The iconic Muslim Ambulance Society, founded in 1932, is set to mark its 93rd anniversary with a grand celebration at Islam Gymkhana near Marine Lines on January 24. Known for its unwavering commitment to serving people regardless of caste or creed, the society operates ambulances, hearse vans, free immunisation centres, maternity homes, childcare centres, diagnostic facilities, and hospitals.
Since 2007, Dr. Rauf Sumar, 81, has served as the society’s president, continuing a 55-year association with the organization. “The society was established by six selfless individuals on Chakala Street to serve the injured and needy,” says Dr. Sumar from his office at MH Saboo Siddique Maternity and General Hospital, a 110-bed facility the society has managed since 2004. The hospital performs 400–450 major and super-major surgeries each month.
The society also manages Fauziya Maternity and Nursing Home at Arab Gali and Haji Karim MS Maternity and Child Care Hospital at Mohammed Ali Road. However, its outreach began long before these expansions, with its ambulance services extending to all communities, including participation in Ganpati idol immersions at Chowpatty since 1933.
Founded by Ibrahim Haroon, Ayub Haroon, Noor Mohammed Dhiyaan, Mohammed Hussain Sumar, Akbarali Khan, and Abdul Raheem Bachuseth, the society received early recognition from poet-philosopher Allama Iqbal. In a letter from Lahore, Iqbal praised the society’s “truly Islamic form of service” and emphasized that serving humanity is the path to God.
As reported by timesofindia, the society’s work has been supported by contributions from various communities, including a donation of Rs 251 from the Hindu organization Sona Chandi Tolvano Dharamno Kanto in its early days. It also functions on Zakat, the 2.5% of annual savings Muslims give to charity.
Over the decades, the society has responded to emergencies ranging from religious festivals and riots to building collapses and parades. Its hearse ambulances have transported countless individuals, including prominent figures such as thespian Dilip Kumar and politician Baba Siddique, to their final resting places.
“The Muslim Ambulance Society is an institution that has inspired generations to engage in selfless social work,” said Islam Gymkhana president Advocate Yusuf Abrahni.
As it turns 93, the society continues to stand as a symbol of humanitarian service and unity, with a legacy rooted in compassion and community support.