When you look at the tall, lanky 25-year old Mumbaikar walking hand in hand with his 2-year old daughter on the streets of Dublin, a peaceful face and kind eyes, you will not even begin to fathom the incredible story behind the serene facade. Ali Sequeira, formerly, Loyal Deepak Sequeira came into the fold of Islam six years ago due to the random acts of kindness shown to him by a brother.
Born into a moderately religious Christian family, he went to church every Sunday. As a child, Deepu, as his mother lovingly calls him, was a rebel. He did not have what one would call an ideal, loving childhood, but the difficulties he faced made his spirit stronger instead of breaking it and it has made him who he is today. His years in the Israeli army toughened him and when they moved to Ireland, he was a young man with a lot of pent up anger and frustration, leading to frequent brawls and drunken fights. But whoever Allah guides, there is none that can misguide him….
At a time when his mind was full of conflict and pain, he met brother Shahzad, whose love and kindness moved him to tears. He protected and defended Ali to the extent that he even accompanied him to pubs for his safety. Ali was in awe with the affection and patience shown towards him and when he dreamt of the Holy Ka’abah, he knew that it was a sign. In 2005, he said the Shahadah and accepted Islam and finally his heart changed its rhythm and was at peace. The love for Allah and his Imaan grew stronger day by day. Though his family did not have a good reaction to his conversion, his Imaan did not shake. On the contrary, being a Muslim has made him aware of his obligations towards his parents and he loves them and prays that one day, he may be able to pray to Allah along their side.
He feels blessed and is thankful to Allah for choosing him and wants to learn his deen and work on his weaknesses and often says that he is loved by Allah the most. He is now married and has two young children and strives hard towards giving them a balanced, Islamic upbringing.
Ali is a brave young man like his namesake, Caliph Ali, and is what you would call a people’s person. He is loved by everyone he meets and he never thinks twice before lending a helping hand or bringing a smile to someone’s face. May Allah help him in all his endeavours and make his dreams for serving humanity come true. Ameen.