About Us

Our History

About the Lajpor Muslim Association

The Lajpor Muslim association South Africa was founded in the mid-1940s, to promote and protect the well-being of immigrants from the village of Lajpor in Surat, India. Some of the earliest settlers migrated to South Africa in the mid-1890's, fleeing the desperate situation created by the 1869 revolts and persecution by the British and the religious conflicts which was instigated. Many of these early settlers left their spouses and children behind to pursue greener pastures in South Africa and other countries such as Mauritius, Reunion, Madagascar, Seychelles, Barbados, Panama and the UK.

In South Africa, the immigrants established themselves, mostly as traders. They gradually brought their families over and made South Africa their home. They prospered and thrived, despite the harsh conditions of apartheid South Africa. They had to overcome language and cultural barriers, and the lack of educational and sporting amenities stifled their talents. Many families were forced to send their children to school in distant towns and cities to live with other families just so that they could receive a formal education. Others were forced to leave school early due to the racial apartheid laws that made High School and Tertiary education near impossible. Indians were considered third class citizens and classified as Asiatic under the Apartheid System.

By the late 1920's, many Lajporeans had established themselves financially and started investing in real estate, in South Africa (under nominee) as well as back in Lajpor and surrounds in India. As landowners, they would secure their families and future generations…or so they thought!. Little did they realise that future generations in India would usurp and fraudulently dispose of valuable lands, and would be the source of family feuds across the globe. Notwithstanding this, their intentions were noble. Our forefathers collectively helped to establish schools, madrassahs, mosques, hospitals, water purification systems and other infrastructure in Lajpor as well as in South Africa. For decades, Lajpor was the envy of surrounding districts, due to its progressive infrastructure.

To this day, South African contributions continue into Lajpor, aiding in education, social wellbeing and upkeep of various facets of infrastructure.
Notably, Lajporeans helped shape the political future of South Africa through the Liberation Struggle. The contributions made by stalwarts such as Ahmed Kathrada, Professor Yusuf(Joe) Variawa, Molvi Saloojee, Mariam Vally Saloojee and others will always be firmly etched in the annals of South African history.
The Lajpor Muslim Association of South Africa, although still committed to assisting destitute families in Lajpor, has increasingly felt a compelling need to address the challenges of the Lajpor and other communities in South Africa, in keeping with the changing geopolitical situation, both locally and abroad. The organization is deeply rooted in its commitment to education and entrepreneurship, offering bursaries annually, and aiding individuals to promote and advance small to medium enterprises. With its newly elected board and progressive attitude, the organization is set to expand its reach and will strive to bring about meaningful change to all peoples of South Africa, Insh-Allah.