Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un
“To Allah We belong, and to Him is our return” (2:156)
A tribute to Marhum Fazal Asgherali Virani
The last two weeks have arguably been one of the most difficult and heart-breaking two weeks for the Hujjat and global community. We have seen some caring, selfless, dedicated and passionate individuals enveloped in Allah’s mercy leaving a vacuum in the hearts of their families, friends, colleagues, community and the wider world.
One of these individuals was Marhum Fazal Asgherali Virani. Over the days and weeks, we have read and seen several tributes truly befitting of the man that he was and we are lost for words when it comes to describing our thoughts and feelings.
As an SJ legend and part of the SJ family for many years, our interactions with Fazal increased in recent times as his daughter, Maryam, took on the mantle of launching ladies volleyball last year – a daunting task for a young person and a new, young committee. The months leading up to the launch saw numerous calls, messages and voice notes between Maryam and the EC to discuss strategy, coaches, venues and prices. In multiple calls or voice notes, Fazal could be heard in the background offering up advice, feedback and guidance through his wealth of experience in the sport.
Once launched, Fazal would accompany Maryam to sessions giving up his Friday evening to come and set up the net for us and make sure we had everything we needed. Although it may seem small, this in itself exemplifies Fazal’s altruism and selfless nature. Having his support and strength in backing has been instrumental to volleyball and he will be truly missed.
As we learn more and more about his warmth, open heart and passion to serve humanity, we also recognise his humbleness, humility and level of silent work carried out without seeking the limelight. As a young team embarking on community service, Fazal has inspired us – and many others alike – to give our time to serving others and do as much as we can to try and make a difference to the lives of others.
To Fuf, Maryam, Asgerali, Kadhim and the Virani & Jagani families, we extend our hand of support to you as you navigate through this trying time and we stand with you in honouring Fazal’s life and doing what we can to ensure his legacy lives on. Your Fazal’s shining light has touched every corner of the globe.
We pray to Allah (SWT), through the intercession of our Ahlul Bayt (AS) to grant Fazal a place amongst the Holy household in the next world. O Allah, we thank you for giving us the opportunity to cross paths with a man like Fazal who we can learn from and aspire to emulate. O Allah, bless his soul, accept his deeds and shower him with your Mercy.
Al Fateha
Sabiha Chagpar – Trustee & Head of Ladies Sports
Samina Govani – Vice Sports Lead
Shaheen Meghji – Secretary
Fatemah Rajabali – Assistant Secretary
Fatema Zahra Hassan – Treasurer
Burayha Lalji – Assistant Treasurer
Gulshan Walji – Committee Member
Abbas Merali – Committee Member
