Official Inauguration of Imam Ali Library and Research Center in New York

Official Inauguration of Imam Ali Library and Research Center in New York

On this blessed occasion, the Da’i of Islam offered prayers for knowledge, peace, and the well-being of humanity

Press Release | June 22, 2025

Today, the dignified inauguration of the Imam Ali Library and Research Center was held at Auliya Council Center in Mahopac, New York. The event was graced by the presence of Da’i of Islam, Sheikh Abu Saeed Muhammadi Safavi, founder of Jamia Arifia, Saiyed Sarawan, India, along with esteemed faculty members from Hartford International University, interfaith scholars, students, and distinguished guests.

The ceremony was conducted under the spiritual patronage of Sheikh Abu Saeed Muhammadi Safavi, whose presence brought a deep sense of reverence to the gathering. The participation of scholars from Hartford International University added a significant international academic dimension to the event.

Notable attendees included:

• Dr. Hossein Kamaly, Professor of Shia Studies and Interreligious Dialogue, Hartford International University
• Dr. David Grafton, Vice President, Hartford International University
• Dr. Deena Grant, Dean, Hartford International University
• Ms. Karla Grafton, Chief Librarian
• Ms. Susan Schoenberg, Outreach & Public Relations Officer
• Dr. Mahjabeen Dhala, Professor, University of California, Berkeley
• Ms. Phoebe Millikan, Scholar and Researcher

Additionally, international students including Hilmi, Maulana Ali Saeed, Zulftan, and others participated actively in the proceedings. Event management was overseen by Ms. Zehra Kazmi, while Mr. Raja Asad Parvez served as the master of ceremonies.

In his keynote address, Sheikh Abu Saeed Muhammadi Safavi stated:

“The spiritual and intellectual legacy of Jamia Arifia stands firmly behind the Imam Ali Research Center and Library as its foundational pillar. This institution is established to advance knowledge, promote human unity, and disseminate the teachings of Imam Ali (peace be upon him). Jamia Arifia will continue to provide full patronage and support for this noble endeavor.”

The Da’i of Islam also offered a special prayer for interfaith harmony, global peace, justice, truth, and divine blessings. He emphasized:

“To save the world from conflict and bloodshed, we must unite on the path of peace and truth.”

Following the ceremony, Dr. Mehdi Kazmi guided guests on an extensive tour of the center, which included:

• A historical overview of the Auliya Council’s buildings
• The conceptual and historical significance of the Imam Bargah
• Details of the exquisite calligraphy adorning the mosque
• A curated presentation of rare books housed in the Imam Ali Library and their origins

Dr. Kazmi also announced: “By next week, a postdoctoral fellow will, God willing, be appointed to the center. Their responsibilities will include completing a dedicated research publication and teaching a course at Hartford International University.”