Ismaili Centre invites public to immerse themselves in musical and cultural riches
VIDEO at:
https://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentr ... d-cultural
Safiya Ahmed
31 October 2016
Over the next several days, ordinary Londoners can step out of their busy work days and slip into the serenity of the Ismaili Centre, to be whisked away by the sounds of MUSIC@ONE — inspired by the Silk Road.
Circling the fountain within the geometric embrace of the lobby, musicians from Europe, the Middle East and North Africa will bring to life a range of compositions on traditional and contemporary instruments. The lunchtime musical interludes, which start at 1:00 PM each day, are part of the seventh annual Nour Festival of Arts, taking place in venues across the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea this autumn.
“This is such a wonderful way to spend a lunchtime,” says Shafin Jivraj, a visitor to Music@One (link sends e-mail). “It's so rejuvenating to tune out the outside world and tune in to some relaxing music, whilst at the same time experiencing differing cultures.”
The rich musical journey across Asia features performances by Nash Meghji, who will treat the audience to traditional performances on the sitar, and Duri Lalani on the rubab, a lute-like musical instrument originating from central Afghanistan.
Tara Jaff, an Iraqi Kurdish musician will perform on the Celtic harp, bringing a contemporary expression to an ancient form of music and song. Jaff has performed widely mainly as a solo artist and collaborated with a wide range of artists including film-makers, poets and painters.
Olcay Bayir, an impressive artist on London’s global music scene, will perform traditional music from the western borders of Asia and the Mediterranean coast, including Albanian, Armenian, Balkan, and Kurdish songs.
The week will close with a music and dance performance by the London Uyghur Ensemble — a United Kingdom-based troup dedicated to the traditional and popular music of the Turkic ethnic community of Central Asia. The ensemble made their debut at the London South Bank Sanctuary festival for refugee music in 2005. Performances of the maqām traditions of the Islamic world with its distinctive rhythms and ecstatic poetry, is deeply imbued with the Sufi ethos.
The Ismaili Centre has been a partner in the Nour Festival for several years. Illuminating the best in contemporary Middle Eastern and North African arts and culture, the annual festival transports local, national and international visitors on an unforgettable journey, providing insights into the diverse makeup of the Middle East and North Africa today. While non-political and non-religious in nature, the Nour Festival recognises that both can inspire great art and challenging stereotypes about the region and its peoples through cultural expression.
This year, the festival comprises 84 individual performances over more than 40 events held across 16 venues with 28 partners. Artists from 15 countries are presenting visual arts, music, poetry, theatre, film, dance, and literature. The events in the Nour Festival programme are accompanied by a broad and engaging Creative Learning Programme, featuring a series of exciting projects and activities with local community groups and schools: from fan design to kite-making, Arabic typography to the Arabian Nights.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MUSIC@ONE continues at the Ismaili Centre, London from Monday, 31 October to Friday, 4 November, 1:00 – 1:45 PM. Doors open at 12:45.
Other upcoming events at the Ismaili Centre London include:
ACTIVITIES AT THE ISMAILI CENTRE LONDON
VIDEO: The role of compassion in improving physical and mental health at the Ismaili Centre, London
Ismaili Centre London
3 November 2016
Professor Patrick Pietroni, director of the Darwin International Institute for the Study of Compassion and his colleague John Ballatt discuss The role of compassion in improving physical and mental health at the Ismaili Centre, London on 7 July 2016.
https://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentr ... and-mental
[/b]
Ismaili Centre London
3 November 2016
Professor Patrick Pietroni, director of the Darwin International Institute for the Study of Compassion and his colleague John Ballatt discuss The role of compassion in improving physical and mental health at the Ismaili Centre, London on 7 July 2016.
https://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentr ... and-mental
[/b]
WEBCAST: Discussion with Malise Ruthven and Sadakat Kadri at Ismaili Centre
https://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentr ... akat-kadri
Dr Malise Ruthven and Sadakat Kadri will take part in a moderated discussion on Islam Today – Complexities and Contradictions at the Ismaili Centre, London on 15 November 2016. The event is due to begin at 7:45 PM GMT (London time) and will be webcast at TheIsmaili.org/live.
Dr Ruthven is an internationally recognised scholar on Islam and the Middle East and author of Islam in the World and Encounters with Islam: On Religion, Politics and Modernity. He will be joined by Sadakat Kadri, a barrister and author of several reports for the International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute. The evening will be moderated by Raficq Abdulla and Mohamed Keshavjee.
https://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentr ... akat-kadri
Dr Malise Ruthven and Sadakat Kadri will take part in a moderated discussion on Islam Today – Complexities and Contradictions at the Ismaili Centre, London on 15 November 2016. The event is due to begin at 7:45 PM GMT (London time) and will be webcast at TheIsmaili.org/live.
Dr Ruthven is an internationally recognised scholar on Islam and the Middle East and author of Islam in the World and Encounters with Islam: On Religion, Politics and Modernity. He will be joined by Sadakat Kadri, a barrister and author of several reports for the International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute. The evening will be moderated by Raficq Abdulla and Mohamed Keshavjee.
WEBCAST: Aga Khan Music Initiative at the Ismaili Centre London
The Aga Khan Music Initiative and the Ismaili Centre, London present New Music from the Ends of the Silk Route on Saturday, 3 December. The event is expected to begin soon after 8:00 PM GMT (London time) and will be webcast at TheIsmaili.org/live.
New Music from the Ends of the Silk Route is a rare artistic encounter featuring leading AKMI artists from China, Italy and Syria. The musical meeting honours and reimagines creative gatherings of the past with a new repertoire of compositions, improvisations and contemporary arrangements, inspired by tradition.
This event is a joint presentation of the Aga Khan Music Initiative and the Ismaili Centre, London.
https://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentr ... ive-london
The Aga Khan Music Initiative and the Ismaili Centre, London present New Music from the Ends of the Silk Route on Saturday, 3 December. The event is expected to begin soon after 8:00 PM GMT (London time) and will be webcast at TheIsmaili.org/live.
New Music from the Ends of the Silk Route is a rare artistic encounter featuring leading AKMI artists from China, Italy and Syria. The musical meeting honours and reimagines creative gatherings of the past with a new repertoire of compositions, improvisations and contemporary arrangements, inspired by tradition.
This event is a joint presentation of the Aga Khan Music Initiative and the Ismaili Centre, London.
https://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentr ... ive-london
Governor GB Mir Ghazanfar and MLA Rani Atiqa Visit the Ismaili Centre, London
By Ghulam Abbas
London: The Governor GB Mir Ghazanfar and his wife MLA Rani Atiqa flew to London early this week to participate in the World Tourism Promotion festival, being held here in London. During their stay they took time to visit the Ismaili Centre, London to meet the leaders of the Ismaili community. They were warmly received by the vice-President Ismaili Council Dr. Farhad Mawani (the President was not in the country), Shaukat Ali Khan, National Council member responsible for Europe (who flew to London from Copenhagen especially for this meeting), Salim Jan Muhammad, National Council member responsible for external relations and Ghulam Abbas Hunzai. The honourable guests were given a detailed guided tour of the building by Rizwan Mawani, a prominent educationist in the Ismaili Tariqa and Education Board UK. After the completion of the tour the guests and members of the UK Ismaili leadership sat in the Executive Suit of the Ismaili Centre for the meeting.
Photos at:
http://pamirtimes.net/2016/11/11/govern ... re-london/
By Ghulam Abbas
London: The Governor GB Mir Ghazanfar and his wife MLA Rani Atiqa flew to London early this week to participate in the World Tourism Promotion festival, being held here in London. During their stay they took time to visit the Ismaili Centre, London to meet the leaders of the Ismaili community. They were warmly received by the vice-President Ismaili Council Dr. Farhad Mawani (the President was not in the country), Shaukat Ali Khan, National Council member responsible for Europe (who flew to London from Copenhagen especially for this meeting), Salim Jan Muhammad, National Council member responsible for external relations and Ghulam Abbas Hunzai. The honourable guests were given a detailed guided tour of the building by Rizwan Mawani, a prominent educationist in the Ismaili Tariqa and Education Board UK. After the completion of the tour the guests and members of the UK Ismaili leadership sat in the Executive Suit of the Ismaili Centre for the meeting.
Photos at:
http://pamirtimes.net/2016/11/11/govern ... re-london/
WEBCAST: AKF talk on “Empowering India’s Women” at Ismaili Centre in London
Ismaili Centre London
22 February 2017
The Aga Khan Foundation will conduct an onstage discussion titled Empowering India’s Women – A self-help movement through savings, entrepreneurship & access to key services that will take place at the Ismaili Centre, London on Thursday, 23 February. The event will be webcast at TheIsmaili.org/live and is expected to start at 8:15 PM GMT (London time).
