Ramadan 2019 by Londra Gazete

RAMADAN 2019

Londra Gazete

SPONSOR

Sparks Catering continues to provide the best quality since 1975

Page 08

‘Heralding’ cost-effective disposables to meet all needs

Page 12

Ukay Catering’s extraordinary sauces for your Ramadan table

Page 16

Aytac Food helping you towards a sustainable and clean lifestyle

Page 20

England’s leading ceramic company: NG Tiles & Bathroom

Page 26

Mouth-watering appetizer from the brand everyone reaches for Mr.Dips

Page 30

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Ramadan Kareem & Happy Eid! Ramadan is regarded as the best month of the year for Muslims as it was the month in which the Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) on the night of Laylat Al Qadr, one of the last ten nights of Ramadan. The holy month lasts for one complete moon cycle, which is usually 29 or 30 days. The moon sighting determines the duration. Nowadays, astronomical calculations have started taking precedence over the ageold tradition of moon sighting by the naked eye to determine the dates. Ramadan ends after 29 or 30 days. Eid Al Fitr is the annual three-day celebration after the last day of Ramadan and it is considered a public holiday period. The government will announce the exact holiday dates nearer the time. While Muslims don’t expect non-Muslims to fast as well, it remains important to show respect and follow basic etiquette

in daily behavior. Hence, by behaving with compassion and respect towards each other, people can open a real door by being thankful. From this perspective, Londra Gazete is proud for being prime unit for the Turkish speaking community in London and wider section of the United Kingdom. Ramadan is a time for piety, introspection. Fasting teaches patience, helps control impulses and desires, makes one aware of shortcomings, makes one a more disciplined human being. As Londra Gazete, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who contributed and portrayed support to construct this special Ramadan edition. From out main sponsor NG Tile & Bathroom to the businesses which are featured in our Ramadan supplement. We do hope you enjoy this supplement as much as we enjoyed formulating it. Ramadan Kareem and Happy Eid!

CONTENT Ramadan messages from Political Leaders & MPs

the brand everyone reaches for Mr.Dips 30

The holy month; Ramadan

What the holy Quran says about Ramadan

Sparks Catering continues to provide the best quality since 1975

The spiritual effects of Fasting on the soul and body

The miracles of Prophet Muhammad

Ramadan: How to exercise, eat and sleep well while fasting

‘Heralding’ cost-effective disposables to meet all needs

Staying healthy while fasting during Ramadan

What the holy Quran says about Ramadan

Conventional Ramadan in Turkish Cuisine

Ukay Catering’s extraordinary sauces for your Ramadan table

The ‘Queen of Ramadan Desserts’

Aytac Food helping you towards a sustainable and clean lifestyle

Ten Prayers for Ramadan

Interesting facts about Ramadan

Mosques the Turkish-Speaking Community visit

Dates: The holy fruit of Ramadan

North Cyprus a perfect location for a Eid Holiday

England’s leading ceramic company: NG Tiles & Bathroom 26

Mark your calendars: 8th June London’s Eid Festival

Mouth-watering appetizer from

Ending the month with Eid

Cansu Yarışan, Nafiya Horozoğlu Cihan Şenlik Tasarım: EODESIGN by Emre Özcan

Email: news@londragazete.com

Published by: Londra Gazete Ltd.

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RAMADAN MESSAGES FROM POLITICAL LEADERS & MPs

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I would like to month send my of warmest United Ki Ramadan, a wishes huge ngdom an to all tho d around ly significant se obser time for vin the world Ramada Muslims g the holy . n here in time to is a time of sac the cel rif are welco ebrate the stron ice, devotion an g friendsh med to their loc sense of comm d renewed str ength. It ips with al mosqu unity spi neighbo is also a es rit to wh sha ich urs. re in the it The UK Iftar me fosters, as all al, and to sphere of has been enric renew he country society, from po d by Muslims who co is enha litics an nc ntinue to special time tha ed by our div d education to influenc sci ers t there e is much ity and I am ence and busin every The rec ess. alway more tha ent terror t unites s reminded at Our against ist atroc us than this inn divides and abou ocent men, wo ities in Christch us. men and t urch an hatred ins their daily liv es, remind children as the d Colombo, car tea d of y and none ried ou peace. I went to s us all t which ha , in condemnin stand with peop that there are thochurch, mosque g such ve no pla se who horrifyi le all over the ce in an ng and world, of choose y societ sickenin y. This Ra g acts of all faiths ma violence, reflectio dan, let us ref n, devotio lec n and ch t on the unive arity. rsal value So to Mu s it rep resents: Kareem. slims here in the peace, United Kingdom and across the world , Ramada n

Theresa May Prime Minister

May 20

“Our country is enhanced by our diversity and I am always reminded at this special time” I would like to send my warmest wishes to all those observing the holy month of Ramadan, a hugely significant time for Muslims here in the United Kingdom and around the world. Ramadan is a time of sacrifice, devotion and renewed strength. It is also a time to celebrate the strong sense of community spirit which it fosters, as all are welcomed to their local mosques to share in the Iftar meal, and to renew friendships with neighbours. The UK has been enriched by Muslims who continue to influence every sphere of society, from politics and education to science and business. Our country is enhanced by our diversity and I am always reminded at this special time that there is much more that unites us than divides us. The recent terrorist atrocities in Christchurch and Colombo, carried out against innocent men, women and children as they went to church, mosque and about their daily lives, reminds us all that there are those who choose hatred instead of peace. I stand with people all over the world, of all faiths and none, in condemning such horrifying and sickening acts of violence, which have no place in any society. This Ramadan, let us reflect on the universal values it represents: peace, reflection, devotion and charity. So to Muslims here in the United Kingdom and across the world, Ramadan Kareem.

Jeremy Corbyn

Sir Vince Cable

Leader of the Labour Party

Leader of the Liberal Democrats

“Ramadan is a month of reflection and devotion, of coming together and giving.” Assalamu alaikum, as the holy month of Ramadan begins, I would like to wish the entire Muslim community: Ramadan Mubarak. Ramadan is a month of reflection and devotion, of coming together and giving. I have seen the spirit of Ramadan come alive every year in the actions of Muslims across Britain, whether it’s mosques opening their doors to shelter the victims of Grenfell, or joint street iftars where Muslims, and those of other faiths and none, come together to share a meal. These acts of unity embody the values of humanity, compassion and mercy that lie at the heart of your faith. This Ramadan we particularly remember all those who have suffered

the horrors of Islamophobia, including those who so tragically lost their lives in the attacks in Christchurch. In their memory we recommit to the struggle against racism and hatred, in all its forms. And that is why I am proud that the Labour party has adopted the definition of Islamphobia backed by Muslim organisations and communities: we must not and will not tolerate Islamophobia. This month of fasting brings people together, and I sincerely hope that your iftars and gatherings with family, friends and loved ones are filled with love and light. Ramadan Mubarak, and peace be upon you all.

