Nadera Masjid: A Brief Historical Perspective[1]
In the Name of Allah, Most Beneficent and Most Merciful.
The foundation for Nadera Masjid was laid by a prominent businessman and builder, Br. Haji Ashraf Ali, OBE, in 1981. Despite opposition from some members of the community about the construction of a new masjid in Nadera, Haji Ashraf Ali went ahead and obtained the land for the masjid through the assistance of Minister Semesa Sikivou. The architectural and engineering specifications of the masjid were done by Mr. Ashok Balgovind of Ashok Balgovind & Associates. Then by the Grace and Mercy of Allah and with the assistance and support of family and friends of Br. Haji Ashraf Ali, the masjid was constructed.
In 1983, Nadera Masjid was officially inaugurated by the Speaker of Fiji Muslim League, Br. S.M. Koya, who suggested that the masid become a part of Fiji Muslim League. There were many activities happening at the masjid such as a kindergarten run by Ustada Salmah Khan. Mrs. Rahamat Bibi and Mrs. Ismail were also running programmes for ladies at the masjid. The younger son of the founder, Br. Ashad Ali, also coordinated youth activities involving football from the masjid. Due to a huge interest in many activities at the masjid and a shortage of space for the congregational prayers, it was decided to extend the masjid. The extension, consisting of two more storeys, including a basement and an upper floor, was completed after the passing away of the founder, Br. Haji Ashraf Ali, in 1985 by his eldest son, Br. Amzad Ali. The masjid was then handed over to Nadera Branch of Fiji Muslim League, in particular, to the Branch President. Br. Shamsher Ali.
It was a fervent wish of Br. Haji Ashraf Ali to establish an educational institution beginning with a primary school adjacent to the Nadera Masjid. However, he was unable to accomplish this activity during his leadership. He also aspired to running a madrassa for our younger generation as well as facilitating women’s sewing activities in the basement of the masjid.
We acknowledge the contribution of many members of our community, no matter how small or large, in the establishment of Nadera Masjid. The Almighty Allah (SWT) knows all the details and will most definitely reward each and every person for their contribution, aameen.
[1] By Ashad Ali, Auckland, New Zealand
