NEW DELHI: As the sun sets during the holy month of Ramadan, a scene of unity and compassion unfolds at Jama Masjid in Old Delhi. Here, 27-year-old Neha Bharti, a Hindu woman, has become a beacon of inclusivity over the past three years by preparing and distributing iftar meals to individuals from various faiths. Arriving in a pink outfit with a yellow dupatta draped over her head, Bharti exudes warmth and joy as she engages the crowd amid the call to prayer.
Each day, the aroma of freshly prepared snacks, including aloo ki chaat and mohabbat ka sherbet, fills the air as Bharti, along with her friend Ramsha Noor and her sister-in-law, Ranita, prepares meals that cater to 250 to 300 people. Their consistent efforts reflect a commitment to community service and inclusivity. "If you visit my house during the day, you'll find my mother cooking one dish, my father preparing another, and my brothers all pitching in as well," Bharti shares, emphasizing her family's involvement in her charitable pursuits.
Bharti’s initiative began humbly on just four Fridays during her first year. Initially met with mixed reactions, she recalls some individuals appearing shocked by her efforts while others welcomed her with open arms. "Overall, it was a great experience, and since then, I've made it a point to come here every day during Ramzan," she adds with enthusiasm.
Her upbringing in Old Delhi, within a household that encourages social welfare, informed her decision to help those in need. During the farmers' protests, she and her family prepared 300 bread pakoras to support the demonstrators, a poignant experience that propelled her to continue her charitable initiatives, especially during Ramadan.
Academically inclined, Bharti holds a master's degree from the Faculty of Arts and is currently preparing for her PhD. She also founded her NGO, Raah, focused on providing educational resources to underprivileged children. "There were kids who wanted to study but lacked the resources," she recalls—motivating her to create a platform for positive change.
Another element of the community spirit during Ramadan can be seen at the zero-waste community iftar organized by Qatar Foundation at Education City. Held for the third consecutive year at Minaretein, the Education City Mosque, this initiative aims to promote sustainable practices alongside traditional Ramadan values. Participants are encouraged to join this volunteer-supported event, which minimizes waste through smaller portion sizes, eco-friendly food packaging, reusable utensils, and composting any leftover food. "The Iftar minimizes waste through smaller portion sizes and reusable table covers," a representative from Qatar Foundation explained.
This initiative not only provides nourishment but also embraces the Islamic values of responsibility and stewardship of the planet. It allows worshipers to embrace the spirit of Ramadan while being conscious of their environmental impact. The event encourages attendees to reflect on moderation and the collective responsibility toward their community.
In Qatar, similar values are evident in the Iftar meals provided by the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) at Al Khor. Each evening, approximately 1,200 individuals partake in these meals, with the initiative aimed at fostering social solidarity through the Iftar Saem project. Over the course of Ramadan, it is estimated that 36,000 people will benefit from the meals provided, resonating with the Islamic ethos of helping those in need.
Awqaf is committed to quality and comfort, ensuring that meals are distributed in air-conditioned settings, enhancing the experience for those fasting. During these Iftar events, educational programs also play a crucial role. Preachers from the Sheikh Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Centre (Fanar) deliver lectures in Urdu, educating attendees on the complexities of fasting and the values of Ramadan.
Awqaf’s mission goes beyond mere sustenance, instilling the core principles of Islam through communal engagement and charity. A representative from Awqaf stated, "Our project reflects the Islamic values of helping those in need," highlighting the organization's role in reinforcing community bonds during the holy month.
As different initiatives unfold across regions, the overarching theme is clear: Ramadan serves as a poignant reminder of unity, compassion, and social responsibility. As Bharti continues distributing meals at Jama Masjid with her warm smile, she exemplifies the profound impact of individuals committed to creating a more inclusive society. Similarly, Qatar’s efforts through sustainable iftars and Awqaf’s outreach embody the spirit of giving and the importance of fostering a cohesive community, rich in cooperation and compassion. Ramadan is not just a month of fasting but also a celebration of humanity, helping build bridges across various divides.
