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Mufaddal Saifuddin
53rd Da'i al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohra From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin (Arabic: مُـفـضّـل سـيـفُ ٱلـدّين, romanized: ʿĀlī Qadr Mufaḍḍal Sayf al-Dīn) is the spiritual leader, the 53rd Da'i al-Mutlaq of more than one million Dawoodi Bohras, a subgroup of the Tayyibi, Musta'li, Ismaili Shia branch of Islam.[8][9][10][11] He is the second son of the 52nd Da'i al-Mutlaq, Mohammed Burhanuddin,[1] whom he succeeded in 2014.[12][13] He is the Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University and Jamia Millia Islamia situated in India.
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A direct descendant of the Islamic Prophet Mohammed, Saifuddin's lineage traces back through the Prophet's daughter, Fatima al-Zahra, and her husband, Ali ibn Abi Talib, continuing through Imam Hussein and the Ismaili Imams up to Ja'far al-Sadiq
In Egypt, he rebuilt shrines of the Ahl al-Bayt and is personally responsible for the restoration of medieval Fatimid architecture, notably Al-Anwar Mosque,[14] Al-Aqmar Mosque, Al-Juyushi Mosque, and Lulua Mosque.[15][16] In Yemen, he has spearheaded several campaigns to improve socio-economic conditions of the inhabitants of the Haraaz region, introducing sustainable agricultural systems, improving local infrastructure, addressing substance abuse issues and providing equal access to education for children.[17] Saifuddin personally leads community programs throughout the world, such as the Saifee Burhani Upliftment Project in Mumbai’s Bhendi Bazaar, a philanthropic initiative called Project Rise, and the Faiz al Mawaid Buhaniyah community kitchen,[18] which work towards socio-economic development, environmental conservation,[19] food security and reducing food waste.
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Early life
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Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin was born on 20 August 1946 (23 Ramadan 1365 AH) in Surat, India,[20] He is the second son of the 52nd al-Dai al-Mutlaq, Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, and the grandson of the 51st al-Dai al-Mutlaq, Syedna Taher Saifuddin. He was named Aali Qadr Mufaddal by his grandfather, the name's Abjad value corresponds to the year 1365 AH.[21]
From an early age, Saifuddin received personal spiritual and scholarly tutelage from both his grandfather and father, familiarising him with the values, customs, and traditions associated with the office of the al-Dai al-Mutlaq.[1][22] His early education, following Fatimi tradition, emphasised Quranic principles, forming the foundation of his later scholarly and community engagements.[23][24] He also benefited from the mentorship of his father-in-law, Syedi Yusuf Najmuddin, the rector of Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah, whose daughter Jawaratusharaf he married in 1970.
He completed his primary and secondary education in Mumbai and subsequently enrolled at Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah in Surat, the community’s Arabic academy. He graduated in 1969 with the degree of al-Faqih al-Jayyid (Distinguished Jurist), considered equivalent to a master's in Islamic jurisprudence. In 1971, he was awarded the degree of al-Aleem al-Baari (Outstanding Scholar), a title conferred upon the institution’s most accomplished graduates.[21]
Between 1972 and 1978, Saifuddin pursued advanced Islamic studies in Cairo, engaging with scholars from Al-Azhar University, Cairo University, and other prominent academic institutions.[25] His time in Cairo strengthened his expertise in Arabic language, literature, and Fatimi intellectual traditions, while broadening his exposure to Islamic scholarship and interfaith dialogue. During this period, he became known as al-Amir Mufaddal and represented his father in various academic and interfaith circles.
In addition to his studies in Cairo, Saifuddin also holds academic credentials from the University of Mumbai and is fluent in Lisan ud-Dawat, Arabic, English, Gujarati, Hindi, and Urdu. His practical experience was shaped by accompanying his father throughout most of his travels, witnessing firsthand the management of the community's religious, social, and civic affairs.
On 27 January 1969, Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin privately designated Saifuddin as his successor at the age of 22 through nass (a formal spiritual designation).[21] This designation was reaffirmed in 1994, 2005, and twice again publicly in 2011.[26]
Following a legal challenge by Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin’s brother, Khuzaima Qutbuddin, the Bombay High Court upheld Saifuddin’s succession as the 53rd al-Dai al-Mutlaq in April 2024, concluding a decade-long case.[2][27]
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Teachings
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Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s teachings integrate classical scholarship with contemporary relevance,[28] emphasising spiritual reflection, ethical responsibility, and service to others. His sermons, delivered throughout his travels and especially during the annual Ashara Mubaraka congregation, serve as the primary medium for imparting these teachings. Drawing from the Quran, Fatimi philosophy, Islamic history, and the events of Karbala, his sermons uniquely contextualise principles of sacrifice, justice, and faith with contemporary challenges faced by the community and humanity at large.
