Udaipur’s ‘Udai’ Inspires Call to Virtuous Living in Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s Sermon

Udaipur, Aug 14 2025: Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, the leader of the worldwide Dawoodi Bohra community, delivered a moving sermon on Thursday to mark Chehlum — the 40th day of remembrance following the martyrdom of Imam Husain, grandson of Prophet Mohammed (SAW), in Karbala, Iraq. Around 28,000 Dawoodi Bohras from Udaipur and overseas gathered at the Burhani Masjid complex and other centres in the city and neighbouring areas to attend the sermon. 

Syedna used the metaphor of "Udai", meaning sunrise, to highlight how a virtuous start and a purposeful life inevitably lead to a positive conclusion. He emphasised that, just as the sunrise brings with it the promise of a new day, every noble intention and good deed is a beginning that sets a person on a path to righteousness and success. 

Addressing the younger members of the audience, Syedna stressed the importance of education, discipline, and physical well-being as cornerstones of a successful life. He also mentioned the physical, emotional and psychological benefits of viewing the sunrise.

He concluded his sermon with an emotive remembrance of Imam Husain and the enduring relevance of his stand against injustice.

The sermons Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin delivers throughout his travels address both global concerns and the specific issues faced by local community members, and integrate traditional beliefs with contemporary relevance. He directly engages with the attendees, particularly children, who are seated up front.

Syedna arrived in Udaipur on August 12 from Mumbai and the first two days of his visit witnessed community events and personal interaction with members of the community.

About the Dawoodi Bohras of Udaipur

Home to around 15,000 Dawoodi Bohras, Udaipur’s community is deeply woven into the city’s fabric. Known for their entrepreneurial spirit, many are engaged in businesses, while contributing actively to civic welfare, healthcare, and environmental stewardship. Through global initiatives like Project Rise, they work shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow citizens and local authorities to improve the quality of life, reflecting the community’s ethos of progress, peace and harmony.