Fasting is common over most religions and Ramadan is about fasting, generosity, charity, self-discipline, and recharging our spiritual, as well as physical, selves.
On Friday the 22nd of April, Saint Olaves Grammar School held the first ever school Iftar in the whole of Bromley. In the event St. Olave’s Islamic society hoped to share the spirit of Ramadan and was extremely successful in doing so. Leaders from different faiths (Islamic, Christian, Jewish, and Hindu) were invited to share the virtues of fasting across different religions.
Over 120 people were present, and the atmosphere was truly spectacular. The programme ranged from recitations of the Holy Quran to a comedic performance from 'Prince Abdi'. An auction of special Islamic art and calligraphy was also conducted by Amaan Hamid. After asking him what this was about, he told me "The primary intention for this auction is really to raise money for charity. In Ramadan, we increase in the charity we give to express gratitude and help those in need so this auction will allow us to be able to do that. Furthermore, these Islamic artworks are really beautiful".
Of course, the food was one of the fundamental aspects to the Iftar as it is the time for ‘breaking of the fast’ at sunset. The meal shared to the people was also excellent. The food ranged from starters such as Samosas, Chicken wings and various Fruit to the main meal such as Biryani, Pilau rice and Chicken. The food did not disappoint.
Overall, the first ever School Iftar programme was enjoyable and successful. After talking to one of the student organisers Sulaiman Galaria, he told me "I wasn't sure what I was expecting but so many people came and it was an honour to create this event, hopefully the first of many. Maybe other schools will also follow in a bid to encourage diversity in our community". This was a simple but collective event in order to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan and also raising money for a local charity.
