Venue 360 Jamia Islamic Ghausia Trust
- Mohammed Malik
- Feb 3
- 4 min read
Kiswa Arts & Culture Gallery Makes History in Luton
Venue 360, Luton | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Luton witnessed a landmark cultural and spiritual moment yesterday as the Kiswah Arts & Culture Gallery Exhibition was hosted in the town for the very first time, drawing an extraordinary public response at Venue 360
Between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 visitors passed through the exhibition, making it one of the most well-attended faith-heritage and cultural events ever held locally. Attendees included families, elders, young people, scholars, civic leaders, and visitors from across the UK, representing a wide range of faiths, ethnicities, and backgrounds. The event was fully accessible, with disability facilities in place, ensuring inclusivity for all members of the community
A Gathering of Dignitaries and Civic Leaders
The significance of the exhibition was reflected in the presence of numerous distinguished guests and civic representatives, who spent time engaging with the artefacts, curators, and members of the public. Their attendance highlighted the exhibition’s cultural, educational, and community value
Notable dignitaries in attendance included:
Cllr Zanib Raja Labour Party
Allama Qazi Abdul Aziz Chishti Saheb MBE
Cllr Amjid Ali, Leader of the Liberal Democrats
Camilla King, High Sheriff of Bedfordshire
Former Mayor of Luton, Cllr Mohammed Riaz
Professor Gurch Singh (SOAS) - Professor of Diversity in Public Health and Director of the Institute for Health Research at the University of Bedfordshire
Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire
Cllr Javed Hussain, Deputy Leader of Luton Borough Council
Cllr Muhammad Aslam Khan Leader of the Conservative Party in Luton
Local policing was also represented by PCSO Daniel McHugh and ED PCSO, underscoring the civic support for the event
Throughout the day, dignitaries were seen in discussion with visitors, observing the artefacts closely, and participating in meaningful conversations about heritage, faith, and shared history.
Sacred Artefacts and Deeply Emotional Moments
At the heart of the exhibition were rare Kiswah artefacts, some dating back over 700 years, alongside other sacred textiles and historical pieces from Makkah and Madinah. Carefully curated and interpreted, the collection offered visitors a rare and profound connection to Islamic heritage, craftsmanship, and spiritual history
For many attendees, the experience proved deeply emotional. Tears were shed, prayers were offered, and moments of quiet reflection filled the gallery space. Visitors described the exhibition as “overwhelming,” “humbling,” and “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” The curatorial team remained present throughout the day, guiding visitors, answering questions, and ensuring the artefacts were presented with the dignity and reverence they command
Gratitude and Special Acknowledgements
The organisers extended special and heartfelt thanks to Allama Qazi Abdul Aziz Chishti Saheb MBE for his leadership, vision, and lifelong service to the community. Sincere appreciation was also given to his sons, Siraj Qazi and Ataul kibria Chishti, whose support and presence played a significant role in the success of the exhibition
Deep gratitude was also expressed to the volunteers, curators, and all those working behind the scenes — including teams responsible for food, refreshments, logistics, and visitor support — whose collective efforts ensured a welcoming and seamless experience for thousands of attendees
Sponsors and Supporters
The exhibition was made possible with the generous support of sponsors and partners, including:
Jamia Islamic Ghausia Trust
Digitus Accountancy
A A Carpets
Rainstone Finance
City Law
247 Logistics
Alpha Productions
and other valued supporters
Media Coverage and Public Response
The event attracted extensive media attention, with coverage across television, radio, and digital platforms. Inspire FM broadcast live from the venue throughout the day, while national and international news outlets including ARY News, ARY Big News, Suno News, Dunya News, and D4 News captured interviews, visuals, and public reactions
By the end of the day, the exhibition had gone viral across Luton, with widespread engagement on social media. Councillors, community leaders, and members of the public shared photographs, testimonials, and messages of appreciation across platforms such as Instagram, further amplifying the event’s reach and impact
A Landmark Moment for Luton
As the first Kiswah exhibition ever held in Luton, the event exceeded all expectations. The scale of attendance, the diversity of visitors, and the depth of emotional and intellectual engagement demonstrated a strong public appetite for high-quality cultural, faith-based, and educational experiences
The Kiswa Arts & Culture Gallery Exhibition was not simply an event — it was a shared moment of history, unity, and reflection
The organisers extend sincere thanks to everyone who attended, supported, covered, and contributed to making the day such a resounding success
MSN Article
Luton Today Article
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