Memorable Visit to Chipata for the Cause of Tablighi Ijtima
By: Khursheed Alam Dawood Qasmi
Intention for the Journey to Chipata:
We, Mufti Muhammad Noman Patel, Mufti Mohammad Asif Azmi Qasmi and this humble author, were present in Lusaka to meet Sheikhe Tariqat Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Qamaruz Zaman Sahib Alahabadi (Hafizahullah) as he was present in Lusaka from 23rd to 27th July 2025. Alhamdulillah, according to our plan, Allah Almighty granted us the opportunity on 25th July 2025 to benefit from Hazrat’s sermon and luminous gathering. Then our intention and plan was for the journey to Chipata to attend National Tablighi Ijtima. So, we proceeded according to our plan.
Departure for Madrasa Rehmania:
On the morning of 26th July 2025, we woke up early. After performing ablution and completing other necessary preparations, we offered the Fajr Salaah, which refreshed the soul and brought peace to the heart. Our stay was arranged at Maulana Muhammad Akram Sahib’s house; however, since he was on a trip to India, his elder brother, Mr. Muhammad Akbar Sahib, along with other friends, such as Maulana Abu Talha Qasmi, warmly and lovingly arranged a wonderful breakfast for us. After breakfast, Maulana Muhammad Jasat Sahib took us to Madrasa Rehmania, Great East Road, Lusaka. There, Maulana Qari Muhammad Afzal Sahib, Head of the Islamic Department at the Madrasa, once again arranged breakfast for us. His affection, hospitality and excellent treatment left a pleasant and lasting impression on our hearts.
Madrasa Rehmania, Lusaka:
The founder of Madrasa Rehmania is Mr. Haji Ghulam Husain Patel (Rahimahullah). He established this institution in 1976 under a trust. In 1980, Sheikhul Hadith Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Zakariya Sahib (Rahimahullah) visited the institution and officially named it Madrasa Rehmania. Under the leadership of Mr. Najmal Husain Patel (Hafizahullah), the son of late Haji Ghulam Hussain Sahib, this institution is progressing day by day. Currently, the Madrasa offers education up to the 12th grade alongside Nazra Quran, Islamic studies and other subjects. Additionally, a separate Alim course has been started. There are five classes dedicated to Hifz (memorization of the Glorious Quran). The total number of students is around 270.
Departure for Chipata:
After spending some time at Madrasa Rehmania, we set out for Chipata. The purpose of this journey was to attend the annual national Tablighi Ijtima. Around eleven o’clock in the morning, we departed from Lusaka for Chipata. After a long journey, we reached Chipata at about eight o’clock at night, where our dear friends: Maulana Nasim Akhtar Qasmi, Mufti Abdul Qavi Qasmi and Maulana Manzar Hussain Qasmi warmly welcomed us. Their smiling faces, affectionate demeanor and cordial welcome transformed the fatigue of travel into joy.
Mufti Abdul Qavi, Maulana Manzar Hussain and Maulana Nasim Akhtar:
Mufti Abdul Qavi Qasmi, Maulana Manzar Hussain Qasmi and Maulana Nasim Akhtar Qasmi are our sincere and respected study companions. We all studied together at Darul Uloom Deoband. After graduating from Darul Uloom Deoband, we all reunited at the Markaze Islami Education and Research Center in Ankleshwar (Gujarat), where we received formal education in English language and literature. During our stay in Ankleshwar, our mutual relations strengthened. Today, the four of us serve in various religious and educational institutions across different cities in Zambia. Maulana Nasim Akhtar Qasmi resides in Chipata and serves under the Chipata Muslim Association Trust. This year, Zambia’s annual national Tablighi Ijtima was held in Chipata, and to attend this event, we arrived in Chipata along with other friends. Meeting these long-time companions brought heartfelt joy and peace and refreshed beautiful memories of the past.
Meeting with Friends and Dinner:
The three of us arrived at the residence of Maulana Nasim Akhtar Qasmi. Along with several companions, there were also a few other respected friends present, including Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq Mazahiri Qasmi (teacher at Mahadur Rasheed Al-Islami, Chipata), Mufti Muhammad Shakeel Sahib (Imam, Jamia Masjid Sinda) and Maulana Asif Iqbal Qasmi from Odisha (Educational Supervisor, Katete Muslim Association Trust). We warmly greeted and embraced all the friends, which doubled the joy of the meeting and created a pleasant feeling of belonging in our hearts. After some time, we all proceeded to the Masjid and performed the Isha Salaah. When we returned, the tablecloth had already been set. All the guests were hosted at the house of Maulana Nasim Akhtar Qasmi.