In addition to his sermons, Saifuddin has authored numerous theological treatises in Arabic, as well as poetic compositions in Arabic, Lisan al-Dawat, and Urdu, and has completed and published works initiated by his predecessors, Syedna Taher Saifuddin and Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin.[29]
The Holy Quran
Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s teachings regularly emphasise the significance of Quranic education, encouraging daily recitation both individually and collectively in groups. He aspires for every Dawoodi Bohra household to include at least one individual who has committed the entire Quran to memory, considering its recitation and memorisation as essential toward nurturing personal development, ethical awareness, and spiritual discipline.[30]
To advance this vision, Saifuddin has expanded the role of Mahad al-Zahra,[31] an institute under Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah established in 1976 and dedicated to the Quranic sciences. Under his leadership, advanced digital tools such as customized apps, recorded recitations, and live virtual classes have been introduced, allowing learners from diverse backgrounds to engage with the Quran more deeply.
Through these initiatives, Saifuddin has brought about a steady rise in the number of individuals—young and old—who have memorized the Quran. His teachings cultivate a culture in the community where the Quran serves not only as a sacred scripture but also as a living guide for holistic growth, personal excellence, and service to humanity.[32]
The Pursuit of Knowledge
Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin has prioritised education throughout his leadership, encouraging members of the Dawoodi Bohra community to pursue lifelong learning and the application of it for continued intellectual and spiritual growth.
As rector of Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah, Saifuddin has guided the development of its curriculum to integrate classical Fatimi Islamic scholarship with modern disciplines to span Arabic language and literature, theology, history, sociology, science, economics, philosophy, information technology, communication, and research methodology. He has introduced pedagogical changes—such as multilingual instruction, personalized mentorship, and research-based learning—to make education more accessible and engaging for students around the world. Alongside Aljamea, Saifuddin supervises MSB Educational Institute schools in 30 cities, as well as a broader network of 70 schools and 600 religious instruction centers.
He has also established an annual education program, Istifadah Ilmiyah, which draws thousands of multigenerational participants from across the Dawoodi Bohra community, including scholars, professionals, homemakers, and students for a week of intensive study focused on faith, theology, and Fatimi texts.[33]
In 2023, Saifuddin inaugurated the School of Law building at Karachi University with the aim to promote holistic development through education.
Business
Saifuddin teaches that hard work, industriousness, and ethical conduct are central to Islamic economic life. He views business not merely as a means of livelihood but as a religious duty—one that should be pursued with honesty, diligence, and a sense of responsibility to the broader community.[34]
Saifuddin emphasizes the importance of lawful, transparent, and socially responsible business practices. He identifies interest-free transactions as a defining principle of Islamic commerce and has cautioned against speculative financial instruments, including cryptocurrency, citing their volatility and ethical risks. Through these teachings and institutional efforts, Saifuddin aims to preserve the community’s long standing mercantile traditions while aligning modern enterprise with Islamic values.
To advance this vision, he has strengthened the institution of Qardhan Hasana, which offers interest-free loans for education and business development, as well as personal needs. Administered through a global network of local chapters, the initiative supports thousands of borrowers and promotes financial inclusion based on trust and mutual support.[35]
Inspired by his teachings, the community has developed networking platforms and established the Burhani Business School at Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah, dedicated to research, strategic planning, and Islamic commercial ethics. Additional initiatives include free business advisory services, incubators to assist entrepreneurs at various stages of growth, and regular business expos that provide a platform for community members to showcase their enterprises, build partnerships, and pursue ethical commerce within a global network.
Status of Women
A recurring theme in Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s public sermons and community guidance is the role of women in sustaining culture, education, and social cohesion. He has emphasised that enabling women to participate in education, employment, and family life within a values-based framework is both a religious responsibility and a practical priority for the community.
In 2020, Saifuddin established Daerat al Aqeeq, the Department for the Well-Being of Women and Children, to coordinate initiatives supporting the health, education, and social welfare of women and children in Dawoodi Bohra communities worldwide. The department oversees a range of programs, including vocational training, maternal health education, parenting workshops, and youth development initiatives.
Saifuddin has also spearheaded the expansion of Faiz al-Mawaid al-Burhaniyah (FMB), a community kitchen initiative that provides cooked meals to Dawoodi Bohra households in hundreds of cities. In addition to its primary objective of promoting food security, the program has helped reduce the domestic workload in many households, allowing women to devote time to studies, caregiving, or professional work.
Female participation in formal education has increased under Saifuddin’s leadership. At Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah, the community’s principal academic institution, women consistently comprise a significant portion of the student body enrolled in its curriculum. Across the global school network, female college enrollment rates have surpassed national averages in several regions. Many graduates have gone on to pursue advanced degrees and careers in medicine, education, scientific research, and public service.
Healthy Living
Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s teachings maintain healthy living in physical, mental, and social aspects as essential to individual and communal well-being. He advocates for moderation in lifestyle choices, including dietary habits, regular exercise, balanced nutrition and mental resilience.
To encourage physical fitness, Saifuddin has promoted the establishment of recreational centers and regularly urges community members to incorporate walking and exercise into their daily routines.
