From Forested Land to a Thriving Community.
The Early Beginnings of Jogwad trace back approximately 300 years when the village was first established by Kasamji Kara Desai, an elder from Tadkeshwar village in Surat District. At that time, the land was barren and covered with dense forests, devoid of any human habitation. Historical accounts reveal that Kasamji Kara Desai belonged to the second lineage of Bija Bhai Desai in the Desai dynasty of Tadkeshwar. Due to differences within the nobility, he resolved to leave his ancestral land and embark on a journey. According to tradition, he decided to ride his horse from morning until evening, and wherever the horse would halt at dusk, he would settle there. His journey took him through Bodhan, Timba, and Valod, ultimately leading him to Jogwad, where he chose to establish his new home. The location where he first settled is today known as Patel Moholla. The name "Jogwad" is believed to have originated from the abundance of Banyan trees (Vad) in the area, a name that has since been officially recognized.
In its early days, Jogwad became home to families from various regions. The first settlers included the Desai family from Tadkeshwar, followed by other communities such as Mankda from Ambheta, Mulla from Chasa and Alipore, Aswat from Lajpore and Kapletha, Memon (Feriya) from Kankaria, Bulbul from Lajpore, Motala from Jitali, Khalifa from Billimora, and Chunara from Kachholi Village. These families played a crucial role in shaping the village’s foundation. Agriculture was the primary occupation of the early settlers, as they cultivated crops and raised livestock to sustain themselves. In the absence of formal currency, the villagers relied on a barter system, exchanging grains, milk, dairy products, and livestock for essential goods. This communal way of life fostered strong ties among the settlers, ensuring that food and necessities were always available within the village.
The first significant community structures built in Jogwad reflected the settlers' immediate needs and religious values. Kasamji Desai and the early settlers established the Jumma Masjid around the 1800s, marking the center of religious and social gatherings. Following this, they built Madresa Furqaniyah Aliyah (Makhtab) to provide religious education. As the population grew, they constructed wooden houses in Patel Moholla, along with a cemetery in Kundal Faliya for burials. Wells were also dug across various locations, including Patel Moholla, to meet the community's water needs. These early developments laid the foundation for a structured settlement.
The natural environment of Jogwad played a significant role in its early development. At the time of its founding, the region was covered in dense green forests, and the Ambika River flowed through the village, providing an essential water source for both daily use and agriculture. The fertile land and favorable climate made farming a viable means of survival, allowing settlers to cultivate various crops. However, despite the abundance of natural resources, the early inhabitants faced certain challenges, particularly regarding water accessibility. Since wells and the river were the only sources of water, fetching and transporting water for drinking, irrigation, and daily needs was a physically demanding task.
The settlers of Jogwad belonged to the Surati Sunni Vohra Muslim community, and over time, their cultural and religious practices evolved. In the early days, some villagers engaged in Bid’ah (innovations in religion) and Shirk (associating partners with God) due to a lack of proper Islamic knowledge. Superstitious beliefs were also prevalent, with some villagers following traditional practices such as visiting Dargahs (shrines). As religious awareness grew, these practices gradually changed, shaping the community's spiritual and social identity.
Despite the challenges faced in its early years, Jogwad flourished into a well-structured village with a strong sense of community. The settlers' resilience, agricultural expertise, and commitment to religious and social values laid the groundwork for the vibrant village that exists today.
Kasamji Kara-Desai
Between 1775-1800
Named after the dense banyan trees ("Vad")
Founder’s Journey – Kasamji Kara-Desai traveled from Tadkeshwar, passing through Bodhan, Timba, and Valod before settling in Jogwad.
Patel Moholla
Families from Tadkeshwar, Ambheta, Chasa, Alipore, Lajpore, Kapletha, Kankaria, and Jitali.
Agriculture and livestock farming with a barter system for goods.
