Memons always take pride in being loyal to their country: Yusuf Abrahani

Story by ATV | Posted by Aasha Khosa | Date 10-04-2026

Memon leader Yusuf Abrahani

New Delhi

The Memon community—numbering around four million globally—is widely regarded as a globalised group known for its business acumen, prosperity, patriotism, and pro-development outlook.

These observations were shared by prominent Memon leader Yusuf Abrahani on the occasion of World Memon Day.

The Memons are a close-knit, predominantly Sunni Muslim business community. They trace their origins to Gujarat in India and Sindh in Pakistan. Historically known as maritime traders, they are largely concentrated in Mumbai and Karachi, where they have flourished as entrepreneurs in sectors such as import-export, shipping, and textiles.

The community’s roots go back to the 15th century, when members of the Lohana community in Sindh embraced Islam under the guidance of Syed Yusufuddin Gilani.

Known for their peaceful temperament and adaptability, Memons have built a reputation not only for prosperity but also for their strong commitment to social service.

Yusuf Abrahani, a former Member of the Legislative Assembly and president of the Islam Gymkhana, remains actively engaged in Mumbai’s political, business, and social spheres.

In a special interview with Mansooruddin Faridi, Editor of Awaz-the Voice Urdu, Abrahani noted that the Memon community is spread across the world, with members having migrated from Gujarat to various countries.

Describing the community’s ethos, he said, “Allah has blessed Memons immensely—with wealth, a generous spirit, and grace. Wherever a Memon settles, the first priority is to establish a madrasa, mosque, community hall, and medical dispensary. This tradition continues even today.”

Drawing from his six decades of experience, he added that Memons have established numerous institutions in Mumbai, including hospitals, mosques, madrasas, and charitable facilities.

World Memon Day is observed on April 10, and is marked by extensive charitable activities. Community members visit hospitals, organise welfare programmes for the poor and marginalised—including widows, the visually and physically challenged—and distribute essential supplies.

Abrahani noted that this culture of service has gained further momentum under the leadership of Iqbal Memon. Similar programmes are also organised in countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Despite their relatively small population, Memons have achieved notable success in education and economic development. Alongside India, significant Memon populations reside in countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Sri Lanka.

Honesty and integrity remain the hallmarks of the community, with a strong emphasis on imparting religious and ethical values to younger generations