Saifuddin has frequently addressed mental health, particularly in the context of fast-paced lifestyles. He has cautioned against excessive digital consumption, especially among youth, linking it to emotional fatigue, distraction, and weakened family connection. His sermons emphasise hygiene, structured routines, and interpersonal interaction as protective factors for psychological well-being.
In 2025, following his directive, the community launched a global campaign to combat excessive screen time in children under 15, including awareness seminars and counseling sessions promoting healthier digital habits and enhancing emotional well-being.
He has also taken a firm stance against substance absuse, cautioning against the detrimental mental and physical health effects of the use of alcohol, tobacco, and vaping products. Educational campaigns within the community have been initiated to raise awareness, particularly among the youth, about the risks associated with such substances.
Elder care is another area that he emphasises. Community programs have been developed to address mobility, companionship, and access to healthcare for senior members. Initiatives include recreational outings and social welfare activities aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the elderly, ensuring they remain active and engaged within the community.
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Construction Projects
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Egypt
Syedna Saifuddin is responsible for the restoration of medieval Fatimid mosques in Egypt.[36] Projects include the restoration and revival of Al-Hakim Mosque (al-Jamea al-Anwar),[14] the restoration of the masjid of Zoeb bin Moosa in 1406H,[37] the restoration of Aqmar Mosque in 1408H,[38] construction of the mosque of Abdullah ibn Muhammad ibn Ismail in Salamiyah in 1414H,[38] restoration of the Lulua Mosque and Juyushi Mosque in 1416H, construction of the zareeh of Zaynab bint Ali in Cairo in 1416H,
Palestinian Occupied Territories / State of Israel
Syedna Saifuddin is responsible for the restoration of the Mashhad Ras al-Husayn in Ashkelon in 1421H.
Yemen
Syedna Saifuddin is responsible for the restoration of the Mazar and Mosque of Hatim bin Ibrahim in 1425H,[39] and the identification and ratification of the tombs of eight Da'i al-Mutlaq in Yemen.[40][41]
Aljamea tus Saifiyah Campuses
Under his guidance two new campuses of Aljamea tus Saifiyah have been completed. The Nairobi, Kenya campus was inaugurated by Syedna Saifuddin and the President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta on 20 April 2017.[42][43] The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi inaugurated the fourth campus in Marol, Mumbai on 10 February 2023.[44]
Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust
Syedna Saifuddin has led the Bhendi Bazaar Redevelopment Project, including the public charitable trust named the Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust[45] was created on 23 January 2009 with an initial corpus provided by settlors Shahzada Qaidjoher Ezzuddin and Shahzada Abbas Fakhruddin.[46] The first phase was completed and inaugurated by Syedna Saifuddin on 18 May 2016. About 250 dilapidated buildings in Bhendi Bazaar will be replaced with 17 new mega-towers with modern roads, infrastructure, efficiently opitimised residential spaces and densely networked commercial areas. The philanthropic enterprise "aims to rehabilitate 3200 families and 1250 businesses which are currently living in poor conditions."[47][48] It is expected to be completed by 2030.[49]
On 17 April 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a delegation of Dawoodi Bohra community members at his official residence in New Delhi, led by Husain Burhanuddin.[50] During the meeting, the delegation expressed appreciation for the enactment of the Waqf Amendment Act.[51] In his address, the Prime Minister commended Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin for his significant contribution to the development of the legislation, noting his involvement at every stage, including in the drafting process "down to commas and full stops."[52] Community representatives shared how the amended Act would facilitate the management of Waqf properties, including a recently acquired sites by the SBUT in Mumbai's Bhendi Bazaar.[53][54]
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Heritage Restoration and Construction
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Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s tenure has been marked by a concerted focus on preserving Islamic heritage. and advancing large-scale construction projects. His initiatives reflect a commitment to conserving historical sites of religious significance and building modern institutions that sustain the community’s educational, religious, and social development.[55]
Preservation of Fatimi Heritage
In Cairo, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin took stridescontinued the preservation efforts initiated by Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin to restore Fatimid-era Islamic monuments. Following his father’s directives, he personally oversaw restoration projects beginning with the thousand-year-old masjid of al-Imam al-Hakim bi Amr Allah. Subsequent restorations included Masjid al-Lulua, al-Jami al-Juyushi, and al-Jami al-Aqmar.[56]
Saifuddin’s approach emphasised restoring these monuments not merely as historical sites but as living places of worship, aligned with their original purpose. Since 2017, he has led renewed restoration projects to address structural challenges caused by rising groundwater and environmental degradation, in collaboration with Egyptian authorities. He also funded the renovation and construction of shrines associated with the Prophet’s family in Cairo.[57]
Masjid Construction and Renovation
Throughout his leadership, Saifuddin has directed the construction of numerous masjids and community centers across the world. These structures incorporate traditional Fatimi architectural motifs while addressing modern needs for communal worship, education, and social gathering.[55]
Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah Expansion