Maulana Nasim Sahib had very carefully arranged a variety of delicious and flavorful dishes, which all the guests thoroughly enjoyed. After the meal, the friends sat together and continued friendly conversations in a pleasant atmosphere for some time. We stayed overnight at Maulana Nasim Akhtar Sahib’s house, while a few other companions, out of affection, went to stay at the house of Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq Mazahiri Qasmi.
Series of Speeches at the Ijtima:
Early in the morning, after taking care of necessary preparations, all of us companions arrived at the Masjid for the Fajr Salaah. Immediately after the Salaah, we proceeded to the Ijtima place, where the day’s programme was scheduled to begin according to a predetermined schedule. Upon entering the Ijtima hall, a unique spiritual atmosphere was felt. Everywhere there were inspiring scenes of faith. The air was scented with the remembrance of Allah, and hearts were softened, eyes filled with reverence and sincerity was evident on faces. The enthusiasm and zeal of the participants were truly remarkable. After Fajr, the first speech was delivered by Maulana Hafizur Rahman Sahib Palanpuri (DB), who conveyed religious points in a very impactful and pleasant manner. Around ten o’clock, a speech was scheduled among the Ulamaa by Maulana Mufti Ilyas Sahib (DB) from Anand. Mufti Sahib addressed the scholars in an excellent style. He explained in various ways the benefits of faith and the harms of disbelief, as well as the advantages of knowledge and the disadvantages of ignorance. The audience was greatly impressed by his speech. Before this talk, around nine in the morning, we went with our companions to meet him at his residence. Mufti Sahib was resting, but when he was informed of our arrival, he invited us in and spoke with us warmly and cheerfully. We introduced ourselves and our institution. He was very pleased to hear about it and blessed us with Duaas. Jazahum Allahu Kheiran!
Hospitality of Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq Sahib and Visit to Mahad:
After the speech of Mufti Ilyas Sahib (Hafizahullah), our group visited the house of our friend Mufti Muhammad Azharul Haq Mazahiri Qasmi. He is a senior and respected teacher at the Ma’hadur Rasheed Al-Islami. He teaches from the primary levels up to the Daurah Hadith. He is very skilled in handwriting, talented, dignified, kind-hearted and hospitable. He arranged biscuits, sweets, tea and other refreshments. All the companions enjoyed Mufti Sahib’s hospitality greatly. Accompanied by Mufti Sahib, we performed the Zuhr Salaah in the Ma’had’s Masjid. With his guidance, we also toured the Ma’had’s playground, dormitories, library and classrooms. May Allah reward Mufti Sahib with the best reward!
Ma’hadur Rasheed Al-Islami, Chipata:
Ma’hadur Rasheed Al-Islami, Chipata, is one of the oldest religious institutions in Zambia. With the instruction of Sheikhul Hadith Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Zakariya Sahib (Rah.), Ma’had was founded by his spiritual successor Hazrat Maulana Abdur Rahim Sahib Motala (Rahimahullah) in 1399 Hijri (around 1978). The local African children study Islam here. The curriculum includes primary levels, Nazra Quran, Hifzul Quran, Tajweed, Qira’at, and extends up to Daurah Hadith. The Daurah Hadith programme was introduced in 1999. Graduates from here serve in various religious capacities throughout the country. Currently, the Ma’had has approximately 400 students in total. After the passing of the founder and principal, Hazrat Maulana Abdul Rahim Sahib Motala (Rahimahullah), the administration of the institution is now managed by his son, Hazrat Maulana Abdur Rasheed Motala (Hafizahullah). May Allah keep this institution established and protect it from the evil eye!
Remaining Programmes of Ijtima:
The Bayaan after Zuhr Salaah was delivered by Brother Siddiq Sahib, while the Bayaan after Asr Salaah was given by Maulana Abdur Rahim Sahib (DB). Immediately after Asr, Professor AIkhlaq Sahib presented a special Bayaan for the students. After Maghrib, Mufti Ilyas Sahib (DB) addressed the audience, and his style of speech warmed the hearts of the listeners. The next day, Monday, 28th July 2025, was the final day of the Ijtima. On that day, the responsibility of delivering the guidance Bayaan was assigned to brother Abdullah Sahib; while Maulana Hafizur Rahman Sahib Palanpuri (DB) was again appointed to lead the closing supplication.
Discipline and Order of the Participants at the Ijtima:
All the speakers delivered their speeches on time according to the schedule, which were very beneficial, thought-provoking and spiritually uplifting. Approximately 1800 people of Tauheed (monotheism) participated in this gathering. Their disciplined and humble participation in the event was a living testimony to the truth of the religion, the hard work of the Jamaat people, and the sacrifices of the esteemed scholars. Timely speeches, collective prayers, walking in lines to the dining hall and eating together, the remembrance of Allah and the atmosphere of hospitality with utmost simplicity and humbleness touched everyone’s heart. Witnessing the vastness of the gathering, the administrative skill, and the enthusiasm and dedication of the organizers filled our hearts with joy. From this gathering, three groups set out for four months, and 107 groups departed for 40 days. May Allah Almighty reward all the organizers, workers, preachers, scholars and servants of this Jamaat with the best recompense, accept their services and bless their sincerity and efforts with increased Barakah! JazahumuAllahu Ahsanal Jaza!
