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His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin | |
|---|---|
مُـفـضّـل سـيـفُ ٱلـدّين | |
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| Da'i al-Mutlaq | |
| Assumed office 17 January 2014 | |
| Preceded by | Mohammed Burhanuddin |
| Title | |
| Personal life | |
| Born | Aali Qadr Mufaddal (1946-08-20)20 August 1946 (age 79)[1] |
| Spouse | [2] |
| Children |
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| Parents |
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| Other names | |
| Religious life | |
| Religion | Shia Islam (Dawoodi Bohra) |
| Sect | Ismailism Dawoodi Bohra |
| Jurisprudence | |
| Citizenship | Indian |
| Alma mater | |
| Occupations |
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| Style | His Holiness |
| Awards | Full list |
| Honours | |
| Signature | |
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| Chancellor ofAligarh Muslim University | |
| Assumed office 11 April 2015 | |
| Preceded by | Aziz Mushabber Ahmadi |
| Chancellor ofJamia Millia Islamia | |
| Assumed office 14 March 2023 | |
| Preceded by | Najma Heptulla |
SyednaMufaddal Saifuddin (Arabic:مُـفـضّـل سـيـفُ ٱلـدّين,romanized: ʿĀlī Qadr Mufaḍḍal Sayf al-Dīn) is the spiritual leader, the 53rdDa'i al-Mutlaq of more than one millionDawoodi Bohras, a subgroup of theTayyibi,Musta'li,IsmailiShia branch ofIslam.[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 ofAligarh Muslim University andJamia Millia Islamia situated in India.
InEgypt, he rebuilt shrines of theAhl al-Bayt and is personally responsible for the restoration of medieval Fatimid architecture, notablyAl-Anwar Mosque,[14]Al-Aqmar Mosque,Al-Juyushi Mosque, andLulua Mosque.[15][16] InYemen, he has spearheaded several campaigns to improve socio-economic conditions of the inhabitants of theHaraaz 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 theSaifee Burhani Upliftment Project in Mumbai’sBhendi 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.
Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin was born on 20 August 1946 (23 Ramadan 1365 AH) inSurat, 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'sAbjad 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 ofAljamea-tus-Saifiyah, whose daughter Jawaratusharaf he married in 1970.
He completed his primary and secondary education in Mumbai and subsequently enrolled atAljamea-tus-Saifiyah inSurat, the community’s Arabic academy. He graduated in 1969 with the degree of al-Faqihal-Jayyid (Distinguished Jurist), considered equivalent to a master's in Islamic jurisprudence. In 1971, he was awarded the degree ofal-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 fromAl-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 theUniversity of Mumbai and is fluent inLisan ud-Dawat,Arabic,English,Gujarati,Hindi, andUrdu. 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 throughnass (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] The judgment stands unchallenged and affirms the legitimacy of his designation and leadership of the Dawoodi Bohra community.[28][29]
Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s teachings integrate classical scholarship with contemporary relevance,[30] 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.[31]
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.[32]
To advance this vision, Saifuddin has expanded the role of Mahad al-Zahra,[33] 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.[34]
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.[35]
In 2023, Saifuddin inaugurated the School of Law building at Karachi University with the aim to promote holistic development through education.
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.[36]
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.[37]
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.
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.
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.
Syedna Saifuddin is responsible for the restoration of medievalFatimid mosques inEgypt.[38] Projects include the restoration and revival ofAl-Hakim Mosque (al-Jamea al-Anwar),[14] the restoration of the masjid ofZoeb bin Moosa in 1406H,[39] the restoration ofAqmar Mosque in 1408H,[40] construction of the mosque ofAbdullah ibn Muhammad ibn Ismail inSalamiyah in 1414H,[40] restoration of theLulua Mosque andJuyushi Mosque in 1416H, construction of thezareeh ofZaynab bint Ali in Cairo in 1416H,
Syedna Saifuddin is responsible for the restoration of theMashhad Ras al-Husayn inAshkelon in 1421H.