While the campuses of Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah in Surat and Karachi were established earlier by his predecessors, Saifuddin directed the inauguration of two new campuses of the community’s principal educational institution , Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah, in Nairobi, Kenya (2011) and Marol, Mumbai (2013).[58]
In Nairobi, he organised the rapid establishment of a temporary campus within 20 days of its announcement, later overseeing the construction of a permanent facility with world-renowned architects, completed in 2017. TDesigned through an international competition, the 12-acre campus accommodates over 1,000 students and blends Fatimi architectural elements with modern academic infrastructure. Notable features include LEED accreditation, environmentally conscious building designs, landscaped courtyards, student residences, and academic and administrative buildings that serve both spiritual and educational functions.[59]
In Mumbai, he oversaw the planning and construction of a new campus beginning in 2013, which was inaugurated in 2023, to which he welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The 850,000 square foot multi-structure complex, drawing architectural inspiration from al-Jami al-Azhar in Cairo, includes male and female residences, faculty housing, administration and classroom buildings, a three-storey library, a dining hall, and a dedicated building for Quranic studies.[60]
Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT)
Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin has overseen the continuation and expansion of the Saifee Burhani Upliftment Project (SBUP), an urban redevelopment initiative in Mumbai’s Bhendi Bazaar. Initiated in 2009 by his predecessor, Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, the project aims to redevelop approximately 16.5 acres of densely populated housing into modern infrastructure. The plan encompasses the replacement of 250 buildings, transforming the lives of around 3,200 families and 1,250 businesses.[61]
Under Saifuddin’s direction, the first phase concluded in 2020 with the completion of the Al Sa’adah Towers, which provided new accommodations for 610 households and retail premises for 128 enterprises. The second phase, currently in progress, includes the construction of the Al-Ezz and An-Nasr towers, each designed to reach 53 floors. Once finished, these buildings are expected to house over 2,600 families and support more than 590 businesses.[62]
Sustainability features are integrated throughout the development, including rainwater harvesting systems, solar lighting, and on-site sewage treatment. The project also involved the reconstruction of Saifee Masjid, originally built in 1926, which was reopened by Saifuddin in September 2023.
The SBUP has been recognized by organizations such as the Indian Green Building Council and India’s Smart Cities Mission for its environmentally conscious approach and contribution to urban renewal.
Mausoleum Construction and Pilgrimage Centers
Saifuddin has overseen the restoration and construction of numerous mausoleums associated with prominent figures in Dawoodi Bohra history, particularly the Duaat Mutlaqeen. These sites often serve as pilgrimage destinations and are visited by community members.[63]
Saifuddin regularly travels to sites of religious significance across India, including Taherabad in Rajasthan; Ahmedabad, Jamnagar, Mandvi, and Delmal in Gujarat; and Burhanpur and Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. These visits are accompanied by sermons, prayers, and community gatherings.[64]
One notable example of mausoleum construction under Saifuddin’s tenure is the restoration and expansion of the Mausoleum of Maulaya Raj in Ahmedabad in 2017. Under Saifuddin’s direction, the site was redeveloped to accommodate and reflect traditional architectural styles, while incorporating enhanced infrastructure to support larger commemorative gatherings.
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Social Initiatives
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Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s social initiatives appear to emphasize economic resilience, healthcare access, universal education and community development.[65]
Qardhan Hasana
As part of his broader focus on social welfare and economic empowerment, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin has stressed the importance and expanded the reach of qardhan hasana (interest-free loans) within the Dawoodi Bohra community. Rooted in Quranic teachings that encourage mutual assistance and financial fairness, qardhan hasana serves to promote self-reliance and communal support.[66]
Faiz al-Mawaid al-Burhaniyah
Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s role has been integral to the early planning, establishment, operation, expansion, and continued growth of Faiz al-Mawaid al-Burhaniyah (FMB), a community kitchen initiative introduced in 2011 by Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin to provide one cooked, nutritious meal daily to Dawoodi Bohra households.[67] Under Saifuddin’s leadership, the program has been standardised across Dawoodi Bohra communities in over 40 countries.[68]
FMB has also enabled homemakers to pursue education, small-scale entrepreneurship, or caregiving by reducing the daily burden of meal preparation. In many locations, women participate directly in kitchen operations, contributing to household income and community involvement.[69]
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Saifuddin oversaw the delivery of meals and provisions to affected households and essential workers.[70] FMB kitchens have also provided food relief following natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, and cyclones.
He further established Dana Committees to supervise food preparation, maintain quality control, and manage surplus through redistribution or composting.[71][72]
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Office of al-Dai al-Mutlaq
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Syedna Saifuddin is the incumbent 53rd Da'i al-Mutlaq of the Tayyibi Isma'ili Dawoodi Bohra community, appointed by his predecessor and father, Mohammed Burhanuddin II. He stands out among Dawoodi Bohra Dais for appointing such a large number of deputies during his term.
