There has been an unprecedented wave of grief, public mourning and tributes continue to pour in, two weeks after the sudden death of philanthropists, civil society activist and businessman, Mohammed Yacoob Dhai in Durban. From gentle mothers to hardened policemen turned up in numbers to express their grief and gratitude to a man whom they described as a “gentle giant” who changed their lives for the better.
Jamilah Desai, head of Academics Orient Islamic School who presided over the memorial service said: “When we lose someone dear to us, we almost automatically say… Truly we belong to Allah, and indeed to him we will return. But the truth is, death is something no one can really prepare you for. There is no right way to make sense of it or deal with it after accepting Allah (swt’s) decree. While we turn to the Almighty asking for patience during this difficult time, communicating and speaking about our loss with friends and family is also beneficial. This evening we pay tribute to an icon; Mohammed YacoobDhai, affectionately known as Bhai. At age 70, He was still a very active member of the community and I can say with utmost certainty that he has touched the lives of almost all of you seated here this evening; either through a friendship or through your association with him. Therefore it is only befitting for a man of his stature to be acknowledged at this platform and for us his friends and family to rejoice in his accomplishments and the legacy that he has left. As each one of our speakers shares his or her fond memories of marhoom Bhai, will we begin to understand the magnitude and the big heart of this gentle giant. Bhai was the embodiment of tenacity and kindness. He was a mentor, a friend and a source of inspiration to us. I personally feel a deep sense of loss and grief, which I cannot express in words. I pray that Bhai’s legacy lives on and I am grateful for the brief time spent with him,” said Ms Desai.
One of South Africa’s most distinguished law enforcement officers who headed the crack Cato Manor Unit sent a special note which was read at the Orient Hall gathering. “Bhai Dhai was probably the most generous person that I knew. His kindheartedness transcended racial, sexual and religious barriers. His love for his fellow beings knew no boundaries. We already miss your sense of humour, sometimes playing a prank with someone on the phone but mostly for your human touch with all those who had the privilege of knowing you. Rest in Peace. You were one of a kind. You had a special place in his heart for the Cato Manor Unit. He supported them in the hour of need and generously contributed towards their cause. Bhai the boys will always remember you. Rest in Peace: From Johan Booysen and the team from the Cato Manor SAPS.”
Mrs Soraya Seedat, Mums Committee at Orient Islamic School said: “Yes it’s too soon and too sudden that he was taken from us. I am sure his family had so much planned ahead with their loving husband, dad, grandfather, brother, cousin, and uncle. “Likewise …. we at Orient also needed him for so much more. And knowing uncle Bhai …. his work and dreams were endless. To the Mums Committee, he was our own guardian. He always looked out for us and was very proud of the work we did. He supported us in all our efforts and would assist should we need any help no matter how big or trivial it may seem. Most of all…. he gave us the recognition for our hard work …..Uncle Bhai ensured that mums committee was invited to all board lunches…an invitation that we will always hold dear. He would even come to our table to thank us and ensure that we were properly served. The absence of Uncle Bhai the last 10 days at Orient School is felt by everyone. There is sadness at there and beautiful stories of kindness, generosity, helpfulness, and playful teasing is being shared by all …… but there remains a hollow and emptiness that echoes throughout the entire school. He is sorely missed. U will always be our gentle giant U will be missed every single day .”
Faisal Khan, chairman of the Parents Committee of the Orient Islamic School said: “While my interactions with him have been limited to orient related activities he always came across as a approachable; friendly and caring person. His dedication to orient is well known. The hours of his personal time spent at the school be it in the middle of the working day; in the evenings or even weekends. Bhai dhai was an institution at orient giving of his time for the betterment of the school. “Everywhere you look around the school you will find his contribution. Be it the astroturfs; the mussala; air conditioning or even this hall. Whenever there was a need he would make a plan. Many years ago the parent committee requested that the school consider putting air-conditioning in the classrooms an initial started the project. Even though there was a lack of funds he drove the project forward with dedication and perseverance until all the classrooms had air-conditioning. I remember one Saturday morning when I was early for a meeting and waiting in the foyer Bhai Dhai was there supervising the carpenter in putting up the show case in the foyer and made the carpenter move it about at least three times till he got it to his likings. We as the parent committee would like to express our appreciation for the contribution that Bhai Dhai has made to the school,” said Mr Khan.
An impressive line up of speakers led by Advocate Omar Moosa of the Orient Islamic Educational Institute and the Yale Tennis Club, DrHoosenRanderee of the Orient Islamic School Board, Mr Nasser Ebrahim, Executive Headmaster of the Orient Islamic School, Mr Afzal Khan spoke on behalf of the Staff of the Orient Islamic School, Mr Ahmed Dhai, son of Mr Bhai Dhai, Mr Ismail Patel of the Orient Old Boys Club, Mr Essop Mansoor, joint secretary of the DarulYatama and Mr Butch Kajee of the D’AlbertonCallies Football Club.