By Naadiya Adams
Tributes continue to pour in for one of Laudium’s own, an Ummah stalwart whose loss has left a hole in the lives of so many. Marhoom Suliman Mohammad Dockrat, was described as the best among men, ever humble in spite of all his good deeds – and there are many.
Adoringly known as Uncle Solly of Fashion World, Marhooom Suliman passed away from an illness on Tuesday– he was 66. During the time of his passing, he ensued a sense of calm, with a serene look on his face and he recited the Shahaadah surrounded by those who loved him most.
Many have spoken of his humbleness, his need to do good, his tenderness, his respect for all life but what stood out most was his love for the Almighty and his dedication to his Salaah and Quráan.
“From among his innumerable amazing qualities, one that really stood out to me, was his consistency in carrying out his morning and evening recitation of Qur'an, Adhdaar, Duas etc, no matter how tired, late or busy he was, he would never retire to bed without completing it. My beloved Abb (Daddy), is now in the care and protection of our compassionate Rabb,” wrote Moulana Ahmed Dockrat.
Termed the epitome of humility, Marhoom Suliman was charitable and generous, some say he cared more for others than he did for himself. In Ramadaan he could be seen serving people at the Iftaar mat at Masjidus Salaam while on Eid he would serve Zam Zam water with his own hands, to all those who had gathered for the glory of Allah. The work of Deen was part of his being and he had a deep love for the Ulema – both his sons are Aalims as well.
“He was undoubtedly amongst the most generous of Muslims in serving in all of Allah’s course. His humility is legendary,” said Dr Firoz Osman of the Media Review Network.
"We have great fond and pleasant memories of Him. The latest pleasant encounter was when I spoke to him on Monday night. I was shaken when I heard of his Sudden Demise on Tuesday. We pray to Almighty Allah, to bless his family with the Strength to bear this sad loss," Ismail A Kalla.
For those he worked with, he made an unforgettable impression. He was a natural-born leader that never showed an ounce of arrogance, he was astute and had a keen sense of style. He ran a tight ship, but integrity was central in nurturing a business that held the bond of family so close. He was also well traveled and very cultured, but throughout his globetrotting adventures, his Quráan never left his side.
“What an incredible man so polite and as much as he was wealthy, he was one of the most humble and simple people. On several occasions when we had to see him at the Durban office, he would ensure that he greets everyone, no matter who it was, whether his workers, factory owners or factory staff,” wrote Ivan Reddy.
Marhoom Suliman was intent on spreading the word of Islam, but it was his character and akhlaq that affected people so profoundly – leaving them so touched that Islam illuminated their hearts and they chose to accept Islam.
Muhammad Akoojee of Marlboro told of a woman he encountered in China, the biggest fabric merchant in the country who thought the world of Marhoom Suliman and eventually converted to Islam. “After years of dealing with her... she asked him one day I want to become like you... Muslim. She said I accepted Islam on his hands and so did all my staff... their villagers,” explained Akoojee.
Two of the male nurses who had been attending to him at his house took their Shahadah shortly after he passed away – it was evident that his akhlaaq impacted the hearts of those around him.
“Uncle Solly was pragmatic and organized. He was a leader that never showed his authority. He was natural in leading without any arrogance whatsoever. His humbleness was reason for people to admire our Deen and accept The Deen. Uncle Solly treated everyone with respect and his smile was evident and infectious. We are poorer when these humble souls leave us as they only showed us what our Deen was about.”
Tributes have since poured in on social media from members of the community.
“The Best boss ever. The most kind and generous man, ever... The most humble man I’ve known... A real father to all of us at Fashion World...Gonna miss u sooo much Uncle Solly (Motah Bhai) I'm so out of it, moved heartbroken... still. (This really is a shocker),” wrote Ravi Boodhoo.
“What an amazing, down to earth, humble person. You will forever be missed by the Hilton (Hotel) Family. Your kind, loving and generous nature will always be remembered. Privileged to have known an amazing person like you Mr Dockrat. In our hearts forever,” Nikita Richards.
“What a wonderful person..... I'm in shock.. He was vibrant and energetic... He once overheard me talking to my husband on the fone about a certain kitaab.. Later that day that same particular kitaab was delivered to me at my work place.. He said it was from Mr Dockrat... I offered to pay Mr Dockrat back.. But he said it was a gift... The book he gifted me.. Was on the life of the beloved Prophet(saw) ... His wonderful sons will carry his legacy... He would frequent my work place for business meetings... Ever so humble... Real father figure.. The staff loved him too... He always sent us gifts...” says Farzana Gouse.
Marhoom Suliman Dockrat’s loss, is not only a blow to his immediate family and the Laudium community, but rather for the entire Ummah. His life is an example of what it means to live for the pleasure of Allah, may his abode in Jannah be reflective of the life he lived on earth Insha-Allah.
We at Laudium Today make dua that Allah Ta’ala grants Uncle Solly the highest abode in Jannah and grant comfort and solace to his family and friends.