Within his first decade as Dai, he has honoured nearly all of his surviving paternal uncles and brothers by appointing each to serve as a deputy. Upon each deputy’s completion of their earthly journey, he named another successor from his close circle - reflecting his inclusive leadership and commitment to strengthening communal bonds.
Deputies
On 18 Dhu al-Hijjah 1435 (12 October 2014 AD), Saifuddin elevated his uncle Husain Husamuddin to the rank of Mazoon al-Dawat and appointed his uncle Qasim Hakimuddin as Mukasir al-Dawat at a religious gathering held in Mumbai.[73]
On 20 Rabi' al-Thani 1439H (7 January 2018 AD), Saifuddin elevated Qasim Hakimuddin to the rank of Mazoon and appointed his uncle Ali Asgar Kalimuddin as Mukasir at a religious gathering in Surat.[74]
On 27 Jumada al-Thani 1440H (4 March 2019 AD), Saifuddin elevated Aliasgar Kalimuddin to the rank of Mazoon and appointed his elder brother Qaidjoher Ezzuddin as Mukasir at a religious gathering in Ahmedabad.[75]
On 18 Dhu al-Hijjah 1445H (24 June 2024 AD), Saifuddin elevated his elder brother Qaidjoher Ezzuddin to the rank of Mazoon al-Dawat and appointed his younger brother Malik-ul Ashtar Shujauddin as Mukasir al-Dawat at a religious gathering held in Saifee Masjid, Mumbai. Both brothers are Distinguished Rectors of Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah.
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Philanthropy
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Social Upliftment
In December 2016, Syedna Saifuddin initiated a social Upliftment Program, to improve the living conditions of the community.[76][77] The 5-day upliftment drive provided free services to community members: renovation of houses, planting of trees and shrubs, upgrading to squat toilets, building playground and sports facilities, dental hygiene, vaccination camps, a sports day and a community breakfast.[78]
He has also launched a global initiative named Project Rise to help improve the lives of people that are marginalized, neglected or living in poverty. In partnership with government bodies and local organizations around the world, Project Rise's upliftment programs span a range of policy areas, including healthcare, nutrition, sanitation and hygiene, environmental responsibility and conservation, and education. These initiatives provide humanitarian aid during natural disasters and pandemics.[79]
Saifee Burhani Medical Association
By the grace of God, may doctors prosper in service [of humanity]. May God grant his believers and worshipers cure at their hands. May their numbers continue to flourish.
Syedna Saifuddin, on a visit to North America, established Saifee Burhani Medical Association (America),[81] on 14 March 2015,[82] chaired by his brothers, Qaidjoher Ezzuddin, Qusai Vajihuddin, Ammar Jamaluddin, and his son, Husain Burhanuddin. The charter of the association is to run free medical clinics, mentor students, facilitate professional development and support doctors in developing practice models that eliminate insurance billing while maintaining high-quality patient care.
Donations
Syedna Saifuddin espouses that charity comes not from public celebration but from the sincere desire to create positive change in the world, inspiring others through actions rather than words. He advocates a modest lifestyle, wearing simple white clothes[83] and personally embodies the wisdom that "the left hand should not know that the right hand is giving".[84] Commanding the substantial charitable resources of the entire Dawoodi Bohra community (conservatively estimated as an inflow of USD 230 million[85] per year), his approach to philanthropy reflects a deep commitment to helping others without seeking any recognition or acclaim,[86] even community members are unaware of where his philanthropy is directed, highlighting the humility and discretion behind his generous efforts.
In 2014, Saifuddin met Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and donated E£10 million to the Long Live Egypt Fund (Tahya Misr).
In October 2016, Syedna Saifuddin donated US$53,000 to Tanzanian public schools.[87] The same month, a local community led by Saifuddin donated TSh 545 million toward earthquake relief efforts in Tanzania.[88]
On 27 April 2017, Saifuddin donated KSh 5,200,000/= for Beyond Zero initiative towards maternal and child health to Margaret Kenyatta, First Lady of Kenya.[89][90]
On 19 July 2018, Saifuddin met Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and expressed interest in investing in Egypt. Saifuddin also donated E£10 million (US$621,553) to the Long Live Egypt Fund (Tahya Misr),[91] matching his own donation from 2014.[3]
In September 2019, Saifuddin met with President Maithripala Sirisena of Sri Lanka and donated Rs 10 million/- (US$53,553) to National Kidney Fund of Sri Lanka to enhance facilities and improve welfare and preventive care for patients impacted by chronic kidney disease.[92] In the same month, Syedna Saifuddin made a "significant contribution" to the Relief Fund of Chief Minister of Maharashtra to aid with rehabilitation efforts post 2019 Indian floods.[93] In October 2019 Syedna Saifuddin donated Rs.5 million/- to National Cancer Institute, Maharagama towards infrastructure and capacity expansion of its Bone Marrow Transplant Unit.[94]
In October 2019, Syedna Saifuddin donated 60,000 seed balls to Kenya, and a month later, on the occasion of his 76th birthday per the Islamic calendar, he donated 76,000 more which were utilized to grow over 35,000 indigenous tree species at Amboseli National Park.[95]
In May 2021, Syedna Saifuddin donated INR ₹1 crore/- towards the purchase of medical equipment for the Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College Hospital at Aligarh Muslim University during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.[96]
In March 2025, on behalf of Syedna Saifuddin, His Excellency Kinana Jamaluddin (the Head of the Dawoodi Bohra community in Dubai) donated AED 1 million (USD 272,054) to the Father's Endowment campaign which honors fathers through an endowment fund to provide healthcare for the poor and needy.[97]
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Community Policies & Guidance
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Islamic Finance
Syedna Saifuddin has been a strong advocate for Islamic finance principles,[98] particularly the practice of Qardan Hasana (interest-free loans). Saifuddin has actively promoted and expanded the Burhani Qardan Hasana Trust,[99] which freely offers generous interest-free loans to community members. Under his leadership, the Qardan Hasana system has continued to play a crucial role in the economic development of the Dawoodi Bohra community.
