E. Mahmood Kauser, Missionary, Los Angeles & San Diego, USA
From 9 to 15 January 2025, a group of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Southwest Region of the United States had the blessed opportunity to visit Islamabad, UK, and meet with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. While many moments were captured in the recent “This Week with Huzoor” episode on MTA International, there were countless behind-the-scenes experiences that left a lasting impression on the hearts of the participants.
Our daily routine involved an hour-long drive from the Baitul Ehsan Mosque to Islamabad for prayers, sessions and the chance to be in the presence of Huzooraa. The anticipation and excitement were noticeable, with khuddam eagerly preparing for each encounter. Driving from the Baitul Ehsan Mosque (in Southwest London) to Islamabad at 5:30 am, and seeing khuddam in the 15-seater van reading Tahajjud individually was a sight to witness in person.
There was a khadim whose childhood friend was also visiting Islamabad. Usually, friends get together and go out for a night to enjoy sightseeing, visiting local attractions, or dining out, but these two agreed to something completely different. The friend residing near Islamabad said that he would save a spot for Tahajjud for the khadim who is part of the MKA USA delegation that has to drive from the Baitul Ehsan Mosque; that way they could collectively stand together and pray Tahajjud at the Mubarak Mosque.
One khadim, known for rarely showing emotion, found himself moved to tears during a session where incidents of Khilafat were being shared. Another touching moment occurred when a khadim from Burma introduced himself in Urdu, greatly pleasing Huzooraa. Later, at the end of the mulaqat, Huzooraa commented on how well-prepared all the khuddam were in speaking Urdu, even the one from Burma.
Many khuddam were astounded by Huzoor’saa incredible memory and the personal attention he gave to each individual. There were two khuddam who were brothers, seated separately and with several khuddam between them. Upon their introduction, Huzooraa immediately asked if they were brothers. This surprised the Khuddam delegation, as even they sometimes forgot this kind of detail during introductions, yet Huzooraa remembered.
One khadim, whose family had only met Huzooraa once for a few minutes and whose father had written to Huzooraa as often as he could over the past many years, experienced a surprising interaction. After the khadim introduced his father’s name, Huzooraa engaged with him on three separate occasions during the group mulaqat. Huzooraa enquired about his father and his brothers and whether they were married. This display of connection and concern brought immense joy not only to the khadim but also to the other khuddam. It demonstrated how Huzooraa maintained a personal connection with this parent, who primarily communicated through letters.
Three brothers, visiting solely for this trip, were introduced to Huzooraa. He surprised them by mentioning their large family. When they modestly replied, “We do have a few family members,” Huzooraa laughed and said, “Not a few; you have hundreds of them.” He then proceeded to name some of their relatives, including some they didn’t even know were related to them.
In another instance, a khadim mentioned his father’s name, which can be considered a quite common name. Immediately, Huzooraa asked if his father was a veterinarian, which indeed was his father’s profession. This demonstrated Huzoor’saa profound memory and personal connection with members of the Jamaat, bringing joy to the khadim.
Amidst the solemn atmosphere, there were also moments of warmth and laughter. During the MTA setup, an unexpected pause created a brief tension in the room. Huzooraa, with his characteristic grace, made a light-hearted comment that instantly put everyone at ease. Huzoor’saa frequent smiles and gentle humour created a welcoming atmosphere.
A khadim shared a prayer request to Huzooraa during his introduction for a sick relative, intending to keep it brief. However, Huzooraa stopped and asked for details. Upon learning the relative had stage four cancer, Huzooraa paused and said, “Allah fazl farmaey” (May Allah grant His grace).
A khadim remarked how Huzooraa would revisit topics if needed, demonstrating his patience and dedication to satisfying the thirst for knowledge in Ahmadis at various levels of understanding. This approach showcases Huzoor’saa deep love and care for the members of the Jamaat, always striving to nurture their spiritual and intellectual growth.
One khadim who had not yet given Azan at his local mosque, was given the chance to submit a recording for review to read Azan at the Mubarak Mosque. To his surprise, the review came back with approval. It was the last Isha prayer of the visit and he was given the chance to call the azan.
This brief glimpse into the spiritual journey of the Southwest region khuddam to Islamabad, UK, showcases the profound impact of being in the presence of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. The stories shared here are but a fraction of the countless experiences that have strengthened the faith and spiritual connection of these young men, leaving them forever changed by their encounter with their beloved Imamaa.