Syedna Saifuddin is responsible for the restoration of theMazar andMosque ofHatim bin Ibrahim in 1425H,[41] and the identification and ratification of the tombs of eightDa'i al-Mutlaq in Yemen.[42][43]
Under his guidance two new campuses ofAljamea tus Saifiyah have been completed. TheNairobi,Kenya campus was inaugurated by Syedna Saifuddin and thePresident of Kenya,Uhuru Kenyatta on 20 April 2017.[44][45] ThePrime Minister of India,Narendra Modi inaugurated the fourth campus inMarol, Mumbai on 10 February 2023.[46]
Syedna Saifuddin has led theBhendi Bazaar Redevelopment Project, including the public charitable trust named the Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust[47] was created on 23 January 2009 with an initial corpus provided by settlors ShahzadaQaidjoher Ezzuddin and Shahzada Abbas Fakhruddin.[48] The first phase was completed and inaugurated by Syedna Saifuddin on 18 May, 2016. About 250 dilapidated buildings inBhendi 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."[49][50] It is expected to be completed by 2030.[51]
On 17 April 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a delegation of Dawoodi Bohra community members at his official residence in New Delhi, led byHusain Burhanuddin.[52] During the meeting, the delegation expressed appreciation for the enactment of theWaqf Amendment Act.[53] 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."[54] 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.[55][56]
Syedna Saifuddin is the incumbent 53rdDa'i al-Mutlaq of theTayyibi 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.
On 18Dhu al-Hijjah 1435 (12 October 2014 AD), Saifuddin elevated his uncle Husain Husamuddin to the rank ofMazoon al-Dawat and appointed his uncleQasim Hakimuddin asMukasir al-Dawat at a religious gathering held inMumbai.[57]
On 20Rabi' al-Thani 1439H (7 January 2018 AD), Saifuddin elevated Qasim Hakimuddin to the rank ofMazoon and appointed his uncle Ali Asgar Kalimuddin asMukasir at a religious gathering inSurat.[58]
On 27Jumada al-Thani 1440H (4 March 2019 AD), Saifuddin elevatedAliasgar Kalimuddin to the rank ofMazoon and appointed his elder brotherQaidjoher Ezzuddin asMukasir at a religious gathering inAhmedabad.[59]
On 18Dhu al-Hijjah 1445H (24 June 2024 AD), Saifuddin elevated his elder brotherQaidjoher Ezzuddin to the rank ofMazoon al-Dawat and appointed his younger brotherMalik-ul Ashtar Shujauddin asMukasir al-Dawat at a religious gathering held inSaifee Masjid, Mumbai. Both brothers are Distinguished Rectors ofAljamea-tus-Saifiyah.
To ensure that not a single community member ever goes hungry, Saifuddin has expanded the worldwide community kitchen scheme,[60][61] named Faiz al-Mawaid al-Burhaniyah[62] (Arabic:فيض الموائد البرهانية). Every day, aTiffin orThali consisting of a fully prepared and cooked meal is delivered to each and every Dawoodi Bohra community household worldwide.[63]
To reduce food wastage, Syedna Saifuddin implemented a policy to strictly limit the number of dishes served in any community, social or personal gathering where Dawoodi Bohras are present.[64] Approximately 7,000Dana Committee (literally "grain committee") volunteers world-wide are tasked with enforcing this directive to eliminate food wastage at all community events.[65]
In December 2016, Syedna Saifuddin initiated a socialUpliftment Program, to improve the living conditions of the community.[66][67] The 5-day upliftment drive provided free services to community members: renovation of houses, planting of trees and shrubs, upgrading tosquat toilets, building playground and sports facilities, dental hygiene, vaccination camps, a sports day and a community breakfast.[68]
He has also launched a global initiative namedProject 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.[69]
By the grace of God, may doctorsprosper in service [of humanity]. May God grant hisbelievers andworshipers cure at their hands. May their numbers continue to flourish.
Syedna Saifuddin, on a visit toNorth America, establishedSaifee Burhani Medical Association (America),[71] on 14 March 2015,[72] 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.
