By Amin Abdulla-Pardhan, distinguished gallerist known for his specialisation in arts and music events, respected for his profficiency in curating exceptional exhibitions and offering tailored framing solutions
One of six global Ismaili Centres, inspired by Aga Khan IV, the Ismaili Centre, nestled in the heart of South Kensington, was opened in April 1985 in the presence of the then British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Located amidst the rich architectural heritage of London’s Art and Cultural centre, it harmonizes beautifully with the local building styles of the Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Ismaili Centres are not only a place of prayer for the Ismaili congregation but also a serene space for contemplation, arts, music, and cultural exchanges. They foster thought-provoking meetings and discussions on health, education, and development, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all who visit them.
The architectural design of the Ismaili Centre, London, is a blend of traditional Islamic and modern elements, reflecting the cultural heritage and contemporary outlook of the Ismaili community. The Centre features a stunning roof garden that offers a peaceful retreat in the bustling city, and its interior is adorned with exquisite calligraphy and intricate geometric patterns that pay homage to Islamic art and architecture.
The Ismaili Centre has become a vibrant hub for cultural and artistic activities, hosting a wide range of events, exhibitions, and performances that celebrate the diversity and richness of global cultures. It has established itself as a significant landmark in London, promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding through its various initiatives and programs.
In addition to its cultural and artistic contributions, the Ismaili Centre also serves as a place for community service and outreach. It partners with local organizations and institutions to address social issues and support initiatives that promote the well-being and development of the broader community. The Centre’s engagement with the Nour Festival of Arts by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in 2014 marked a bold and vibrant celebration of the Middle East and North Africa. This festival became a beacon of creativity and connection, a place where the rich tapestries of the MENA regions artistry came to life, igniting the imaginations and hearts of all who attended.
My journey with the festival began when the Ismaili Centre Council invited me to join the festival’s steering committee. This opportunity was not just a role; it was a calling. It allowed the Ismaili Centre to become a pulsating heart within South Kensington’s arts and cultural hub. The Centre flourished as a venue for music events, thought-provoking exhibitions, and enlightening lectures, each event echoing the diverse heritage and profound stories of the MENA region.
The festival’s mission was clear: to weave a tapestry of artistic expression that resonated deeply with everyone involved. Collaborations, like the one with the Royal Geographical Society, were more than partnerships; they were symphonies of culture and history. The exhibition focused on the garments worn along the Silk Road, an evocative journey from East to West. A senior representative from the Society, Mr Alasdair Macleod, delivered a lecture that was not just informative but a heartfelt odyssey through the origins and influences of the Silk Road in the arts. The garments on display, hailing from Iran, Syria, Morocco and Egypt, whispered tales of ancient travels and cultural exchanges from the past to modernity.
The Music@One series, a radiant jewel of the festival, brought people together through the universal language of music. These free lunchtime mini concerts were more than performances; they were soul-stirring experiences. Musicians from the Middle East and North Africa, along with talent from around the globe, graced the Ismaili Centre with their enchanting melodies. The series continued to flourish, becoming a beloved feature that resonated with the community throughout the year.
One of the most magical moments was when in 2015 Australian Egyptian Oud soloist Joseph Tawadros performed at the Ismaili Centre. His music, rich with emotion and tradition, captivated everyone.
Having been invited by the Nour Festival team to perform at the Ismaili Centre, Joseph recalls:
“I had never heard of this place before but was very excited as I heard good things about it. My correspondence with the team was very professional and respectful which made me feel quite at home, which is what a performer wants. The space was lovely and inspiring, and the audience was very enthusiastic and loving which allowed me to present my music and storytelling with ease. I wasn’t sure what to expect, a few months earlier to reside in London. This was my first big performance after moving to London and to an entirely different audience to what I was used to. The architecture and beauty of the building makes it a very inspiring place to perform, and I have many great memories performing at the Ismaili Centre. My storytelling and humour which usually accompanies my music was very well received and the concert was a great success. Years later I was invited by Amin for another solo performance in a different space, this time by the fountain. It was another success and great to be a part of such a wonderful series in a beautiful space for a beautiful audience.”
It was during one of Joseph’s spellbinding performances that Scottish Egyptian sisters Sarah and Laura Ayoub connected with the Centre. Their performances, filled with passion and artistry, became a cherished part of the festival. The collaboration with the Royal Geographical Society during the reimagined RBKC Summer Exhibition Road Arts Festival was a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and cultural exchange.
Sarah and Laura Ayoub also cherish their experiences at the Ismaili Centre. They said:
“The Ismaili Centre first welcomed us to the community back in 2017. We were given a platform to showcase our music and our brand-new quartet for the very first time in London as part of the Diamond Jubilee Music Series, set up to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Aga Khan IV. Our debut performance consisted of a sold-out matinee and evening show, which enabled us to reach diverse audiences within London. Since that performance our quartet has graced festivals across the UK including Glastonbury, Liverpool Arab Arts Festival and concerts in Latvia and Egypt. One thing we will never forget about the Ismaili concert was the warmth and hospitality we felt. We weren’t just contracted performers; we were treated like one of the family. Music and food were the universal languages which brought us together, no-matter our background or ethnicity. Those concerts were very special to us and will be held in our hearts for a long time.”
The Nour Festival of Arts was not just an event; it was a journey of the heart, a celebration of the human spirit, and a testament to the power of art and music to bridge worlds and bring people together in the most profound ways. Through these artistic collaborations and heartwarming performances, the Ismaili Centre has successfully showcased the beauty of Islamic culture and its contributions to the broader community, building bridges of understanding and appreciation.
Besides London, the other Ismaili Centres are situated in Lisbon, Dubai, Toronto, Dushanbe, and Vancouver. With others under planning and construction, each centre reflects a unique blend of Islamic and local architectural elements, serving as a cultural bridge between Muslim civilizations and their host cities.
In the words of the late Aga Khan, whose vision for the Ismaili Centres extended beyond mere architectural beauty, and was about fostering mutual respect and understanding:
“This [Ismaili Centre, Burnaby] will be a place of congregation, of order, of peace, of prayer, of hope, of humility, and of brotherhood. From it should come forth those thoughts, those sentiments, those attitudes, which bind men together and which unite. It has been conceived and will exist in a mood of friendship, courtesy, and harmony.”
Aga Khan IV’s vision, as just stated, became a reality for me and members of the community as we saw the Ismaili Centre, London, grow to match and fulfil aims set out for it by who believed in pluralism, openness and a dialogue of cultures.
