The Representation of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in Russia hosted a solemn iftar in Moscow on March 25, marking the beginning of the Ramadan Month 2025. This event gathered a diverse array of guests, including representatives from various public sectors, the diplomatic corps, as well as cultural and scientific communities. It was initiated based on the efforts of Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, emphasizing the importance of unity, fraternity, and good spirits during the festivities.
Tamilla Akhmedova, the Head of the Humanitarian Programs at the Foundation's representative office in the Russia Federation, delivered a welcoming speech where she expressed her gratitude towards the guests for joining the event. She remarked, "I believe today should proceed in a spirit of unity, brotherhood, and good spirits. Ramadan is not only about abstaining from food and water; it is a call to cleanse the heart, open the soul, and embrace kindness." Akhmedova emphasized the need for spiritual reflection, especially amid today's fast-paced and information-saturated world.
She further elaborated on the inter-religious harmony that exists in Azerbaijan, crediting President Ilham Aliyev for the country’s emergence as a leader in not only political and economic realms but also as a center for intercultural dialogue. Mentioning the sensitive Karabakh issue, she noted that its resolution has been significant for Azerbaijani people and expressed gratitude for the guidance provided by President Aliyev. Akhmedova also paid tribute to the fallen heroes who fought for Azerbaijan’s liberation of Karabakh.
The Heydar Aliyev Foundation, under the leadership of First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, has been active in extensive humanitarian efforts intended to support the underprivileged, orphans, and all those in need, which represents only a fraction of its broad mission.
Nazim Ismailzade, the Deputy Director of the Foundation's representative office, reflected on the spiritual implications of Ramadan. He mentioned that this month drives people towards cleansing, charity, and mutual support. He stated, "Holding iftar has become a cherished tradition, uniting people across various professions, viewpoints, and generations," and expressed appreciation for the guests' participation.
Ismail Asadov, Advisor to the Azerbaijani Embassy in Russia, delivered warm greetings from Ambassador Rahman Mustafayev. He highlighted the significant role of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in reinforcing Azerbaijani-Russian relations through its active projects in humanitarian and cultural domains, which aim to promote Azerbaijani culture. Asadov assured the support from the Azerbaijani Embassy in Russia.
The evening was further enlivened by a musical performance from the Buta Trio ensemble, which created a festive atmosphere while emphasizing the theme of spiritual harmony. The event showcased the spirit of charity, mutual assistance, and unity that reflects the core values of Ramadan.
On March 30, believers across the globe will be marking Uraza Bayram, also known as Eid al-Fitr, the festival celebrating the end of Ramadan. In Bashkortostan, where this celebration falls on a non-working day, the holiday observance will shift to Monday, March 31, due to the weekend. This effectively makes the first working week of April a four-day week. In Ufa, festive services will be conducted in all 23 mosques, wherein the Muslim community will engage in collective prayers amid strengthened security measures from local operational departments.
The schedule for prayers across Ufa’s mosques varies, with notable services organized at the Madina Mosque from 08:00 to 12:00 and Nur-Islam Mosque from 09:00 to 11:00, among others. Following the prayers, the city will host family events from 12:00 to 16:00 at the square in front of the Lifestyle Center "Bashkiria." To facilitate the joyous celebration, certain roads in Ufa will be subject to closures during the celebrations, ensuring pedestrian safety and smooth activities.
Soon after, on March 26, the highly anticipated broadcasting event La Nuit du Ramadan will air on France 2, an edition focused on celebrating cultural diversity and solidarity during Ramadan. The program will feature a musical lineup hosted by Marie Portolano and Zahra Ben Miloud, showcasing performances from talents like the Marseille-based dance troupe Wonsembe.
The broadcast coincides with Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Destiny, thought to be one of the holiest nights in Ramadan. Viewers can expect a rich evening representing unity and inclusivity among diverse cultures, supporting initiatives like Wilson Barber, which provides free haircuts to the less fortunate. In Paris, this event acts as a vibrant showcase of modern cultural collaboration while inviting audiences to celebrate Ramadan in a spirit open to the world.
Various local eateries also gear up to celebrate Ramadan with special culinary offerings. Café Jaipur in Paris is offering a halal buffet throughout Ramadan at an affordable price, appealing to food lovers seeking to break their fast with traditional Indo-Pakistani delicacies. Similarly, the plentiful offerings at Chick'n Lover, another halal spot, features an accessible ftour menu, contributing to the festive mood around the month.
As Ramadan comes to a close, the emphasis remains on unity, gratitude, and joy, with families and friends gathering to share meals enriched with traditional and modern dishes. Uraza Bayram, marking the culmination of fasting, symbolizes mercy, spiritual growth, and the significance of community bonds emphasized in Islamic traditions. This period empowers believers to reconnect with their roots while extending kindness to all, cornerstones in the spirit of Ramadan.
