Updated 21 March 2012

An Inspiring Quran Exhibition at Mulla Asghar Resource Center in Toronto

Over two thousand visitors from different faiths and around the world have been able to feast their eyes upon rare manuscripts and digital displays of rare Qur`anic manuscripts, since its inauguration in April  2011 at the Mulla Asghar Memorial Library and Resource Center (MARC) ) at the Jaffari Community Centre,  in Toronto. 

Aptly named “Word of Allah – Expressions of Man - From Parchment to iPad” , expounds upon the history of the Noble Qur'an, following the journey of the Qur'an, from its revelation through its compilation and preservation to this date through a unique diversity of means, ranging from historical notes, timelines, diagrams and maps.

In addition to rare manuscripts and digital displays of rare Qur`anic manuscripts, dating back to the 8th Century on display are all sorts’ modern gadgets for learning, reading, reciting and listening to the Qur’an. Appropriately placed on the imposing central wall, is a display titled Ahlul Bait (AS) in the Qur’an, depicting verses on the Ahlul Bait, including posters and digital displays of Qur’an fragments illustrating the word of Allah in the handwriting of Aimma (AS). 

Enhancement of our mode and manner of Tabligh to radiate the teachings of Islam to the wider Community in the West has been the driving force in establishing this center.  Through electronic media, informative multimedia presentations, and enchanting Islamic artwork including displays of rare historical manuscripts and artifacts from across the Muslim world, Mulla Asghar Resource Center is designed to increase engagement within the larger communities and help foster a spirit of friendship and understanding of Islam and Muslims.

“As we mark 12 years of the passing away of Mulla Saheb, I can not help but reflect how much the our mode and manner of Tabligh to radiate the teachings of Islam to the wider Community in the West has been influenced by him.  This Resource Center is  a testimony that we are about our fellow humans enough to share with them the richness of our faith in accordance with the teachings of the Prophet (SAW) and his Ahlul bait (AS).  There cannot be a better tribute to Marhum Mulla Asgher, a personality who did just that throughout his life.” says Dr Hasnain Walji who leads a team of 20, who have designed this world class library and exhibition center

Fluent in Arabic, Farsi, English, Kiswahili, Urdu, Kutchee and Gujarati, his lectures, articles and books have inspired many.  With his profound insight of the subject matter, familiarity with the literary traditions of many cultures, and mastery of numerous languages, Mulla was able to bring to life translations of various works with much flair and lucidity.   With his deep insight into theology, philosophy, theosophy as well as contemporary issues his ability to define Islamic concepts from a contemporary perspective was insightfully enlightening.   It is hoped that this legacy will live on through the activities of the Mulla Asgher Resource Center.

The Resource Center also houses a permanent exhibit of the history of Khoja Shia Ithnaashari Community from its original roots in India now spread all around the world.  It highlights aspects of cultural & societal developments of this vibrant Community from over a century ago, that today still form the heart of successful, developing Khoja communities in North America and around the globe.   By connecting with its heritage, visitors and community members will be able to better understand the role of faith and sacrifices by muballighs from within the Community in developing the 150 year old Khoja Shia Ithnaashari Community.

During the week beginning Mar 21 2012, numerous activities including a remembrance book  marking the 12th death anniversary of Mulla Asgher have been planned at the Mulla Asgher Memorial Library and Resource Center.