Jumma Masjid (established around the 1800s)
Madresa Furqaniyah Aliyah (Makhtab)
Made at Kundal Faliya (now Kankaria Village cemetery)
Early Infrastructure and Religious Foundations: Jogwad's history is rich with significant milestones that have shaped its development over the years. The earliest infrastructure built by the first settlers was the Jumma Masjid, around 1800. Following the construction of the masjid, a Makhtab (Islamic institute for children) was established, reflecting the village's strong emphasis on Islamic education from its inception. The first cemetery was built in Kundal Faliya, which is now the Kankaria Village cemetery, as it was originally designated for Jogwad’s early settlers. Around 1875, the Old Muslim Qabristan was established and remained in use until 1947. As the village expanded, additional cemeteries were developed, including the Patelwala Muslim Qabristan in 1930 and the General Muslim Qabristan in 1947.
Development of Education: Education has played a pivotal role in the village’s growth. Jogwad Primary School was established on January 6, 1906, under the Surat District Local Board, as Navsari had not yet become a separate district at that time. The current school building was constructed in 1953 and was inaugurated by Rafi Ahmed Kidwai (1894-1954), the former Revenue Minister.
Electricity and Transportation Advancements: The introduction of electricity in Jogwad was a significant moment in its modernization. In February 1979, Shabbir Bhai Patel and Gulam Mahmad Desai paid the deposit for an electricity connection, supported by Ibrahim Makda (Mota Bhai) and Chhana Bhai. The first electricity connection was provided to the Water Works, allowing for the installation of an electric pump to fill the village’s water tank. Public transportation also saw improvement when the first government bus service started in 1955, initially running two to three trips a day. The roads were in poor condition, particularly from Kharel to Jogwad, making travel difficult. It was only in 1980 that a proper bus stand was constructed; before that, buses stopped at Jogwad Chokdi and a location in Patel Street near a Limbdo tree in front of Yusuf Mayet’s residence.
Growth of Religious and Educational Institutions: Religious and educational institutions continued to shape the village’s cultural and spiritual life. The foundation of Darul Uloom Jamiyah Zakariya was laid by Maulana Hashim Patel on May 24, 1983, and it was officially commenced on August 12, 1983, by Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Raza Ajmeri RA. For female education, Darul Uloom Jamiyah Aisha Siddika Banat was founded in 1986 by Haji Hasam Fakir Patel. Additionally, the Gram Panchayat office was built after 1960, following the introduction of the Panchayati Raj system in 1961. Before this, the village was governed through the Police Patel system, where designated Patels were responsible for maintaining justice and order.
Infrastructure and Community Development: Further development saw the construction of Madina Masjid in 2000 and Darul Yatama Walmasakeen in 2006, an Islamic institute catering to orphaned and underprivileged children, established by Maulana Hashim Patel. The village also saw a major infrastructural milestone in 1971 with the construction of the Jogwad Water Works, which provided clean water to the community. Haji Ibrahim Asmalji Mulla Water Works, a key water distribution system, was built to ensure free water supply for the Muslim community. The Sunni Muslim Jamat of Jogwad built the Muslim Community Hall in 2011, providing a dedicated space for community gatherings. Masjid-e-Umar was constructed between 2013 and 2016, officially opening on January 26, 2016, along with the inauguration of the Azra Health Center. Aisha Siddika School was established on June 6, 2007, by Jogwad’s leaders, providing education from Kindergarten to 12th Science.
Key Infrastructure Projects and Political Stability: Infrastructure developments also included the construction of the Ambika River Bridge in 1997, which improved connectivity for the village. Despite various modern advancements, Jogwad has remained largely unaffected by major political, social, or economic upheavals. British rule did not leave a significant impact on the village, nor were there notable historical movements recorded.
Impact of Natural Disasters: Natural disasters have occasionally influenced Jogwad’s geography and resources. A significant flood in 1968 altered the width of the Ambika River, expanding its course. The devastating earthquake on January 26, 2001, led to a notable rise in groundwater levels, improving irrigation and making water more accessible for both domestic and agricultural use. Fortunately, despite these natural calamities, Jogwad has remained relatively unscathed, with no large-scale damage reported.
Religious Influence and the Tablighi Jamat Movement: The arrival of the Tablighi Jamat movement brought a spiritual transformation to the village, reinforcing Islamic teachings and leading to the establishment of madrassas and an increase in religious activities. Jogwad became a central Halqa (Islamic center) for over 15 neighboring villages, further strengthening its regional influence. The village has continued to uphold its traditional Islamic values and practices.
