Posted by After a span of eighteen months or more we witnessed a unique congregation of Mumineen once again. Those who have participated in it might fail to express their overwhelming joy by words, but they can feel it, realize it and cherish it lifelong.
It all started after the arrival of Aqa Maula TUS to Surat from His TUS safar mubarak of Suwasra and other areas nearby in the belt, where He TUS presided over the auspicious occasion of Milad Imam al Zaman AS. From the very beginning of the event, the Covid-19 protocol was imposed. It was assumed that because of this protocol, each event might have its own limitation. However, the people abided by the SOPs responsibly, and nevertheless, those who continued to flock near Maula TUS observed a more stringent protocol. What an electrifying situation it was when I sit and ponder what felt like Catch-22 because of the pandemic, turned out to be a walk in the park, by the collective efforts from the different organizations and management. Thousands of Mumineen getting the privilege to visit Dumas regularly, awestruck me. When I contemplate, I figured out three salient activities which happened during the current Istefada event.
The first and foremost activity was- The Antigen Test.
If we compare the count of the antigen testing during the peak days of the COVID- 19 pandemic to the testing carried out during the Istefada Ilmiyah, the latter would definitely exceed in number. This was one of the remarkable elements seen in this event. Those who got the privilege to attend asbaq were permitted only after obtaining a negative report. The antigen testing for a substantial amount of people in a crunch of time was a challenging and difficult job. However, this task was wonderfully handled and carried out by Burhani Hospital Surat. The count reached approx. a total of 30,000. One more fascinating part of this testing activity was the negative report being uploaded on the ITS portal in real-time by the management. I think that Burhani Hospital under the auspices of Burhani Medical Idara and Sehet umoor both executed it magnificently. The emphasis on testing, shows, health has been the topmost concern; no compromise is accepted in this regard. Here we can take a lesson for ourselves that for organizing any event, the health of the Mumeneen should be of prime importance.
Faiz al Mawaid al Burhaniyah
The completion of all istefada activities is marked by the waaz mubarak of Aqa Maula TUS on the auspicious day of Milad mubarak of Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin RA and Syedna Aali Qadr Mufaddal Saifuddin TUS. In this particular waaz mubarak, Maula TUS emphasized about consuming food that is permitted as per the principles of Islam (halal jaman). Faiz al Mawaid al Burhaniyah is the best practice that helps us to abide by these principles. To prepare the thaali in thousands seemed to be a strenuous task. However, by the dua mubarak of Aqa Maula TUS this activity was accomplished in such an organized manner that each and every individual who attended this event availed the barakat with ease. The packaging and distribution of food was a real challenge in itself but it was skilfully carried out in a proficient manner. This was the hallmark achievement in this regard. Faiz al Mawaid al Burhaniyah catered the Mumineen during the lockdown in a remarkable fashion but the amount of thaali dispatched in this event in such a massive number was astonishing. The total count of thaali provided during this event was nearly 2lacs. As Aqa Maula TUS highlighted Faiz al mawaid al Burhaniyah in His discourse, which gave us a deep insight; in Islamic perspective, that food is not just for generating ATP (storing and transferring energy) for regular body activities; however it’s beyond that. The exalted status of permissible food is discussed in the Islamic revered text which can’t be revealed here. It’s one of the pious benedictions Allah has showered upon his worshippers. We can understand this notion by remembering the old saying “You are what you eat”. Let’s conclude this point with a lesson that every morsel we consume should be as per the principles permitted by Islam if we want to lead a life in a righteous way.
Body measurement, Fitness Assessment and Sports Activities’
Once again this point revolves around taking care of our health. As we are facing unprecedented conditions, where deterioration of health is seen every now and then, taking care of our health becomes utterly important. Khidmatguzars are constantly advised to go for regular check-ups; the objective behind this move is to remain enthusiastic while performing our regular affairs. Along with proper physical health, exercises and sports also play an important role in shaping one’s personality. The art to work individually, or collectively as a team, can be learned from sports. The attribute to regain strength after defeat can be mastered by sports. To accept defeat, and take a lesson while attempting a second time, can also be achieved by sports. It helps us to realize the potential of every single individual and implement it during trying times to maximize results. The parts of machinery work at their fullest if placed in a suitable place, and the expert technician (captain) knows where to place it. A compound benefit can be achieved by sports if it’s played in a real spirit.
BMI (Body Mass Index), Body measurements, and Fitness assessment (cardiovascular, strength, power, and agility) were measured through the predesigned parameters by a team of physiotherapists and Health Care Volunteers, of Khidmatguzars attending this event. Special female Yoga sessions were organized keeping to emphasis on achieving the mission of inculcating exercise in daily routine for all as per the Upliftment Drive of this year.
Overall the experience gained during Istefada was unique in itself. The heterogeneous nature of this event makes it remarkable in itself. Furthermore, all the events were taken place in the presence of Aqa Maula TUS which has given them a distinctive value, by which this congregation is regarded as the movement of change. The opportunity to embrace the change in its righteous way can show the empowerment of oneself which I think is one of the purposes behind this event.
Jamea’s pivotal role in this congregation
The delight of Jamea was incomparable in receiving and welcoming the real heir of the legacy of Ilm e Aale Mohammed SA. The longing towards its revered self will always remain unsatisfied which encompasses the real meaning of seeking knowledge. The Quranic events which took place during this period showcased the wish of Aqa Maula TUS that every house should have at least one hafiz. This magnificent event took place comprising of three segments; Quran, Madeh and Raudat al Adab al Fatemi which is the epitome of Aqa Maula’s blessings and His benedictions over Al Jamea tus Saifiyah.