In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficient, the Most Merciful
Amongst them are those who made a covenant with Allah, [saying], “if He bestowed on them of His bounty, they would surely spend in charity, and be truly amongst those who are righteous.” (Holy Qur’an, Surah At-Taubah Ayat 75)
At the heart of Burundi, Hajiani Gulshan Bai Habib shines as a beacon of dedication and selflessness, weaving a lifetime tapestry of love, service, and unwavering commitment to her community.
Born on October 20, 1935 in Gitega, Burundi, Gulshanbai, the daughter of Habibbhai Ladha and Rukiya bai Abdallah, grew up in a large and loving family. Surrounded by 6 sisters and 7 brothers, she learned the values of unity and compassion early on. Her siblings are Zubeda, Marziyyah, Zehra, Sukayna, Parin, Maryam, Marhum Mohamedrafiq, Marhum Akbar, Marhum Mustafa, Marhum Altaf Hassanali, Mehboob and Zulfiqar.
Gulshanbai's educational journey led her through Aga Khan Primary School and Ecole Primary du Quartier Asiatique. However, her vibrant talents and remarkable abilities extended far beyond the classroom. A sports enthusiast, she excelled in volleyball, showcasing not only prowess but also fostering a sense of camaraderie within her community. Additionally, her involvement in presenting stage dramas highlighted her flair for creativity and a passion for social engagement. Upon completing her formal education, Gulshanbai directed her talents towards sewing and embroidery, showcasing her skills in the art of creation.
In 1963, Gulshanbai embarked on a beautiful journey of matrimony with Abdulhussein Habib Khakhi in Bujumbura, and they were blessed with three sons – Azim, Muhammad, and Shakir Hussain. Her commitment to family and community continued to blossom as she joined hands with her husband in the noble pursuit of extending a helping hand to the Bilal Muslim Mission. Her benevolence and compassionate spirit became the cornerstone of her family's commitment to social welfare, leaving an indelible mark on the lives they touched.
Gulshanbai's service to the Jamaat began at the tender age of 12, where she dutifully assisted in the preparation and handling of Alam and Taaboot sowing the seeds for a lifelong dedication to her Jamaat. Over the years, her unwavering commitment saw her rise to the prestigious role of Chair Lady of the Jamaat, a position she held for four impactful years.
Her tenure as Chair Lady was marked by meticulous management, unwavering dedication, and a deep sense of responsibility. Gulshan Bai played a pivotal role in the preparation for Khushalis and Majlises, ensuring that every event was a harmonious blend of spiritual fervour and communal joy. Her involvement extended to the sacred duty of assisting in the Ghusl and Mayyit Committee, a task she approached with a mix of grace and solemnity.
Even in her seasoned years, Gulshanbai remains a dynamic force within the community. She discovered new passions and engages in sewing, cake decoration, and the art of baking. Her "gelatos", in particular, have become legendary, a testament to her creativity and culinary prowess that continues to delight family and friends.
Not one to retire, she continues to inspire through her resilience and dedication to the service of others. Gulshan Bai Habib stands as a living testament to a life well-lived, filled with love, dedication, and a deep sense of community service. Her journey, woven with threads of compassion and resilience, has left an indelible mark on the Burundi Jamaat. In her every action, one finds the echoes of a personality who has not only embraced the responsibilities bestowed upon her by life but has also added her unique, flavourful touch to every role she has played.
We pray to Almighty (SWT) to amply reward Gulshanbai for her dedicated efforts and grant her a long, healthy life to continue serving the community. Ameen.
Article Source: Sukaina bai Roshanali and Nazneen bai Jiwan.
SECRETARIAT
ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION
4th October 2024 / 30th Rabiul Awwal 1446 AH
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