Notable Scholars and Influential Figures: Several influential leaders and scholars have contributed to the village’s growth. Maulana Hashim Patel played a key role in the establishment of two Darul Ulooms for boys in Jogwad. Haji Hasam Fakir Patel founded Darul Uloom Jamiyah Aisha Siddika Banat, offering Islamic education for girls. Aisha Siddika School was initiated by Marhum Ahmad I. Patel. In the realm of sports, the Ashraf Miya Hasanji Saleji Makda was a distinguished cricketer, having played in the Ranji Trophy and being selected for the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL in 2009. He was also renowned for his volleyball skills. The Marhum Mahmud Hashim Makda played a significant role in promoting education within the community. Other notable scholars from Jogwad, the first Aalim of Jogwad was Molvi Ibrahim Ajmatullah Mulla, who studied in Rander. Molvi Ibrahim Ismail Patel was an Aalim in 1948. Qari Mahmad Ahmad Patel was a Qari, and he studied in Lucknow in 1945. Mahmad Amoji Aswat was a scholar who studied in Jogeshwari, Bombay, and later moved to Pakistan in 1948 after receiving a job offer as a bank manager. Ahmad Ismail Patel (Alighadiya) was a scholar who studied at Aligarh Muslim University and served as a Colonel. Hashim Ahmad Makda was a scholar who studied at Nowrosjee Wadia College in Pune. Additionally, Maulana Arshad Madani visited Jogwad twice. In 1953, the new building of the Jumma Mosque was inaugurated, with Revenue Minister Rafi Ahmed Kidwai (1894–1954) present at the event. On this occasion, he also inaugurated the new building of the Gujarati School.
Evolution of Education and Farming Practices: Education has continued to evolve, with a major shift towards modern studies after 2015. With Aisha Siddika School introducing Science and Commerce streams, more students have pursued higher education and professional degrees. Traditional occupations like farming remain prevalent, particularly in sugarcane and mango cultivation and other farming like Fish and Animal farming, which continue to be lucrative industries. While many villagers have moved to urban areas for work, farming remains a significant source of income, with crops like rice, bananas, and various legumes still widely grown.
Technological Advancements in Jogwad: The village saw significant technological advancements over time. After electricity arrived, some people had radios and TVs with the Doordarshan channel, which they used. The first telephone services were introduced in the early 2000s, with a central telephone point established near the Jogwad bus stop. Initially, only a few homes had telephone connections, which were used primarily for communication with family members abroad. By 2003, most households had their own telephone lines. The introduction of mobile phones around 2006 revolutionized communication, with villagers experiencing 1G and 2G internet for the first time. Wireless internet services became available in 2015, followed by fiber-optic connections in 2021, significantly enhancing connectivity.
Agricultural Shifts and Farming Developments: Since the establishment of Jogwad, villagers primarily engaged in farming, cultivating crops such as pigeon pea (toor dal), val papdi, chickpea (chana), sesame (tal), cotton (kapas), castor (divel), great millet (juvar), groundnut (mungfali), mung bean, black lentils (urad dal), shonbi, and rice (bhat). These crops were the mainstay of agriculture in the early years. A significant shift occurred in 1972 when Ismail Ahmad Patel (Mechanic) pioneered sugarcane farming in the village. Between 1985 and 2006, watermelon farming also became popular, first introduced by Noor Dada. Over time, agricultural practices continued to evolve, and today, the primary focus has shifted to sugarcane, mango, banana, and rice farming, reflecting the village’s adaptation to modern agricultural techniques and market demands.
Village Connections and Social Bonds: Jogwad maintains strong connections with nearby villages in various ways. Chitali is the closest and most closely associated village, where the Muslim community is a part of the Sunni Muslim Jamat of Jogwad. Similarly, some smaller Muslim communities from Tankal and Bodwank are also part of the Sunni Muslim Jamat and actively engage with Jogwad, including using its burial grounds. Interactions extend beyond religious ties, encompassing farming, cultural events, marriages, funerals, and other social occasions. Most surrounding villages belong to the Surati Sunni Vohra Muslim community and other Muslim communities, fostering a strong bond and continuous engagement with Jogwad.
