About Us

Welcome to the Association of Progressive Dawoodi Bohras of Ontario! Established in 1989, we are an Islamic-based charity dedicated to serving the local community and our members with a wide range of pastoral services and social activities. From marriages to misaaqs, burials, ghusls, prayers, and other ceremonies, we are here to support our community members through life’s significant milestones and moments of spiritual need.

At the heart of our organization is a commitment to practicing Islam in the Dawoodi Bohra faith traditions and fostering a sense of community and belonging among our members. We believe in the power of coming together, supporting one another, and sharing in each other’s joys and sorrows.

APDBO is entirely run by an elected Board of Directors, a dedicated team of volunteers who work tirelessly to provide religious and social programming for our members. Our religious programs are guided by our volunteer maulvi, Saifudin Rajabali (who is also a registered minister for performing marriages in the province of Ontario), along with our array of guest speakers. Our mission is to provide a welcoming and inclusive space where individuals and families can deepen their Islamic faith, connect with like-minded individuals, and contribute positively to society.

We are proud to be part of the global reform movement seeking an end to corrupt and coercive practices within the Bohra priesthood. We strongly believe in an open-door policy; our Centre, our second home, is always open to you, regardless of whether you’re a member of our immediate Reformist community or not.

APDBO was formed in the early eighties with a few immigrant families gathering at each other's homes to celebrate and commemorate major Islamic events, including Muharram, Eid Ul Fitr, and Eid Ul Adha. They also wanted a place where they could perform burial rites according to Dawoodi Bohra traditions and Islamic faith. Throughout the eighties, these families united and formed a bond over their shared Dawoodi Bohra religion and culture. Recognizing the importance of building this sense of belonging for the next generation, the core group purchased a physical space in 1991. Another key aspect of our organization, even before the physical space was purchased, was the establishment of a governing constitutional document.

Today, our community center, located in Hamilton, Ontario, serves as a focal point for our gatherings and activities. Equipped with a spacious hall, prayer room, mayyat room (where funeral rites are performed), kitchen facilities, and ample parking, our center provides a welcoming space for religious ceremonies, social events, and educational programs. Over the years, members have lovingly furnished this 'home' with chairs, tables, cutlery, and appliances through their generous donations to make the centre a comfortable place to visit.

As we look to the future, we are excited to continue growing and evolving as a community. We invite you to explore our website, learn more about our programs and initiatives, and join us at our upcoming events.