As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims around the world reflect on their journeys of spiritual growth, self-reflection, and community solidarity. From fasting from dawn to dusk to engaging in acts of charity and prayer, each person's experience during Ramadan is deeply personal yet profoundly communal.
Speaking to Asian Voice, some members of the community delve into their experiences of individuals during Ramadan, exploring the unique ways in which they have embraced the spirit of the month and navigated its challenges and blessings. They also delve into the plans and preparations as they anticipate the joyous occasion of Eid.
Through these personal stories and reflections, we gain insight into the richness and diversity of Muslim culture and tradition and celebrate the universal values of faith, family, and community that unite us all.
“I look forward to spending time with family”
Dr Irfan Khawaja is a Senior Lecturer in Physical Education at Birmingham City University (BCU), and previously spoke to Asian Voice about developing ground breaking Ramadan guidance aimed at fostering a more inclusive school environment for Muslim students and staff participating in physical education (PE) activities during the Holy Month of Islam.
Sharing his Ramadan experience, Dr Khawaja said, “As with every year, Ramadan continues to be a purifier and a month of refocus. Each year I feel the awareness of the holy month is spread wider, not least for the use of social media. This year I have been overwhelmed with messages of support, and I was particularly impressed with a national conference which accommodated fasting attendees. This is a sign of how our multicultural society is aware of the diverse religious practices we celebrate as one community.”
Of his Eid plans, he said, “My plans for Eid firstly include the most important element of prayer. My personal highlight is listening to the annual Eid Islamic preaching, which often leaves one with much to ponder for the next year. Following this, I always allocate time to remember and pray for those who are no longer with us but paved the way for us. I then look forward to spending time with family, including respected older generations, and the youngest generations, including my young beautiful nieces and nephews, who I have a habit of spoiling!”
He also provided an update about the success of his guidance and how it has helped support fasting students and teachers stating that over 2,500 downloads and implementation of the guidance were made within six weeks of publication. It is estimated that currently 75-85% of schools nationally have embedded the guidance into their practice.
He said, “I am delighted to share that the Ramadan Guidance document was showcased as part of the Association for Physical Education (afPE) ‘Breaking Down Barriers to Physical Education’ event at the House of Commons on Wednesday 6th March 2024.”
“Praying shoulder-to-shoulder with the community was deeply meaningful”
Abid Taluquedar is a Consultant Audiologist with a decade of expertise, garnered from esteemed institutions such as the NHS and Harley Street. As the visionary founder of London Audiology (https://www.londonaudiology.uk/ | @abidtheaudiologist), Abid spearheads a revolutionary approach to hearing healthcare, catering to the needs of adults and children. Proud of his upbringing in London, enriched by his Bangladeshi heritage, Abid actively leads a Muslim youth club and football team, striving to cultivate a brighter future for all.
Sharing his Ramadan experience, he said, “This Ramadan has been truly remarkable. I've cherished the sense of community and had the privilege of organising an iftar at a local mosque for the youth club I manage. What made it even more special was the participation of a non-Muslim colleague, who fasted alongside me. Leading my mother in prayers and collaborating with her to plan and prepare the iftar and suhur menus were among the month's highlights. Our culinary spread featured a variety of dishes, from samosas and aloo chaap to dahi baara and biryani. The camaraderie of praying shoulder-to-shoulder with the community was deeply meaningful, and I know I'll miss these moments once Ramadan concludes.
“As I reflect on my blessed experience, my heart goes out to Muslims worldwide facing tougher circumstances during this sacred month, particularly those in Palestine. Despite witnessing instances of Islamophobia perpetuated by certain public figures, I've remained grateful for the overall positive experience of Ramadan. My focus has been on countering divisive narratives and uplifting my community.”
Looking ahead to Eid, Abid anticipates following cherished traditions such as donning new attire, visiting Regent's Park Mosque with parents for prayers, and sharing a festive meal with extended family. “I'm also eager to spend time with friends and continue celebrating the joyous occasion”, he said.