Government Initiatives and Infrastructure Development: Government initiatives have played a crucial role in improving the village’s infrastructure. The installation of CCTV cameras in 2024 has enhanced security, while the health center and post office have provided essential services for decades. The Gram Panchayat office was rebuilt in 2023, further facilitating local governance. Roads have improved significantly, and the village enjoys 24/7 electricity and reliable water supply.
Migration and Modern Development: The migration of Jogwad’s Muslim community began before 1950, with many relocating to countries such as the UK, US, Canada, Panama, Barbados, Malawi, South Africa, Mozambique, Tanzania, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Mauritius, and other regions where the Surati Sunni Vohra Muslim community has historically settled. Today, more than four generations of Jogwad’s people are established abroad, and migration continues for reasons such as business, marriage, and education. At the same time, many people from nearby villages are moving to Jogwad due to its well-developed facilities, including Islamic and modern education, healthcare centers, cultural richness, and strong Islamic values, making it a desirable place to live.
Conclusion: Jogwad’s Ongoing Progress: Compared to the past, Jogwad has undergone immense development, modernizing while retaining its rich cultural and religious traditions. The village continues to progress in education, infrastructure, and connectivity, ensuring a bright future for its residents.
Kasamji Kara-Desai established the village.
Named after the dense Banyan trees ("Vad") surrounding the settlement.
Patel Moholla.
Families from Tadkeshwar, Ambheta, Alipore, Kapletha, Jitali and others
Jumma Masjid was established.
Makhtab for children's primary islamic education.
Kundal Faliya, now Kankaria Village cemetery.
Served the community before new cemeteries.
Jogwad Primary School was established.
Patelwala Muslim Qabristan was established.
General Muslim Qabristan was established.
Primary Schol inaugurated by Minister Rafi Ahmed Kidwai.
2-3 daily trips started.
The Gram Panchayat office was built after 1961.
Introduced by Ismail Ahmad Patel (Mechanic).
Led by Shabbir Patel & Gulam Mahmad Desai.
Water Works, enabling pumps.
Whole village got Electric Connection.
Boys Seminary established by Maulana Hashim Patel.
Popularized by Noor Dada.
Girls Seminary established by Haji Hasam Fakir Patel.
Enhanced village connectivity.
Central point near the bus stop.
A significant addition to Jogwad.
1G & 2G networks arrived.
Provides education up to 12th Science.
Sunni Muslim Jamat has made Hall.
Enhanced digital connectivity.
Inaugurated on January 26, 2016 by Maulana Sajjad Nomani.
Inaugurated on January 26, 2016 by Maulana Sajjad Nomani.
High-speed internet access.
Strengthening local governance.
Installed for village safety.
Jogwad has undergone significant cultural transformations over the years, influenced by religious, social, and technological developments. One of the most notable changes was brought about by the Tablighi Jamaat movement, which played a crucial role in guiding the community towards a more authentic practice of Islam. Before its influence, certain practices such as Bid’ah (religious innovations) and Shirk (associating partners with Allah) were prevalent in the community. The movement emphasized Islamic teachings, leading to a shift in religious observances and the abandonment of practices that were not aligned with core Islamic beliefs.
Socially, Jogwad has witnessed substantial changes, particularly in education, farming, and technology. In earlier times, the village was known for its strong sense of community, with people living harmoniously and supporting each other. The lifestyle of our ancestors was simple, with men traditionally wearing Kafni, Payjama, and Topi, while women wore Salwar Kameez with Dupatta. Due to financial constraints, their way of life remained modest. Education was limited, both in religious and modern fields, but as time passed, access to basic education improved, leading to significant advancements in lifestyle.
With the beginning of the 21st century, the influence of Western culture became more evident. Many members of the Surati Sunni Vohra Muslim community migrated abroad, and their exposure to different cultures impacted those who remained in Jogwad. This led to a blend of Islamic and Western lifestyles, with modern education and urban influences shaping the community’s way of life. In farming, there was a shift from cultivating a variety of small crops to focusing on large-scale mango and sugarcane farming. Technological advancements were embraced eagerly by the village, making Jogwad more progressive compared to neighboring villages.