Tinni Sawhney, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation India and Matt Reed, CEO of AKF in the United Kingdom, will discuss how the Foundation is enhancing women’s financial security, improving incomes and promoting access to sanitation that provides both dignity and safety.
http://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentre ... en”-london[/b]
Ismaili Centre London
22 February 2017
The Aga Khan Foundation will conduct an onstage discussion titled Empowering India’s Women – A self-help movement through savings, entrepreneurship & access to key services that will take place at the Ismaili Centre, London on Thursday, 23 February. The event will be webcast at TheIsmaili.org/live and is expected to start at 8:15 PM GMT (London time).
Tinni Sawhney, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation India and Matt Reed, CEO of AKF in the United Kingdom, will discuss how the Foundation is enhancing women’s financial security, improving incomes and promoting access to sanitation that provides both dignity and safety.
http://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentre ... en”-london[/b]
STEP Graduation Ceremony, 2017
The Institute of Ismaili Studies cordially invites you to view the live webcast of the proceedings of the Graduation of the Secondary Teacher Education Programme 2017, which will take place at The Ismaili Centre, London
Date: Saturday, 1st April 2017
Time: 1:30 pm (GMT)
Keynote Speaker: Professor Paul Black, Emeritus Professor of Science Education
Click here to watch the webcast LIVE.
http://link.brightcove.com/services/pla ... 3595863001
For further information, email: [email protected]
[/b]
The Institute of Ismaili Studies cordially invites you to view the live webcast of the proceedings of the Graduation of the Secondary Teacher Education Programme 2017, which will take place at The Ismaili Centre, London
Date: Saturday, 1st April 2017
Time: 1:30 pm (GMT)
Keynote Speaker: Professor Paul Black, Emeritus Professor of Science Education
Click here to watch the webcast LIVE.
http://link.brightcove.com/services/pla ... 3595863001
For further information, email: [email protected]
[/b]
WEBCAST: The Pamir Energy Story
This is a LIVE WEBCAST of The Pamir Energy Story, a conversation between Daler Jumaev, General Director of Pamir Energy and Matt Reed, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation UK at the Ismaili Centre, London on Wednesday, 10 May 2017. It is expected to begin at 8:15 PM London time (BST).
If you are having trouble viewing this webcast, please see the troubleshooting note below.
Join us on 10 May at 8:15 PM BST (London time) for a talk entitled The Pamir Energy Story: Building brighter futures on the border of Tajikistan and Afghanistan.
Students studying in the evenings. Doctors performing lifesaving surgery. Businesses innovating and expanding. Families warming their homes without producing harmful smoke. Women freeing up their time to start new enterprises. Mountainous communities connecting to the rest of the world. These are just some of the life-changing benefits of electricity in the Pamirs.
Join Daler Jumaev, General Director of Pamir Energy, to learn how the company transformed a dilapidated Soviet utility to provide reliable, affordable and clean energy to this region, and how it is helping to build brighter futures and promote cross-border cooperation in one of the world’s most remote areas. In conversation with Matt Reed, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation UK.
This event is being held in collaboration with the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (UK).
http://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentre ... ergy-story
This is a LIVE WEBCAST of The Pamir Energy Story, a conversation between Daler Jumaev, General Director of Pamir Energy and Matt Reed, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation UK at the Ismaili Centre, London on Wednesday, 10 May 2017. It is expected to begin at 8:15 PM London time (BST).
If you are having trouble viewing this webcast, please see the troubleshooting note below.
Join us on 10 May at 8:15 PM BST (London time) for a talk entitled The Pamir Energy Story: Building brighter futures on the border of Tajikistan and Afghanistan.
Students studying in the evenings. Doctors performing lifesaving surgery. Businesses innovating and expanding. Families warming their homes without producing harmful smoke. Women freeing up their time to start new enterprises. Mountainous communities connecting to the rest of the world. These are just some of the life-changing benefits of electricity in the Pamirs.
Join Daler Jumaev, General Director of Pamir Energy, to learn how the company transformed a dilapidated Soviet utility to provide reliable, affordable and clean energy to this region, and how it is helping to build brighter futures and promote cross-border cooperation in one of the world’s most remote areas. In conversation with Matt Reed, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation UK.
This event is being held in collaboration with the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (UK).
http://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentre ... ergy-story
Mawlana Hazar Imam presided over the inauguration of the Ismaili Centre site at Cromwell Road, while Lord Soames performed the ceremony of foundation.
THE.ISMAILI | 28 September 2009
Foundation Ceremony of the Ismaili Centre, London
The Foundation Ceremony for the Ismaili Centre, London took place on 6 September 1979. Mawlana Hazar Imam presided over the inauguration, as Lord Soames performed the ceremony of foundation.
The Foundation Ceremony for the Ismaili Centre, London – the first such centre established in the Western world – took place on 6 September 1979. Mawlana Hazar Imam presided over the inauguration, as Lord Soames, the Lord President of the Council, performed the actual ceremony of foundation.
Located in South Kensington, the structure would be built on a prominent island site along Cromwell Road, facing the Victoria and Albert Museum. Casson Conder Partnership, the architects had designed a building that would at once be compatible with its surroundings and reflect the mood of Islamic architectural tradition.
Press release and speeches
Speech made by Mawlana Hazar Imam
Speech made by The Lord Soames
Photographs
Photographs of the Foundation Stone ceremony
https://the.ismaili/foundation-ceremony-london
THE.ISMAILI | 28 September 2009
Foundation Ceremony of the Ismaili Centre, London
The Foundation Ceremony for the Ismaili Centre, London took place on 6 September 1979. Mawlana Hazar Imam presided over the inauguration, as Lord Soames performed the ceremony of foundation.
The Foundation Ceremony for the Ismaili Centre, London – the first such centre established in the Western world – took place on 6 September 1979. Mawlana Hazar Imam presided over the inauguration, as Lord Soames, the Lord President of the Council, performed the actual ceremony of foundation.
Located in South Kensington, the structure would be built on a prominent island site along Cromwell Road, facing the Victoria and Albert Museum. Casson Conder Partnership, the architects had designed a building that would at once be compatible with its surroundings and reflect the mood of Islamic architectural tradition.
Press release and speeches
Speech made by Mawlana Hazar Imam
Speech made by The Lord Soames
Photographs
Photographs of the Foundation Stone ceremony
https://the.ismaili/foundation-ceremony-london
Webcast: 'AI Futures: the Societal Impact of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence'
Continuing the ‘Diamond Jubilee Lecture Series' at the Ismaili Centre, London, Professor Alan Winfield, Professor of Robot Ethics, University of the West of England, Bristol will deliver a lecture entitled 'AI Futures: the Societal Impact of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence' on Thursday, 22 February 2018. The lecture will be followed by a discussion, moderated by Professor Alnoor Bhimani, London School of Economics, on the impact of Artificial Intelligence on human society. The event is due to begin at 8:15 PM GMT and will be webcast live at http://the.ismaili/live.
https://the.ismaili/webcast-ai-futures- ... telligence
Continuing the ‘Diamond Jubilee Lecture Series' at the Ismaili Centre, London, Professor Alan Winfield, Professor of Robot Ethics, University of the West of England, Bristol will deliver a lecture entitled 'AI Futures: the Societal Impact of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence' on Thursday, 22 February 2018. The lecture will be followed by a discussion, moderated by Professor Alnoor Bhimani, London School of Economics, on the impact of Artificial Intelligence on human society. The event is due to begin at 8:15 PM GMT and will be webcast live at http://the.ismaili/live.
https://the.ismaili/webcast-ai-futures- ... telligence
Ever Wondered What London's Mosques Look Like Inside? These Photos Show You
Ismaili Center included:
https://londonist.com/london/art-and-ph ... s-show-you
Ismaili Center included:
https://londonist.com/london/art-and-ph ... s-show-you
The Fatimids: The Rise of a Muslim Empire
The Ismaili Centre, London, in collaboration with the Institute of Ismaili Studies will host a conversation with Dr Shainool Jiwa, the author, with Mahmood Ahmed about her new publication. The event is due to begin at 8:15pm BST on Thursday 26 April and will be webcast live at http://the.ismaili/live
How much do you know about the Fatimids?
