Part of the Sunni Muslim Jamaat of Jogwad
Chitali Village's Muslim Community
A centuries-old Muslim settlement on the border of Jogwad, united by shared faith, culture, and history.
Introduction
Where heritage, faith, and geography unite two neighboring villages.
Nestled along the border of Jogwad and Chitali in Gujarat’s Navsari district, the Chitali Muslim Community is a close-knit group deeply intertwined with the cultural and religious life of Jogwad. Though geographically part of Chitali Village — where the majority population is Hindu — this community shares its spiritual, educational, and social roots with Jogwad’s Sunni Muslim Jamaat.
With a population of over 350 residents across more than 60 households, the community is made up of just two prominent family lineages: the Bulbul and Aswat (also known as Asvat or Randhaniya) families, both of which trace their origins to Lajpur and nearby villages in Surat. Over the years, many members have established themselves abroad, particularly in the UK and South Africa, while maintaining strong ties to their homeland.
Belonging to the Surati Sunni Vohra Muslim Society and following the Ahle Sunnat wal Jamaat (Hanafi, Deobandi disposition), the Chitali Muslims rely on Jogwad’s mosques, madrasas, schools, and community facilities for their religious and social needs. Located near key landmarks such as the Madina Masjid, Darul Uloom Jamiyah Aisha Siddika Banat (Girls’ Madrasa), and Darul Yatama Walmasakeen, the community continues to preserve its faith, traditions, and unity — reflecting the centuries-old bond between Jogwad and Chitali.
- Country
India
- State
Gujarat
- District
Navsari
- Sub-District
Chikhli
- Pin Code
396560
History & Origins
Tracing the community’s roots back centuries to its shared beginnings with Jogwad.
The Chitali Muslim Community shares a long and intertwined history with Jogwad. While Chitali is officially a separate village, historical ties suggest that this Muslim community may have once been considered part of Jogwad. Around 250–250 years ago, during a time when there were no formal village borders or British administrative divisions, families from nearby regions — particularly Lajpur and Kapletha in Surat — settled in the area. Over generations, these settlers became an integral part of the Islamic life of Jogwad, contributing to the establishment of mosques, madrasas, and community structures.
Two main family surnames define the community today: Bulbul and Aswat (also known as Asvat or Randhaniya). The Bulbul family traces its roots to Lajpur, Surat, while the Aswat family originates from both Lajpur and Kapletha. Migration patterns over the last century have seen many members establish themselves abroad, especially in the UK and South Africa, while maintaining strong ties to their ancestral homes.
Discover the Heritage of Surati Sunni Vohra Muslim Society
Jogwad was originally established by the Surati Sunni Vohra Muslim Community and is proudly known as "વોહરા લોકોનું ગામ" (Vohra Lokonu Gam). Our Jogwad & Chitali 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.
Geographical Connection with Jogwad
A community living at the border but bound by faith and daily life.
Geographically, the Chitali Muslim Community is located right at the border of Jogwad and Chitali. In fact, their homes and landmarks are so closely situated to Jogwad that daily life naturally overlaps between the two villages. Most of the community’s residences are located along the road leading to Jogwad’s key religious and community buildings, including:
• Madina Masjid
• Darul Uloom Jamiyah Aisha Siddika Banat (Girls’ Madrasa)
• Darul Yatama Walmasakeen
Some community members reside near the Chitali canal (naher), some in the Tadiya Faliya area of Chitali, and a few within Jogwad itself. This physical proximity has fostered a shared identity and reliance on Jogwad’s Islamic and community resources.
Community Structure & Families
Two family lineages forming the heart of a close-knit Muslim society.
The Chitali Muslim Community consists of over 350 residents living in 60+ households. Despite its modest size, the community is close-knit and well-organized, with family ties playing a significant role in social structure.
Family Lineages:
• Bulbul Family – Originating from Lajpur, Surat. Many have migrated to the UK and South Africa, but maintain cultural and financial connections with the community.
• Aswat / Asvat (Randhaniya) Family – Originating from Lajpur and Kapletha in Surat. They also have a strong diaspora presence in the UK and South Africa.
Both families belong to the Surati Sunni Vohra Muslim Society, the same as Jogwad.
- Establishment of Community
~250–300 years ago (estimated, alongside Jogwad Muslim settlement)
- Community Population
350+
- Number of Houses
60+
- Main Family Surnames
Bulbul, Aswat (Asvat / Randhaniya)
- Origin of Families
Lajpur & Kapletha, Surat District, Gujarat
Religious & Social Life
Living faith through Jogwad’s mosques, madrasas, and community traditions.
Religious life is central to the Chitali Muslim Community’s identity. Following the Ahle Sunnat wal Jamaat sect under the Hanafi school of thought and the Deobandi disposition, the community actively participates in Islamic events and gatherings in Jogwad.
Since the community does not have its own mosque or madrasa, members rely on Jogwad’s facilities for religious and educational purposes. These include:
• Madina Masjid – Main place of worship for daily prayers.
• Jumma Masjid – Attended for Friday congregational prayers.
• Darul Uloom Jamiyah Aisha Siddika Banat (Girls’ Madrasa)– For girls’ Islamic education.
• Darul Yatama Walmasakeen – Supporting orphans and underprivileged.
• Azra Health Center – For basic healthcare needs.
Socially, the community participates in events, marriages, and festivals alongside Jogwad residents, reinforcing their shared cultural heritage.
Present-Day Life & Global Connections
A local community with strong ties to a worldwide diaspora.
Today, the Chitali Muslim Community remains deeply connected to Jogwad in faith, culture, and daily life. Although most families work in agriculture or local trades, the community’s global diaspora plays a vital role in its development. Financial support from relatives abroad helps fund educational initiatives, community projects, and religious institutions in Jogwad.
With its strategic location along the Ambika River and its historical ties to Jogwad, the Chitali Muslim Community stands as a living testament to centuries of shared heritage, cooperation, and unity between two neighboring villages.
Latest News & Events
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