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[73] and personally embodies the wisdom that "the left hand should not know that the right hand is giving".[74] Commanding the substantial charitable resources of the entire Dawoodi Bohra community (conservatively estimated as an inflow of USD 230 million[75] per year), his approach to philanthropy reflects a deep commitment to helping others without seeking any recognition or acclaim,[76] even community members are unaware of where his philanthropy is directed, highlighting the humility and discretion behind his generous efforts.
In 2014, Saifuddin metAbdel Fattah el-Sisi and donatedE£10 million to theLong Live Egypt Fund (Tahya Misr).
In October 2016, Syedna Saifuddin donatedUS$53,000 toTanzanian public schools.[77] The same month, a local community led by Saifuddin donatedTSh 545 million toward earthquake relief efforts in Tanzania.[78]
On 27 April 2017, Saifuddin donatedKSh 5,200,000/= forBeyond Zero initiative towards maternal and child health toMargaret Kenyatta,First Lady of Kenya.[79][80]
On 19 July 2018, Saifuddin metAbdel Fattah el-Sisi and expressed interest in investing in Egypt. Saifuddin also donatedE£10 million (US$621,553) to theLong Live Egypt Fund (Tahya Misr),[81] matching his own donation from 2014.[3]
In September 2019, Saifuddin met withPresident Maithripala Sirisena of Sri Lanka and donatedRs 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.[82] In the same month, Syedna Saifuddin made a "significant contribution" to the Relief Fund ofChief Minister of Maharashtra to aid with rehabilitation efforts post2019 Indian floods.[83] In October 2019 Syedna Saifuddin donatedRs.5 million/- to National Cancer Institute,Maharagama towards infrastructure and capacity expansion of its Bone Marrow Transplant Unit.[84]
In October 2019, Syedna Saifuddin donated 60,000 seed balls to Kenya, and a month later, on the occasion of his 76th birthday per theIslamic calendar, he donated 76,000 more which were utilized to grow over 35,000 indigenous tree species atAmboseli National Park.[85]
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.[86]
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.[87]
Syedna Saifuddin has been a strong advocate for Islamic finance principles,[88] particularly the practice of Qardan Hasana (interest-free loans). Saifuddin has actively promoted and expanded the Burhani Qardan Hasana Trust,[89] 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[88] frombank saving,time deposits orborrowing,EMI finance schemes,overdrafts, contributing to or accepting money frominsurance schemes, investments incommodities andstock markets,cryptocurrency, pension, mutual or retirementfund investments or use ofcredit cards: deeming themharam (forbidden) in Islam.[90] 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.[88]
On December 19, 2024, Syedna Saifuddin unveiled a directive to minimise the use of mobile phones by people under the age of 15, following global concerns about the negative effects of mobile phone usage on children's health.[91][92][93] The directive has been supported by the Dawoodi Bohra community, with parents and teachers feeling that an official directive legitimises their desire to encourage their children to pursue healthier activities, such as sports and art.[94][95]
In Hansard-UK parliament it was alleged that Syedna Saifuddin supports the practice of female circumcision, which theDawoodi Bohra community refers to as khatna or khafz.[96] In a sermon delivered in Mumbai in April 2016, Syedna Saifuddin stated that whatever necessary "must be done" for both men and women.[97] One news paper in India alleged that he may be hinting toward FGM.[98] TheDawoodi Bohra Women's Association for Religious Freedom (DBWRF) advocates the practice, arguing that female circumcision (khatna / khafz) is a minor religious procedure[99] 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,[100] comparable to male circumcision, and is not intended to control female sexuality. However, this position is contested by some members of the Bohra community[101] and activists who oppose the practice.[102][103] 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[104][105] on “costs incurred in defending four members of the Dawoodi Bohra congregation in Sydney[106] in connection with female circumcision”. The community has successfully defended an indictment[107] brought against the practice by the U.S.Department of Justice Criminal Division and theFederal Bureau of Investigation[108][109] by arguing that the US federal statute was unconstitutional.[110][111]Regarding this landmark judgement, Constitutional law scholarAlan Dershowitz, a professor emeritus ofHarvard 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.[112]
Syedna Saifuddin is a direct descendant of theIslamic ProphetMohammed,[113] who was himself a descendant of the ProphetAbraham, 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 husbandAli ibn Abi Talib. From Fatima and Ali, the line continues through their son, ImamHussein, and the subsequent Imams in theIsmaili 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 andSyedi Lukman who were direct descendants ofJa'far al-Sadiq.
