Introduced by MALIK MERCHANT

Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan, has approved a new motif with the theme of Nur (or Light), which will be used for his inaugural visits to the Ismaili Jamat (community) around the world. His first visit is to France from July 11-13, 2025, a historic occasion that coincides with what would have been the 68th Imamat Day anniversary of his late father, Mawlana Shah Karim, whom Mawlana Hazar Imam succeeded as the 50th Imam on February 4, 2025.

The Ismaili, the official website of the Ismaili community, has published a short video explaining the significance of the motif. In this video, the Ismaili delves into the history and symbolism of the motif, shedding light on its importance in Mawlana Hazar Imam’s visits. Watch the video by clicking on The Ismaili: Motif for Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Visits. We also invite our readers to deepen their understanding of the Imamat and the significance of Didar by downloading our excellent Series on Imamat and Didar, a valuable resource for your learning journey.

Essentially, each Imam is the bearer of the same Nur that flows from one Imam to the next in an unbroken chain of succession, or what is termed as the Rope of Imamat — one of the Two Weighty Matters pronounced by the Prophet Muhammad (may peace be upon him and his progeny). The Ismailis seek support for their spiritual and worldly upliftment through the person who is the current bearer of the Nur of Imamat, who is the living Imam, the spiritual leader of the community. This living Imam provides not only spiritual guidance but also worldly support, ensuring the well-being of the community.

Mawlana Shah Karim, the 49th Imam, communicated this insightful concept in the following message delivered in Karachi, Pakistan, on the auspicious occasion of his 28th birthday or Salgirah, on December 13, 1964:

“For hundreds of years, my spiritual children have been guided by the rope of Imamat; you have looked to the Imam of the Age for advice and help in all matters and through your Imam’s immense love and affection for his spiritual children, his Noor has indicated to you where and in which direction you must turn, so as to obtain spiritual and worldly satisfaction.” Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness the Aga Khan, Farman Mubarak, Karachi, December 13, 1964.

We are filled with anticipation for the first mulaqat (meeting) of Mawlana Shah Rahim Hazar Imam with the Jamat in France, from July 11 to 13, 2025. This is a momentous occasion that we are all eagerly awaiting. We want to assure you that we are committed to providing comprehensive coverage of the France visit in Barakah during the coming week, ensuring that you stay informed and engaged.

Date posted: July 8, 2025.

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FEEDBACK AND Table of Contents

Before you leave, remember that Barakah’s editor, Malik, is here to assist you. If you have any questions or feedback, please scroll down to leave a comment or send an email to mmerchant@barakah.com. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the diverse and extensive content on Barakah’s Home Page or Table of Contents, with over 350 pieces dedicated to Mawlana Hazar Imam, members of his family and the Ismaili Imamat. And don’t forget to visit our sister websites, Simerg and Simergphotos. You can stay updated by following Malik on @Facebook, @X and @LinkedIn.