Join us for an exploration of the Institute’s new “easy to read” book on the Fatimids and travel through an exciting and eye-opening period of Ismaili history.
This publication is the first book in the IIS’ new World of Islam series. Dr Shainool Jiwa, the author, will engage in an on-stage conversation with Mahmood Ahmed about her new publication and respond to questions from the audience.
Emerging from a period of long seclusion, in the year 909 the leader of the burgeoning community of lsmaili Shi’i Muslims was declared the first Fatimid Imam-caliph. Abd Allah al-Mahdi founded the only sustained Shi’i dynasty [909-1171] to rule over substantial parts of the medieval Muslim world, rivalling both the Umayyads of Spain and the Abbasids. At its peak, the Fatimid Empire extended from the Atlantic shores of North Africa, across the southern Mediterranean and down both sides of the Red Sea, covering also Mecca and Medina.
This accessible history, the first of two volumes, tells the story of the birth and expansion of the Fatimid Empire in the 10th century. Drawing upon recently available eyewitness accounts, Shainool Jiwa introduces the first four generations of Fatimid Imam-caliphs -al-Mahdi, al-Qa’im, al-Mansur, and al Mu’izz - as well as the people who served them and those they struggled against. Readers are taken on a journey through the Fatimid capitals of Qayrawan, Mahdiyya, and Mansuriyya and on to the founding of Cairo. In this lively and comprehensive introduction, we discover various milestones in Fatimid history and the political and cultural achievements that continue to resonate today.
Dr Shainool Jiwa is a senior faculty member at The Institute of Ismaili Studies, London. As a specialist on the Fatimids, she has written and lectured extensively on medieval Islamic history and has edited and translated key medieval Arabic texts relating to Fatimid history.
Mahmood Ahmed, a practicing lawyer, is currently Chairman of the Aga Khan Foundation UK National Committee. He previously served as President for the Ismaili Council for the UK, and the Diplomatic Representative of the Aga Khan Development Network in Uganda.
Venue: Social Hall, The Ismaili Centre, London
Thursday 26 April 2018 at 8:15pm BST
https://the.ismaili/united-kingdom/fati ... lim-empire
The Ismaili Centre, London, in collaboration with the Institute of Ismaili Studies will host a conversation with Dr Shainool Jiwa, the author, with Mahmood Ahmed about her new publication. The event is due to begin at 8:15pm BST on Thursday 26 April and will be webcast live at http://the.ismaili/live
How much do you know about the Fatimids?
Join us for an exploration of the Institute’s new “easy to read” book on the Fatimids and travel through an exciting and eye-opening period of Ismaili history.
This publication is the first book in the IIS’ new World of Islam series. Dr Shainool Jiwa, the author, will engage in an on-stage conversation with Mahmood Ahmed about her new publication and respond to questions from the audience.
Emerging from a period of long seclusion, in the year 909 the leader of the burgeoning community of lsmaili Shi’i Muslims was declared the first Fatimid Imam-caliph. Abd Allah al-Mahdi founded the only sustained Shi’i dynasty [909-1171] to rule over substantial parts of the medieval Muslim world, rivalling both the Umayyads of Spain and the Abbasids. At its peak, the Fatimid Empire extended from the Atlantic shores of North Africa, across the southern Mediterranean and down both sides of the Red Sea, covering also Mecca and Medina.
This accessible history, the first of two volumes, tells the story of the birth and expansion of the Fatimid Empire in the 10th century. Drawing upon recently available eyewitness accounts, Shainool Jiwa introduces the first four generations of Fatimid Imam-caliphs -al-Mahdi, al-Qa’im, al-Mansur, and al Mu’izz - as well as the people who served them and those they struggled against. Readers are taken on a journey through the Fatimid capitals of Qayrawan, Mahdiyya, and Mansuriyya and on to the founding of Cairo. In this lively and comprehensive introduction, we discover various milestones in Fatimid history and the political and cultural achievements that continue to resonate today.
Dr Shainool Jiwa is a senior faculty member at The Institute of Ismaili Studies, London. As a specialist on the Fatimids, she has written and lectured extensively on medieval Islamic history and has edited and translated key medieval Arabic texts relating to Fatimid history.
Mahmood Ahmed, a practicing lawyer, is currently Chairman of the Aga Khan Foundation UK National Committee. He previously served as President for the Ismaili Council for the UK, and the Diplomatic Representative of the Aga Khan Development Network in Uganda.
Venue: Social Hall, The Ismaili Centre, London
Thursday 26 April 2018 at 8:15pm BST
https://the.ismaili/united-kingdom/fati ... lim-empire
Webcast: Global Centre for Pluralism presentation
A special presentation will be held tonight at the Ismaili Centre London. John McNee, Secretary General of the Global Centre for Pluralism, will provide a background on the organisation’s work, and provide an explanation of its aims, objectives, and vision. The event is expected to begin at 8:30 PM (BST) and will be webast at the.ismaili/live.
https://the.ismaili/webcast-global-plur ... rce=Direct
A special presentation will be held tonight at the Ismaili Centre London. John McNee, Secretary General of the Global Centre for Pluralism, will provide a background on the organisation’s work, and provide an explanation of its aims, objectives, and vision. The event is expected to begin at 8:30 PM (BST) and will be webast at the.ismaili/live.
https://the.ismaili/webcast-global-plur ... rce=Direct
Webcast: Milad-un-Nabi Lecture 2018
Join us for the annual Milad-un-Nabi Lecture, to be hosted at the Ismaili Centre London on Wednesday 21 November. Entitled The Arab Spring — Quest for Social Justice, this year’s lecture will be presented by Masooda Bano, Professor of Development Studies at the University of Oxford. The presentation will be followed by an on-stage conversation with Sarah Bowen Savant, Associate Professor at the Aga Khan University’s Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations. The event is due to begin at 8:30 PM GMT, and will be webcast at the.ismaili/live.
https://the.ismaili/united-kingdom/webc ... cture-2018
Join us for the annual Milad-un-Nabi Lecture, to be hosted at the Ismaili Centre London on Wednesday 21 November. Entitled The Arab Spring — Quest for Social Justice, this year’s lecture will be presented by Masooda Bano, Professor of Development Studies at the University of Oxford. The presentation will be followed by an on-stage conversation with Sarah Bowen Savant, Associate Professor at the Aga Khan University’s Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations. The event is due to begin at 8:30 PM GMT, and will be webcast at the.ismaili/live.
https://the.ismaili/united-kingdom/webc ... cture-2018
Circles of Tusi at the Ismaili Centre London
Following the successful launch of the Circles of Tusi exhibition at Northwest London Jamatkhana in April this year, and a further two events at Birmingham in June and Leicester in September, it was time to bring it to the Zamana Space at the Ismaili Centre London.
In late November, the Zamana space was an area bustling with conversations, admiration and a sense of pride. Members of the public and the Jamat were inspired by the vivid and moving elaboration of the 13th Century Persian scholar Nasir al-Din Tusi, his enduring thirst for knowledge as one of the greatest Muslim scholars of Middle Ages.
The exhibition was based on Tusi’s spiritual autobiography - Contemplation and Action (Sayr wa Suluk), translated by the IIS Scholar, Dr S. J. Badakhchani who is a leading expert in the works of Tusi.
The immersive audio-visual story of Tusi’s early life, education and contribution to knowledge in the fields of ethics, philosophy, astronomy left the visitors wanting to learn more. Tusi’s seminal work on ethics, written while he was in Quhistan, paved the way to Alamut where he remained for 20 years. Having access to the famous library of Alamut, Tusi refined his knowledge about the great scholars of the past.
The impact of Tusi’s work on contemporary times was also presented. In the 13th Century, Tusi had proposed a theory of evolution, the cosmos, the nature of human existence, human relations, the nature of language, the intellect, prophethood, Imamat and the refinement of human character. All of this was compiled by Tusi in his most comprehensive Ismaili work, Rawda-yi taslim (Paradise of Submission, an encyclopaedic work on Ismaili tenets of faith. This major doctrinal works survived the Mongol invasion of Iran in the 13th Century. Circles of Tusi made this precious work available to members of the Jamat.
Tusi’s unrelenting efforts to join the Ismaili faith were not easy. His discovery of the Fusul-i muqaddas (Sacred Chapters) of Imam Ala Dhikrihi al-Salam spurred him to continue to seek the knowledge that he was seeking. Unable to disclose his secret desire, Tusi had a chance to meet the Governor of Gird-kuh, Muhtasham Shihab al-Din who brought him closer to the Ismailis.
