Najia Nusrat, Acting Sadr Lajna Imaillah Ireland
Lajna Imaillah Ireland held its 12th National Meena Bazar on 14 May 2023, at a community hall in Dublin. The event drew a turnout of approximately 200 women and children, including esteemed guests such as the Deputy Mayor of South Dublin, the TD for Dublin Mid-West, a charity representative, and local councillors.
The community hall was adorned with flags, banners, and posters displaying the message of “Love for All, Hatred for None.” Lajna Imaillah prepared and sold a variety of homemade food, which was well-liked by the attendees. Various stalls, including henna, Asian clothing, scarves, and traditional and handmade jewellery, added to the vibrant atmosphere.
The Meena Bazar raised funds for Barretstown Children’s Charity and helped spread awareness about women’s status in Islam. The event raised €1000 for the charity. A tabligh stall was also set up, which introduced the community to the charitable and integration efforts of Lajna Imaillah. Banners with excerpts from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa regarding women’s status in Islam and universal compassion were displayed.
Deputy Mayor, Joanna Tuffy expressed her appreciation for the Meena Bazar, stating that she attends annually to support the charitable work of Lajna Imaillah. She described the event as important and successful.
TD Emer Higgins expressed her delight in attending the event. Together with her colleague, Cllr Shirley O’Hara, she shared her excitement and positive sentiment about being present at the event:
“The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is an important and really active part of our local community here in Dublin Mid-West and each year the ladies of the AMA give their time and effort to raise money for local charities, with Barretstown being the well-deserving beneficiaries this year.”
Councillor Lyn Hagin Meade remarked:
“I always look forward to the annual Meena Bazar in Newcastle. Today, I met women who travelled from Galway and Cork to support the event. It is a wonderful demonstration of community and sisterhood. With beautiful crafts, stunning clothing, artful henna designs and delicious food, there are smiling faces and a warm welcome for every visitor. I have learnt much about the generous charity work carried out by the women of the Meena Bazar and celebrate their continued support of Barretstown. Congratulations to all those involved in organising this special event.”