The Revered Noble Personality of Africa, known as Kamadia Ismail
Kassimani was born in Zanzibar in 1853. He was a talented and active since
childhood, and he soon became a leading merchant. In 1883, he came to Bombay on
a business trip. His kind manner, intelligence and his personality made him an
important individual both within the community and outside the Ismaili
community in Bombay.
Upon the death of Kamadia Muhammad Choth in Hasanabad, Bombay on October
2, 1892, Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah appointed Ismail Kassimani as the Kamadia
for Hasanabad Jamatkhana with Mukhi Ladakbhai Haji.
In 1893, a communal riot broke out in Bombay and the Imam sent a message
to his followers not to involve in it. Kamadia Ismail Kassimani was
commissioned to convey the Imam's message to the Ismailis. He addressed them in
very effective words and quieted the affairs.
It was his untiring efforts that the Khoja Panjibhai Club came into
existence on May 28, 1900 in Bombay. He was a President and a life patron. He
also played an important role in reconciling the internal disputes of the
community, before the establishment of the Ismaili Council.
In 1901, a terrible famine broke out in Kutchh and Kathiawar, forcing
many Ismailis to migrate towards Bombay. To stem the tide of this dreadful
scourge, he clothed and housed the stricken people with his means and
resources. The British India honoured him the title of J.P. to appreciate his invaluable services.
With the help of few interested individuals and the kind permission of
the Imam, Kamadia Ismail Kassimani founded “His Highness the Aga Khan Anglo
Vernacular School” in the hall of the Jamatkhana in Khadak, Bombay. It was
opened on August 26, 1901, providing the education on the pattern of the Kinder
Garden. He was its President and the Vice-Patron.
He died at Bombay on April 4, 1909.