Report By Rudhra Mathiarasan Mumbai – March 25th  was a special occasion for Dawoodi Bohra community as they celebrated their 52^nd spiritual leader Dr.Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin’s 100^th birthday. But the celebrations didn’t just ended on March 25, 2011, but it continued till March 27, 2011,Sunday. As Mumbai is the center of Dawoodi bohra community and Sydena has a permanent residence in Mumbai’s Saifee Mahal, lakhs of bohras from all over the world came Mumbai to attend the procession. The birthday was celebrated at Saifee Masjid at bhendi bazaar. A mass procession on 27 ^th March started from Trident hotel at 7:30pm and continued till KPJP hospital. 100 years old Dr. Sydena Mohammed Burhanuddin was lavishly brought in the throne which was accomplished by 8 horses. Various small and big groups of people followed the throne in form of a large parade. There were 10-12 parade’s each of them had their own specialty, people were holding their respective national flags. The turbans which some of them wore had a special prestige and pride which is given by Dr.Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin after attending certain level of religious or spiritual qualification. There was also some elite group of people wearing white shawl around them who were considered to be their family members. The crowd cheered in joy and respect as soon as they saw Sydena, many started crying out of devotion. Children’s also took part in the parade and entertained the people by throwing chocolates, flowers and greeted them. The chocolates which were covered in a golden wrap looked like gold coins. Each of the parade conveyed its own message; I personally experienced the feeling of oneness among the people accumulated there. The joy and excitement which prevailed over there to see Dr. Sydena Mohammed Burhanuddin was speechless. And more over the joy of the parade was marvelous, I hoped it could have been a never ending one. This 100 ^th birthday Celebration of Dr.Mohammed Burhanuddin was a big blast. And we Wish Dr. Burhanuddin a very long and a happy life and hope same celebrations take place at his 101st birthday. Here are some more clicks of procession.

About the Author: Rudhra Mathiarasan is doing 2nd year in bachelor’s in Journalism from Smt. Maniben M.P Shah Women’s College, Matunga, Mumbai.