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.[114][115]
During his travels, politicians and leaders from every corner of the globe seek audiences with Syedna Saifuddin, asking his wise counsel.[116] 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.[117] 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 ofDawat and home to the originalAljamea-tus-Saifiyah campus, and Mumbai, the current seat ofDawat and home toRaudat 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, andKenya are other rather smaller community centers to which Saifuddin travels often. Syedna Saifuddin finds particular delight in visitingLondon,Houston andParis, 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 likeTaherabad in Rajasthan;Ahmedabad,Jamnagar,Mandvi, andDelmal in Gujarat;Burhanpur andUjjain in Madhya Pradesh; especially to commemorateannual remembrance of theDuaat andHudood Kiram buried there.[115]
On 27 April 2022, Syedna Saifuddin, with President of EgyptAbdel 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.[118]
In July 2024, His ExcellencyKamran Tessori, the Governor ofSindh,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.[119] 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,[120] aiming to alleviate the debt burden and restore strength to the economy.
Mufaddal Saifuddin's path of recognition began in his youth. During his early studies in Cairo, he achieved the distinguished status ofHaafiz al-Quran (حافظ القران) by memorizing the entire Quran, earning him recognition in Egypt as theShaykh al-Ma'arif (Master of Knowledge).
When he was 13½ years old, his grandfather Taher Saifuddin took hisMisaq on May 22, 1960 (27th of Zil al-Qa'da 1379H), during his 75th birthday celebrations.[121]
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).[122][123][124]
In January 1969, he was crowned as successor-designate bynass (divine appointment) by his father Mohammed Burhanuddin. In 1971 he was appointedAmirul Hajj by his father Burhanuddin.[122] 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 (TheAgate of Yemen).[122]
His academic achievements were again recognized in June 1971 when he received one ofAl Jamea tus Saifiyah's most prestigious degrees, al-'Aleem al-Baare' (The Outstandingly Learned).[122] His connection to this institution deepened when he was appointed its Rector (Ameer al Jamea) in April 1987.[122]
Syedna Saifuddin's influence in academic leadership continued to grow when he was elected Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University in April 2015,[125][126][127][128] a position to which he was re-elected in December 2018.[129][130] His academic leadership expanded further when he was unanimously elected Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia University in March 2023 for a five-year term.[131]
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.[132] On hearing his heartfelt and eloquent call to action, many leaders commented that the uniquely Islamic perspective was both refreshing and deeply resonant.