“The richness and diversity of our nation” Today we join the millions of Muslims in the UK and across the world in welcoming the Holy Month of Ramadan. Across the country, British Muslim communities will be taking time aside to engage in acts of charity, prayer and self-reflection. The contributions of British Muslims to Britain are ever-growing; adding to the richness and diversity of our nation. However, we are witnessing a worldwide resurgence of exclusionary, right-wing nationalism that has led to acts of terror against the Muslim com-

munity. We demand better. The attack in Christchurch earlier this year was a reminder that we must do all we can challenge those who seek to erase or limit religious freedoms. As a party we have adopted the APPG on British Muslim’s definition of Islamophobia: we all have a shared duty to challenge hate and intolerance. As families and communities come together at this time, we reflect on the values and meaning of Ramadan. I wish you all a peaceful month ahead. Ramadan Mubarak.

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Catherine West

MP for Wood Green and Hornsey

Sadiq Khan

The Mayor of London As-Salaam-Alaikum. I’d like to wish all Londoners and those around the world preparing for Ramadan a very blessed month. As well as being a time of reflection and joining with family, Ramadan is a wonderful opportunity to bring communities together and show our empathy, charity and hospitality. In recent years I have had the privilege of meeting hundreds of Londoners at community iftars across our capital. These gatherings – of all ages and cultures, of all faiths and none - show how powerful it can be when people from different walks of life come together to break bread and share their experiences. For me that is what Ramadan is all about, showing London at its very best. London’s diversity is what makes us the greatest city in the world. We are proud to celebrate our differences and must all continue to play our role if

we are to succeed in breaking down barriers between groups and improving social integration. If we are to have truly open and inclusive communities, we must see people of different faiths, ethnicities, social backgrounds and generations meeting and mixing with one another and forging relationships as friends and neighbours. With the memory of recent terrorist atrocities in New Zealand and Sri Lanka still fresh in our minds, this year, more than ever, it is vital that Londoners from different backgrounds and religious communities come together. I watched with pride as Londoners stood shoulder-to-shoulder with global Christian and Muslim communities and we must continue to unite in solidarity. Through this we will show those who seek to divide our communities and destroy our way of life, that they will never succeed. Nobody should feel that they have

to hide who they are in London. Nobody should worry that practising their faith will make them a target for abuse. I want to assure you that our city will never be a safe place for those who wish to spread hatred. In London, we have a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime and I am working hand in hand with the Metropolitan Police to protect all Londoners and stamp it out. So this Ramadan, I encourage you to make time to get to know someone new. Whether it is a colleague or a neighbour, whether they are Muslim, Christian or not part of any organised religion, let this Ramadan be a time of increased peace, friendship and understanding. And I invite you all to come and celebrate Eid in the Square with us on Saturday 8 June. From my family to yours, have a blessed Ramadan.

Stella Creasy

MP for Walthamstow On behalf of the residents of Walthamstow, I wish to extend the warmest of greetings to all members of the community and especially those in Walthamstow who are readers of the Londra Gazete. During this special time for Muslims around the world I hope that each of your hearts is filled with peace, harmony, and joy and that the blessings of Allah protect and guide you and your family. I am proud to represent Walthamstow and the diversity of faiths we have in our area; just as Muslims around the world whereever they are share the special bond of Ramadan, so we in Walthamstow share our concern for our fellow citizens. We know that this year has been tough for many of our Muslim brothers and sisters, so we pledge to stand with you and support you as you enter this special month of reflection, prayer and fasting and hold you in our thoughts. To Muslims in Walthamstow, here in Britain, and across the world, Ramadan Kareem! Happy Ramadan!

To all those observing Ramadan in my constituency of Hornsey and Wood Green, in London, the UK and worldwide, I would like to wish you a peaceful and blessed month. Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement and increased worship. It is an opportunity to strengthen one’s sense of belonging: to contemplate with humility the simplicity of our needs and to let that act of contemplation quieten the din of our hectic modern lives. At a time of heightened political, social and communal division, the advent of Ramadan reminds us that there is strength in unity, and that we have within us and within our communities all that we need to be content. In that spirit, there is also an emphasis on charity, as we consider those in need and strive to mitigate the struggles faced by others. Ramadan Mubarak

Kate Osamor

MP for Edmonton

With Ramadan coming up I send my warm good wishes to all Muslim people. Ramadan is an incredible witness to all of us in the UK, demonstrating the benefits of contemplation, empathy and self-sacrifice. It shows us the strength and positivity that faith can play in our lives and in our society. Ramadan is a good opportunity for all of us, whether we are Muslim or not, to remember those less fortunate and those suffering the world over. I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the amazing contribution that Muslims make to British society, from tending to the hungry and mosques opening their doors to the homeless. Muslims help make this the wonderful and vibrant country it is and I am grateful for the contribution of Muslim people in working to make my constituency, Edmonton, a better and better place to live. I hope for everyone observing Ramadan this year it will be an uplifting experience, enjoyed with family and friends. Ramadan Mubarak

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The holy month; Ramadan

amadan is a time for Muslims across the world to pray, spend time with family and friends, do good deeds and explores spiritual reflection. Ramadan is the period during the year in which Muslims do not eat anything while it is daylight and this fasting is regarded as one of the five 'pillars', or duties, of Islam. This year the fasting period lasts from Monday, 6 May 2019 to Tuesday, 4 June 2019. Ramadan is well known as the famous month-long fast of Islam. But Ramadan is actually also the proper name of a specific month in the Islamic calendar. Just as September is the name of the ninth month of the Western calendar, so Ramadan

is the name of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. And yes, the calendar month of Ramadan is the month during which Muslims fast, from sunrise until sunset, every single day throughout the entire month. This is not considered optional, but is regarded as a compulsory religious duty (it is one of the so-called “Five Pillars of Islam,” each of which is incumbent upon all Muslims to abide by). WHAT DO PEOPLE DO DURING RAMADAN? Muslims not only abstain from food and drink but also take time to pray to Allah, contemplate life and also make time to do charitable

Important dates Ramadan starts on:

06 May 2019 Ramadan Ends on:

04 June 2019 Eid al Fitr is on:

05 June 2019

things or good deeds for others. Muslims are required to take part in Ramadan according to their faith, with the exception of the sick, the elderly, pregnant women and travellers, and young Muslims typically begin fasting for the first time at ten to 12-years-old. ISLAMIC CALENDAR The month of September always runs 30 days. However, the month

of Ramadan, like all months in the Islamic calendar, may run either 29 or 30 days. Islam follows a lunar calendar, according to which each successive new month does not technically begin until the first sighting of the crescent moon, just after sunset, on the last day of the previous month; the new month then runs for 29 or 30 days, depending upon when the next crescent moon is sighted (which in turn marks the beginning of the following month in the calendar). This introduces a brief variable of uncertainty which makes it impossible to precisely predict, in advance, just exactly when a given month is going to end or begin; it also means that when months begin and end may vary slightly from location to location (from Muslim country to Muslim country). This method of calculating months also means that the Islamic year ends up being 10 or 11 days shorter than a Western calendar year. In contrast to the Gregorian solar calendar followed by the West, with its 12 months of 365 days per year, Islam’s lunar calendar has 12 months of only 354 or 355 days per year. This means that its months are not locked in fixed synch with the seasons of the year, but instead fall 10 or 11 days earlier each year than they did in the previous year; as this creeping drift gradually accumulates year after year, Islamic calendar months slowly cycle their way back through each season, as the calendar years pile up. Unlike the month of September, then, the month of Ramadan does not always fall at the beginning of autumn. Some years it might, making for a comparatively more pleasant or manageable fasting experience; in other years, however, Ramadan may fall at the peak of summer, with long and hot days making the daily fasting particularly challenging. WHAT’S SO SPECIAL ABOUT THE MONTH OF RAMADAN? Well, it’s regarded by Muslims as the holiest month in the entire Islamic calendar. It was during the

