bohra community. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin was widely respected for his religious knowledge and leadership skills. He played a significant role in the community’s development and welfare.
  • Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin: The current spiritual leader of the Dawoodi Bohras, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, is highly regarded for his comprehensive understanding of Islamic teachings and his efforts towards community service and philanthropy.
  • A. R. Rahman: A highly acclaimed Indian musician and composer, A. R. Rahman, is of Dawoodi Bohra descent. He has won numerous awards for his contributions to the music industry, including two Academy Awards, two Grammy Awards, and a BAFTA Award.
  • Zainab Abbas: A prominent sports presenter and journalist, Zainab Abbas, has made a name for herself in the cricket world. With her expertise and charismatic personality, she has become one of the most recognizable faces in sports journalism.
  • Taher Shah: Known for his unique style and charming persona, Taher Shah is a Pakistani singer and musician who gained international attention through his viral music videos. His distinctive personality and catchy songs have made him a popular figure among fans worldwide.
  • Tanazz Irani: A well-known Indian actress and comedian, Tanazz Irani has worked in numerous television shows and films. She is admired for her versatile acting skills and her ability to effortlessly portray diverse characters.
  • Rita Momma: Rita Momma is an Indian fashion designer and entrepreneur who has made a mark in the fashion industry. Her intricate designs and detailed craftsmanship have earned her recognition both nationally and internationally.
  • Ali Asghar: Ali Asghar is a Pakistani actor and comedian who has made a name for himself through his impressive performances in television dramas and comedy shows. He is widely appreciated for his comedic timing and versatile acting skills.
  • Siddiq Barmak: A prominent Afghan filmmaker, Siddiq Barmak, is known for his critically acclaimed movie “Osama,” which won several international awards, including the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film.
  • Zubair Umar: Zubair Umar is a Pakistani entrepreneur and politician who has held notable positions in the business and political realms. He has actively contributed to economic growth and development in Pakistan.
Syedna AbdulQadir Najmuddin bin Syedna Tayyeb Zainuddin (born 18 August 1814 (2nd Ramazan al-Moazzam 1229 AH) – died 11 May 1885) became the 47th Da'i al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohra sect amid succession disputes.
He was born to Syedna Tayyeb Zainuddin when his father and his father's younger brother Syedna Mohammed Ezzuddin were being trained by Syedna Abdeali Saifuddin to become Da'i al-Mutlaq. His childhood was nurtured by the care and guidance of his father. His father also entrusted him to Syedi Abdeali Imaduddin to be tutored on certain knowledge imparted by the 43rd Da'i al-Mutlaq Syedna Abdeali Saifuddin.When his father Tayyeb Zainuddin became the 45th Da'i al-Mutlaq, he was seven years old. As he grew up he accompanied his father at all times. His father educated him on the intricacies of becoming a Da'i al-Mutlaq. After the death of his father, the 46th Da'i al-Mutlaq Syedna Mohammed Badruddin educated and guided him.
He was the first Da'i al-Mutlaq whose tenure was the longest amongst all the Da'i al-Mutlaq before him. For a period of more than 46 years he nurtured the members of the Dawoodi Bohra sect with fatherly care and affection. His knowledge and perseverance led the members of the Dawoodi Bohra sect out of a grave crisis that had shaken their very faith and created doubt in their beliefs.He remained as the Da'i al-Mutlaq until 1885. While he was planning ahead as to how to clear the heavy debts of the Dawoodi Bohra sect and travelling from one place to the other to educate the members of the community, he suddenly came under the influence of an epidemic that was prevalent in Ujjain. He did nass upon Syedna Abdul Husain Husamuddin before important and high-ranking post-holders of the community.It was in his nature to do everything possible for the happiness of the members of the Dawoodi Bohra sect. So when the members in Ujjain urged him to stay back till he recovered, he stayed back seeing their love and affection for him, knowing very well that by staying back, he would be staying there forever. His mausoleum is at Ujjain.