| Year & Date | Country | Award/Honour |
|---|---|---|
| 9 September 2015 |  Pakistan | Governor of SindhDr Ishrat-ul-Ibad Khan conferred anhonorary doctorate degree upon byUniversity of Karachi (KU) atGovernor House.[133][134] |
| 2015 & 2018 |  India | Mufaddal Saifuddin, was elected asAligarh Muslim University's new Chancellor on 11 April 2015.[125][126][127][128] He was re-elected as the Chancellor for a second term on 2 December 2018.[129][130] |
| 2014 to 2024 |  Jordan | Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin was named one ofThe 500 Most Influential Muslims in the years 2014 to 2025. |
| 23 June 2014 |  Madagascar | He was awarded Grand Cordon of theNational Order of Madagascar.[135] |
| 29 August 2015 |  Tanzania | During his visit toMoshi,Tanzania, Mufaddal Saifuddin was presented the "Key to Moshi - The Land of Kilimanjaro" by the Mayor Japhary R Michael on 29 August 2015.[136] |
| 20 April 2017 |  Kenya | Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart, Second Class by PresidentUhuru Kenyatta on the inauguration of theAl Jamea tus Saifiyah campus inNairobi.[137] |
| 30 September 2017 | Pakistan | Key to Karachi by the Mayor ofKarachi,Waseem Akhtar.[138] |
| 30 April 2018 |  Singapore | A new species of orchid[a] was named asDendrobium HH Dr. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin. |
| 12 December 2022 | Kenya | He was awardedChief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH) by President William Ruto.'[139] |
| 7 August 2023 |  Egypt | Awarded Grand Cordon of theOrder of the Nile (Nile Sash Arabic: Wisha al-Neel وشاح النيل) by PresidentAbdel Fattah el-Sisi.[140] |
| 5 December 2023 | Pakistan | President of PakistanArif Alvi conferred theNishan e Pakistan on His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin in a special investiture ceremony inAiwan e Sadr,Islamabad in recognition of the social services rendered by His Holiness for the development of Pakistan.[141] |
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. EachRisalah 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:
| ID | Title | Trans title | OrigAH | Pub AH | PubCE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taher Saifuddin's Rasa'il | |||||
| STS48 | شموس بركات الربانيين[142] | Shumūs Barakāt al-Rabbāniyyīn | 1383 | 1435 | 2015 |
| STS49 | انهار فيوض الفاطميين[143] | Anhaar Fuyūz al-Fatimiyyeen | 1384 | 1436 | 2016 |
| Mohammed Burhanuddin's Rasa'il | |||||
| SMB07 | نشر الخير[144] | Nashr al-Khayr | 1391 | 1437 | 2016 |
| SMB08 | ندى الفيوضات[145] | Nadā al-Fūyūdāt | 1392 | 1438 | 2017 |
| SMB09 | سلسبيل روض القدس[146] | Salsabīl Rawd al-Quds | 1393 | 1439 | 2018 |
| SMB10 | بركات دعاة الستر[147] | Barakāt Duāt al-Satr | 1394 | 1440 | 2019 |
| Mufaddal Saifuddin's Rasa'il | |||||
| SMS00 | حكمة الغيبة القدسانية الابدية[148] | Hikmat al-Ghaybat al-Qudsāniyyat al-Abadiyya | 1435 | 1436 | 2016 |
| SMS01 | شكر نعم اصحاب البركات[149] | Shukr Ne'am As'hāb al-Barakāt | 1436 | 1437 | 2017 |
| SMS02 | جامعة ثمرات العلوم[150] | Jāmiʿat Thamarāt al-ʿUlūm | 1437 | 1438 | 2018 |
| SMS03 | فيوضات يمنية طيبة[151] | Fūyūdāt Yamaniyyat Taiyyeba | 1438 | 1439 | 2019 |
| SMS04 | ملتقى سفينة البركات[152] | Multaqā Safīnat al-Barakāt | 1439 | 1440 | 2019 |
| SMS05 | دفينة مفاخر ال النبي الطهر[153] | Dafīnat Mafākhir āl al-Nabi al-Tuhr | 1440 | 1441 | 2020 |
| # | Matla | Language | Style | Occasion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1435 ھ | ||||
| 1 | الم بدين الله ادهى الشدائد | Arabic | Elegy | |
| 2 | اے الله نا داعي نبي نا پيارا | Lisan al-Dawat | Elegy | |
| 3 | اناجيك رب العالمين مبسملا. | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 4 | سلام على ال النبي الاكارم.[154] | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
| 1436 ھ | ||||
| 5 | عليك سلام الله و الصلوات[155] | Arabic | Elegy | Urs |
| 6 | اناجيك ربي اليك التجائي | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 7 | اتيت بابك كعبة القبل.[156] | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
| 8 | چلو اے پیارا عزیزو چلو | Lisan al-Dawat | Nasihat | Eid al-Adha |
| 9 | علم الانسان مالم یعلم ايك اعزاز ہے | Urdu | Nazm | AtAligarh Muslim University |
| 1437 ھ | ||||