month of Ramadan that Muhammad first began to receive the divine revelations that would then continue for the remaining 23 years of his life, and which would subsequently be compiled by his followers as the holy Quran (or Koran), which Muslims revere as the actual, literal Word of God. Fasting during Ramadan means no eating, no drinking (not even water), and no sexual relations from dawn till dusk. Fasting is not required of children until puberty, and health-based exceptions to the month-long fast are permitted for illness, old age, pregnancy, and similar recognized extenuating circumstances (although in some such cases, missed fast days must be made up later, where possible). In addition to fasting, Ramadan is also a month of increased worship and prayer, reading and recitation of the Quran, religious devotion and spiritual reflection, self-examination and charity to the poor. It is said that the spiritual rewards reaped for such intensive extra efforts during Ramadan are greatly multiplied. The daily fast is broken at sunset with an evening meal known as iftar. Often a community meal, iftar is frequently a chance for social gathering and religious fellowship throughout Ramadan. Each year, the entire month-long fast of Ramadan concludes with the festive annual celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a big fast-breaking feast and one of the Islamic calendar’s major holidays (it actually stretches over three days).

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Sparks Catering continues to provide the best quality since 1975

marvellous burger will emerge through the use of satisfying meat, sauces and bread buds just accordingly to your own taste. Formed in 1975 Sparks Catering Butchers have grown to become one of the major wholesalers specialising in the fast food market in the South East of England. Sparks Catering Butchers, a family run business, has been ongoing for three generations of the Sparks family thus, working in all areas of the business. The Sparks brand has grown to be one of the most famous and respected brands of burgers in the country and is manufactured by its sister company The Burger Manufacturing Company Ltd. Whereby, strategic network of wholesalers is able to service this brand outside of the South East. Since 1975, The Sparks brand has developed to be one of the most popular and respected brands in the nation, which is manufactured by the Burger Manufacturing Company Ltd and Quality Burgers. Sparks Catering possesses a wide range of burgers, meats, and appetizers by which, it productively supplies to restaurants, cafes, food markets, and individuals. Speaks has maintained a wide capacity of customers over the decades. For three generations, Sparks has massively increased their success and achievements also maintained their high ranking posi-

tion on charts, progressing proudly and with great strides in this field. Speaking to Londra Gazete, the manging director of Sparks Catering has underlined that Sparks has always aimed to provide the best quality to its customers and further provided information about the company: “In 1975 we established our company based in London and as Sparks, we always look for the better rather than the cheapest, instead of changing recipes and being cheap we always ensured to provide the best quality for our customers rather than the worse and cheapest. This way we developed our business, a good product is significant and this is our focal point. We always used the best quality of meat choices therefore, this has resulted in successful outcomes for our business and satisfied our customers.” John Spark also stated that in the year 2000, Sparks opened its own manufactory factory and most recently in 2017 Sparks has expanded its success and established its new factory which the building only has cost £3,500,000. Moreover, Sparks Catering specialist sales

manager Mark Cornall has stated that the company’s success has been stable for decades due to its respectful reputation and high-quality products in the market. Cornall asserted that they have sent products to the whole of the United Kingdom and Europe. Also, underlined that they are efficiently constructed to meet the needs of customers from their factories in Enfield. VAST DISTRIBUTION LOCATIONS Mark Cornall asserts that Sparks Catering has a vast distribution range, which is inclusive of the following locations; • North - Leicester • South - Weymouth/Taunton all the way to the East Coast • West - Bristol/Hereford then a flat line from Hereford to Leicester • East - Kent and East Coast up to as far north as Norwich WIDE RANGE OF QUALITY PRODUCTS Sales Manager Cornall, affirms that there are not only burgers or similar products, but there are a great variety of products such as chips, bread, soft drinks, eggs, deserts, fresh or frozen vegetables, fruits, sauces, pizza top-

pings, pies, and beverages. In addition, Cornall clarified that Aberdeen & Steak Burgers, as well as branded red meat burgers, obtain a full score in terms of health and taste. The slogan; ‘The best burger experience you’ve ever tasted’, has never been exaggerated for Sparks because every customer highlights this slogan. Sparks Catering has also announced their happiness for introducing new Halal Monitoring Committee (HMC), through which the HMC beef burgers will only be made using fully certified HMC suppliers. Mark Cornall further stated: “Our comprehensive range of products covers all areas and sizes of business and we continue to look for new and innovative products to compliment our existing range. We offer a personalised delivery service covering the whole of the South East of England but can also facilitate customers wanting to pick up from our depot in Enfield. Whatever the size of your business our comprehensive range of products covers all areas and we will aim to keep you ahead of your competitors with new and innovative products to complement the existing range” If you want to get beyond the limits with Sparks catering here are the contact details: Sparks Catering Ltd, Unit 3 Delta Park, Millmareh Lane, Brimsdown, Enfield, EN3 7QJ Tel: 02084439330

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his companions to join him in the meal. Yet, Muhammad personally served all of them from the small dish until each one ate his fill. In the end, the tray of food remained just as full as it was at the beginning of the meal. This was an amazing blessing and a clear miracle from God, which happened many times during his life. WATER When Muhammad and his companions were once travelling, their water supply ran out. According to one of his companions, the Prophet had a small container of water in which he put his hand and the “water started spouting out between his fingers like springs. So we drank and performed ablution (ritual cleansing) … even if we had been one hundred thousand, that water would have been sufficient for us. Anyhow, we were 1500.” Events similar to this also occurred many times during Muhammad’s life. HEALING THE SICK

The miracles of Prophet Muhammad ◂Muslims believe that God sent many prophets throughout history to

guide humanity. They taught people about the pure creed of belief in the One God, ways to worship Him and how to lead righteous lives keeping in mind our purpose in life. The prophets also informed humanity of future events and things unseen, such as the Day of Resurrection and the life hereafter.

