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Photo: K.R. Deepak

Bonhomie Iftars form the perfect platform for peace, harmony and friendship

Ramzan or Id -Ul-Fitr is celebrated at the end of the Ramadan, the ninth lunar month of the Islamic calendar, the day following the appearance of the new moon. It is believed that the holy book of Muslims, the Quran, was revealed to Prophet Mohammad (S.A.S.) in this month.

Ramzan is also called the ’festival of breaking the fast’ and of feasting and rejoicing. During the month of Ramadan, the Muslims observe fast during the day without even drinking water. The fast is usually broken with dates or any other fruit, followed by the dinner. The Ramadan festival cuts across the barriers of caste creed and colour. Family get-togethers and feasts (Iftar parties) are the major highlights of the celebrations. Rehana Ali, a college student says, “I always look forward to Ramadan because of the Iftar parties in which everybody prays and shares together the special food like ‘Biryani’ and ‘Haleem’ from the same ‘Thaal’.”Iftar parties provide excellent platforms for people of different communities to get-together, understand each other and bring about a feeling of equality and brotherhood. Be it Hindus or Sikhs or Christians, all like to throw parties for their friends during this month.

Shaida Mehdi who has hosted couple of Iftar parties, says, “Food laden trays are circulated and all are welcome. People of different classes gather to break the fast. No questions asked from anybody. Special attention is given to the people who are fasting. The Iftar parties not only help create bonds between Muslim families but also between non-Muslim and Muslim families.”

It is also that time of the year when Muslims make special efforts to settle their differences and give alms to the needy. Says, Dr. Farooqi, professor of Urdu in Andhra University, Ramadan is an annual training period inculcating discipline. It is time for introspection, show tolerance and patience, and to help others. Just observing the fast is not enough but keeping away from all kind of evils and having control over our senses is the real essence of this holy month.”

When the month ends, Ramzan is celebrated. Friends and relatives meet to exchange greetings ‘Id Mubarak’ and prayers. The family elders, conveying their blessings, give ‘Idi’ to the youngsters. Special delicacies like ‘Seviyan’ and ‘Sheer Khurma’ are prepared. By gathering with others to pray, talk, eat and to give gifts or money, the celebration is the culmination of all the fasting.

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