Staff Reporter, Al Hakam
The Tabligh Department of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat UK, along with Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, hosted the highly anticipated annual “The Big Iftar” event on 30 March 2024. Held at the Baitul Futuh Mosque, this event drew participants from various walks of life to partake in the customs of Ramadan and gain insight into broader Islamic teachings and traditions.
The event started at 16:00 with an insightful tour of the mosque. The evening’s programme was meticulously curated, featuring a recitation of the Holy Quran by Ahtasham Ahmad Khawaja Sahib, with the English translation provided by Jalees Khan Sahib.
The attendees were welcomed and the programme for the evening was introduced by Rehan Syed Sahib from the Tabligh Department UK. This was followed by a thought-provoking segment on “The Philosophy of Fasting in Ramadan” by Ibrahim Ikhlaf Sahib, the National Secretary for Tabligh, UK.
Participants also received an introduction to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat through an engaging video presentation. The programme continued with a range of guest speakers, including Jonathan Lord, MP for Woking and Khalil Yousuf, Lib Dem Candidate for Farnham & Bordon. Video messages from Ed Davey MP, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, and Jeremy Hunt MP, Member of Parliament for South West Surrey, were played, offering their perspectives and support. Additionally, a written message from Siobhan McDonagh MP, Member of Parliament for Mitcham and Morden, was also read out.
The keynote address was delivered by Rafiq Ahmad Hayat Sahib, Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya UK. Amir Sahib delved into the true meaning of “Jihad”, elucidating its profound significance far beyond its common misinterpretations, highlighting its role in personal struggle and spiritual betterment. He further expounded on the essence of Ramadan, drawing connections to the spiritual stages of human development as outlined by the Promised Messiahas. Additionally, Amir Sahib addressed the current plight of Palestinians, emphasising our shared responsibility in the pursuit of justice and peace. This was followed by a brief Q&A session and a silent prayer.
As dusk fell, the azan resounded at 18:31, called by Feroz Alam Sahib, Head of the Central Bangla Desk, marking the end of the day’s fast. This was followed by the breaking of the fast and the Maghrib prayer. The event concluded with a dinner shared amongst the participants.
Although registration for the event reached full capacity, indicative of the public’s keen interest in the event, “The National Fasting Challenge” invited non-Muslims through the Tabligh Department’s online platforms to personally experience the rigours and spiritual upliftment of fasting. This challenge is designed to offer a glimpse into the discipline practised by billions of Muslims worldwide.
The Big Iftar is a welcoming event for everyone, whether they are Muslim or not, and is known for its enlightening, live experience, and conversations about the profound physical and spiritual aspects of Ramadan. For further details or queries, the public may contact the event organisers at info@thebigiftar.co.uk.
The event ended with a strong sense of community and togetherness. The Big Iftar is poised to continue its mission of promoting interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange and the propagation of Islamic teachings in future iterations.