The 91-year-old Shabaan Sallie, well-known as Boeta Bannie, was honoured by his community on Saturday, November 12 at the Bosmont Masjied Hall.
As a result of Boeta Bannie’s pivotal role he plays in the communities and the positive influences he has on many family members, friends and students, some members came together to arrange an Honours Event for him.
The main purpose of the event was to honour Boeta Bannie, who is the most senior Islamic Community Teachers, for his contribution to the communities at large, his religious teachings and the values he instilled in so many.
According to those who know him, Boeta Bannie who was born on February 12, 1931 and is a respected elderly man in the Muslim Community.
Those who spoke of him mentioned his extensive amount of knowledge and experience in the Muslim religion and holds titles such as Imaam (Leader/ Head of the Muslim Community) and Khalifah (Teacher in the Muslim Community).
Boeta Bannie is one of the most senior Khalifah’s still among his community and has and still does lead various Malay cultural and religious traditions in remembrance of the Prophet Mohammed.
According to the organisers these traditions include Ratiep or Refai, Moulood-Un-Nabie and Gadaat.
The event was focused around the Ratiep or Refai tradition which Boeta Bannie currently holds the most senior position.
This included the men chanting melodious tunes, hitting their drums and performing rituals with sharp objects.
The attendees were in excess of 200 people honouring such a respectful, humble, kind, honourable and wise man.
He was honoured with gifts albeit he could never be repaid for the impact he has on so many lives and the knowledge he has transferred.
“We pray to the Almighty to protect, bless and shower his mercy abundantly on him,” said one of the organisers Rafiq Sallie.
