Hundreds of poor fed every day during Ramzan in India' Delhi

By APD writer Rishika Chauhan

NEW DELHI, June 4 (APD) - Around 500 people are fed everyday at Delhi’s iconic Jama Masjid, according to a recent report. Many good Samaritans have come together to organize mass meals in the courtyard of the mosque.

Organized mostly by the followers of Islam, meals are called iftar and are offered to people belonging to all religions, ethnicities and regions, visiting the mosque.

Speaking to the media, Salauddin who hosts one such meal said, “Mass iftar meals give a sense of belonging and togetherness to the Muslim brethren. At the same time, it is a way to bond with people from diverse backgrounds.”

Another organizer, Mohammad Uzair, said, “In the initial days, we organize iftar meals for 200 people... By the last Friday of the month, we have iftar meals arranged for around 1,000 people.”

The mass meals also help the people who are travelling, as they can visit the mosque and get a meal to break their fast.

“Many needy people, women, children and travellers have nowhere but the mosques to go to for iftar. Apart from residents of the locality, people involved in management of all mosques keep enough supply of evening meal,” explained Mehtab Rahi, a resident of the area.

During the month of Ramzan, Muslims throughout the world observe fasts. In India, there are more than 150 million followers of Islam, who celebrate the month across the country.

Speaking through his radio program, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recently greeted Muslims on Ramzan. He said, "Prayer, spirituality and charity are accorded the highest priority during Ramzan. This holy month of Ramzan will definitely be helpful in further strengthening these values of peace, unity and goodwill."

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)