Departure After the Ijtima and Journey Towards Katete:
After the closing Duaa of the Ijtima, we returned to Maulana Nasim Akhtar Sahib Qasmi’s house, where the breakfast and tea were presented to us. In those morning moments, when hearts and minds were still filled with the spirituality of the Ijtima, Maulana’s warm hospitality added to the pleasantness. It was previously decided that after the Ijtima, Maulana Nasim Akhtar Sahib would accompany us to Katete. However, due to organizational commitments, this couldn’t happen. The truth is that Maulana Nasim is a highly active and versatile personality. Under his supervision, dozens of Makaatib and Masaajid operate under the Chipata Muslim Association Trust, many of whose affairs he personally oversees and organizes. In addition, he was an active member of the administrative committee of this annual Ijtima, which made his responsibilities much greater than usual days. Therefore, according to the planned schedule, we departed for Katete.
Chipata Muslim Association Trust:
The Chipata Muslim Association Trust is a social welfare organization that has been providing its services since the 1960s. This institution offers extensive assistance in the form of food and drink items to the underprivileged members of society. Around Chipata and its surrounding areas, the trust runs 24 Makaatib for the children of impoverished families, where they receive basic religious education. These Makaatib operate from Masaajid, and the maintenance of these Masaajid is also managed by the trust. Under the administration of this trust, there is an Islamic school in Chipata city named Chongololo School, which provides education from nursery up to the 12th grade. In villages lacking access to clean water, the trust arranges boreholes so that people can have clean drinking water. Additionally, the trust provides financial assistance to students studying in schools and colleges.
Katete: A Center for Religious and Welfare Activities:
Katete is a small town located about 80 kilometers far from Chipata. In this town reside our sincere and longtime friend Maulana Manzar Husain Qasmi and my dear student Maulana Muhammad Asif Iqbal Qasmi from Oidsha. Maulana Asif Iqbal received his English language education from me at the Markaze Islami Education and Research Center, Ankleshwar, Gujarat. We reached the house of our friend Maulana Manzar Hussain Qasmi, where this always busy personality warmly welcomed us. Both of their houses are situated close to the Masjid. We performed the Zuhr Salaah in the Masjid. After the Salaah, we all went to Maulana Manzar Hussain Sahib’s house, where he honoured us with great hospitality and laid out a variety of delicious dishes on the tablecloth. We found ourselves wondering which dish to start with and which one to end on! Anyway, the friends present at the meal enjoyed their preferred dishes and, in a comfortable and informal atmosphere, we all ate peacefully. JazahumuAllahu Kheirn!
At the same time, Maulana Asif Iqbal Sahib warmly and insistently invited us to stay the night in Katete and have dinner together at his house. His sincere invitation and hospitality deeply impressed us. However, due to lack of time, we had to politely decline; because we were scheduled to stay and have dinner at the house of our old pal and classmate, Mufti Abdul Qavi Qasmi in Petauke. Before our departure, Maulana Muhammad Asif Iqbal Sahib kindly invited us for tea at his house, which we gladly accepted. When we arrived for tea, we found that Maulana had not limited the hospitality to just tea; but generously served various kinds of biscuits, chocolates, dates and other delicious items along with the tea. JazahuAllahu Kheirn!
Katete Muslim Association Trust:
The Katete Muslim Association Trust was established in the year 2000. Under this trust, approximately 30 religious and educational Makaatib and Masaajid are operating in the Katete area. This trust, under the leadership of Hafiz Siraj Kasak Sahib, is actively carrying out numerous social and welfare projects for the local community. Maulana Manzar Sahib oversees the supervision and administrative affairs of the Makaatib and Masaajid established under this trust. About two years ago, Maulana Manzar Husain Sahib invited Maulana Muhammad Asif Iqbal Qasmi here. In the service of Makaatib and Masaajid, Maulana Asif Iqbal Sahib works as an assistant to Maulana Manzar Sahib. Under the respected leadership of Hafiz Siraj Sahib, the joint religious and social activities of Maulana Manzar Hussain Sahib and Maulana Asif Iqbal Sahib have established a pleasant religious atmosphere in Katete, which serves not only as a source of knowledge and training for the local people; but also as a bright ray of hope and guidance.
