Sayed Abazar Wahedi, primarily based in California, is a multifaceted chief who masterfully integrates Islamic scholarship with artistic expression.
Initially from Afghanistan, Sayed Wahedi spent his adolescence in Qom, Iran, the place he immersed himself in Islamic theology for over 12 years, together with superior Dars Kharij research on the esteemed seminaries. He hails from a distinguished lineage deeply rooted in Islamic historical past, with familial contributions to scholarship, group management, and schooling that replicate their profound connection to the Prophet Muhammad (SAWS).
At present serving because the Resident Alim and non secular information on the Islamic Middle of Fatimiyyah in Hayward, CA, Sayed Wahedi is a passionate advocate for intergenerational understanding and the non secular significance of the Arbaeen pilgrimage. Along with his theological achievements, he has a grasp’s diploma in movie and tv writing and directing on the Academy of Artwork College in San Francisco, showcasing his distinctive capacity to harmonize religion and fashionable storytelling.
Recognized for his approachable nature, humility, and dedication to the group, Sayed Wahedi can also be a Quran hafiz and an completed Quran reciter, successful 1st place within the Worldwide Quran Competitors in Iran. He’s deeply concerned in philanthropy, tirelessly advocating for the much less lucky in his California group. By means of his work with Beacon of Steerage, he paperwork transformative non secular journeys, inspiring unity and compassion.
How has your upbringing in Qom, Iran, influenced your method to management throughout the group at the moment?
Rising up in Qom taught me the worth of perseverance, self-discipline, and humility. The seminary setting instilled in me a way of accountability—not only for private development however for uplifting the group as an entire. Management, in my eyes, shouldn’t be about authority; it’s about service. My upbringing emphasised {that a} chief have to be empathetic and accessible, somebody who listens greater than they communicate. That is the muse of my method on the Islamic Middle of Fatimiyyah, the place I attempt to information with compassion and bridge generational gaps to make sure the teachings of Islam resonate with everybody, particularly the youth.
What impressed you to mix Islamic theology with filmmaking?
Religion and storytelling are deeply interconnected. The Quran itself is a tapestry of narratives that information us towards the next objective. As a scholar, I noticed that whereas conventional strategies of educating stay important, visible storytelling has unparalleled energy in at the moment’s world. Filmmaking permits me to translate timeless Islamic values into narratives which might be accessible and relatable. Whether or not it’s documenting the Arbaeen pilgrimage or exploring non secular themes, I see movie as a option to encourage reflection, unity, and a deeper understanding of our religion.
You’re a celebrated Quran reciter. How has this ability formed your reference to the group?
Reciting the Quran is greater than a ability; it’s an act of devotion and a way of connection—each with Allah (SWT) and the group. The Quran speaks on to the guts, and I see my recitation as a manner to assist others expertise that divine connection. Successful the worldwide competitors was an honor, however the true reward comes when somebody tells me that my recitation introduced them nearer to the Quran. It jogs my memory of the transformative energy of this sacred textual content, and I intention to make use of my voice as a bridge between the divine message and the hearts of the listeners.
What challenges do you face in partaking the youth with Islamic teachings, and the way do you overcome them?
The youth at the moment face unprecedented distractions and pressures, which regularly pull them away from non secular reflection. The problem is to make Islamic teachings not solely related but in addition compelling within the context of their lives. I give attention to making a judgment-free area the place they really feel heard and valued. Whether or not it’s by way of social occasions, open discussions, and even filmmaking workshops, I intention to satisfy them the place they’re. By mixing conventional teachings with fashionable mediums, I present them that Islam shouldn’t be distant—it’s deeply intertwined with their private development and aspirations.
Your work with Beacon of Steerage highlights the Arbaeen pilgrimage. What makes this journey so impactful?
The Arbaeen pilgrimage is a profound embodiment of unity, compassion, and justice. It’s not only a journey of bodily endurance however considered one of non secular transformation. Documenting the tales of pilgrims permits me to showcase the shared humanity and resilience that outline this expertise. In a world usually marked by division, the Arbaeen pilgrimage serves as a reminder of our interconnectedness and the common name for justice exemplified by Imam Hussain (AS). It’s a narrative that resonates with everybody, no matter religion or background.
How do you steadiness your non secular management together with your artistic pursuits in filmmaking?
For me, there isn’t a divide between the 2—they complement and enrich one another. My non secular management supplies the muse and objective for my artistic work, whereas filmmaking permits me to precise and share these values in modern methods. It’s a balancing act, definitely, however one which jogs my memory of the fantastic thing about duality: custom and modernity, religion and creativity. Every informs the opposite, guaranteeing that I stay grounded whereas constantly looking for new methods to serve and encourage.
What does success imply to you?
Success, to me, is rooted in non secular achievement and repair to others. It’s about aligning one’s actions with divine steerage and discovering peace in figuring out that you just’ve contributed positively to the lives of others. Whether or not it’s by way of educating, reciting the Quran, or making a significant movie, success lies within the affect we go away behind. It’s not measured by accolades or recognition however by how deeply we join with others and convey them nearer to the reality and great thing about Islam.
What message would you prefer to share with these looking for to mix religion and fashionable careers?
Religion shouldn’t be a limitation—it’s a basis. No matter profession path you select, let your values information you. Integrating religion into fashionable careers requires creativity, resilience, and a willingness to adapt, however the result’s deeply rewarding. My journey has proven me that there’s immense energy in bridging custom with innovation. By staying true to your rules and embracing the instruments of the trendy world, you possibly can encourage change and make a long-lasting affect.