| 10 | جئتك ربي تائبا عابدا. | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 11 | يا بني الخمسة انتم وزري[157] | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
| 1438 ھ | ||||
| 12 | دعوت اله العالمين مناجيا.[158] | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 13 | يا طيب العصر طيب طوبى[159] | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
| 14 | روجو برادر حسين نے روجو | Lisan al-Dawat | Marsiya | Eid al-Adha |
| 1439 ھ | ||||
| 15 | ا مالك يوم الدين اياك نعبد[160] | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 16 | اھل بيت النبي خذوا بيدي[161] | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
| 17 | يا حسينا پر هميى قربان چهے قربان چهے[162] | Lisan al-Dawat | Marsiya | Eid al-Adha |
| 1440 ھ | ||||
| 18 | يابن[163] الحسين يا امام العصر * بفضلك اقبل سجدات الشكر | Arabic | Qasida | Muharram (Thanking for Dream of Imam uz zaman) |
| 19 | ايا رب اوزعني لاشكر دائبا | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 20 | فديتك يا طيب العترة | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
| 1441 ھ | ||||
| 21 | اناجيك يا رازق العافية[164] | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 22 | اهل بيت الوحي اهل الكرم | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
| 23 | ذكر الحسين خير زاد الذاكرين | Arabic | Marsiya | Eid al-Ghadeer |
| 1442 ھ | ||||
| 24 | [165] دعوتك ذا الرحمة الواسعة | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 25 | يا طيب الفاطميين بني فاطمة | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
| 1443 ھ | ||||
| 26 | ايا ربنا نبتغي الوسيلة | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 27 | رجائي انتم ال النبي | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
| 1444 ھ | ||||
| 28 | فزت فوزا اذ انادي يا علي | Arabic | Qasida | Najaf trip |
| 29 | اتاك الهي رجاك الهي | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 30 | فاطمي عين الحيوة امامي | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
| 31 | حسيني دنو غم سي ايا | Lisan al-Dawat | Marasiya | Eid al-Adha |
| 1445ھ | ||||
| 32 | دعوتك ارحم الرحماء فارحم | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 33 | ال النبي ائمتي حبي لكم | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
| 34 | کربلاء میرے آقا سدهارے | Urdu | Marasiya | Eid al-Adha |
| 1446ھ | ||||
| 35 | عبدك يرجو فانت مولاه | Arabic | Munajat | Laylat al-Qadr |
| 36 | سبحتي طيب الوجود مديحك | Arabic | Qasida | Eid al-Fitr |
TheAshara Mubaraka (Arabic:عشرة مباركه,lit. 'the blessed ten') is anannual mourning ofHusayn ibn Ali's martyrdom at theBattle of Karbala.[166][167] In the tradition of theFatimids,[168][169] the Da'i al-Mutlaq delivers tenwa'az (Persian:وعظ,lit. 'sermons') onIslamic philosophy,history,liturgy,expository,horatory over 9 days: Onewa'az each day for 8 days starting 2ndMuharram and two on the final day ofAshura (Urdu:عاشوراء), the 10th of Muharram.[166] Every year the Da'i al-Mutlaq selects a city to host theAshara at[167][170][171] which, at times, attract 100,000 to 200,000azadar-e Husayn (Urdu:عزادارِ حسين,lit. 'mourners of Husayn').[172][173][174][175][176] Theashara wa'az from the host city is, on occasion, broadcast to various venues around the world.[172][173] Pilgrims are often provided withfree accommodation, transportation, and meals.[173][177][178][179] The faculty ofFunun al-Quran, a department of Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah, oversees elaborateTazyeen (lit. 'decor') of the host venue.[180]
| CE | AH | City | Province | Country | Continent | Start | End | Attendees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 1436 | Surat[181] | Gujarat | India | Asia | 25 October | 2 November | 200,000[181] |
| 2015 | 1437 | Houston[182] | Texas |  United States | North America | 14 October | 22 October | 25,000[182] |
| 2016 | 1438 | Dar es Salaam[183] | Dar es Salaam Region | Tanzania | Africa | 3 October | 11 October | 32,000[184] |
| 2017 | 1439 | Karachi[185] | Sindh | Pakistan | Asia | 22 September | 30 September | 65,000 |
| 2018 | 1440 | Indore[186] | Madhya Pradesh | India | 12 September | 20 September | 210,000 | |
| 2019 | 1441 | Colombo[187][188] | Western Province |  Sri Lanka | 1 September | 9 September | 28,000 | |
