✍️ Saiful Islam
🌍 The Dawn of a Divine Mission in the West (1913–1963)The incredible journey of Jalsa Salana UK began in July 1913, when Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sial, a devoted disciple of the Promised Messiah (as), set foot in London as the first missionary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. On the orders of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I (ra), he took a stand at Hyde Park’s Speaker’s Corner to share the peaceful essence of Islam, igniting a spiritual revolution that would resonate across the West. In the years that followed, visionaries like Khawaja Kamaluddin nurtured the faith by establishing the Woking Mission and contributing significantly to the Shah Jahan Mosque’s creation. Yet, it was the construction of The Fazl Mosque in 1926, largely funded by the devoted Ahmadi women in India, that became a defining landmark—a center for outreach and resilience right in the heart of London.
🙋 The Inaugural Jalsa Salana UK (1964)Fast forward to 29 August 1964, when the first Jalsa Salana UK took place at The Fazl Mosque, with around 70 eager participants paving the way for something monumental. With Maulana B.A. Rafiq presiding and Mahmood ul Hasan Sahib chairing the proceedings, volunteers sprang into action, ensuring that every aspect, from food to transport, reflected the community’s ethos of dignity and inclusivity.
🏡 Migration of Khilafat & the Growth of Jalsa (1984–2004)The year 1984 marked a pivotal shift as Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad (rh) migrated to the UK, relocating the community’s heart to The Fazl Mosque due to escalating persecution in Pakistan. Jalsa Salana UK blossomed into a vibrant global gathering, held annually at Islamabad, Tilford, from 1985 to 2004. The powerful addresses of Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad transformed Jalsa into a thriving hub of spiritual and intellectual growth.
🌱 A New Era Begins at Hadiqat-ul-Mahdi (2005–Present)In 2005, Jalsa found its new home at Hadiqat-ul-Mahdi, a sprawling 208-acre site near Alton, Hampshire, welcoming over 40,000 guests from more than 120 countries each year. Live broadcasts via MTA, which began in 1994, connect millions around the globe to this extraordinary event. Under the guidance of Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aba), the Fifth Caliph, Jalsa emphasizes themes of global justice, interfaith harmony, and profound spiritual transformation.
🧹 Celebrating our Unsung Heroes: The Volunteers Behind the scenes, over 12,000 dedicated volunteers from Khuddam, Lajna, Atfal, and Ansar energize Jalsa every year. From food preparation to logistics, media coverage to childcare, their unwavering commitment makes the event possible. Women play vital leadership roles in various departments, showcasing the Islamic principles of dignity and equality.
📅 A Timeline of Milestones- 1913: First missionary (C.F.M. Sial) arrives in the UK – 1926: Fazl Mosque inaugurated in Southfields – 1964: First Jalsa Salana UK held at Fazl Mosque – 1984: Khilafat migrates to the UK – 1985: Jalsa moves to Islamabad, Tilford – 2005: Jalsa relocates to Hadiqat-ul-Mahdi – 2024: Jalsa hosts over 43,000 attendees from 121 countries —
🌟 A Beacon of Peace and Unity Jalsa Salana UK stands as a beautiful testament to the vision of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (as). Evolving from its humble beginnings to a global phenomenon, it passionately embodies the values of “Love for All, Hatred for None.” The enduring power of Khilafat and the vibrant spirit of brotherhood continue to flourish under divine guidance. More than just an event, Jalsa Salana is a celebration of spiritual unity, sacrifice, and the fulfillment of divine promises. It promises to remain a guiding light of peace, learning, and transformation for generations to come.
📜 Stay Tuned!
Radio VOIB 