he prophets were all outstanding examples of honesty and righteousness, known for their pure character even before being tasked with prophethood. Therefore, their claims about the unseen could be trusted due to their reputations as being the most trustworthy of men. In addition, God granted them miracles to remove any doubts that they were sent by God. These miracles were clearly impossible for any human being to perform without divine intervention, many of which are mentioned in the Quran, the holy book of Islam. One famous example is the splitting of the Red Sea, which allowed Moses and the Children of Israel to flee from the Pharaoh’s army. SPLITTING THE MOON One of the most dramatic miracles took place in Mecca when the disbelievers once challenged Muhammad to perform a miracle. He was inspired by God to point to the moon, which split into two completely separate halves. It remained that way for some time, before eventually con-

verging back together. The disbelievers couldn’t believe their eyes, calling it ‘magic’. However, this miraculous supernatural event was a crystal-clear sign that Muhammad was indeed a prophet of God. ISRA AND MAIRAJ Isra refers to the night journey Muhammad undertook with the Angel Gabriel, traveling from Mecca to Jerusalem shortly before his migration to Medina. This was a miraculous event because it was humanly impossible to travel this distance in such a short period at the time. From Jerusalem, Muhammad ascended to the heavens in what is called Mairaj where he held communion with God. By the time Muhammad returned to Mecca, it was still night. FOOD Once one of Muhammad’s companions invited him and a few others to a meal that could feed a small group. The prophet accepted the invitation and, to the host’s dismay, called all thousand of

Muhammad miraculously healed others as well. He treated his cousin Ali when he was inflicted with an eye infection. One of his companions said, “The Prophet spat in his eyes and invoked good on him, and be became all right as if he had no ailment.” During a period of severe drought in Arabia, one of Muhammad’s companions beseech him to ask God to send rain. The prophet raised his hands in prayer, and within moments a cloud appeared in the horizon, coming in their direction. One of his companions stated, “When it came in the middle of the sky, it spread and then rained. By God! We could not see the sun for a week.” After seven days of nonstop rain, a companion of Muhammad implored him to ask God to stop the rain, as the constant downpour was overwhelming. The prophet raised his hands in supplication and moments later, the sun gradually began to appear as the clouds parted, moving away from the area. TREE TRUNK CRYING The Prophet used to stand on a tree trunk to deliver the Friday sermons. A companion of his offered to build a proper pulpit for him and the prophet obliged. However, when he used it for the first time, a loud crying sound came from the tree trunk. Many of Muhammad’s companions witnessed this first-hand and heard what sounded like a child crying. The prophet descended from the pulpit and embraced it until its weeping eventually subsided. FORETELLING THE TRUTH In addition to performing physical miracles, Muhammad also foretold many future events. For example, he mentioned a time would come when shepherds will compete in constructing tall buildings. This prophecy is clearly evident for all to observe as it manifests itself in the Arab Gulf today. Until just a century ago, the Arabs in the Gulf region were in fact living a more primitive “shepherd” lifestyle, as compared to the rest of the world.

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Hayırlı Ramazanlar

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‘Heralding’ cost-effective disposables to meet all needs ◂British manufacturer and importer of high quality disposables, Herald is

currently enjoying an increase in sales across its full product range as more customers are taking advantage of its best price offering. Providing an unrivalled breadth of choice, a quick turnaround on goods and a speedy delivery, the family-run company continues to go from strength to strength…

ll items in Herald’s vast catalogue of goods enjoy a keen market however the company’s selection of disposable cutlery is gaining a particularly strong following among wholesalers and retailers, at the moment. All items are reported to be selling well, from the wrapped meal sets to the easy-to-use, folding, plastic cutlery, Clik, and the wooden products. The Clik range, available in black and white and including wrapped folding forks and spoons, is ideal for fruits and salads and is particularly versatile and handy. It’s also fully recyclable and is popular with a large number of customers thanks to the range’s competitive pricing structure. Herald is a company that takes a pragamatic approach to its product offering, choosing to lead with three key selling features - quality, price and choice - while affording equal importance to each. The supplier has a strong and loyal customer base thanks to its reputation for quality, the variety of its range and its efforts to keep all prices down. Such has been the surge in levels of demand across many of the cheaper disposable items, Herald has increased the amount of warehouse space set aside for goods such as plastic cutlery pieces to best manage demand. In a nod to its efforts to supply the broadest selection, the company offers three very different ranges of cutlery in its plastic offering, alongside the CLIK brand. Carizma, Tuzcani and Windzer, provide a wide variety, allowing the customer to shop according to style and budget preference. For the retailer, this means being able to offer its customers a good selection to choose from. Carizma is Herald’s standard, practical range and includes a selection of value, plastic cutlery, including knives, forks, dessert spoons, teaspoons and pizza tripods, in a variety of sizes. The Tuzcani also appeals to those with an eye on the bottom line. This elegant, medium duty assortment includes forks, knives and a mix of spoons, including an ice cream spoon which is offered in a variety of colours. Available in meal packs, the range can be presented as invidually wrapped cutlery if required. Sales of meal packs, containing napkins, salt and pepper, are also

bouyant, which is consistent with food to go providers competing to ensure that their offering is among the very best. Providing cutlery, napkins and condiments in a single pack is both convenient and hygenic, which is, of course, a winner with the customer and end-user. Finally, Herald’s plastic disposable cutlery collection is completed by the deluxe Windzer range, for the more discerning customer who might require a heavy duty alternative. Again, there is a full selection on offer, which includes all significant cutlery items, in black, white, clear and champagne shades. Managing director of Herald, Yogesh Patel is keen to promote the individual brands: “Just because products are cost-effective and disposable doesn’t mean that customers don’t want choice and that’s why we’ve decided to specifically group and brand our goods. Our challenge, moving forward, is to ensure that these names are associated with Herald and that customers

start to recognise them as part of our brand family.” Herald also sells natural birchwood cutlery, stirrers and skewers. Part of the company’s quality Rootier range, these products are on trend as the demand for natural disposables, made of paper and wood continues. Yogesh comments: “Natural products are regarded as more environmentally-friendly, presenting a conscientious, worthy option that sits better with a growing majority. We’ve thoroughly embraced this concept and are extending our overall range to cover a full mix of materials, including eco and completely compostable choices.” Herald’s Rootier selection also includes ice-cream and lolly sticks, ice-cream spoons and chopsticks. It sits alongside the popular Mr Chip birchwood chip fork, which has established its own following in recent years with the brand securing almost 100 per cent of repeat business for Herald. Yogesh adds: “Mr