Syedna Saifuddin has forbidden community members[98] from bank saving, time deposits or borrowing, EMI finance schemes, overdrafts, contributing to or accepting money from insurance schemes, investments in commodities and stock markets, cryptocurrency, pension, mutual or retirement fund investments or use of credit cards: deeming them haram (forbidden) in Islam.[100] Instead, he encourages strict adherence to traditional Islamic financial principles, urging followers to rely on community-based support systems rather than conventional financial instruments which are speculative in nature (gharar, maisir) or interest-based (riba). This approach has led to the development of numerous financial structures within the community, giving community members financial flexibility and integration with modern economic systems.[98]
Embargo on Mobile Phones for Children
In a visionary and laudable move, Syedna Saifuddin has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to safeguard the well-being of the community's youngest members. With the wisdom of a sage and the foresight of a futurist, he has decreed a complete ban on mobile phone usage for children under the age of 15, a policy that has been embraced with fervour across the global Dawoodi Bohra community.[101][102][103] This enlightened edict, announced during a sermon in Mumbai in December 2024, serves as a beacon of hope in an increasingly digitized world, where the siren call of screens threatens to ensnare young minds.[104] By championing this revolutionary measure,[100] Syedna Saifuddin has not only demonstrated his profound understanding of the perils of modern technology but has also reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to nurturing the physical, mental, and emotional health of the community's children. This bold stance against the tide of technology addiction has ignited a global campaign within the Dawoodi Bohra community, fostering a renaissance of traditional values to cultivate a generation of well-rounded, mindful individuals.[105]
Female Circumcision
In Hansard-UK parliament it was alleged that Syedna Saifuddin supports the practice of female circumcision, which the Dawoodi Bohra community refers to as khatna or khafz.[106] In a sermon delivered in Mumbai in April 2016, Syedna Saifuddin stated that whatever necessary "must be done" for both men and women.[107] One news paper in India alleged that he may be hinting toward FGM.[108] The Dawoodi Bohra Women's Association for Religious Freedom (DBWRF) advocates the practice, arguing that female circumcision (khatna / khafz) is a minor religious procedure[109] involving only a small nick or excision on the clitoral hood or prepuce, which does not cause harm. The DBWRF position is that khafz is a centuries-old religious freedom and rite of passage for religious purity,[110] comparable to male circumcision, and is not intended to control female sexuality. However, this position is contested by some members of the Bohra community[111] and activists who oppose the practice.[112][113] Syedna's Saifuddin's administration has actively supported community members in their legal battles to exercise their religious freedoms, his UK-registered charity spent more than £800,000[114][115] on “costs incurred in defending four members of the Dawoodi Bohra congregation in Sydney[116] in connection with female circumcision”. The community has successfully defended an indictment[117] brought against the practice by the U.S. Department of Justice Criminal Division and the Federal Bureau of Investigation[118][119] by arguing that the US federal statute was unconstitutional.[120][121] Regarding this landmark judgement, Constitutional law scholar Alan Dershowitz, a professor emeritus of Harvard University and prominent Birmingham defense attorney Mayer Morganroth was hired by Dawat-e-Hadiyah "to protect the people charged and represent the religious organization" as per Morganroth.[122]
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Lineage
Syedna Saifuddin is a direct descendant of the Islamic Prophet Mohammed,[123] who was himself a descendant of the Prophet Abraham, through an unbroken chain of noble and august ancestry. His heritage to the Prophet Mohammed traces back through the Prophet's daughter, Fatima al-Zahra, and her husband Ali ibn Abi Talib. From Fatima and Ali, the line continues through their son, Imam Hussein, and the subsequent Imams in the Ismaili tradition up to the fifth Imam, Ja'far al-Sadiq. Mufaddal Saifuddin's ancestors include Mir Mahamad Ali, Fakhr al-Din Shaheed, Abd al-Qadir Hakimuddin, Khanji Pheer and Syedi Lukman who were direct descendants of Ja'far al-Sadiq.
