Learning about a sacred celebration
Ramadan is a time celebrated by many of our One Stop colleagues and Franchisees.
We would like to take the time to wish everyone a very prosperous Ramadan and Happy Eid! Our Franchise Project Manager Sanober Batool Hasnain took the time to write some words about Ramadan, and what it means to her.
Here’s what she said:
Ramadan is a holy month in the Islamic calendar observed by the Muslims worldwide. The beginning and the end of Ramadan are determined by moon sighting, Muslims around the world use the Islamic calendar (also known as the Lunar or Hijri calendar). Ramadan is considered one of the five pillars of Islam and involves fasting, prayers, and acts of charity.
During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. The fast is broken each day with meal known as Iftar. This meal usually consists of dates and water, followed by a larger meal with family and friends. In addition to fasting, Muslims also engage in increased prayers and recitation of the Holy Quran. It is believed that during this month, the gates of heaven are open, making it an excellent time for spiritual reflection and personal growth.
Ramadan also emphasises the importance of giving to those in need. Muslims are encouraged to donate to charity and provide food to the poor and needy during this month. The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a three-day festival known as Eid-ul-Fitr, which includes prayers, feasting and exchanging gifts with family and friends. We deep clean the house and decorate the house with lights and scents.
Overall, Ramadan is a time for Muslims to deepen their faith, practice self-discipline and self-control, and come together in community and solidarity.
Sanober Batool Hasnain and her family celebrating Ramadan.
What Ramadan means to me…
Living overseas without immediate family and friends, I tend to put extra efforts in the month of Ramadan so my family and kids could experience the same spirituality as I did as a child. We tend to pray and open our fast together, we decorate our house with candles, flowers, and lights. I make my kids favourite iftar items because it gets them excited to fast, just how my mom did for us!
I send Iftari platters (samosa, onion bhaji, channa chat, juices, and dates) to the mosque, my neighbours, and friends. We tend to do extra charity in this Holy month to support all communities. The most exciting part for kids is to look forward to the presents they get on Eid day.
We wear our traditional fancy cloths; exchange presents, visit friends and family, and have festive spread of delicacy. I video call my family back in Pakistan and share our happiness.
Wishing everyone a very prosperous Ramadan and happy Eid!
We would like to thank Sanober for sharing her thoughts with us!