Most Famous Dawoodi Bohra People

Dawoodi Bohra’s Three Pinnacle Historical Inheritances

The Dawoodi Bohra community is a sect of Shia Islam, known for their rich cultural heritage and distinct religious practices. With a history that spans over a thousand years, the Dawoodi Bohras have made significant contributions in the fields of architecture, literature, and cuisine. Here are three of the most well-known historical inheritances associated with the Dawoodi Bohra heritage:

1. Fatimid Architecture:

The Dawoodi Bohras trace their spiritual lineage to the Fatimid dynasty, who were renowned for their sophisticated architectural achievements in medieval times. This influence can be seen in the grand mosques and mausoleums built by the community around the world. One notable example is the Raudat Tahera mausoleum in Mumbai, India, which is the final resting place of the 52nd Dawoodi Bohra Dai (spiritual leader). The mausoleum showcases intricate designs and craftsmanship that blend both Arabic and Indian styles.

2. Bohra Literature:

The Dawoodi Bohras have a rich literary heritage, with a tradition of writing and preserving texts that date back centuries. The community has produced numerous scholars and poets who have contributed to Arabic, Persian, and Gujarati literature. Many of these works explore themes of spirituality, ethics, and community values. An example of a prominent literary figure from the Dawoodi Bohra community is Syedna Taher Saifuddin, the 51st Dai, who penned several acclaimed works, including “Baqaa’ il-Musharrafah” and “Amaan ul-Laah”.

3. Bohra Cuisine:

The Dawoodi Bohra community is known for its unique and delicious cuisine, which is a blend of Indian, Middle Eastern, and African flavors. The community’s culinary traditions have been passed down through generations, with recipes carefully preserved and perfected. Bohra meals often consist of a variety of dishes, including fragrant rice, slow-cooked curries, and savory snacks. One iconic dish is the Bohra biryani, which is made with fragrant basmati rice, tender meat, and aromatic spices.

The Dawoodi Bohra community continues to take pride in its historical heritage and strives to uphold its rich cultural practices. Whether through its awe-inspiring architecture, timeless literature, or mouthwatering cuisine, the Dawoodi Bohras are a testament to the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural legacies.

  • The Dawoodi Bohras have a rich literary heritage.
  • Bohra cuisine is a blend of Indian, Middle Eastern, and African flavors.
  • Dawoodi Bohras take pride in their historical heritage and cultural practices.

