Kassam Chhibu
Trustee & Director at CFM Bradford Ltd
Kassam Chhibu, a respected figure in community cohesion and interfaith engagement, played a key role in the successful delivery of the Kiswat Al Kaaba Exhibition at Masjid Usman Khaliliya on Saturday 12th April 2025. The event, which showcased rare sacred textiles and artefacts from the Holy Kaaba and Rawdah of Madinah, was a milestone moment for the local and national Muslim community
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Chhibu’s involvement went far beyond attending—he was part of the groundwork, helping to coordinate, connect dignitaries, and support the vision from its early stages. His behind-the-scenes efforts helped bring together community leaders, mosque committees, and regional supporters to make the event a success
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Images from the day capture Kassam Chhibu with notable dignitaries including Lord Javed Akhtar, Susan Hinchcliffe, Cllr Imran Khan, and Sheikh Ilyas, all united in support of the exhibition’s goal to educate and preserve Islamic heritage. His visible presence alongside these leaders reflects not just participation, but genuine leadership
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This is not the first time Chhibu has lent his influence to such an initiative—he also showed strong support at the Batley Town Hall Kiswah Exhibition, reinforcing his ongoing commitment to cultural preservation and future gallery development
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Speaking to attendees, organisers acknowledged his instrumental role:
“Kassam Chhibu has been part of this journey from the start. His belief in the importance of Islamic heritage, community unity, and education has helped carry this mission forward.”
With growing momentum, Kassam Chhibu’s support continues to help pave the way for future exhibitions and the long-term vision of establishing the UK’s first Kiswa Arts and Culture Gallery—a permanent space dedicated to the legacy of sacred Islamic artistry
A powerful group moment as Kassam Chhibu joins key dignitaries and community leaders at Masjid Usman Khaliliya, showing full support for the Kiswat Al Kaaba Exhibition. Surrounded by Lord Javed Akhtar, Susan Hinchcliffe, Sheikh Ilyas, and others, the image reflects unity, cultural pride, and a shared vision for the future of Islamic heritage in the UK. Kassam’s ongoing support—from Batley Town Hall to Bradford—has been vital to the success and expansion of this historic initiative
A powerful image capturing Susan Hinchcliffe (Leader of Bradford Council), Sheikh Ilyas (guardian of the artefacts), and Kassam Chhibu (community leader and organiser) together at the Kiswat Al Kaaba Exhibition. Their presence reflects a shared commitment to preserving Islamic heritage, promoting interfaith respect, and supporting the vision of the Kiswa Arts and Culture Gallery. This moment symbolises leadership, collaboration, and community strength, with all three figures playing vital roles
A powerful image of Kassam Chhibu and Hafiz Yusuf standing beside the original Holy Kaaba door cover, showcasing reverence, heritage, and unity. Their presence together represents the bridge between community leadership and cultural preservation, as they honour the centuries-old craftsmanship and sacred significance of the Kiswa. This scene speaks volumes about the dedication to building the Kiswa Arts and Culture Gallery and sharing these treasures with the wider public.
A powerful group moment as Kassam Chhibu joins key dignitaries and community leaders at Masjid Usman Khaliliya, showing full support for the Kiswat Al Kaaba Exhibition. Surrounded by Lord Javed Akhtar, Susan Hinchcliffe, Sheikh Ilyas, and others, the image reflects unity, cultural pride, and a shared vision for the future of Islamic heritage in the UK. Kassam’s ongoing support—from Batley Town Hall to Bradford—has been vital to the success and expansion of this historic initiative