Travels
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Syedna Saifuddin is a perpetual voyager, travelling to Dawoodi Bohra community centers year-round to meet his followers, deliver sermons, organise local communities, launch social projects, curate communal generosity and commemorate important religious functions.[124][125]
During his travels, politicians and leaders from every corner of the globe seek audiences with Syedna Saifuddin, asking his wise counsel.[126] Over his more than 75 years, he has imparted his wisdom to numerous senior politicians, who regard him not merely as an advisor but as a friend and confidante.[127] In this capacity, they approach him seeking solutions for some of the most intricate challenges confronting humanity, valuing his clear insights amidst the difficulties of global governance.
Surat, the erstwhile seat of Dawat and home to the original Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah campus, and Mumbai, the current seat of Dawat and home to Raudat Tahera, are host to most events. Karachi, owing to a large presence of followers outside India, sees more visits from Saifuddin than average. Colombo, Tanzania, and Kenya are other rather smaller community centers to which Saifuddin travels often. Syedna Saifuddin finds particular delight in visiting London, Houston and Paris, cities that hold cherished memories of vibrant community gatherings he attended with his father Burhanuddin.
Syedna Saifuddin visits regularly visits congregations in Yemen, Egypt, and Iraq for their religious and historical importance. Saifuddin also often travels to various places of pilgrimage within India like Taherabad in Rajasthan; Ahmedabad, Jamnagar, Mandvi, and Delmal in Gujarat; Burhanpur and Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh; especially to commemorate annual remembrance of the Duaat and Hudood Kiram buried there.[125]
On 27 April 2022, Syedna Saifuddin, with President of Egypt Abdel Fattah El Sisi, inaugurated Imam Al-Hussein Mosque in Cairo after renovation works to the mosque and the area surrounding it, including the new lounge of the holy shrine of Imam Al-Hussein.[128]
In July 2024, His Excellency Kamran Tessori, the Governor of Sindh, Pakistan sought the counsel of Syedna Saifuddin regarding the nation’s pressing debt challenges. Acknowledging the situation, Syedna Saifuddin said he stood together with Pakistan and gave his blessings for Pakistan's speedy economic recovery.[129] Syedna Saifuddin also committed that the Dawoodi Bohra community would provide global Karzan Hasanah funds to the government of Pakistan on an interest-free basis,[130] aiming to alleviate the debt burden and restore strength to the economy.
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Recognition
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Community
Mufaddal Saifuddin's path of recognition began in his youth. During his early studies in Cairo, he achieved the distinguished status of Haafiz al-Quran (حافظ القران) by memorizing the entire Quran, earning him recognition in Egypt as the Shaykh al-Ma'arif (Master of Knowledge).
When he was 13½ years old, his grandfather Taher Saifuddin took his Misaq on May 22, 1960 (27th of Zil al-Qa'da 1379H), during his 75th birthday celebrations.[131]
On 18 March 1966 (27th of Zil al-Qa'da 1385H), Mohammed Burhanuddin bestowed upon him two significant honors: the title of Thiqat al-D'awat al-Tayyibiyah (The Trusted of the Tayyibi Mission) and the cognomen "Saifuddin" (Scimitar of Islam).[132][133][134]
In January 1969, he was crowned as successor-designate by nass (divine appointment) by his father Mohammed Burhanuddin. In 1971 he was appointed Amirul Hajj by his father Burhanuddin.[132] Following his completion of Hajj, he embarked on a significant journey to Yemen, after which his father honored him with the illustrious distinction Aqeeq al-Yemen (The Agate of Yemen).[132]
His academic achievements were again recognized in June 1971 when he received one of Al Jamea tus Saifiyah's most prestigious degrees, al-'Aleem al-Baare' (The Outstandingly Learned).[132] His connection to this institution deepened when he was appointed its Rector (Ameer al Jamea) in April 1987.[132]
Syedna Saifuddin's influence in academic leadership continued to grow when he was elected Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University in April 2015,[135][136][137][138] a position to which he was re-elected in December 2018.[139][140] His academic leadership expanded further when he was unanimously elected Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia University in March 2023 for a five-year term.[141]
His contributions have been recognized internationally through numerous honors and awards. The University of Karachi awarded him an honorary doctorate in September 2015. From 2014 to 2025, he has consistently been named among The 500 Most Influential Muslims. He received the Grand Cordon of the National Order of Madagascar in June 2014, and various other honors including the Key to Moshi (Tanzania) in 2015, Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart from Kenya in 2017, and the Key to Karachi in September 2017.
In a unique recognition, a new species of orchid was named "Dendrobium HH Dr. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin" in Singapore in April 2018. His more recent honors include the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart from Kenya's President William Ruto in December 2022, Egypt's Grand Cordon of the Order of the Nile in August 2023, and Pakistan's Nishan e Pakistan in December 2023 for his social services contributions.