Chip is a personal favourite of mine as the customers love it and that single product accounts for a large proportion of our wooden catering disposables turnover.” Herald recently introduced a range of paper straws, along with plant-based PLA (corn starch) plastic straws, to its product selection in a bid to respond to demand from the growing number of customers who are requesting a wider choice of green products. The paper straws provide a durable and robust choice and are available in a selection of block colours. Yogesh states: “There’s usually a cost issue attached to more sustainable items but we have worked hard to ease the price bracket, making these straws a most attractive option. We’ve all read the stories, and seen the television coverage, detailing how sealife is suffering due to the mass of plastic products, including straws, at large in our oceans. It’s a major concern for the consumer and we wanted to support our customers by giving them the opportunity to react with an alternative, eco-friendly option.” The paper and PLA straws are an addition to Herald’s pioneering range of beverage auxiliary products, which includes the UK’s first edible straws. Other products available in the company’s extensive disposable range include plastic and paper cups and plates, lemon wipes and other related tableware; bar disposables, including plastic glasses and cocktail accessories; microwaveable containers, food

containers and packaging; bakery products; candles; and disposable aprons, gloves, headwear, along with other janitorial items. The company is also mindful of its customers’ needs when it comes to both printed and plain packaging, choosing to supply standardised plain products alongside its printed items so that smaller concerns can tailor the packaging themselves. A cheaper and most cost-effective alternative, these plain items can be labelled accordingly and as needed. Herald is also happy to take orders of any size, which also helps if customers have storage issues. With over thirty years since its inception, the company is renowned for its vast catalogue of goods that provides an unrivalled breadth of choice for the bar, catering and FM sectors. As well as importing goods from all around the world, Herald manufactures certain products and has recently invested in new machinery, including extra injection moulding machines, and more space in a bid to increase its manufacturing output and to grow its market share. The supplier adheres to a standard, refusing to stock products that fall below a certain grade in order to protect the company’s reputation and its customers’ expectations. Herald is currently reviewing its website as it prepares for a period of strategic growth. For more information, visit www. heraldplastic.com or call 0208 507 7900

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Catering for every need British manufacturer and importer of high quality disposables, Herald is renowned for its vast catalogue of goods, providing an unrivalled breadth of choice.

For over thirty years, Herald has sourced the most cost-effective products without sacrificing quality; refusing to stock products that fall below a certain grade in order to preserve customer confidence. Its extensive disposable product range consists of plastic cups, paper cups, cutlery and other related tableware; bar disposables, including plastic glasses and cocktail accessories; food containers and packaging; novelty straws; bakery products; candles; and disposable aprons, gloves, headwear and other janitorial items.

See how Herald can fit in to your business Tel: 0208 507 7900 sales@heraldplastic.com www.heraldplastic.com

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History of the Quran The history of Quran refers to the oral revelation of the Quran to Islamic prophet Muhammad and its subsequent written compilation into a manuscript. It spans several decades and forms an important part of early Islamic history. According to Muslim belief and Islamic scholarly accounts, the revelation of the Quran began in 610 C.E. when the angel Gabriel (Arabic: ‫ليربج‬, Jibrīl or ‫ليئاربج‬, Jibrāīl) appeared to Muhammad in the cave Hira near Mecca, reciting to him the first verses of Surah Al-Alaq. Throughout his life, Muhammad continued to have revelations until before his death in 632. The Quran as it is known in the present, was first compiled into book format by Zayd ibn Thabit and other scribes under the third caliph Uthman (r. 644–56). For this reason, the Quran as it exists today is also known as the Uthmanic codex.[citation needed] According to Professor Francis Edward Peters (1927), what was done to the Quran in the process seems to have been extremely conservative and the content was formed in a mechanical fashion to avoid redactional bias. According to traditional Islamic beliefs, the Quran was revealed to Muhammad, starting one night during the month of Ramadan in 610 AD, when he, at the age of forty, received the first revelation from the angel Gabriel, who had given him the responsibility for inscribing these messages from God to give to mankind. The Quran uses the term ummi to describe Muhammad. The majority of Muslim scholars interpret this word as a reference to an illiterate individual, though some modern scholars instead interpret it as a reference to those who belong to a community without a scripture.

What the holy Quran says about Ramadan

amadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar is also the month during which Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset. They refrain from eating, smoking, drinking and any refrain from pleasurable activities. Ramadan is the month that aims to purify the soul and bring the individual closer to Allah (SWT). Towards the end, Muslim mark the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, a 3 day celebration that brings Ramadan to a close. There are volumes upon volumes worth of information available on Ramadan. For the sake of simplicity, we will highlight what the Holy Quran says about this blessed month.

Where is the world’s largest Quran?

Below are 5 Ramadan Quotes from The Holy Quran: "O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous" -- Surat Al-Baqarah 2:183 With the above verse, the Holy Quran makes it clear that fasting was ordained compulsory on all Muslims and that they have to fast if they are to stay righteous. "...But to fast is best for you, if you only knew." -- Surat Al-Baqarah 2:184 In those days some might question the benefits of fasting apart from blessings. Science and medicine today have all but confirmed that there are numerous health benefits to fasting for a month in a year.

It is a great way to cleanse the stomach and also has many health benefits for the brain. "The month of Ramadhan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey - then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful." -- Surat Al-Baqarah 2:185 One of the stand out features of the month of Ramadan is that the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) during this time. This book of guidance is an invaluable treasure trove of information on how to live life as a good Muslim to this day. "Allah is with those who restrain themselves." -- Quran 16: 128 Fasting teaches restraint; the ability to control worldly desires and spend time in prayer and meditation. Fasting is a noble act that is much beloved by Allah (SWT). "Allah has made Laylat al-Qadr in this month, which is better than a thousand months, as Allaah says...The Night of Al-Qadr is better than a thousand months. Therein descend the angels and the Rooh [ Jibreel (Gabriel)] by Allaah's Permission with all Decrees, there is peace until the appearance of dawn." -- Al-Qadar 97:1-5

According to Tatarstan’s state councilor Mintimer Shaimiyev The Quran at Kazan’s Qolsharif Mosque in Russia was awarded a Guinness World Records certificate as the world’s largest in 2012 This edition is 150x200 centimeters, has 632 pages and weighs 800 kilograms. It is printed on Scotland paper. The cover is made of malachite and semi-precious stones and is encrusted with phyanite, jade, gold and silver leaf. “We have received a Guinness World Records certificate saying that our Koran is the largest printed version in the world,” Shaimiyev said. In Afghanistan the same year they announced that they held the world largest Quran, The lavish book, with pages measuring 2.28 metres by 1.55 metres completed in 2009, has been certified as the worlds largest by the Afghan ministry of Haj and religious affairs. The Afghan Qur'an weighs 500kg and its 218 pages of cloth and paper, bound inside an embossed leather cover made from the skins of 21 goats, cost over 300,000 to create. Mohammad Sabir Khedri, the master calligrapher behind the project, worked with nine students on a design that combines gold script with millions of tiny colourful dots, forming highly symbolic decorations around the giant pages. In fact he managed to keep it a secret for over two years. It was finished in 2009, but the binding and room to house it were not ready until the start of 2012, when it was finally unveiled.

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With the right accountancy firm your business can reach new heights. RAMADAN KAREEM We provide an informal, practical and personal service that goes beyond the traditional boundaries of accounting, taxation and auditing.

