Cnclr Hanifa Darwan
Independent Councillor Hanifa Darwan
Historic Kiswa Exhibition Showcases Sacred Artefacts in Dewsbury Town Hall
​
Dewsbury, Saturday 12th July 2025 — The heart of Dewsbury came alive this weekend with a powerful celebration of heritage, art, and community as the town played host to a rare and beautiful exhibition of Kiswa artefacts — the sacred cloth that covers the Kaaba in Makkah
​
Held at Dewsbury Town Hall, the exhibition was a momentous occasion organised by community leaders Hanifa Darwan, Masood Ahmed, and Nosheen Dad. The event drew a wide audience, including local residents, families, cultural enthusiasts, and a host of dignitaries. Among those in attendance were Councillor Habiban Zaman, Councillor Kathy Scott, Councillor Ali Arshad, MP Iqbal Mohammed, and community advocate Yusra Hussain — all showing strong support for the region’s cultural and educational development
​
The exhibition offered visitors a rare chance to see original sections of the Kiswa up close, an opportunity that sparked both spiritual reflection and cultural pride. For Dewsbury, this marks a significant step in rekindling its reputation as a vibrant and inclusive hub of history, identity, and interfaith harmony
​
“This is about more than just artefacts — it’s about creating cultural dialogue, community empowerment, and educational access,” said organiser Hanifa Darwan. “We hope this event is just the beginning.”
​
There is now growing momentum for establishing a permanent Kiswa Arts and Culture Gallery in Dewsbury — an educational and cultural hub open to all faiths, aimed at preserving these sacred artefacts and promoting understanding through shared heritage
​
The event was widely praised as a “fantastic achievement” for the town and a symbolic step in putting Dewsbury back on the map as a centre for cultural celebration, unity, and aspiration
​
A powerful moment captured during the Dewsbury Town Hall exhibition, featuring esteemed scholars and community leaders standing united beside the Holy Kaaba Door Cover. Sheikh Ilyas, Hafiz Yusuf, and Hafiz Umar of Kiswat Al Kaaba are joined by MP Iqbal Mohammed, Cllr Habiban Zaman, and Cllr Hanifa Darwan. The image beautifully reflects unity, respect, and cross-community support for this historic event — a significant step in celebrating cultural heritage and empowering future generations
This meaningful shot captures Hafiz Yusuf of Kiswat Al Kaaba alongside local councillors Hanifa Darwan, Vicky Scott, and Masood Ahmed. Taken during the Kiswa artefacts exhibition at Dewsbury Town Hall, the image highlights strong civic support for preserving and showcasing Islamic heritage. The councillors’ presence underscores a shared commitment to cultural dialogue, unity, and the importance of establishing spaces for education and interfaith understanding in the community
An intimate and deeply moving image of Cllr Hanifa Darwan holding the Rawdah Lock — a sacred artefact from the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah — passed to her by Sheikh Ilyas of Kiswat Al Kaaba. Her expression captures a profound moment of spiritual connection and honour. This rare opportunity, filled with emotion and reverence, symbolises the deep respect and blessing felt by many at the Dewsbury Town Hall exhibition. A true reflection of heritage meeting heart
A powerful moment captured during the Dewsbury Town Hall exhibition, featuring esteemed scholars and community leaders standing united beside the Holy Kaaba Door Cover. Sheikh Ilyas, Hafiz Yusuf, and Hafiz Umar of Kiswat Al Kaaba are joined by MP Iqbal Mohammed, Cllr Habiban Zaman, and Cllr Hanifa Darwan. The image beautifully reflects unity, respect, and cross-community support for this historic event — a significant step in celebrating cultural heritage and empowering future generations