Traditions, clothing, food habits, and festivals have also evolved over time. While the community remains rooted in Islamic values, some cultural aspects have modernized. The younger generation has adopted more Western-style clothing, though modest dressing in accordance with Islamic principles remains a priority. Elders continue to wear traditional attire such as Kafni Payjama and Salwar Kameez. In terms of food habits, younger people favor fast food and contemporary dishes, whereas the older generation prefers traditional meals. However, the love for traditional cuisine remains strong across all age groups.
Certain customs and rituals have faded with time. In the past, people frequently visited Dargahs (shrines) and attended Qawwali concerts, and some wedding celebrations even included female dance performances. With the spread of Islamic awareness, particularly through the efforts of the Tablighi Jamaat, these practices have largely disappeared from the community.
The cultural interaction between Jogwad and neighboring villages has also changed over the years. With advancements in communication and increased migration, the village has become more interconnected with the outside world. Today, Jogwad’s culture reflects a unique blend of tradition and modernity, where Islamic values remain at the core while the community continues to adapt to the changing times.
Jogwad has been home to many influential scholars, leaders, and sports personalities who have contributed significantly to the village’s progress.
➣ Religious and Educational Scholars:
• Maulana Hashim Patel played a pivotal role in establishing two Darul Ulooms for boys in Jogwad, strengthening Islamic education in the village.
• Haji Hasam Fakir Patel founded Darul Uloom Jamiyah Aisha Siddika Banat, a madrasa dedicated to providing Islamic education for girls.
• Marhum Ahmad I. Patel initiated the establishment of Aisha Siddika School, furthering the cause of modern education.
• Marhum Mahmud Hashim Makda was instrumental in promoting education within the community, ensuring access to knowledge for future generations.
➣ Renowned Scholars from Jogwad:
• Molvi Ibrahim Ajmatullah Mulla – The first Aalim (Islamic scholar) of Jogwad, studied in Rander.
• Molvi Ibrahim Ismail Patel – An Aalim from 1948, dedicated his life to religious scholarship.
• Qari Mahmad Ahmad Patel – A distinguished Qari (reciter of the Quran), studied in Lucknow in 1945.
• Mahmad Amoji Aswat – Studied in Jogeshwari, Bombay, later migrated to Pakistan in 1948 to work as a bank manager.
• Ahmad Ismail Patel (Alighadiya) – Ahmad Ismail Patel, son of Ismail A. Patel, was born on November 9, 1918, in Jogwad, District Bulsar/Valsad (now Navsari), Gujarat. He joined Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) in July 1934, residing in Sir Syed Hall, Room 21 while pursuing his education. He successfully completed his Intermediate in 1936, B.A. in 1938, M.A. in 1940, and LL.B. in 1940, leaving the university in May 1942. During his time at AMU, he was actively involved in leadership roles, serving as Senior Proctorial Monitor, Senior Food Monitor, Senior Pre-Monitor, and a Member of the Union Executive. After AMU, he continued his education at Bombay University and later served as a Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col.). Professionally, he was associated with Bank of India Ltd. in Pune, demonstrating excellence in both the military and financial sectors.
• Hashim Ahmad Makda – Studied at Nowrosjee Wadia College in Pune, contributing to academic excellence.
➣ Sports Achievements:
• Late Ashraf Makda – A celebrated cricketer who played in the Ranji Trophy and was selected for the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2009. He was also a skilled volleyball player.
➣ Prominent Visitors:
• Maulana Arshad Madani – A respected Islamic scholar who visited Jogwad twice, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
• In 1953, the new building of Jumma Mosque was inaugurated by Revenue Minister Rafi Ahmed Kidwai (1894–1954). On the same occasion, he also inaugurated the new Gujarati School building, marking a milestone in the village’s educational development.
These figures have left an indelible mark on Jogwad’s history, shaping its educational, religious, and sporting legacy for generations to come.