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Ukay Catering’s extraordinary sauces for your Ramadan table ◂With over 50 year experience Ukay Catering is a

leader in the UK sauces sector, providing that extra to make sure your experience always enhanced. With a consideration to health, community and its customers’ needs this is why Ukay Catering is a household name.

kay Catering was established during the 1970s and a result of its modern, advanced and efficient technology the company has managed to formulate an essential brand with distinctive blends alongside wide choices of sauces which, has firmly enlarged over the years. The family-run business is managed by Işık Vedat, alongside its next-generation members of the family Alper Vedat and Işın Vedat guiding the business forward. The well-known brand has become a favourite across hundreds of thousands of people kitchens European countries, especially in Italy, Greece, France, and Belgium, leaving a mark on the palate of millions of people, meeting the needs of large food wholesalers and thousands of businesses in the UK. Priding itself in using mostly

natural ingredients when creating their sauces and sides not only does it offer a flavourful option but a healthier one. The company manufactures 450ml, 650ml and 900ml ketchup, brown and barbeque sauces for the retail sector, offering varieties ranging from 1 to 4 litres for takeaway, restaurants, cafes and other food businesses. Ukay Catering also offers its customers a variety of wholesale purchases ranging from 300ml to 1 ton. QUALITY AND TASTE FOR OVER 50 YEARS Having produced five different flavoured kinds of ketchup for over 50 years without breaking their traditional recipe, Ukay catering brings its products to consumers with special labelling in line with the customer's request. The family-run business is one which

understands its customer tastes and has successfully brought its product to their table since the early 1970s. Thus, food wholesalers are offered the opportunity to create their own brands without sacrificing quality NO COMPETITION Comfortably producing up to 12 tons of sauces on a daily basis, they are able to work extremely efficiently under pressure to ensure that they be ready to provide customers with their in-demand products. Ukay catering has no problem ensuring that no matter how quickly you finish their products during Ramadan, they will away be ready to re-stock your kitchens. The company manager Işık Vedat, stated that they were catching a popular taste in the UK with their ketchup they produced so much so even other companies wondering why they can keep up, explaining an experienced he had a while ago: "One day a person came and said he wanted to meet me; I accepted

the meeting and found out that the person who came was the salesperson of our biggest rival amongst the ketchup market. This person who came without an appointment had been trying to sell ketchup to our customers for a long time. He explained his visit by stating; "I’ve visited your customers as your rival and tried to sell them a variety of sauce products, mainly mayonnaise, but I have not been able to persuade them to sell any ketchup products. Therefore, I came here to visit you to find out the secret of your success". Vedat asserted that there were no competitors in the production and sale of ketchup. NO ADDED SUGAR Vedat also noted that McDonald’s, Heinz’s and other brands products in the UK food industry were too sugary and acidic, “We are very confident of our quality and taste. So much so that in the surveys we made in one of the UK's leading food wholesalers (Cash and Carry) we saw people prefer us to Heinz. For more taste, more sugar added ketchup is no longer desired by people and sugar is not preferred due to harm to the human body. A woman who participated in the survey unwittingly stated that she was giving her children sugar and said she would now consume our sauces.” Their ability to not add sugar yet produce a great tasting sauce gives you the confidence in their product, ensuring you have the best quality without increasing health risks that can result from too much sugar. SAUCES THAT INCREASES SATISFACTION The Ukay Catering manager additionally points out that many business directors tend to assume “If I give the sauce for free, why increases the cost”. Vedat affirms that this is a misconception and adds that “Some of my customers tell me they do not earn money for ketchup so they want the cheapest ketchup, I tell them even the cheapest meat or potatoes will always taste better with quality ketchup. There's no extra charge for onions used in burgers, but no one wants to use cheap

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We are very confident of our quality and taste. So much so that in the surveys we made in one of the UK’s leading food wholesalers (Cash and Carry) we saw people prefer us to Heinz.” onions just because they do not get extra money for onions. We believe that some restaurants which produce delicious meals using the finest quality meat, potatoes, and other products tend to reduce their cost by using cheaper sauces; this is just throwing their labour to waste. Trying to reduce coast and be efficient is great but not where it matters, the cost of ketchup is as low as it can go. Any managers think that using sauce increases their costs, is wrong” STANDING WITH SOCIETY Ukay Catering has over 50 year experience in not only its products but its community. Not just providing goods but a service which is catered the society it works within ensures that they are able to provide support and awareness in terms of health and social responsibility. The company management, which takes care of all kinds of religions, culturals, wellbeing and social contributions, says that they will continue to stand by our community members who live many kilometres away from their homeland. GET YOURS NOW If you are looking for the ultimate quality and richness sauces for your customers experience, your family dinner table or any products, Ukay Catering is there to take taste buds for your business that one step further. You can visit their website at www.ukaycatering.co.uk or call Ukay Catering on 020 8520 5999.

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May All Your Wishes Come True Ramadan Mubarak!

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May this Ramadan bring joy, health and wealth to you.

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Aytac Food helping you towards a sustainable and clean lifestyle

ounded in 2000, from Farm to Family we aim to serve our community by introducing and supplying our products to the UK and the rest of Europe. Our wide range of high quality items backed by our friendly and reliable service ensures that everything we supply is the best of its kind. In order to meet the changing needs of our ever growing list of customers ranging from grocery stores to supermarket chains, Aytac Foods Limited has considerably invested over the last four years and have expanded on our range of services with currently over 2000 products. Our modern fleet of chilled and frozen delivery vehicles provide efficient, reliable, and regular deliveries throughout the UK & Europe. As Aytac Foods Ltd, we launched Aytac Natural to contribute to a sustainable and clean lifestyle by providing you better choices and by accommodating your special dietary requirements. We continuously provide large variety of premium natural choices, so even more people can enjoy the benefits. While promoting healthy, natural and sustainable living, we aim to improve lifestyle and wellbeing of individuals through Aytac Natural

and to fulfil our service and promise of delivering quality healthy products we take a step to another milestone and we are excited to introduce you our new organic and natural range under Goodness Foods offering you the highest quality of natural, organic, and healthier options to our current and prospective customers. Goodness foods is one of the leading brands in the organic industry that has been delivering quality organic and natural products in the UK for over 30 years. With its wide variety of quality products and a service built on trust, brilliance and excellence Goodness foods leaves behind 30 years history delivering you a healthy fulfilling all in goodness service and opens you the door to a healthier future under the new ownership of Aytac Foods Ltd. There is a very high demand in the organic market at the moment with consumers that are much more interested in not only in the taste of the product but also the health attributes. Artificial additives, hydrogenated fats, highly processed foods are all massive obstacles on the strive to a healthy lifestyle and we as Aytac foods aim to tackle this with steps we have taken to expand our organic and natural range. With an online website also going under development we hope to cover throughout whole of UK bringing health and goodness to your door. We believe in one thing

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A service built on trust, brilliance and excellence Goodness foods leaves behind 30 years history”

“YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT” and the door to a much more sustainable, healthy, natural and all in goodness lifestyle is through your diet, with less fatty foods, sugar free products and foods without all the chemicals and artificial coming alongside, we bring you real food and drink to the table and a brand you can depend on with trust. Weather it’s the cup of coffee you look forwards to in the morning, weather you’re a bakery looking to use gluten free organic flour in your freshly made cakes & breads or is it just a quick snack you need on the hurry to work or maybe a refreshing Ice cream In the heat of the summer we have got it all ranging from drinks to confectionery, chilled & frozen goods, ready

meals, dairy free products for lactose intolerance and loads of plant based products for vegans we are your go to address. With a team that’s always ready to deliver and ensure quality in all its services, with a name that’s known for what it does best, pursuing for the better, Aytac Foods Natural is at your service, wishing you all the Goodness in the world. In the meantime please feel free to

visit our cash & carry located in London, Leyton, Argall Avenue E10 7FB, our opening times are Monday to Friday 7am – 6pm & Saturday 8am – 4pm. Our team is on hand to aid you with any of your requirements or enquires. We have Hala, organic, natural and many more for you to choose from products in a variety of sizes, helping you this Ramadan and any time you want healthy and quality products all under one roof.