Departure for Petauke and Visit of the Sinda Masjid:
After tea, we left for Petauke in the company of Maulana Manzar Husain Sahib and Maulana Asif Iqbal Sahib. About 40 kilometers away from Katete is Sinda, Mufti Shakeel Sahib serves as an Imaam at a Masjid in Sinda. He had also gone to attend the Ijtima in Chipata. Due to some personal commitments, he couldn’t reach Sinda by Maghrib time. When our group entered the vicinity of Sinda, it was already time for Maghrib Salaah. In Mufti Shakeel Sahib’s Masjid, we offered Maghrib Salaah. The construction of this Masjid is not yet complete. It is a spacious and beautiful Masjid.
Visiting the Adjoining Sections of the Masjid:
Maulana Manzar Hussain Sahib suggested that we also visit the other parts adjoining the Masjid. Accordingly, after offering the Maghrib Salaah, we visited the other sections of the Masjid. Each part of the Masjid has been constructed in a unique and beautiful style. Upon entering the main door, the main part of the Masjid is visible first. Moving further ahead, on both the right and left sides, some space is allocated for gardens. A few steps ahead is the ablution building, equipped with four ceiling fans. Beyond the ablution area, there is additional space on both sides for gardens. Next is a hall dedicated to the Tablighi Jamaat along with a kitchen. To the right and left beyond this are further garden areas. Further ahead are the washrooms. The Masjid’s construction follows this pattern, and there remains ample space in the courtyard where houses for teachers and Muallimeen of the Maktab are planned to be built. Once all construction is complete, the Masjid’s beauty will increase significantly. This beautiful Masjid is being built at the personal expense of Mr. Nazir Sahib, the owner of Sebal Company. Mr. Nazir Sahib holds great love for the Ulama and those who are engaged in religious works and is always ready to support religious causes in every possible way. After Maghrib, in the company of Maulana Manzar Hussain Sahib, we had a brief meeting with him. May Allah accept his services and reward him abundantly!
Within the Premises of Anusa Secondary School, Petauke:
After offering the Maghrib Salaah and visiting the Masjid, we all got into the car and proceeded towards Petauke. Just before Isha, we reached the premises of Anusa Secondary School and Madrasa Anwarul Islam, Anusa, Petauke, where our friend Mufti Abdul Qawi Qasmi has been associated for nearly 17 years. Mufti Sahib diligently fulfills his responsibilities as a hardworking, sincere and active teacher, supervisor and administrator of this institution. It is an Islamic school that offers education from nursery up to the 12th grade. Along with regular school education, some students also pursue Hifz. Currently, approximately four hundred students are enrolled in the school.
When we reached Mufti Sahib’s house, he was busy with the students of Hifz. We all toured the school and spent some time with the pupils. One pupil recited the Glorious Quran in a very beautiful and impactful manner, which filled our hearts with joy. Our colleagues: Mufti Muhammad Asif Azmi and Mufti Muhammad Noman Patel, encouraged the children by giving them some cash rewards from their own pockets to motivate them to study harder. Then the Adhaan for Isha Salaah was called. We all made ablution and proceeded to the Masjid to offer the Salaah.
After the Isha Salaah, we arrived at the house of Mufti Abdul Qavi Qasmi, where he warmly and sincerely served us a variety of delicious dishes. We all sat at his tablecloth and enjoyed the meal wholeheartedly, benefiting greatly from the beautiful hospitality. After some time, Maulana Manzar Husain Sahib and Maulana Asif Iqbal Sahib left for Katete, while we stayed at Mufti Sahib’s house, spending some time in informal conversation. Later, in the calm of the night, we retired peacefully to our beds and enjoyed a restful sleep. At the very beginning of the morning, we performed the Fajr Salaah. Breakfast was ready, and we had a light meal. Then Mufti Sahib prepared some provisions (Tosha) for our journey. With the provisions, we got ready to depart for Lusaka. Mufti Sahib hosted us with great generosity and love, showing every possible respect and honour. Jazahumullahu Kheiran!
At Maulana Muhammad Akram Sahib’s House:
We reached Lusaka around two o’clock in the afternoon. After purchasing some essential household items, we proceeded to the house of Maulana Muhammad Akram Qasmi. Upon arrival, we learned that Maulana’s elder brother, Mr. Akbar Sahib, was busy with some official work at the moment. However, those present at house such as Maulana Zakiur Rahman Qasmi (who works at IK Trust and had come to meet us) and brother Abdullah Sahib warmly welcomed us. As soon as the news of our arrival was received, brother Mohammad Akbar had already arranged for our lunch. Upon entering the house, we performed ablution, offered Salaah and then enjoyed the lovingly prepared food. We spent the night there. On the morning of 30th July, we departed for Mpulungu with our colleagues. We reached our houses around eight in the evening. All praise is due to Allah, first and last, and blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad (SAWS)! ••••
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