The Dawoodi Bohras of Los Angeles, a close-knit community known for their commitment to civic responsibility and communal outreach, recently held their annual Iftar reception during the holy month of Ramadan. The event, which welcomed over 75 distinguished guests from various backgrounds including representatives from state and local offices and interfaith leaders, aimed to foster understanding, respect, and unity among different cultures and religions.
The evening commenced with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an and the Pledge of Allegiance and then heartfelt remarks by Adnan Hamid, the Board Director of Dawoodi Bohras of Los Angeles, who warmly welcomed invitees to the serene and beautiful masjid complex in Woodland Hills. Hamid emphasized the significance of hosting this Iftar reception as a means to share the community's rich culture and traditions with others. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of promoting harmony and mutual respect among diverse communities.
Members from the Dawoodi Bohras of Los Angeles including Amir Hatemi and Dr. Aliasger Najam, and religious leaders including Hazzan Mike Stein from Temple Aaliyah, and Pastor Ben Banner from Woodland Hills Presbyterian delivered speeches, focusing on the theme of gratitude and faith.
A special message from His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, leader of the Dawoodi Bohra Community, was read aloud which underscored the transformative power of gratitude and the community's commitment to helping the less fortunate.
Captain Francis Boateng from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) also addressed the gathering, commending the Dawoodi Bohra community for their interfaith relationships and active engagement in civic initiatives. His words highlighted the community's dedication to fostering positive connections with their neighbors and first responders.
At sunset, guests observed evening prayers, and were then offered a small iftar to break the fast. The iftar included dates, flavored milk, biscuits, and tea, providing a moment of reflection and communal sharing.
The evening continued with a formal dinner held in the VIP hall, where guests were served a traditional Bohra meal. In adherence to the tradition of Ramadan, attendees were presented with gifts as a token of appreciation and gratitude from the Dawoodi Bohra congregation.
Assemblyman Jesse Gabriel, in his first visit to Ezzi Masjid, delivered closing remarks, expressing his gratitude for the warm welcome and acknowledging the Dawoodi Bohra community's active involvement in neighborhood affairs. Assemblyman Gabriel praised the community's collaboration with his office and their dedication to civic engagement.
The Annual Iftar Reception serves as a testament to the Dawoodi Bohra community's enduring commitment to promoting cultural exchange, social harmony, and interfaith dialogue. Inspired by the vision and teachings of His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, the Dawoodi Bohras strive to build bridges of understanding and cooperation with local organizations and faith communities as they endeavored at the Los Angeles Iftar reception this Ramadan.
