Dawoodi Bohra Forum

Husaini bhai Sanchawala died on 26th July 2008 at Surat at the age of 84. He will always be remembered for the strength of his sharp pen as editor of "The Dawoodi Bohra Bulletin" and his knowledge of Dawoodi Bohra Dais, functioning of Dawat and the role played by the reformists in 20th centaury. His role as activist in association with Noman bhai Contractor in organising "Prabhatpheris", conferences and meetings will remain a golden chapter in the Dawoodi Bohra reform movement.
He along with his wife Memoona bahen most bravely struggled against the repressive regime of Sayedna Taher Saifuddin at the risk of their lives. With the financial help from late Saifuddin bhai Patwa and Noman bhai Contractor a press in Surat was established known as "Progressive Printing Press" which was successfully managed by Husaini bhai Sanchawala. But due to some family compulsions some time back he decided to seek refuse with the same repressive establishment of Kothar against which he has fought through out his life.
His dead body was taken to Rehmatpura Masjid where his namaze-Janaza was performed by a Mulla from Kothar. No reformists, including his own relatives in Surat were allowed to participate. He was then buried in the reformist Kinkhabwala cemetery, which means that though he had gone in misaq but he was not forgiven by vindictive Kothar.
His life was a pride for the community but his death has gone unnoticed. What a tragedy!
This is a lesson for the reformists seeking refuse with the unforgiving establishment.

May Almighty Allah shower his blessing and his soul rest in peace Ameen. Would like to read some more details about him. I think a brief introduction of all the heros of reformist movement should be inculded in " Our People" section.

26th of July or 16th of July?

Bhai Insaf,

Thanks for informing us and taking the lead in posting such news about an ex-reformist member.

recently 2 other notable ex-reformists passed away but no one from the reformists came here to post any comments. when other members talked about it, several reformists instead of acknowledging this shortcoming, went on the defensive and started justifying with all sorts of excuses and even went to the extent of criticising those who wrote about it, saying in essence that too much of a song and dance was being created about a non-issue.

it appears that as 'closet' reformists, our comments are not welcomed and considered to be inconsequential, since they come out of the mouths of those who 'lack guts' themselves, in the opinion of the open reformists.

Al Zulfiqar,

Not true. Your comments, however pointed they are, is of essence to us. If we are to improve and move forward, we have to open our minds to any or all criticism

aftab,

i am really very appreciative of yr spirit of humility and open mindedness. unfortunately, your esteemed colleague humsafar doesnt think so. maybe you ought to read more about his comments on the topic with ref: to sheikh ali raj on this forum. according to him the reformists in the west dont really matter and for all their passivity "they can go to hell". (not my words, please.)

besides, any comments from reformist sympathisers like myself are considered the impudence of a naive, "sanctimonious and self-righteous" upstart. in a way, i am thankful to him for having opened my eyes, as i had perhaps too high expectations, maybe even unrealistic hopes to a great extent. my genuine mistake. he made me realise that people like me are just wasting their time and energy here.

wont happen again. wish u all the best.