Tusi had many turning points prior to his life changing arrival at Alamut at the age of thirty, and under the direct guidance of our 23rd Imam Ala al-Din Muhammad, he flourished and wrote highly admired works on Ismaili theology. Fortunately, we have a number of his surviving Ismaili texts and the Jamat were pleased to learn that these books have been translated into English language, and are accessible at the Kitab Desk.
The Jamat enjoyed viewing the first ever commissioned painting of Alamut, which was then the seat of Nizari Ismaili political power in Iran. Circles of Tusi provided moving historic accounts of Dai Hassan-i Sabbah who supported the cause and service of Imam Nizar for the Jamat.
Another commissioned model was the place where the Diwan-i Qa’imiyyat found after, a book which was considered lost for almost 700 years. The Jamat were keen to see where the book was hidden and enjoyed the beautiful poetry that has been preserved for us to take care of.
Pictures with permissions from the Aga Khan Museum, the Institute of Ismaili Studies and NASA gave context and the evidence to the Circles of Tusi exhibition.
Ninety-eight young volunteers from across the UK came forward for a three-hour training and were assigned as thought ambassadors; sharing their points of knowledge, busy in conversation using scholarly evidence to illuminate the works of past great scholars and their lasting legacies. Visitors comments have been filled with acknowledgements to the explanations and the inspiration provided by the young volunteers.
For more information on the works of Nasir al-Din Tusi, the Kitab desk has a range of Alamut literature that Tusi wrote under the direct guidance of our Imam Ala al-Din Muhammad. The Zamana Space provided the perfect ambience to this Diamond Jubilee project.
https://the.ismaili/united-kingdom/circ ... rce=Direct
Following the successful launch of the Circles of Tusi exhibition at Northwest London Jamatkhana in April this year, and a further two events at Birmingham in June and Leicester in September, it was time to bring it to the Zamana Space at the Ismaili Centre London.
In late November, the Zamana space was an area bustling with conversations, admiration and a sense of pride. Members of the public and the Jamat were inspired by the vivid and moving elaboration of the 13th Century Persian scholar Nasir al-Din Tusi, his enduring thirst for knowledge as one of the greatest Muslim scholars of Middle Ages.
The exhibition was based on Tusi’s spiritual autobiography - Contemplation and Action (Sayr wa Suluk), translated by the IIS Scholar, Dr S. J. Badakhchani who is a leading expert in the works of Tusi.
The immersive audio-visual story of Tusi’s early life, education and contribution to knowledge in the fields of ethics, philosophy, astronomy left the visitors wanting to learn more. Tusi’s seminal work on ethics, written while he was in Quhistan, paved the way to Alamut where he remained for 20 years. Having access to the famous library of Alamut, Tusi refined his knowledge about the great scholars of the past.
The impact of Tusi’s work on contemporary times was also presented. In the 13th Century, Tusi had proposed a theory of evolution, the cosmos, the nature of human existence, human relations, the nature of language, the intellect, prophethood, Imamat and the refinement of human character. All of this was compiled by Tusi in his most comprehensive Ismaili work, Rawda-yi taslim (Paradise of Submission, an encyclopaedic work on Ismaili tenets of faith. This major doctrinal works survived the Mongol invasion of Iran in the 13th Century. Circles of Tusi made this precious work available to members of the Jamat.
Tusi’s unrelenting efforts to join the Ismaili faith were not easy. His discovery of the Fusul-i muqaddas (Sacred Chapters) of Imam Ala Dhikrihi al-Salam spurred him to continue to seek the knowledge that he was seeking. Unable to disclose his secret desire, Tusi had a chance to meet the Governor of Gird-kuh, Muhtasham Shihab al-Din who brought him closer to the Ismailis.
Tusi had many turning points prior to his life changing arrival at Alamut at the age of thirty, and under the direct guidance of our 23rd Imam Ala al-Din Muhammad, he flourished and wrote highly admired works on Ismaili theology. Fortunately, we have a number of his surviving Ismaili texts and the Jamat were pleased to learn that these books have been translated into English language, and are accessible at the Kitab Desk.
The Jamat enjoyed viewing the first ever commissioned painting of Alamut, which was then the seat of Nizari Ismaili political power in Iran. Circles of Tusi provided moving historic accounts of Dai Hassan-i Sabbah who supported the cause and service of Imam Nizar for the Jamat.
Another commissioned model was the place where the Diwan-i Qa’imiyyat found after, a book which was considered lost for almost 700 years. The Jamat were keen to see where the book was hidden and enjoyed the beautiful poetry that has been preserved for us to take care of.
Pictures with permissions from the Aga Khan Museum, the Institute of Ismaili Studies and NASA gave context and the evidence to the Circles of Tusi exhibition.
Ninety-eight young volunteers from across the UK came forward for a three-hour training and were assigned as thought ambassadors; sharing their points of knowledge, busy in conversation using scholarly evidence to illuminate the works of past great scholars and their lasting legacies. Visitors comments have been filled with acknowledgements to the explanations and the inspiration provided by the young volunteers.
For more information on the works of Nasir al-Din Tusi, the Kitab desk has a range of Alamut literature that Tusi wrote under the direct guidance of our Imam Ala al-Din Muhammad. The Zamana Space provided the perfect ambience to this Diamond Jubilee project.
https://the.ismaili/united-kingdom/circ ... rce=Direct
Music @ One at the Ismaili Centre London: Building bridges and breaking down barriers
We humans share our culture through many forms of creative expression, which together embody the arts. Arts encompass multiple ways of channelling creative impulses through poetry and literature, visual, imaginary, and performance. Over time, culture informs, shapes, and transforms the way human society comes to present various art forms which it learns to cherish and covet as civilisations evolve and progress.
Music is perhaps the most expressive language of culture. From the beginning of humanity, from the earliest moments of life, music in the rhythm of the beating heart heard by the unborn foetus in the womb and later the mother’s gentle lullaby rocking her child to sleep, has imprinted rhythmic sounds of music within us from our earliest moments. At religious ceremonies, weddings, funerals, schools, concert halls, sports stadiums, and more recently through smart devices, music continually influences us, and in turn we influence the music that others create.
Music can be seen as the “secret of life,” a cultural conduit; its magnetism attracts, engages, and connects people of all ages, cultures and communities together, irrespective of race, wealth, nationality, or religion. Music brings strangers together, it builds bridges, dissolves barriers, and provides an opportunity to learn, understand, and engage with others.
Some six years ago, the Ismaili Centre, London opened its doors to music events as part of the Nour Festival of Arts. This series of lunchtime musical performances held at 1pm in the afternoon has since come to be known as “Music @ One.” The objective was to deliver an enjoyable musical pathway for greater cultural connectivity with neighbours and those visiting London’s borough of Kensington and Chelsea. These mini concerts would deliver world music events showcasing diversity in both music and culture. Visitors would enjoy a short session with performances taking place around the Ismaili Centre’s entrance fountain, a calm and tranquil space in the heart of London’s busy cultural quarter at Exhibition Road.
Since 2014, a variety of extraordinary musicians have performed at the Centre. London-based Francesco Iannuzzelli, an Italian Oud musician opened the first lunchtime performance in October 2014. Since then, the Centre and its visitors have enjoyed a diverse variety of musicians, inspired by their encounter with musical instruments from around the globe.
Among the unusual traditional musical instruments and sounds delivered at the sessions were instruments such as the Tar and Setar performed by Iranian musician Veria Amiri; the Kamancheh by Adib Rostami; Jali Bakary Konteh delivered a most unusual sound on the Kora, a West African Harp, together with Yahel Camara on Calabas and Djembe, West African drums, while Tara Jaff performed on a classical harp to name a few.
In addition, there has been a storytelling musical production of “Thumbelina” by Merit Ariane, and we have celebrated our community musicians with a performance from the Ismaili Community Ensemble.
London-based singer-songwriter Elaha Soroor, informed by her Afghan and Iranian roots, delivered a musical journey from Afghanistan to Andalucía, whilst merging both traditional and contemporary compositions with jazz and flamenco.
Springtime classics by Primavera String Ensemble for example, delivered a musical recital for string quartet to celebrate the season of life’s renewal, which included compositions by Mozart, Haydn, Dvorak, and others.
An international group comprising of Paul Livingstone from Scotland on viola, Paulina Mikolajczyk from Poland on cello, and Ani Batikian from Armenia on violin, travelled to London to bring the 2018 season of Music @ One to a close with classical renditions of festive music.
