Ramadan in London: Community bonds strengthen amidst spiritual observance
TDT | Agencies
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As the holy month of Ramadan unfolds, London’s Muslim community is immersed in a unique blend of spiritual devotion, family gatherings, and festive preparations. From adorned homes to bustling mosques, vibrant markets, and the dazzling Ramadan lights at Piccadilly Circus, the city reflects the essence of Ramadan, a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
Piccadilly Lights Up
For the third consecutive year, Piccadilly Circus has been transformed into a radiant celebration of Ramadan. An in-stallation featuring 30,000 LED bulbs, shaped into intricate Islamic geometric patterns and symbols, illuminates the West End street. The display, sponsored by the Aziz Foundation, marks a historic gesture as the first of its kind in a Western European city.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan led the opening celebrations on Wednesday, joined by actor and Good Morning Britain presenter Adil Ray, presenter Yasser Ranjha, and Rahima Aziz, a trustee of the Aziz Foundation. Reflecting on the sig-nificance of the lights, Khan shared, “I remember when I was little, my mum and dad would bring me to see the Christmas lights at West End. If you had told me all those years ago that, within my lifetime, we would have lights in London celebrating Ramadan like we do Christmas, I wouldn’t have believed you.”
This year’s installation includes new features, such as a ground-level interactive display in Leicester Square and a halal-friendly iftar trail, showcasing local dining spots like LSQ Rooftop at Hotel Indigo and Farzi London, offering Ramadan specials. The switch-on event also featured a lantern parade around Piccadilly Gardens, led by the Lord Mayor of Westminster, Robert Rigby, and children from WAW Creative Arts, a school designed for Muslim youth.
Homes and Markets Come Alive
Across the capital, homes are transformed with festive decorations, creating a warm and spiritual atmosphere. Families prepare meticulously for sahur (pre-dawn meals) and iftar (evening meals), ensuring that the month is marked by both tradition and togetherness. Local markets, meanwhile, see a surge in shoppers stocking up on essentials like dates, a staple for breaking the fast.
Nawal Adam, a London resident and engineer, shared how her family coordinates daily routines to accommodate fasting, prayer, and community engagement. “We decorate our homes ahead of Ramadan and plan our meals in advance,” she said. “We also organize transportation for relatives to attend Tarawih prayers at the mosque.” Despite the challenges of fasting during long working hours, Adam emphasized the spiritual rewards of the month. “It’s very difficult, but Alhamdulillah, we are blessed. Allah rewards us for our efforts,” she said. For others, like 33-year-old Raak, preparation is more about mental and spiritual readiness. “You cleanse yourself with a fresh mind, ensuring you act well among your peers,” he said.
“It’s a time to reflect on those struggling and to be charitable.” Raak also highlighted the sense of connection and respect fostered within the Muslim community during Ramadan.
Mosques: The Heart of Community
Spirit Mosques across London play a central role in bringing the community together during Ramadan. Hamid Qureshi, the imam of North Finchley Mosque, detailed the various services provided, including nightly Tarawih prayers aimed at completing the recitation of the Quran over the 30 days of Ramadan. The mosque also organizes iftar and sahur meals and runs initiatives like the “Quran Buddy Program,” which pairs individuals with proficient reciters to enhance their understanding of the holy book.
Galal Youssef, a British Egyptian, emphasized the importance of mosques in creating a sense of belonging. “The sense of community in the mosque is lovely. It’s where we meet, listen to Quran recitations, and strengthen our bonds,” he said. “If you don’t go to the mosque, you wouldn’t feel Ramadan in England.”
Charity and Global Solidarity
Ramadan is also a time for charity and global solidarity. London’s mosques and Muslim organizations actively engage in fundraising initiatives, particularly for Palestinians in Gaza and others suffering around the world. “The Muslim ummah is like one body. If one part is in distress, the rest feels it too,” said Qureshi. “We feel the pain of our brothers and sisters in Gaza, Sudan, Lebanon, and Syria, and focus on dua (prayers) for them.”
The month serves as a reminder of patience and perseverance, with many drawing inspiration from the resilience of those facing hardships. “We look at their example to guide us through Ramadan,” Qureshi added.
A Month of Reflection and Togetherness
For London’s Muslim community, Ramadan is more than a time of fasting; it is a celebration of faith, family, and community. From the bustling markets to the serene mosques, the city comes alive with the spirit of the holy month. As families gather, prayers are offered, and charity is extended, the essence of Ramadan shines brightly, bridging the gap between tradition and modern life.
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