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Breaking the fast unintentionally attracts no penalty; individuals are encouraged to discontinue their Ramadan fast if it threatens their overall health. EID UL FITR This is a large festival celebrated to mark the end of Ramadan; it begins the moment the new moon is sighted. Muslims celebrate with family and friends, prepare large meals and donate to charity so that poor people can also celebrate. SPECIAL PRACTICES There are a number of special practices which are only done during Ramadanö for instance; fasting the whole month long Although Muslims fast during other times of the year, Ramadan is the only time when fasting, or sawm, is obligatory during the entire month for every able Muslim. Ramadan is intended to increase self-control in all areas, including food, sleeping, sex and the use of time.

Interesting facts about Ramadan

TARAWEEH PRAYERS These are known as the long night prayers, which are not obligatory, but highly recommended. Mosques are filled with worshippers who go to attend these prayers, which usually last for one and a half to two hours. These prayers also give Muslims a chance to meet at the mosque every day, and so they also help to improve relationships in the Muslim community.

◂Ramadan is the most precious month in the Islamic calendar (Hijri) and it is obligatory for the Muslims to fast in the month of Ramadan. Here are some interesting facts that shows the importance of Ramadan in Islam. Here are some facts about Ramadan:

ALL MUSLIMS PARTICAPATE Muslims all over the world regardless of nationality, ethnicity, race or colour participate in fasting for the entire month of Ramadan. They are not permitted to eat or drink as soon as the sun rises until dusk throughout the month. They are also supposed to stay away from impurities and other pleasures. NEW MOON The start of Ramadan can vary in different places, as people still rely on someone seeing the new moon with the naked eye. The starting date also differs annually, as Islam functions that depend on a lunar calendar don’t match up with the solar calendar of the secular world. ONE OF THE FIVE PILLARS OF ISLAM The fast is one of the major religious belief and practices in Islam. It is one of Islam’s five pillars which is made up Salat (prayer), Shahada (an affirmation that there is no deity besides God and his prophet Muhammed), Zakat (charity) and Hajj (taking at least a once in a lifetime pilgrimage to Mecca).

HOLY BOOK WAS REVEALED DURING RAMADAN It is the widely believed that the first verses of the holy book of Islam, which is the Qur’an was revealed by Allah during the month of Ramadan. RAMADAN’S PURPOSE Throughout Ramadan, people fasting are expected to abstain from food, drinks and other pleasures from dawn to dusk. Participants are supposed to focus their mind on prayer, purity, spirituality and charity. Fasting is reminds you of the importance of self-control and the suffering of the poor. Ramadan fasting rules helps to cleanse your body and mind. EXCLUSION FROM THE FAST Some of the people exempted from fasting during Ramadan are pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding and people who are physically and mentally ill. Individuals who are travelling, engaged in hard labour and women on their period can also skip some days and make up for the days missed later.

I'TİKAF

CHILDREN ARE NOT OBLIGATED TO FAST It is not compulsory for children to fast until they reach puberty but some choose to observe it in preparation for their adulthood.

SUHOOR AND IFTAR People fasting only eat before the sun rises and after the sunsets, the meal taken before sunrise is suhoor and the meal taken after sunset is iftar.

I'tikaf refers to going into seclusion during the last ten nights of Ramadan, in order to seek Lailat ul Qadr by praying and reading the Qur'an. Some people live in the mosque during this time for serious reflection and worship. Others spend a few hours at the mosque or home.

Fun Facts about Ramadan!

hile Ramadan is a period of spiritual recharging, were Muslims take time learning more about Islam on a deeper

level, it also means activities during this period have other effect and limitations. Here are six different facts about Ramadan which you may have not known before!

• Of the 7 billion people in the world, 22% (1.6 billion) fast during Ramadan. • Muslims are not allowed to chew gum during Ramadan. • In many Muslim-majority countries, traffic accidents increase during Ramadan due to fasting-related drowsiness and lack of concentration. • Ramadan" is a favourite name for boys among Muslims. • During the month of Ramadan, productivity of workers declines by 35–50% due to both shorter working hours and loss of efficiency. • Twice as long is spent on cooking during Ramadan than during the rest of the year.

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Dates: The holy fruit of Ramadan

s a symbol of abundance, dates are a very popular Ramadan staple native to the Middle East and Prophet Muhammad used to advise eating them while breaking the fast. Dates are a rich source of fiber, potassium and calcium, which help keep the body healthy. Dates, a fruit that grows in tropical and desert climates, have an important place in Middle Eastern and North African cultures, as they mostly grow in these regions. In 2018 Saudi Arabia led the world date production with 220,000 tones of dates produced, 21% of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production. Both dates and date palms are considered a symbol of power, triumph, abundance and faith. Dates are a recurrent feature in art and clothing designs. The walls of Solomon's Temple were said to be decorated with date palm motifs. In the Old Testament's Book of Psalms, a person with good deeds resembles a date palm. Holding a

date palm branch at holy festivals is a command in Judaism. Those who welcomed Jesus Christ in Jerusalem were also holding date palm branches in their hands. Christian pilgrims who bring dates from Jerusalem are frequently called "palmers" in Europe. The Quran mentions dates 23 times. It is a symbol of wealth and abundance and has a special place in Islamic history and cultures. Indeed, Muslims consider date palms and their fruit are sacred. In Arabic, the word for date palm is "nahle" and its fruit is called "tamr." However, in Turkish the word for date is "hurma," because it means "respect" in Arabic. Dates have a very special place in Turkish culture as it is easy to understand their importance from the name. THE SULTAN OF IFTAR Dates are a staple on iftar tables during Ramadan. Prophet Muhammad's humble iftar table always had dates. At iftar time, Prophet

Muhammad used to break his fast with either a few fresh or dried dates or a sip of water. Since fire is believed to be a sign of wrath, he preferred to break the fast with raw food- untouched by fire. If there were no dates on the iftar table, he began with water, salt or olives. Prophet Muhammad said a faithful Muslim resembled a date palm and ate dates with bread as a meal by itself. He used to eat odd numbers of dates and took out their seeds with his index and middle fingers. He advised eating fresh and dried dates together because he believed that the devil feels discomfort when an individual lived long enough to be able to consume both the fresh and dried versions of a fruit.