Over the years Music @ One has joined with musicians from SOAS, the Scottish Opera House, the Royal College of Music, and many others delivering music from North Africa, the Middle East, South and Central Asia, South America, China, Australia, and all across Europe. There has been music inspired by jazz and blues, classical and popular, traditional and contemporary.
Music @ One has delivered an extraordinary range of musical performances which have been open to all. The events have welcomed members of the community, neighbours, local businesses, and neighbouring institutions along with passers by around South Kensington. We have enjoyed visits from local government, councilors, and representatives from embassies.
The Ismaili Centre London’s Music @ One sessions align with the words of Kahlil Gibran, who said that “music is the language of the spirit. It opens the secret of life bringing peace, abolishing strife.”
Photos at:
https://the.ismaili/our-stories/music-o ... n-barriers
We humans share our culture through many forms of creative expression, which together embody the arts. Arts encompass multiple ways of channelling creative impulses through poetry and literature, visual, imaginary, and performance. Over time, culture informs, shapes, and transforms the way human society comes to present various art forms which it learns to cherish and covet as civilisations evolve and progress.
Music is perhaps the most expressive language of culture. From the beginning of humanity, from the earliest moments of life, music in the rhythm of the beating heart heard by the unborn foetus in the womb and later the mother’s gentle lullaby rocking her child to sleep, has imprinted rhythmic sounds of music within us from our earliest moments. At religious ceremonies, weddings, funerals, schools, concert halls, sports stadiums, and more recently through smart devices, music continually influences us, and in turn we influence the music that others create.
Music can be seen as the “secret of life,” a cultural conduit; its magnetism attracts, engages, and connects people of all ages, cultures and communities together, irrespective of race, wealth, nationality, or religion. Music brings strangers together, it builds bridges, dissolves barriers, and provides an opportunity to learn, understand, and engage with others.
Some six years ago, the Ismaili Centre, London opened its doors to music events as part of the Nour Festival of Arts. This series of lunchtime musical performances held at 1pm in the afternoon has since come to be known as “Music @ One.” The objective was to deliver an enjoyable musical pathway for greater cultural connectivity with neighbours and those visiting London’s borough of Kensington and Chelsea. These mini concerts would deliver world music events showcasing diversity in both music and culture. Visitors would enjoy a short session with performances taking place around the Ismaili Centre’s entrance fountain, a calm and tranquil space in the heart of London’s busy cultural quarter at Exhibition Road.
Since 2014, a variety of extraordinary musicians have performed at the Centre. London-based Francesco Iannuzzelli, an Italian Oud musician opened the first lunchtime performance in October 2014. Since then, the Centre and its visitors have enjoyed a diverse variety of musicians, inspired by their encounter with musical instruments from around the globe.
Among the unusual traditional musical instruments and sounds delivered at the sessions were instruments such as the Tar and Setar performed by Iranian musician Veria Amiri; the Kamancheh by Adib Rostami; Jali Bakary Konteh delivered a most unusual sound on the Kora, a West African Harp, together with Yahel Camara on Calabas and Djembe, West African drums, while Tara Jaff performed on a classical harp to name a few.
In addition, there has been a storytelling musical production of “Thumbelina” by Merit Ariane, and we have celebrated our community musicians with a performance from the Ismaili Community Ensemble.
London-based singer-songwriter Elaha Soroor, informed by her Afghan and Iranian roots, delivered a musical journey from Afghanistan to Andalucía, whilst merging both traditional and contemporary compositions with jazz and flamenco.
Springtime classics by Primavera String Ensemble for example, delivered a musical recital for string quartet to celebrate the season of life’s renewal, which included compositions by Mozart, Haydn, Dvorak, and others.
An international group comprising of Paul Livingstone from Scotland on viola, Paulina Mikolajczyk from Poland on cello, and Ani Batikian from Armenia on violin, travelled to London to bring the 2018 season of Music @ One to a close with classical renditions of festive music.
Over the years Music @ One has joined with musicians from SOAS, the Scottish Opera House, the Royal College of Music, and many others delivering music from North Africa, the Middle East, South and Central Asia, South America, China, Australia, and all across Europe. There has been music inspired by jazz and blues, classical and popular, traditional and contemporary.
Music @ One has delivered an extraordinary range of musical performances which have been open to all. The events have welcomed members of the community, neighbours, local businesses, and neighbouring institutions along with passers by around South Kensington. We have enjoyed visits from local government, councilors, and representatives from embassies.
The Ismaili Centre London’s Music @ One sessions align with the words of Kahlil Gibran, who said that “music is the language of the spirit. It opens the secret of life bringing peace, abolishing strife.”
Photos at:
https://the.ismaili/our-stories/music-o ... n-barriers
STEP Graduation Ceremony 2019
13th April 2019
Ismaili Centre
7 Cromwell Gardens
London
SW7 2SL
United Kingdom
Join us for the Secondary Teachers Education Programme (STEP) graduation ceremony which is being broadcast live here (link is external).
The keynote address will be given by Professor Terence Lovat.
https://iis.ac.uk/events/step-graduatio ... rce=Direct
13th April 2019
Ismaili Centre
7 Cromwell Gardens
London
SW7 2SL
United Kingdom
Join us for the Secondary Teachers Education Programme (STEP) graduation ceremony which is being broadcast live here (link is external).
The keynote address will be given by Professor Terence Lovat.
https://iis.ac.uk/events/step-graduatio ... rce=Direct
Webcast: An evening with Onno Ruhl, General Manager of the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat
Join us from the Ismaili Centre, London, on Friday 26 April to learn about the work of the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH), and their efforts to improve the habitat and resilience of communities in South and Central Asia. Mr Onno Ruhl’s presentation will focus on the strategy and approach of AKAH with real life case studies, providing a glimpse into the agency’s work in action. The event is expected to begin at 8:30 PM BST and will be webcast at the.ismaili/live.
Join us from the Ismaili Centre, London, on Friday 26 April to learn about the work of the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH), and their efforts to improve the habitat and resilience of communities in South and Central Asia. Mr Onno Ruhl’s presentation will focus on the strategy and approach of AKAH with real life case studies, providing a glimpse into the agency’s work in action. The event is expected to begin at 8:30 PM BST and will be webcast at the.ismaili/live.
Seeing Through Babel
The Ismaili Centre, in partnership with the Aga Khan Museum, Toronto, is delighted to announce Seeing Through Babel, a solo exhibition by the Syrian-Armenian artist Kevork Mourad.
Exhibition dates: 1 July 2019 — 15 August 2019
Open invitation to view the artwork being created: 21 — 30 June 2019, 11am–6pm
Exhibition Launch/Private Press View: 1 July 2019, 6–8pm
Meet the Artist Public Day: 6 July 2019
In the Old Testament story of Babel, mankind is punished for attempting to construct a tower to heaven, an act of hubris that led God to create multiple languages so as to prevent such collusions happening again. For this exhibition, Mourad explores the story of Babel, using visual imagery as a means to connect people across the language divide.
Making artworks in public is an integral part of Mourad’s practice, and it is his hope that many people will visit the gallery as he creates his six-metre hanging sculpture, Seeing Through Babel, between 21 June and 30 June. Mourad will also hold talks at 11.30am and at 2.30pm every day during this period. The work, which uses the artist’s trademark techniques – monotypes and drawing onto the surface of the work – is designed to allow visitors to walk in and around it, allowing closer consideration of its themes.
Observes Kevork: ‘I have often thought of this story, as it is said to be a moment that divided mankind. I see it as a moment when diversity was created.’ Describing his work, he points to how, through visual language, ‘it can connect people who speak different languages and come from different cultural backgrounds. Where Babel separated, visual art connects.’
Says Henry S. Kim, the Director and CEO of the Aga Khan Museum: ‘We are very pleased to be able to present an exhibition in London for the very first time and even more so that it is Kevork’s premiere in the city. He is an extraordinary artist who has developed a unique technique to tell stories visually.’
The exhibition will be installed in The Ismaili Centre’s Zamana Space, which reopens to the public with this exhibition. Liakat Hasham, President of the Shia Imami Ismaili Council for the United Kingdom, says: ‘The reopening of the Zamana Space after such a long hiatus is an important moment, as it offers the opportunity for The Ismaili Centre to contribute to the thriving arts corridor of Exhibition Road.’
The exhibition will launch on 1 July and opening hours will be Monday to Friday from 11am-6pm. The show is free to attend and booking is not required.
A video documenting the creation of Seeing Through Babel will be shown during the show.
