“Inna Lillahe Wa Inna Ilayhi Rajeoon”
“To Allah we belong and to Him we shall return”
(Surah Al Baqarah – 2:156)
Marhum Nazir Gulamhusein (1951 – 2023)
It is with great sadness that The World Federation of KSIMC and the whole Khoja community received the news of the passing of Br. Nazir Gulamhusein, on 6th December 2023, in Toronto, Canada. Tadfeen for the Marhum took place on 7th December 2023 in North York Cemetery in Toronto.
Who was Marhum Nazir Gulamhusein?
Marhum Nazir Gulamhusein, a resident of Toronto, was born and raised in Mombasa. He spent a better part of his childhood in Mombasa before shifting to the UK to pursue higher education in accounting. He finally migrated to Toronto, Canada in 1977 and settled there for good. In Toronto, he worked in public accounting for 3 years, after which he moved into the commercial field and eventually established his own business in 1992.
Marhum’s Involvement in the Community
Marhum Nazir came from a family that was involved in volunteering for a very long time. On both sides – Maternal and Paternal, the family members were involved in the community in one way or another. This naturally impacted him, and he started volunteering at the young age of 12 years as part of a young man’s union at the Africa Federation. His task then was simple – to look after the guests, AFED meetings, etc. In an interview, he recalled fondly having to wear Khaki uniforms with brass buttons. He served in the same capacity until he left for the UK for further studies. His activities in the UK were limited as his focus was on studies, and it was only after his migration to Canada that he fully got involved with the community in all senses.
On his passion for volunteering for the community, he once said, “It’s in my blood. I have always done that (volunteering) in some form or the other. In a formal way, or privately in terms of mentoring and helping people with difficulties in different areas. It’s a passion. I love it.”
Contribution towards the community in Toronto
When he arrived in Toronto in 1977, the centre was on a rent basis, which moved from place to place. There were challenges, but it was a cohesive small community that looked after each other. Just 2 years later, in 1979, the first permanent community centre was established at Bayview.
With the new centre came new challenges, which made the community realise that having the centre was one thing, but you needed to help people with it. Br. Nazir stepped up at such a time and took on the leadership role to guide the community. He served as the President of the Toronto Jamaat (ISIJ of Toronto) for 3 terms. Along with the leadership role, he took up many other positions and volunteered in different capacities. He also served as the Principal of the Madressa (under the Jamaat).
He embodied principles, dedication, and a commitment to inclusivity – tirelessly working to foster an environment where every member felt valued and heard. He believed that if any member wanted to be involved in the community, the doors of the Jamaat were always open for them to join in for discussions, debates, or clarifications. As a Jamaat President, he was known to have an open mind and consulted experts in various fields to advise him, his committee, and the community on major decisions.
In a recent interview with Br. Shabbir Jaffer for the ISIJ Chronicle, Br. Nazir expressed his hopes and aspirations for our community for the coming years. He mentioned that “It is for the leadership to understand what it will require to do or to put stacking stones for tomorrow’s generation … To the younger people, I would say that you are the people who have the most to gain and most to lose. You have to understand that you have to be part of running and building the community as you want it. As you expect it to be, as you grow up and lead this community. You have to have ownership to community. You must contribute and contribution. I don’t mean with contribution, just money, but the time, whatever you’re able to, it’s not a free ride, okay? And if you have an expectation from the Jamaat that you get this from them, make sure you need to pay for it monetarily as well as timewise because otherwise what’s the point in the right to expect, okay?” Keeping the current situation of our community in mind, these profound words of wisdom resonate with us today and will serve as a guiding light for the generations of tomorrow.
Demise
Br. Nazir had been unwell for quite a while and had even been hospitalised. He left this temporary world for the final abode on 6th December 2023 at the age of 72. His life was filled with passion and compassion, dedicated towards the community and society. He was a loving family member, a beloved friend, a mentor, and a source of wisdom, guidance, and inspiration for many.
Remembering the Marhum fondly, Br. Mohamed A Datoo of Toronto, mentions, “Uncle Nazir was not only a dear friend but also a cherished mentor to me. Our daily exchanges on world issues and community matters enriched my life immeasurably. His willingness to share his vast experience and provide trusted advice was a cornerstone of my routine … In the realm of charity, Uncle Nazir was a quiet giver, generously contributing without any desire for recognition or publicity. His selfless acts, performed discreetly, were a true reflection of his altruistic nature and commitment to serving genuine causes. Uncle Nazir’s witty sense of humor and honest, straightforward approach to life were both refreshing and inspiring. He was a selfless individual, always acting with the noble intention of serving Allah’s will, and his actions reflected his deep faith and dedication.”
The President of ISIJ Community, Br. Rizwan Khalfan also paid tribute to Br. Nazir. In a heartfelt message to the community, he said, “Marhum Nazir Bhai was a beacon of inspiration whose impact reached far beyond the borders of our close-knit community. His visionary leadership and tireless commitment to philanthropy shaped the very essence of our community, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those he touched. He was a man of principles and always provided thought-provoking constructive feedback to the leaders and volunteers for the betterment of our community…”
The Marhum leaves behind his family, including 6 children and a sister. His demise is a loss to the entire community. His sacrifices and contributions have left the community indebted to him, and the void he has left will be significantly felt for years to come.
The Khoja News team offers our deepest condolences to the Family of Marhum Nazir Gulamhusein and our community members, especially in Toronto. May Allah (SWT) elevate the rank of the Marhum and grant patience to his family and loved ones during this challenging time.
We request our readers to remember the Marhum with a Surah Al Fateha.
References:
- Parts of this article have been taken from Br. Nazir’s interview for ISIJ Chronicle – https://youtu.be/gs8dpoLqIdQ?feature=shared
- Excerpts extracted from the message of the ISIJ President Br. Rizwan Khalfan.