Tag: Family

Khoja food culture is a vibrant tapestry of flavor, tradition, and community spirit deeply rooted in the history of the Shia Ismaili and Ithna-Asheri communities. Originating from Gujarat in India, Khojas settled across East Africa, including Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, bringing their unique culinary identity. The aromas of samosas frying, warm khichdo simmering, or halwa being stirred for hours are not just meals—they are traditions passed down through generations.

My parents told me I was Muslim. They taught me the basic teachings of Islam: how to behave, treat others and distinguish halal and haram. I knew I was Muslim, but I did not know what that meant. They told me I should pray, but they did not enforce it. My parents never pressured me to practice and I grew up in a neighborhood with few Muslims. However, when I would see my parents read Qur’an and pray daily it made me curious.