In addition, visitors can also explore the world of jewellery, textiles and one of a kind objects for sale at the Centre inspired by the Collections at the Aga Khan Museum.
https://the.ismaili/united-kingdom/seeing-through-babel
The Ismaili Centre, in partnership with the Aga Khan Museum, Toronto, is delighted to announce Seeing Through Babel, a solo exhibition by the Syrian-Armenian artist Kevork Mourad.
Exhibition dates: 1 July 2019 — 15 August 2019
Open invitation to view the artwork being created: 21 — 30 June 2019, 11am–6pm
Exhibition Launch/Private Press View: 1 July 2019, 6–8pm
Meet the Artist Public Day: 6 July 2019
In the Old Testament story of Babel, mankind is punished for attempting to construct a tower to heaven, an act of hubris that led God to create multiple languages so as to prevent such collusions happening again. For this exhibition, Mourad explores the story of Babel, using visual imagery as a means to connect people across the language divide.
Making artworks in public is an integral part of Mourad’s practice, and it is his hope that many people will visit the gallery as he creates his six-metre hanging sculpture, Seeing Through Babel, between 21 June and 30 June. Mourad will also hold talks at 11.30am and at 2.30pm every day during this period. The work, which uses the artist’s trademark techniques – monotypes and drawing onto the surface of the work – is designed to allow visitors to walk in and around it, allowing closer consideration of its themes.
Observes Kevork: ‘I have often thought of this story, as it is said to be a moment that divided mankind. I see it as a moment when diversity was created.’ Describing his work, he points to how, through visual language, ‘it can connect people who speak different languages and come from different cultural backgrounds. Where Babel separated, visual art connects.’
Says Henry S. Kim, the Director and CEO of the Aga Khan Museum: ‘We are very pleased to be able to present an exhibition in London for the very first time and even more so that it is Kevork’s premiere in the city. He is an extraordinary artist who has developed a unique technique to tell stories visually.’
The exhibition will be installed in The Ismaili Centre’s Zamana Space, which reopens to the public with this exhibition. Liakat Hasham, President of the Shia Imami Ismaili Council for the United Kingdom, says: ‘The reopening of the Zamana Space after such a long hiatus is an important moment, as it offers the opportunity for The Ismaili Centre to contribute to the thriving arts corridor of Exhibition Road.’
The exhibition will launch on 1 July and opening hours will be Monday to Friday from 11am-6pm. The show is free to attend and booking is not required.
A video documenting the creation of Seeing Through Babel will be shown during the show.
In addition, visitors can also explore the world of jewellery, textiles and one of a kind objects for sale at the Centre inspired by the Collections at the Aga Khan Museum.
https://the.ismaili/united-kingdom/seeing-through-babel
Wisdom of Mother Earth, Global representatives @ The Ismaili Centre, London
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Flr63xitKI
Speakers: Jyoti, Dr. Loretta Afraid of Bear-Cook, Luisah Teish, Kya-Xe’, Elin Teilus, Erena Rangimarie Rereomaki Rhose and Xiye Bastida.
This session celebrates the interrelatedness of all life, emerging through the female principle that brings living forms into existence. All human beings are grown in a womb. Just as a mother’s milk nurtures the child so does Mother Earth’s abundance nurture all species.
The universal and fundamental human proclivity to take joy from watching our children and those we love grow and flourish can indeed transmute the current ecological crisis into a new way of caring for our only planet and all life on it. It’s time to fall in love again with the deep joy that emerges from watching life in all its forms grow and flourish.
Life is in constant motion, eternally dancing into new life forms. Being present in a human form is a special privilege. For humanity is that part of the world that is conscious of its own awareness, and able to reflect on its own place within the web of existence.
Empathy, love, cooperation, sharing and mutual respect between men and women, between all cultures, all peoples and all life forms is the heart of being human today and the real hope for our collective future.
Our beautiful blue planet urgently needs us to recognise this and take responsibility for our role as carers of Mother Earth - ensuring that the great dance of life remains as beautiful and diverse as possible for present and future life on our only planet to thrive and flourish.
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Flr63xitKI
Speakers: Jyoti, Dr. Loretta Afraid of Bear-Cook, Luisah Teish, Kya-Xe’, Elin Teilus, Erena Rangimarie Rereomaki Rhose and Xiye Bastida.
This session celebrates the interrelatedness of all life, emerging through the female principle that brings living forms into existence. All human beings are grown in a womb. Just as a mother’s milk nurtures the child so does Mother Earth’s abundance nurture all species.
The universal and fundamental human proclivity to take joy from watching our children and those we love grow and flourish can indeed transmute the current ecological crisis into a new way of caring for our only planet and all life on it. It’s time to fall in love again with the deep joy that emerges from watching life in all its forms grow and flourish.
Life is in constant motion, eternally dancing into new life forms. Being present in a human form is a special privilege. For humanity is that part of the world that is conscious of its own awareness, and able to reflect on its own place within the web of existence.
Empathy, love, cooperation, sharing and mutual respect between men and women, between all cultures, all peoples and all life forms is the heart of being human today and the real hope for our collective future.
Our beautiful blue planet urgently needs us to recognise this and take responsibility for our role as carers of Mother Earth - ensuring that the great dance of life remains as beautiful and diverse as possible for present and future life on our only planet to thrive and flourish.
VIDEO Book Launch: Understanding Sharia
The Ismaili Centre London hosted a reception and launch event in October 2018 for the newly released book Understanding Sharia: Islamic Law in a Globalised World published by I.B. Tauris in association with The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBF7PpP76Kk
The Ismaili Centre London hosted a reception and launch event in October 2018 for the newly released book Understanding Sharia: Islamic Law in a Globalised World published by I.B. Tauris in association with The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBF7PpP76Kk
Ismaili Centre London celebrates 35 years
Thirty-five years ago, on 24 April 1985, a moment of great historical significance for the global Jamat took place. The Right Honourable Margaret Thatcher — then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom — officially opened the Ismaili Centre, London, in the presence of Mawlana Hazar Imam. This was the community’s first purpose-built, bespoke Jamatkhana and Centre in the western world.
Nestled among such glorious London heritage buildings as the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum, the Ismaili Centre responds in harmony to South Kensington’s built environment, adopting an embellished lighter-hued façade and a chamfered corner.
At the same time, it expresses a distinctly modern Islamic identity through the use of materials such as marble and cut woodwork grille or mashrabiya in Arabic; the design feature of a prominent heptagonal water fountain at the entrance; the calligraphy and geometric ornamentation on its surfaces; as well as the prominence of light as it moves through the building. The roof of the Ismaili Centre, London features a chahar bagh, or four-part garden, borrowing from Mughal landscape heritage while simultaneously recalling the Fatimid tradition of rooftop gardens.
In true cosmopolitan spirit, British architects Casson Conder Partnership designed this building to serve an immigrant Muslim community, while the roof garden was designed by the Boston-based Japanese firm Sasaki Associates.
Members of the Jamat, like others in the former British colonies, began to migrate to the West at the end of the Second World War that coincided with the end of colonial rule, seeking better livelihoods and higher standards of education. Once an immigrant community, we have over three generations settled onto British soil — priding ourselves on being forward-minded and engaged citizens of the UK.
The Ismaili Centre, London, became the first in a series of Centres to be built around the world as ambassadorial buildings, expressing the community’s unique heritage of faith and culture. They embody Mawlana Hazar Imam’s architectural vision — bringing forward the language of Islamic architecture to reflect a traditional set of symbolic values reinterpreted using modern architectural style, material, and technique.
In addition to London, today Ismaili Centres exist in Vancouver, Lisbon, Dubai, Dushanbe, and Toronto, with one more currently in the design phase, to be built in Houston.
Historically, Jamatkhanas have been situated within the broader context of Muslim spaces of congregation in the Middle East, and Central and South Asia. By the mid-19th century, Ismailis had begun to use the term Jamatkhana to refer to their spaces of community congregation. Jamatkhanas became centres for contemplation, prayer, education, and social gathering. Ismaili Centres today are conceived of as symbolic markers of the permanent presence of the Ismaili community. They represent the Jamat's approach to understanding the faith of Islam, and its compatibility with modern life.
The Centre in London regularly opens its doors to the general public for major events.
“Like other Ismaili Centres around the world, the London Centre serves not only as a gathering place for Ismailis, but as an active participant in local society, sponsoring a variety of cultural initiatives — exhibitions, lectures and other public events,” remarked Mawlana Hazar Imam in 2008. “These efforts reflect our pride in our heritage and our eagerness to share it with others.”
