Srinagar, Apr 08: Masjid-e-Bilal (RDA) in Srinagar has become a symbol of generosity and community spirit during Ramadan, as the management of the mosque provides iftar to at least 600 people each day.
The mosque, located on the Bund, attracts hundreds of people from nearby areas who come to break their fast and pray for mercy during the holy month. The mosque’s prominent location in the city center and its reputation for discipline draw visitors voluntarily. The management of Masjid-e-Bilal has been hosting iftar for the past 25 years and has become well-known for its hospitality and stunning ambiance throughout the city.
To facilitate iftar, volunteers begin preparations at 10 a.m. by bringing fruits from Mandi and sorting the fruit plates, dates, and basil seeds before transporting them to each row. The volunteers then drape rows of tablecloth in the park in front of the mosque, where people congregate to break their fast.
Elderly volunteer Fayaz Ahmad Punjabi stated that four volunteers work from the morning, with an additional six joining after Asr prayers to ensure that iftar is successful within a set time.
According to Punjabi, facilitating iftar for Muslims during Ramadan is an established tradition in this area that is highly revered and rewarded in Islam. In the past 8 to 10 years, the menu has changed from offering juice and biscuits to more substantial meals. The Masjid-e-Bilal also lends a helping hand to the needy and impoverished throughout Ramadan through various forms of donations.
As the mosque is surrounded by a sizable market of businesses, including shops, office buildings, public and private institutions, and other places where people frequently travel, a large number of people break their fast at the mosque during Ramadan. It is heartening to see people connect with their Creator during iftar, sobbing and pleading with God for mercy on all of humanity. Punjabi added that such kind of system should be in place in market places during Ramadan, as facilitating iftar for others is a great deed in the court of Allah.
