Dawoodi Bohras support for Waqf Bill, a prime example of minority nationalism

(Utkarsh Patel)

The Dawoodi Bohras are a global minority community that sets an example to the world through their unique cultural heritage, religious values ​​and nationalistic spirit. This merchant community has not only gained worldwide fame for their business acumen and ethical conduct, but has also inspired everyone with their unwavering loyalty to the nation.

Meaning of Bohra

The Dawoodi Bohras are a sub-community of the Musta'ili branch of Shia Ismaili Islam, which originated in the 10th century under the Fatimid Caliphate. The community derives its name from the Gujarati word ‘Bohra’ (to trade), which refers to their trading tradition.

In India, especially in Gujarat, the Bohras have taken deep roots and over time have spread across the world. Today, the Dawoodi Bohras live as a small but thriving community in India, Pakistan, Europe, America, Australia, Africa and the Middle East. Their religious leaders, the Dai al-Mutlaq, especially the 53rd Dai Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, provide them with moral and spiritual guidance, through which they maintain their values ​​even in the modern era.

Nationalist People

The greatest feature of the Dawoodi Bohra community is its patriotism. In India, they have always been committed to the development and unity of the nation. Recently, their active role in supporting the Waqf Amendment Act 2025 shows that they combine the national interest with the interest of their community. This Act will enable transparent management of Waqf properties, thereby protecting the assets of minority communities like the Dawoodi Bohras. This step is a symbol of their commitment to the nation, as they believe that their progress lies in the progress of the nation.

During their meetings with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Dawoodi Bohras have supported the vision of a developed India 2047. They say that India has always allowed their identity to flourish, and today they want to contribute to the development of the nation. Such a sentiment shows that the Dawoodi Bohras are not just a religious minority, but a community that supports national unity and progress.

With business ethics

The Dawoodi Bohras have a centuries-old trading tradition. They follow the ethical principles of Islamic business, which emphasize interest-free transactions and honesty. Today, they are successful in various industries around the world, including textiles, real estate, education, healthcare and technology. The secret to their success is their hard work, innovation and trust among community members.

The business model of the Dawoodi Bohras is a model for minority communities. They not only develop economically, but also use their success for social service. For example, through their ‘Faiz al-Mawaid al-Burhaniyah’ scheme, they deliver food to every household in the community, so that no one goes hungry. Such initiatives show that they are not only financially strong, but also committed to social justice.

Modernity with tradition

The culture of the Dawoodi Bohras is a beautiful blend of Yemeni, Egyptian, Persian and Indian traditions. Their language, Lisan al-Dawat, is a form of Gujarati, which includes Arabic, Urdu and Persian words.

This language is an important part of their identity, which preserves their religious and cultural heritage. Their attire, Libas al-Anwar, is also unique. Men wear white kurtas, saya and caps, while women wear colorful ridas, which are distinct from the hijab and reflect their modern yet traditional style.

This community has demonstrated an amazing ability to balance modernity and tradition. They have also successfully thrived in the digital age. For example, Bohra women today are active in online business and entrepreneurship, demonstrating that they can combine modern business with traditional values. Such versatility and adaptability make them a role model for minority communities.

Education and Social Service

The Dawoodi Bohras attach great importance to education. Their educational institution, Al-Jami’a-tus-Saifiya, offers religious and secular education worldwide. This institution prepares the youth by combining modern technology and traditional knowledge. In addition, their MSB educational institutions provide quality education in many countries of the world.

Bohras are also pioneers in social service. Through their ‘Project Rise’ scheme, they work in areas such as education, health and environmental protection. In India, the ‘Saifi Burhani Upliftment Project’ in Bhendi Bazaar, Mumbai is a great example of urban redevelopment, which is in line with national development efforts.

As a global role model

The Dawoodi Bohra community is a minority community that can become a role model for other communities in the world. Their nationalistic spirit, business ethics, cultural diversity and commitment to social service make them unique. In a multicultural country like India, they are a symbol of unity and harmony. Around the world, they set an example of peaceful coexistence and mutual cooperation.

The Dawoodi Bohra community is a people who, through their nationalistic fervor, business acumen and social commitment, are a shining example for minority communities. Their success is not that they progressed economically, but that they never forgot their values ​​and loyalty to the nation. Their contribution to India's development and their positive image at the global level show that the Dawoodi Bohras are indeed an ideal community, showing the world the path of unity, ethics and progress.

(The author is a renowned entrepreneur and social worker. The views expressed in the article are their personal opinions.)