The Ismaili Centres fulfil many roles in our lives. They are spaces of gathering, hosting musical concerts, performances, theatre productions, seminars, and workshops. They are active buildings seeking to build bridges between civil society groups and institutions, government bodies, and other faith groups. They are thriving indoor and outdoor spaces that accommodate social and cultural gatherings, inspire intellectual engagement and reflection, as well as prayer and spiritual contemplation.
As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Ismaili Centre, London, we also celebrate our strength and success as a community that contributes meaningfully to the social, economic, and cultural landscape of 21st-century Britain.
https://the.ismaili/global/news/institu ... -173435533
Thirty-five years ago, on 24 April 1985, a moment of great historical significance for the global Jamat took place. The Right Honourable Margaret Thatcher — then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom — officially opened the Ismaili Centre, London, in the presence of Mawlana Hazar Imam. This was the community’s first purpose-built, bespoke Jamatkhana and Centre in the western world.
Nestled among such glorious London heritage buildings as the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum, the Ismaili Centre responds in harmony to South Kensington’s built environment, adopting an embellished lighter-hued façade and a chamfered corner.
At the same time, it expresses a distinctly modern Islamic identity through the use of materials such as marble and cut woodwork grille or mashrabiya in Arabic; the design feature of a prominent heptagonal water fountain at the entrance; the calligraphy and geometric ornamentation on its surfaces; as well as the prominence of light as it moves through the building. The roof of the Ismaili Centre, London features a chahar bagh, or four-part garden, borrowing from Mughal landscape heritage while simultaneously recalling the Fatimid tradition of rooftop gardens.
In true cosmopolitan spirit, British architects Casson Conder Partnership designed this building to serve an immigrant Muslim community, while the roof garden was designed by the Boston-based Japanese firm Sasaki Associates.
Members of the Jamat, like others in the former British colonies, began to migrate to the West at the end of the Second World War that coincided with the end of colonial rule, seeking better livelihoods and higher standards of education. Once an immigrant community, we have over three generations settled onto British soil — priding ourselves on being forward-minded and engaged citizens of the UK.
The Ismaili Centre, London, became the first in a series of Centres to be built around the world as ambassadorial buildings, expressing the community’s unique heritage of faith and culture. They embody Mawlana Hazar Imam’s architectural vision — bringing forward the language of Islamic architecture to reflect a traditional set of symbolic values reinterpreted using modern architectural style, material, and technique.
In addition to London, today Ismaili Centres exist in Vancouver, Lisbon, Dubai, Dushanbe, and Toronto, with one more currently in the design phase, to be built in Houston.
Historically, Jamatkhanas have been situated within the broader context of Muslim spaces of congregation in the Middle East, and Central and South Asia. By the mid-19th century, Ismailis had begun to use the term Jamatkhana to refer to their spaces of community congregation. Jamatkhanas became centres for contemplation, prayer, education, and social gathering. Ismaili Centres today are conceived of as symbolic markers of the permanent presence of the Ismaili community. They represent the Jamat's approach to understanding the faith of Islam, and its compatibility with modern life.
The Centre in London regularly opens its doors to the general public for major events.
“Like other Ismaili Centres around the world, the London Centre serves not only as a gathering place for Ismailis, but as an active participant in local society, sponsoring a variety of cultural initiatives — exhibitions, lectures and other public events,” remarked Mawlana Hazar Imam in 2008. “These efforts reflect our pride in our heritage and our eagerness to share it with others.”
The Ismaili Centres fulfil many roles in our lives. They are spaces of gathering, hosting musical concerts, performances, theatre productions, seminars, and workshops. They are active buildings seeking to build bridges between civil society groups and institutions, government bodies, and other faith groups. They are thriving indoor and outdoor spaces that accommodate social and cultural gatherings, inspire intellectual engagement and reflection, as well as prayer and spiritual contemplation.
As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Ismaili Centre, London, we also celebrate our strength and success as a community that contributes meaningfully to the social, economic, and cultural landscape of 21st-century Britain.
https://the.ismaili/global/news/institu ... -173435533
London's leading cultural organisations adapt for the future
In 2020, cultural organisations in London and elsewhere have had to adapt to a "new normal," which has presented both challenges and opportunities.
How have arts and cultural organisations handled the events of 2020? Panellists from some of London’s most renowned institutions discussed this question at The Covid Culture Shock, an online event hosted last week by the Ismaili Centre, London.
Earlier this year, museums, art galleries, performing arts venues, and even places of worship were forced to close their doors in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Encouragingly however, many institutions came together to collaborate and form partnerships to reach existing audiences and bring in new audiences with a host of online galleries and exhibitions.
So how are artistic and cultural organisations adapting to a “new normal”? This was the subject of The Covid Culture Shock, an event hosted by the Ismaili Centre, London in conjunction with the Exhibition Road Cultural Group, a partnership of leading artistic, cultural, and educational institutions — located in London’s cultural quarter in South Kensington — of which the Ismaili Centre, London is a founding member.
Panellists came together to share how artistic and cultural organisations are looking ahead and redefining strategies and approaches in light of Covid-19. The group was joined by Lord Vaizey of Didcot who served as Minister for Culture, Communications and Creative Industries from 2010 to 2016 and moderated a very insightful and informative discussion.
Collaboration was high up on the agenda; President of the Ismaili Council for the UK Naushad Jivraj began the event by noting that “the Ismaili Centre, London has been proud to contribute to the South Kensington cultural quarter over the years through its active participation in various Exhibition Road Cultural Group events,” citing events such as the Seeing Through Babel and Spirit and Life exhibitions as well as Open Gardens and Open House London. Tim Reeve from the Victoria and Albert Museum recounted how the museum agreed to lend artefacts to China for an exhibition: Under normal circumstances, a team would have flown to China to deliver the artefacts personally. In these times however, they had to change how they work with partners which has unveiled talents and expertise. Tim noted that “in a crisis, you realise partnerships are there to be revealed.”
Most of the institutions had some digital content as part of their offering before the pandemic, however with the sudden onset of Covid-19, most, if not all, had to generate a lot of online content very quickly. Dr Katharina von Ruckteschell-Katte from Goethe-Institut London spoke of the challenge of finding a position in a marketplace that was already crowded with digital content. However, she noted the positive aspect of being able to work without borders, thus reaching new audiences without dealing with geographic limitations.
Ali Khanbhai, UK Ismaili Council Member for External Relations, concurred, particularly given our wide network of AKDN agencies and sister institutions like the Aga Khan Museum. The Ismaili community launched Ismaili CIVIC in the UK earlier this year to support vulnerable members of the wider communities in which we live. Art is an integral part of a recent Ismaili CIVIC project entitled “Smile Through Art”; during the pandemic, members of the Jamat created over 800 pieces of unique artwork which was distributed to 28 national care home partners around the country. As Ali said, “the level of engagement that we got was incredible.” The Natural History Museum partnered with a local charity called NOVA which helps people from diverse backgrounds. They invited different groups of people to come into the museum, who would not have otherwise had an opportunity to visit the various exhibitions and galleries.
Climate change was also a significant topic of conversation. As organisations strive to “build back better,” most are considering ways to do so sustainably and with care for the environment. This is no easy task for listed buildings such as the Natural History Museum but they, along with many other organisations, have committed to net zero carbon emissions targets. The environment is also of great importance to AKDN; one of the founding partners of the Earthshot Prize; an initiative unveiled in October 2020 by The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The project is designed to incentivise change and help to repair the planet over the next 10 years.
Looking forward, most organisations agreed that institutions need to implement content that is tailored for their new, online audiences, as well as the local visitors who enjoy attending museums and galleries in person. Last year, the Natural History Museum welcomed 70 percent of their visitors from the local area and it is hoped that this trend will continue once the pandemic has passed.
The pandemic has undoubtedly changed our lives forever, however, it has also opened doors, created new opportunities and enabled us to use art and culture to unite with each other under shared values. As Mawlana Hazar Imam said at the UNESCO conference in China in 2013, “the case is proven in my mind that cultural development can contribute, in unique and distinctive ways, to the human aspiration for a better quality of life.”
https://the.ismaili/global/news/institu ... the-future
In 2020, cultural organisations in London and elsewhere have had to adapt to a "new normal," which has presented both challenges and opportunities.
How have arts and cultural organisations handled the events of 2020? Panellists from some of London’s most renowned institutions discussed this question at The Covid Culture Shock, an online event hosted last week by the Ismaili Centre, London.
Earlier this year, museums, art galleries, performing arts venues, and even places of worship were forced to close their doors in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Encouragingly however, many institutions came together to collaborate and form partnerships to reach existing audiences and bring in new audiences with a host of online galleries and exhibitions.