In recognition of his environmental leadership, his special representative, His Excellency Kinana Bhaisaheb Jamaluddin, represented him at the Global Faith Leaders COP29 Summit in Baku, where he made an appeal on behalf of Syedna for global leaders to take meaningful action in addressing the climate crisis.[142] On hearing his heartfelt and eloquent call to action, many leaders commented that the uniquely Islamic perspective was both refreshing and deeply resonant.
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Chancellorship
Aligarh Muslim University
In April 2015, Saifuddin was elected Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and unanimously re-elected for a second term in 2018. His tenure included presiding over the 63rd Annual Convocation, inaugurating the Centenary Gate, and participating in AMU’s centenary celebrations, which featured a virtual address by the Prime Minister of India. He also composed an Urdu poem incorporating the sacred Quranic verse, "He taught man that which he knew not", which is AMU’s motto.[143]
Contributions during his chancellorship included donating 1,000 computers to affiliated schools, restoring the Syedna Taher Saifuddin High School, providing medical equipment to AMU's hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic, and supporting the establishment of a pharmacy school.[144]
Jamia Millia Islamia
In March 2023, Saifuddin was appointed Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) in New Delhi following approval by the university’s academic council. He is the first and only individual to serve as Chancellor of both AMU and JMI.[145]
Awards
Literary works
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Rasāʾil Ramaḍāniyya (Epistles)
As the Chancellor of numerous Islamic Institutes of Higher Learning, Syedna Saifuddin is a distinguished figure renowned in global academic circles not only for his scholarly prowess but also for his prolific contributions to the literary and academic realms. The compilation of works listed below includes those started by his predecessors, Syedna Taher Saifuddin and Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, but only able to be brought to fruition and completed by Syedna Saifuddin. His writings, characterized by their eloquent prose and deep theological insights, reflect a remarkable synthesis of classical Islamic tradition and thought. Each Risalah serves as a testament to his commitment to advancing knowledge within the Dawoodi Bohra community and beyond. Through these treatises, he enriches the community heritage by adding his unique perspectives and insights:
Qasidah (Poetry)
Ashara Mubaraka
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Left: Saifuddin at an Ashara Mubaraka gathering at Mohammedi Masjid (Houston). Right: Masjid e Moazzam, the venue of Saifuddin's first Ashara Mubaraka (Surat).
The Ashara Mubaraka (Arabic: عشرة مباركه, lit. 'the blessed ten') is an annual mourning of Husayn ibn Ali's martyrdom at the Battle of Karbala.[179][180] In the tradition of the Fatimids,[181][182] the Da'i al-Mutlaq delivers ten wa'az (Persian: وعظ, lit. 'sermons') on Islamic philosophy, history, liturgy, expository, horatory over 9 days: One wa'az each day for 8 days starting 2nd Muharram and two on the final day of Ashura (Urdu: عاشوراء), the 10th of Muharram.[179] Every year the Da'i al-Mutlaq selects a city to host the Ashara at[180][183][184] which, at times, attract 100,000 to 200,000 azadar-e Husayn (Urdu: عزادارِ حسين, lit. 'mourners of Husayn').[185][186][187][188][189] The ashara wa'az from the host city is, on occasion, broadcast to various venues around the world.[185][186] Pilgrims are often provided with free accommodation, transportation, and meals.[186][190][191][192] The faculty of Funun al-Quran, a department of Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah, oversees elaborate Tazyeen (lit. 'decor') of the host venue.[193]
Succession
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The 52nd Da'i al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohras, Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, died on 17 January 2014.[209] As per the tenets of the faith[210] each predecessor must nominate a successor during his lifetime.[211][212] His demise sparked questions about the line of succession[213] when Khuzaima Qutbuddin[214] asserted his right to succession against Mufaddal Saifuddin.
The challenge created a divide within the community,[215] with the majority aligning with Mufaddal Saifuddin[216][217] and a smaller number aligning with Khuzaima Qutbuddin.[218] Mufaddal Saifuddin took control of the Dawoodi Bohra administration and community infrastructure. In March 2014, Qutbuddin filed civil suit 337/2014 in the Bombay High Court against Saifuddin in which he sought a declaration that he was validly appointed as the 53rd Dai al-Mutlaq.[219][220] After hearings spanning ten years, on 23 April 2024 the Bombay High Court dismissed the suit that challenged Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin's position. The court dismissed Khuzaima Qutbuddin's claim, which was pursued by his son and successor Taher Fakhruddin in 2016 after Qutbuddin died. It upheld Syedna Saifuddin as Dai al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohras.[221] Taher Fakhruddin has appealed the judgement,[222] but legal observers believe it faces challenges in succeeding given the court's judgement[223] and the Indian government's strong alignment with Mufaddal Saifuddin.[224][225][226][227][228]
Notes
- During the Ashara Mubaraka in August 2020, as Mosques remained closed inline with government regulations due to COVID-19 pandemic, previous years sermons by Taher Saifuddin, Mohammed Burhanuddin, and Mufaddal Saifuddin were broadcast online to the community worldwide.[203]
External links
References
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