Chicago

Welcome to the Dawoodi Bohra Community of Chicago

Our Community in Chicago

Chicago, known for its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and welcoming spirit, has been home to the Dawoodi Bohra community for over seven decades. What began in the 1950s with a handful of students has grown into a vibrant, multigenerational community of over 1,000 members. We are professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and families, each contributing to the city’s unique energy and diversity.

Where We Are

Our base is the Burhani Park Complex in Willowbrook, a suburban hub that combines the warmth of community with the energy of Chicago’s urban life. Located near other religious and cultural centers, it’s a place where we gather for prayer, celebrations, and service.

From the sprawling shores of Lake Michigan to the historic streets of the Loop, our members live across Chicagoland. You might find us enjoying a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, cheering on runners at the Chicago Marathon, or volunteering at food banks in Pilsen and Hyde Park.

Where We Are

Our Story

The Dawoodi Bohra presence in Chicago began in the 1950s, with young students arriving to study and build their futures. By the early 1970s, the community formally organized as The Dawoodi Bohras of Chicago. Since then, we’ve grown into a multigenerational community of over 1,512 members, including more than 200 children—many of whom are third-generation immigrants.

Our Story

We are a microcosm of Chicago’s story: hardworking, innovative, and deeply connected to family and faith. Guided by the principles of our faith, our members embody values of peace, compassion, and service in all that we do.

Our Community

Our members are the heart of our community. Among us are experts in medicine, from heart surgeons to chiropractors, alongside thriving entrepreneurs in industries like construction, IT, real estate, and even niche markets like engraving and photography.
We embrace Chicago’s spirit of togetherness, hosting interfaith events, funfairs, and festive celebrations. Whether it’s Ramadan dinners or Fourth of July barbecues, our gatherings reflect the city’s warmth and inclusivity.

Our Community

Our Masjid/Markaz

Community Center

Masjid Name:

Al Masjid Al Badri, Chicago

Address:

10S260 Kingery Hwy Willowbrook, IL 60527

Burhani Park is our community’s heart. Here, we host over 120 events annually, from religious gatherings to cultural celebrations. Plans are underway to expand the masjid complex, adding classrooms, meeting spaces, and a modern kitchen for our Faiz al-Mawaid al-Burhaniyah program.

Serving the Wider Community

Our commitment to service mirrors Chicago’s principle of giving back. We host interfaith evenings, participate in environmental initiatives, and collaborate with local organizations to tackle food insecurity and other pressing challenges.

Serving the Wider Community

Environmental consciousness is a priority. By eliminating foam cups at our events, promoting zero-waste dining practices, and encouraging sustainable habits, we’ve made significant strides in reducing our ecological footprint—saving over 50,000 cups annually.