| 2020 | 1442 | Khandala[189][b] | Maharashtra | India | 20 August | 28 August | NA | |
| 2021 | 1443 | Nairobi[191] | Nairobi County | Kenya | Africa | 10 August | 18 August | |
| 2022 | 1444 | London[192] | England |  United Kingdom | Europe | 30 July | 7 August | 12,500 |
| 2023 | 1445 | Dubai | Emirate of Dubai |  United Arab Emirates | Asia | 19 July | 27 July | 75,000[193] |
| 2024 | 1446 | Karachi[194] | Sindh | Pakistan | 8 July | 16 July | Estimated 81,000 | |
| 2025 | 1447 | Chennai | Tamil Nadu | India | 27 June | 5 July | 43,000[195] |
The 52ndDa'i al-Mutlaq of theDawoodi Bohras, SyednaMohammed Burhanuddin, died on 17 January 2014.[196] As per the tenets of the faith[197] each predecessor must nominate a successor during his lifetime.[198][199] His demise sparked questions about the line of succession[200] whenKhuzaima Qutbuddin[201] asserted his right to succession against Mufaddal Saifuddin.
The challenge created a divide within the community,[202] with the majority aligning with Mufaddal Saifuddin[203][204] and a smaller number aligning with Khuzaima Qutbuddin.[205] 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.[206][207] After hearings spanning ten years, on 23 April 2024 theBombay High Court dismissed the suit that challenged Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin's position. The court dismissedKhuzaima Qutbuddin's claim, which was pursued by his son and successorTaher Fakhruddin in 2016 after Qutbuddin died. It upheld Syedna Saifuddin as Dai al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohras.[208] Taher Fakhruddin has appealed the judgement,[209] but legal observers believe it faces challenges in succeeding given the court's judgement[210] and the Indian government's strong alignment with Mufaddal Saifuddin.[211][212][213][214][215]
His Holiness TUS appeared for the examinations of the historic Dawoodi Bohra educational institute Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah in Surat where he graduated with the highest honours. He completed his undergraduate education in India and Egypt where he was privately tutored by distinguished professors from Cairo's leading universities including Cairo University and al-Azhar.
Muffadal Saifuddin is the second eldest among seven children of Dr Burhanuddin. Born in Surat, he moved to Mumbai for his school education and graduated from Mumbai University. He is presently a rector in Arabic University in Surat.
The donation given by Syedna will provide the much needed superior stem cell transplant procedures and care for patients with life threatening blood conditions such as leukemia and thalassemia said Mufaddal Adamjee, local public relations co-ordinator.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link){{cite AV media}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link){{cite AV media}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)Nearly 200,000 Dawoodi Bohras from all over the world attended the 10-day Moharram observance which culminated here Wednesday as Ashura, under the guidance of their 102-year-old spiritual head Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin...Elaborate arrangements for lodging, boarding, transportation, medical and other requirements of the visitors were made...For the benefit of the global community members, the discourses were relayed live via internet to over 650 community centres.
Community members in Colombo have opened their homes to foreign guests, many of whom they've never met before. Bus companies have been hired to ferry attendees from different parts of the city. Over the course of the nine days, hundreds of thousands of meals will be served.
Syedna holds the waaz at different venues every year with the Bohra jamiats or groups, from across the world, requesting him to select their city as the host. When they send their requests, it means that they are sure that they have the facilities to support the requirements of the gathering. This includes the local travel of visitors between their place of accommodation and the venue, and also their meals
| Shia Islam titles | ||
|---|---|---|
Mufaddal Saifuddin Born: 20 August 1946 | ||
| Preceded by | 53rdDā'ī al-Mutlaq 2014–present | Succeeded by Incumbent |
