COMMUNITY VOICES
Work from our ever-growing community that transcends categorization in the form of op-eds, educational think pieces, and the occasional cooking video
TURN TOWARDS THE SUN / YA HUSSAIN
A MERCH COLLABORATION WITH SANAA LAKHANI
My name is Sanaa Lakhani and you may know me as the Co-head of Graphics and Media for the Ahlul-Bayt Collective. I’m also a photographer and student from Maryland. I created this piece as an homage to my community and all the communities around the world that honor the Ahlul-Bayt and their everlasting message.
I captured the original image at the annual Arbaeen procession in Washington, D.C. The subject of the photo is a veiled woman speaking to a non-Muslim spectator while a flag for Imam Husain (as) waves behind her. I edited the image in a way that turned the subject from a volunteer into a figure that is both anonymous and one that any lover of the Ahlul-Bayt may see themselves in. Due to the ongoing pandemic, this past Muharram was extremely difficult for our communities. However, it gave me ample time to truly reflect and create work that would resonate with people. I named the piece “Turn Towards The Sun/Ya Husain,” as it’s commonly known that sunflowers, which I positioned in place of the subject’s profile, turn towards the sun. The sun is a clear representation of the light that the Ahlul-Bayt spread wherever their message is received.
I’ve been so incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to create this piece for the Ahlul-Bayt Collective, as I try to spread the message of Imam Husain (as) and the Ahlul-Bayt’s message in whatever shape or form. I hope I can continue to honor the Ahlul-Bayt and, in my own small way, bring out their light amongst the darkness.
SYED JEEM: A CONTEMPORARY TOUCH TO SACRED ART
An Interview with a Self Made Pakistani Shia Artist
#ARBAEENINDC
BY SANAA LAKHANI
photographer's Biography:
Sanaa Lakhani is a photographer and creative from Maryland. She’s studying photojournalism and hopes to continue to use her art to spread the message of Imam Hussain (as). Find me at @sahnahh
These photos are from the 2019 Arbaeen Procession in Washington DC. They provide a look into the procession/juloos and the many faces who participate in it. Check out @ArbaeenInDC on instagram for more!
ODE TO THE OUTDOORS
BY RAZA RIZVI
FILMAKERS BIOGRAPHY:
Raza is a Pakistani-American filmmaker based in California. Since graduating from UCLA’s School of Theater, Film and Television with a B.A. and Cinematography concentration he has been working on projects ranging from music videos and shorts to feature length films. Raza has developed a strong eye for detail and a rigorous DIY work ethic. Currently, he is fast at work developing his first feature length film. Find him at www.razarizz.com!
THE ANTICHRIST ISN'T COMING
BY NABEEL KHIMIJI
WRITER'S BIOGRAPHY:
WRITER'S BIOGRAPHY:
Nabeel is a student at Stony Brook University in New York. In August he’ll be a junior studying philosophy and creative writing. He’s originally from Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, and moved to the United States at the age of 8. A lot of his written work stems from his upbringing and the various aspects of his life that have taught him lessons through pain, joy, and contemplation. Additionally, his work is inspired by the beliefs he hold and the values he most staunchly stand by. He hope to one day teach or do some other form of public speaking and outreach that allows him to spread his ideas and inspire others. Find him at www.threexthirteen.com!
Nabiya bakes
BY NAbiya haider
Baker's Biography:
Nabiya Haider is a high school student from California who has been baking for over 5 years. She loves experimenting with and creating new recipes to share with friends and family. Aside from baking, Nabiya loves to spend her time horseback riding and drinking boba. You can find her @nabiyabakes!
Shahzeb hyder's photography
BY shahzeb hyder
photographer's Biography:
Shahzeb Hyder is 26 years old and was born in Pakistan, he also goes by the nickname Shazzy. He has been a photographer for 4 years, but has been in the arts/graphic design field for almost 10 years now. He recently began to stream video games on social media in an effort to try to create an acceptance for the younger generations who may be interested in doing so as well. He is huge on community building and loves to create opportunities for everyone around him to grow. You can find him @shazzy!