Jogwad was originally established by the Surati Sunni Vohra Muslim Community and is proudly known as "વોહરા લોકોનું ગામ" (Vohra Lokonu Gam). Our Jogwad Muslim community is an integral part of the Surati Sunni Vohra Muslim Society, carrying forward a legacy of faith, unity, and tradition.
To truly understand our roots and the values that define us, it is important to explore the history and contributions of our society. Let’s connect with our heritage and learn more about the community we belong to.
The governance structure of Jogwad was formalized under the Gujarat Panchayati Raj Act of 1961, which established the Gram Panchayat system. This system provided local self-governance, giving the villagers more autonomy in decision-making and resource management. The transition to a structured governance model allowed for the systematic development of infrastructure and public services.
Over the years, Jogwad Village has undergone significant transformations in governance and infrastructure, leading to better facilities and an improved quality of life for its residents. These changes have played a crucial role in modernizing the village while ensuring sustainable development.
Governance & Administrative Improvements: Jogwad operates under the local governing body, which has taken several initiatives to enhance public services and streamline administrative processes. The introduction of digital governance has made it easier for residents to access official documents, welfare schemes, and government services without unnecessary delays. Transparency and efficiency in local governance have improved, ensuring that developmental projects reach the people effectively.
Roads & Transportation: One of the most notable advancements in infrastructure has been the improvement of roads and connectivity. Well-maintained roads now link Jogwad to nearby towns and cities, facilitating smoother transportation for residents, businesses, and visitors. These developments have significantly reduced travel time and increased accessibility to essential services such as healthcare, education, and markets.
Electricity & Water Supply: The village has witnessed remarkable progress in basic utilities. Electricity is now more stable, supporting both residential and commercial needs. Streetlights have been installed in various parts of the village, enhancing safety during nighttime. In terms of water supply, improved pipelines and sanitation facilities have ensured access to clean drinking water for households, reducing health risks and improving overall well-being.
Communication & Digital Access: With the expansion of mobile networks and internet services, Jogwad has embraced digital connectivity. Most residents now have access to mobile phones and the internet, allowing better communication and access to information. The launch of Jogwad.com has further strengthened the village’s digital presence, making it easier for locals and outsiders to stay informed about village affairs.
Future Prospects: Governance and infrastructure continue to evolve, with ongoing projects aimed at further modernizing Jogwad. Future plans include the enhancement of public spaces, better waste management systems, and the promotion of eco-friendly initiatives to ensure sustainable growth.
The collective efforts of local authorities and the community are shaping Jogwad into a well-developed and forward-thinking village while preserving its heritage and values.
Jogwad Village has embraced modernity while preserving its rich cultural and historical heritage. Over the years, the village has witnessed remarkable developments in infrastructure, education, technology, and community services, improving the quality of life for its residents.
Infrastructure & Connectivity: In recent years, Jogwad has seen significant improvements in its infrastructure. The village is now well-connected by roads, making transportation easier for residents and visitors. Access to electricity, clean drinking water, and sanitation facilities has improved, contributing to a healthier environment.
Education & Digital Growth: Education has been a strong pillar of Jogwad’s progress. Aisha Siddika Primary and Higher Secondary School, the village's leading educational institution, continues to provide quality education, preparing students for higher studies and professional careers. With the rise of digital learning, many students have access to online resources, broadening their knowledge beyond traditional classrooms.
Technology & Digital Presence: The digital transformation of Jogwad is evident through its growing online presence. The village now has its own website, Jogwad.com, which serves as a central platform for sharing information, news, and historical insights. This website plays a crucial role in connecting the global community with the village, allowing both residents and former inhabitants to stay updated. Additionally, the use of social media and online services has increased, enabling businesses and individuals to explore new opportunities beyond the local economy.
Cultural & Social Development: Despite modernization, Jogwad maintains its deep-rooted cultural values. Traditional festivals, religious events, and community gatherings continue to strengthen the bond among residents. The village remains a peaceful and united community, where people support each other in times of need.
Looking Ahead: With ongoing advancements in education, technology, and infrastructure, Jogwad is steadily moving towards a brighter future. The village continues to blend tradition with modernity, ensuring sustainable growth while preserving its identity.
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