So how are artistic and cultural organisations adapting to a “new normal”? This was the subject of The Covid Culture Shock, an event hosted by the Ismaili Centre, London in conjunction with the Exhibition Road Cultural Group, a partnership of leading artistic, cultural, and educational institutions — located in London’s cultural quarter in South Kensington — of which the Ismaili Centre, London is a founding member.
Panellists came together to share how artistic and cultural organisations are looking ahead and redefining strategies and approaches in light of Covid-19. The group was joined by Lord Vaizey of Didcot who served as Minister for Culture, Communications and Creative Industries from 2010 to 2016 and moderated a very insightful and informative discussion.
Collaboration was high up on the agenda; President of the Ismaili Council for the UK Naushad Jivraj began the event by noting that “the Ismaili Centre, London has been proud to contribute to the South Kensington cultural quarter over the years through its active participation in various Exhibition Road Cultural Group events,” citing events such as the Seeing Through Babel and Spirit and Life exhibitions as well as Open Gardens and Open House London. Tim Reeve from the Victoria and Albert Museum recounted how the museum agreed to lend artefacts to China for an exhibition: Under normal circumstances, a team would have flown to China to deliver the artefacts personally. In these times however, they had to change how they work with partners which has unveiled talents and expertise. Tim noted that “in a crisis, you realise partnerships are there to be revealed.”
Most of the institutions had some digital content as part of their offering before the pandemic, however with the sudden onset of Covid-19, most, if not all, had to generate a lot of online content very quickly. Dr Katharina von Ruckteschell-Katte from Goethe-Institut London spoke of the challenge of finding a position in a marketplace that was already crowded with digital content. However, she noted the positive aspect of being able to work without borders, thus reaching new audiences without dealing with geographic limitations.
Ali Khanbhai, UK Ismaili Council Member for External Relations, concurred, particularly given our wide network of AKDN agencies and sister institutions like the Aga Khan Museum. The Ismaili community launched Ismaili CIVIC in the UK earlier this year to support vulnerable members of the wider communities in which we live. Art is an integral part of a recent Ismaili CIVIC project entitled “Smile Through Art”; during the pandemic, members of the Jamat created over 800 pieces of unique artwork which was distributed to 28 national care home partners around the country. As Ali said, “the level of engagement that we got was incredible.” The Natural History Museum partnered with a local charity called NOVA which helps people from diverse backgrounds. They invited different groups of people to come into the museum, who would not have otherwise had an opportunity to visit the various exhibitions and galleries.
Climate change was also a significant topic of conversation. As organisations strive to “build back better,” most are considering ways to do so sustainably and with care for the environment. This is no easy task for listed buildings such as the Natural History Museum but they, along with many other organisations, have committed to net zero carbon emissions targets. The environment is also of great importance to AKDN; one of the founding partners of the Earthshot Prize; an initiative unveiled in October 2020 by The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The project is designed to incentivise change and help to repair the planet over the next 10 years.
Looking forward, most organisations agreed that institutions need to implement content that is tailored for their new, online audiences, as well as the local visitors who enjoy attending museums and galleries in person. Last year, the Natural History Museum welcomed 70 percent of their visitors from the local area and it is hoped that this trend will continue once the pandemic has passed.
The pandemic has undoubtedly changed our lives forever, however, it has also opened doors, created new opportunities and enabled us to use art and culture to unite with each other under shared values. As Mawlana Hazar Imam said at the UNESCO conference in China in 2013, “the case is proven in my mind that cultural development can contribute, in unique and distinctive ways, to the human aspiration for a better quality of life.”
https://the.ismaili/global/news/institu ... the-future
Re: ACTIVITIES AT THE ISMAILI CENTRE LONDON
Ismaili Centre Conversations UK: Ismaili Festivals: Stories of Celebration - 3 March 2022
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=8iX5ZE8ipXg
Host Nina Hirji Kheraj and Dr. Shiraz Kabani, author of Ismaili Festivals, explore the stories of celebration and lived experiences of Ismailis that inspired the book. Combining lively storytelling and personal anecdotes, Dr. Kabani provides a first-hand account of festivals as they are celebrated across the diverse, global Jamat. This conversation was held live at the Ismaili Centre, London on February 10, 2022, and presented by the Institute of Ismaili Studies and ITREB UK.
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=8iX5ZE8ipXg
Host Nina Hirji Kheraj and Dr. Shiraz Kabani, author of Ismaili Festivals, explore the stories of celebration and lived experiences of Ismailis that inspired the book. Combining lively storytelling and personal anecdotes, Dr. Kabani provides a first-hand account of festivals as they are celebrated across the diverse, global Jamat. This conversation was held live at the Ismaili Centre, London on February 10, 2022, and presented by the Institute of Ismaili Studies and ITREB UK.
Re: ACTIVITIES AT THE ISMAILI CENTRE LONDON
10 March 2022: President Naushad Jivraj was delighted to welcome to the Ismaili London, His Excellency
@RalphGoodale
the High Commissioner for Canada in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, who was accompanied by Mr Andrew Cook, Senior Political Officer.
@RalphGoodale
the High Commissioner for Canada in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, who was accompanied by Mr Andrew Cook, Senior Political Officer.
Photography exhibition aims to inspire admiration and protection of sea life
Featuring almost a decade’s worth of photos, Prince Hussain’s exhibition The Living Sea – Fragile Beauty finally arrived in the UK. Entering the social hall of the Ismaili Centre, London yesterday, visitors found themselves in a dazzling underwater world.
Guests at the launch event included Princess Fareen, the Mayor of Kensington and Chelsea, the High Commissioner of Pakistan, senior members of the Exhibition Road Cultural Group, and leaders of the Jamat and AKDN. They encountered photographs of playful sea lions, basking iguanas and a determined cormorant, mixed with nudibranchs and clams on enormous backlit panels.
This long-awaited exhibition has previously been presented in New York, Nairobi, Lisbon, and Venice. It displays many years of wildlife photography from waters including mangrove swamps, coral reefs and deep seas; from Egypt to Ecuador and more. Some are close enough to sense their textures; others are situated in groups amidst their environment.
“The images around you this evening represent some of nature’s treasures and the most joyous moments of my life,” Prince Hussain said in his opening remarks. “Instants one couldn’t put into words if one tried.”
A head-on oceanic whitetip shark that brings the Jaws soundtrack to mind, and a clownfish reminiscent of Finding Nemo represent the familiarity of many of these creatures, through movies, photos, and real-life encounters. But such biodiversity can no longer be taken for granted.
The sides of the panels create a different impact as the bleak statistics hit home. Half of the world’s coral reefs, upon which many of these animals depend, have been lost. Individual species face extinction: the Caspian seal population has declined by over 90 percent since the start of the 20th century.
“Perhaps the only common thread among these species is the threats they face,” said Prince Hussain. “Climate change, including acidification, coral bleaching, sea level rise, habitat destruction, overfishing, plastic pollution and more. A third of all whale and dolphin species are threatened with extinction. There has been a 71 percent decline of sharks over the past 50 years. Six out of seven sea turtle species are threatened, including the greens I often photograph and critically endangered hawksbills I adore. Manta rays are being slaughtered in their thousands for their gills. Half of all coral reefs have been lost since the 1950s and up to 90 percent of the Great Barrier Reef has been affected by bleaching events,” he added.
“Somehow we've turned abundance, health and diversity to penury, disease and rarity. Our activities have brought on an unbrave new world. And while individual photographs here don't necessarily demonstrate some of the hardships our oceans and their denizens face, it is thier wonder I hope to share with you, and their protection I hope to encourage.”
The same trends harming the sea dwellers are devastating the environment on which all animals, including humans, depend. Fluctuations in sea surface temperatures, for example, harm plankton, affecting the fish that feed on them and depriving their predators of food in turn. They also make the extreme weather of recent years, such as the increased rainfall in Pakistan or the lack of rain in Mozambique, more likely and more intense.
“As members of this global world it is incumbent on each and everyone of us to care for and preserve its resources and beauty,” said Naushad Jivraj, President of the Ismaili Council for the UK. “This exhibition,” he added, “instigates individual and collective reflection on the extremely difficult issue of climate change and its impact on our biodiverse world.”
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The Living Sea – Fragile Beauty https://the.ismaili/uk/learning-%26-ins ... n-aga-khan exhibition is on display at the Ismaili Centre, London until 24 September 2022.
More photos at:
https://the.ismaili/global/news/imamat- ... -173435533