Ethnic Factsheet: The Dawoodi Bohra People

Demographic Statistics
Ethnicity Dawoodi Bohra
Region Primarily found in India and Pakistan, with significant populations in East Africa, Middle East, Europe, and North America
Language Primarily speaks Gujarati, but also fluent in Arabic and English
Religion Followers of the Mustaali branch of Ismaili Shia Islam
Population Approximately 1 million (estimated)
Traditions Significant emphasis on religious education, community service, and close-knit communal bonds
Leadership Guided by the Dai al-Mutlaq, who is considered the spiritual leader and successor of the Prophet Mohammed
Centers Important centers of the community include Mumbai (India), Karachi (Pakistan), and Surat (India)
The Dawoodi Bohras are a religious denomination within the Ismā'īlī branch of Shia Islam. They number approximately one million worldwide and have settled in over 40 countries around the world. The majority of the Dawoodi Bohra community resides in India, with sizable congregations in Pakistan, Yemen, East Africa, and the Middle East. They also have a growing presence in Europe, North America, South East Asia, and Australia.The Dawoodi Bohras are a close-knit community who follow the tenets of Islam. Their faith is based on the belief in one deity, Allah. The core of their faith is the belief that the Ahl al-Bayt, members of the Prophet Mohammed's family, are the rightful successors of the Prophet and guides of mankind. Like all Shia Muslims, they hold the traditions that Ali bin Abi Talib, the Prophet Mohammed's legatee, succeeded him and provided the Prophet with an interpretation and explanation of the revelations he had received. A fundamental tenet of the Dawoodi Bohra faith is that there will always be an imam on earth, descended from the Prophet through his grandson Imam Husain, to carry on the task of leading humanity. When the imam chooses to withdraw from public view, his office is taken over by the Al-Da'i al-Mutlaq (unrestricted missionary) who, like the imam, preserves and protects the faith until the imam's return. The Al-dai al-mutlaq first operated from Yemen and subsequently from India, for over the last 450 years. The dais are considered to have played an important role in shaping the lives of Dawoodi Bohras and contributing to the community's progress over the last nine centuriesMostly self-reliant, the Bohras are typically traders, businesspersons, and entrepreneurs. The word "Bohra" comes from the Gujarati word vohrvu or vyavahar, meaning "to trade". Their cultural heritage is in the traditions of the Fatimid imams; direct descendants of the Islamic prophet Muhammad through his daughter Fatima. The Fatimids ruled over North Africa between 10th and 11th century CE. Whilst adherence to traditional values is important for the community, they are also known for their mercantilism and having a modernist approach to their lifestyles.Lisaan ud-Da'wat is the language of the Bohras, which is mostly based on Gujarati, a Neo-Indo-Aryan language. However, its script and a large portion of vocabulary are in Arabic. The Bohras' religious attire is known as Libas al-Anwar. Men who follow Muhammad's practises are expected to grow a full beard. During their gatherings, the Bohras eat in groups of eight or nine people, seated around a particularly big metal plate called thaal. Prominent religious festivals include Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha and Muharram. The majlis is an age-old practise of the community in which they meet to remember Allah on major dates in the Islamic calendar. They frequently conduct the mandatory Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah and the Prophet's shrine in Medina.

The Ancient Heritage of Dawoodi Bohra Ethnic Groups

References to the Dawoodi Bohra Ethnic Group

References and resources to dig deeper about the Dawoodi Bohra ethnic group include:

  • Dawoodi Bohras official website: The official website of the Dawoodi Bohra community provides a wealth of information about their history, culture, and beliefs. It offers insights into their religious practices, social structure, and community initiatives. The website also contains news updates, publications, and resources for those interested in learning more about this ethnic group. (Website: https://www.thedawoodibohras.com/)
  • Books and academic research: There are a number of books and scholarly articles available that delve into various aspects of the Dawoodi Bohra community. Some recommended titles include “The Dawoodi Bohras: An Anthropological Perspective” by Yaqub Zaki, “The Bohras” edited by Asghar Ali Engineer, and “Reform and Rebellion in the Nineteenth Century: Dawoodi Bohras of Gujarat” by Barbara Metcalf. These resources provide valuable insights into the history, religious practices, and social dynamics of the Dawoodi Bohra ethnic group.
  • Community events and gatherings: Attending Dawoodi Bohra community events and gatherings can offer a firsthand experience and a deeper understanding of their culture and traditions. These include religious festivals, communal prayers, and social gatherings. Engaging with community members and participating in these events can provide a unique perspective on the Dawoodi Bohra community.
  • Online forums and social media groups: There are various online forums and social media groups where discussions about the Dawoodi Bohra community take place. These platforms offer opportunities to interact with community members, ask questions, and gain insights into their daily lives, practices, and beliefs.

Exploring these references and resources will allow individuals to gain a better understanding of the Dawoodi Bohra ethnic group and their rich cultural heritage.

Explore other famous people with Aka, Anglo-Burmese and Caldoche roots, showcasing the diversity of ethnic backgrounds. Investigating influential individuals with diverse ethnic backgrounds tied to these Dawoodi Bohra origins unveils the interwoven tapestry of global cultures and their impactful contributions to the world.

As we continue to celebrate diversity and embrace the richness of different cultures, let us honor and draw inspiration from these remarkable individuals who have shaped our world. Thank you for joining us on this captivating journey.

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