★★★★★
I visited the place over 20 years ago and still find it amazing when I am there now. Last time was in Nov 2022. The art works is another topic I could write a paper on, forget about a review.
It is a place for prayer and worship, a Jamatkhana. But really what a non-Ismaili would find is it is an amazing example of architecture and interior design.
★★★★★
Enjoyed the tour for Open Gardens last week. Amazing multi use building on the island site just seems to sit perfectly surrounded by museum's, residential area, ambassy and restaurants.
★☆☆☆☆
I went yesterday to the one in Kensington and was really ashamed… I am Indian and I went in as I have a passion about other religions and faiths.
Before I went in I was greeted by a guy at the door who opened it for me. Didn’t say anything just opened it.
Then went in and looked fairly busy but such a nice building. Very clean and posh. A guy came over to me and said asked if I am an ismaili, I said no. He then immediately said this is a private building and as I am not an ismaili I need to leave… I felt I was in a position where my life was in danger.
The guy at the door was there and said
★☆☆☆☆
I saw Ismaili mentioned which is a giant prophets name in Islam and then I saw Bismillahirrahmanirahim in beautiful calligraphy. Went in with my family to find that Muslims are not welcome at all. Neither to pray nor to break fast. I can see so many similar experiences.
★☆☆☆☆
Closed except for two open days each year, once in June and once in September. Don’t show up any other time as you won’t gain admittance.