The Dawoodi Bohra community, known for its business and trading over generations, is holding its first-ever three-day Saifee Burhani Expo at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai. The community, in a marked shift, is showcasing its achievements in the expanding building and allied sector.
The exhibition, positioned as a commercial platform for domestic and international markets, was inaugurated by Rahul Narwekar, Speaker of the Maharashtra Vidhan Sabha on Friday (December 19, 2025).
The relationship between the Dawoodi Bohras and Mumbai’s commercial heartland spans more than a century. Generations of traders helped shape markets from Bohra Bazaar near Fort to Lohar Chawl and the neighbourhoods around Crawford Market. They are known to have strengthened local economies and supported the city’s growth.
“This expo reflects a long partnership,” said Taikhoom Mohiyuddin, Head of Economic Development Department of the Dawoodi Bohras.
“Our community grew with Mumbai. Our traders and professionals contributed to its markets and services. Today, our entrepreneurs are part of the next phase of development and bring a strong commitment to ethics, quality and responsible growth,” he said.
Murtaza Jasdanwala, Business Development Officer of the Dawoodi Bohra community, said, “The community has always been deeply rooted in trade, enterprise and ethical business practices, and the role of the Economic Development Division is to channel this strength into structured, future-ready growth.”
“Over the years, we have seen a clear evolution from fragmented participation to a more focused, industry-led approach, particularly in sectors like construction where multiple disciplines converge,” he added.
On representation across the value chain, Mr. Jasdanwala said, “From developers and designers to material suppliers and technology adopters, we have delivered landmark projects across Maharashtra, and other parts of India using modern techniques, high-quality materials and sustainability-led practices.”
“The next phase of growth is about collaboration over competition, relationship-led business and global thinking. As India’s economy becomes increasingly outward-looking, our objective is to encourage entrepreneurs within the community to engage international markets, explore new geographies and build long-term partnerships grounded in trust, transparency and shared value,” he added.
The expo also highlighted the community’s contribution to urban renewal, most notably the Saifee Burhani Upliftment Project in Bhendi Bazaar. Exhibitors pointed to the project as an example of disciplined planning and community-driven development.
Abizar Patanwala, Group CFO, Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT), said, “The Saifee Burhani Upliftment Project was envisioned by the 52nd leader, Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, and is now carried forward under the guidance of the 53rd leader, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin.”
The project spans nine sectors, with two sectors completed and multiple sectors, including Sectors 4, 5, 6, 7 and 9, currently under development.
“Construction 360 Expo has been valuable in strengthening our supply-chain ecosystem by connecting us with capable and innovative vendors, including those beyond established brands,” he said.
“The Expo also provides exposure to advanced technologies such as AI-based site monitoring tools, which enhance project transparency and execution, and will help strengthen SBUT’s projects in Mumbai and across the country,” he added.
While the expo honours Mumbai’s heritage, it also reflects the community’s global footprint.
Exhibitors are showcasing innovations from international markets, including seismic-resistant systems and energy-efficient materials. Echoing this sentiment, Manish Dua, National Head for distribution and trade, Adani Cement called the expo “a commendable initiative bringing the construction ecosystem together on one platform”.
He highlighted its emphasis on community engagement and sustainability, adding that it adds real value to society.
Published – December 20, 2025 06:22 pm IST
