The Jafria Association of North America (JANA) is a cornerstone of our community, embodying unity, accountability, and inclusivity. Unique among organizations in North America, JANA empowers every member to actively participate in the electoral process, making our leadership directly accountable and fostering a stronger bond within the community.
Over the past four years, under dedicated and visionary leadership, JANA has not only achieved its goals but surpassed the expectations of both its members and the broader community. Through the tireless efforts of our leadership and volunteers, we have been able to grow, serve, and uplift our community in ways that continue to reflect the values we cherish.
Serving the Community Through All Seasons
JANA stands by the community, both in times of joy and difficulty. To ensure accessibility, we have established a toll-free number (1-800-273-1201), making it easier for individuals to connect with us whenever needed.
Our Journey: The Shah-E-Najaf Center
In 1991, with the unwavering support of our members, JANA purchased the Shah-E-Najaf Center, a significant milestone in our history. At a time when the Pakistani community faced stereotypes and challenges, our leadership envisioned creating a center that transcended racial and ethnic divides. This vision continues to guide us as we run the center with a commitment to inclusivity and respect for all.
Cultural and Religious Programs
JANA organizes a wide range of events that address both the spiritual and socio-economic needs of the community. From regular seminars on important societal issues to Majalis, Mehfil-e-Milad, and other religious commemorations, we honor the days of the Masoomeen and significant Islamic leaders. During Muharram and Safar, JANA holds four weekly Majalis in addition to the twelve-day Ashra. In the holy month of Ramadhan, we open our doors daily, offering spiritual programs led by esteemed scholars and serving Iftar and dinner to the community.
The Muharram Procession: A Legacy of Leadership
One of our proudest contributions is the organization of the annual Muharram Procession in New York City, the largest Shi’a gathering in North America. This procession commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Husain (a.s.), whose sacrifice at Karbala saved Islam from oppression. We are honored to lead this significant event, which brings together thousands to remember and reflect on his enduring legacy.
A Legacy of Learning: Welcoming Global Scholars
JANA has a distinguished record of inviting renowned ulema from around the world to share their knowledge with our community. Our center has hosted eminent scholars, including:
- Ayatullah Mohammad Husain Mahallati
- Late Hujja-tul-Islam Mahdi Hakim
- Syed Majeed Khui
- Dr. Khalil Tabatabai
- Hujja-tul-Islam Zeeshan Jawadi
- Dr. Kalbe Sadiq
- Allama Aqeel Turabi
- Hujja-tul-Islam Fazil Moosavi
- Hujja-tul-Islam Razi Jaffer
- Hujja-tul-Islam Mudassir Ali Shah
- Hujja-tul-Islam Safi Haider
- Hujja-tul-Islam Aqeel Algharvi
- Hujja-tul-Islam Ethsham Abbas Zaidi
These esteemed scholars have not only delivered lectures and recited Majalis at our center but have also fostered personal connections with our leadership and members.
Self-Sustained Through Community Support
JANA operates independently of any external religious funding, relying solely on the generous contributions of its members and supporters. Through the personal appeals of our president and executive committee, we raise the necessary funds to cover our operational expenses and repay our loans. We are immensely proud of what we have achieved together and remain grateful for the unwavering support of our community.
Our Resident Alim
Hujjatul Islam Syed Rehan Naqvi is the resident ‘Alim (scholar) at Shah-E-Najaf Islamic Center. Maulana is originally from Karachi, Pakistan. He graduated from Islamia College […]
Hujjatul Islam Syed Rehan Naqvi