The substantial fruit can be eaten fresh or dried or it can be pressed for its juice. The branches of date palms are used to cover roofs and the fronds' fiber is used as paper or to fill mattresses. Timber is made from date palms, which can be as tall as 20 meters, and walking sticks can be made from its branches. The fiber is also used to weave rugs and baskets. Date seeds usually serve as animal feed, but it is also possible to make prayer beads from them. Wooden barrels made from date palms makes fermentation easy, hence the prophet forbade storing grape juice in these barrels. Date palms are elegant, and their fronds grow on top like a flamboyant crown. The palms can be either male or female and their fruit grows in bunches. Date palms begin producing fruit after four to five years and lives up to 150 years. Since the date palm roots spread out wide, they can easily use shallow water in deserts. Missionaries took date seeds to the Americas. A CURE-ALL FRUIT Dates might be one of the most beneficial fruits for humans. Ac-

cording to modern medicine, dates have 10 elements which are crucial for humans to stay healthy and fit. The sugar in dates is fructose as opposed glucose, and does not make people fat. Vitamin B6 soothes the nerves and is abundant in dates. Physicians advise the elderly and those with stress to eat three dates in the morning, afternoon and evening. Dates also contain magnesium, which strengthens muscles and is good for pregnant women and to prevent cancer. Contemporarily, there are around 50 types of dates. The cheapest ones are produced in Iran - they are very soft and have a muddy color. Tunisian dates, which are light and bright and have thin skin, are quite valuable. In terms of price and quality, Median dates are between Iranian and Tunisian dates, but they are the most consumed in Turkey. It is because people in Turkey consider dates a sacred staple and Medina was Prophet Muhammad's birthplace. Each year nearly 20,000 tones of dates are imported in to the UK , over 26,000 tones of dates are imported to Turkey and the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading importer with a staggering 350,000 tones of dates imported is Indian.

RESPECTFUL STABLE Prophet Muhammad once said: "Respect date palms, which are your relatives [aunt]. Because the first date tree was created with the same mud from which Adam was created." Perhaps his words are a sign that date palms are superior to any other plant. Dates are as important as camels are for people who live in deserts. Since dates do not spoil and are resistant to bugs, they keep well.

A Leader in Dry fruit and Nut production: Turkey!

hile dates are produced in hotter climates, in a report published by the international fruit and nut organisation, Turkey is a leader in dry fruit and nuts productions. Fertile agricultural country produces and exports high quality dried figs, raisins, apricots and pistachios. Turkish Dried Fruits are exported to hundreds of countries. Statics from the International Nuts and Dry Fruit council (NIC) show that Turkey is at the front

of production and exporting of a large number of these products; Dry apricots, dry figs, dry grapes, hazelnuts and pistachios are a few of them that Turkey tops. In fact Turkey is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest producer and exporter of premium quality and unique taste sultanas, dried figs and dried apricots.

Turkish Dried Fruits exported to more than 150 countries, mainly to the EU countries, the United States and Russian Federation. DRY APRICOTS Exporting 80% of the world dry apricots in the last 5 years on average they producing 13,000 meteoric tonne (MT) and exporting 100,000 MT the product being exported to various different countries including Brazil, Australia, Canada, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Finland, Norway, Singapore, North Korea, Peru and New Zealand.

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May this Ramadan bring joy, health and wealth to you.

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England’s leading ceramic company:

NG Tiles & Bathroom NG Tiles & Bathroom Ltd has become one of the most popular and leading ceramic companies in England. When it comes to bathrooms and kitchens they cover every surface. Expertise in their field quality and confidence in their products is why NG Tiles & Bathrooms is a trailblazer.

uxury products with expertise, NG Tiles & Bathroom Ltd is a name you can trust to give you quality products at a great value. Priding themselves on being specialists offering their customers a personalised service catered to meet their needs with professionalism and products they trust. NG Tiles & Bathroom giving you a wide ranging of products to choose from to fit your specific needs, desired aesthetic, budget and space. This is why not only are they an leader in London they also providing their service across the UK, making them

one of England largest ceramic company. NG Tiles & Bathroom, has products to meets all your requirements, internally and externally they can provide you products to fit any of your personal or commercial spaces. Bathrooms, kitchens, flooring, walls and even outdoors with products to cover any inch of your wish, NG Tiles & Bathroom is able to bring your vision to life. Personalising products to your requests, which special equipment’s enabling them to create your cut to the exact millimetre yet offer factory prices on countless products. Marble, Ceramic, Stone, wall and floor tiles, wood effect, mosaic tiles the list is endless! Meeting your aesthetic with great prices, when transforming you spaces picking the right texture, colour and finish is extremely important, with expertise NG Tiles & Bathroom will help you find the right product if it for your bathroom, kitchen, home, garden or office each different place has individual requirements the NG team can help you find and create your vision.

THE CONSISTENT NAME OF TOP QUALITY Almost everyone has the desire

to own a beautiful house and the best way to ensure this dream is to choose the best company which will formulate the greatest ceramics for your bathrooms. Quality comes to the forefront in everything. And, of course, the latest fashion models and quality ceramics are always on the forefront of ceramics. In this respect, we should pay attention to quality while choosing ceramics and use our choice for quality materials. Ceramics are not the only products you use in your bathroom. In terms of ceramics, your kitchen walls or different areas of your home and workplace are also mentioned. In this respect, NG Tiles & Bathroom’s products can use in almost any area can add a different air to your home and office walls as well as your floor space.

NG TILE & BATHROOM LTD NG Tiles & Bathroom Ltd has years of experience and offers the best products to your feet, with quartz, marble and granite stones with large colour fans for kitchen countertops and islands. NG Tiles & Bathroom operates in a production facility with hundreds of square meters products in size and colour for you to choose by, continues to work efficiently to offer the best

and granite stones known for their quality and stability are produced according to the measurements of your kitchen. NG Tiles & Bathrooms ensure that the worktops and islands are produced in your choice of colour and size which are assembled by a professional team of NG Tiles & Bathroom. Worktop, backsplashes and floors are not the only products you can pick out! Kitchen appliances are also available from built-in dishwashers and sinks made to fit your kitchen countertops are waiting for you again at NG Tiles & Bathroom. ITALIAN & SPANISH MARBLE

products and the best prices with the assistance of its professional team. They’re team is always ready on hand to help you create and bring to life your ideas, with endless materials available creating a highend quality finish no matter how big or small your budget is. FABULOUS KITCHENS NG Tiles & Bathroom Ltd offers rich colours, gigantic quartz, marble and granite stones which add a different flavour to your kitchen stalls and kitchen islands. Quartz, marble

Luxury and elegance come to mind when you say Marble, NG has the best quality marble from Italy and Spain for you to choose from. Internationally known for their beautiful Marbles you can now pick from the best the two countries have to offer. With the popular Carrara marble availed this is the finest Italian marble, quarried from the Italian providence of Massa and Carrara the popular style is the white marble subtle grey hues giving any surfaces that clean finish. NG Tiles & Bathroom offers both Italy’s and Spain’s highest quality marble from the highest quality producers at a great value.

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Giving you a wide ranging of products to choose from to fit your specific needs, desired aesthetic, budget and space”

BATHS AND JACUZZI’S After a long and tiring day, most people would like a good soak in the shower or a chance to relax in the. For this reason for the majority of us, our bathrooms hold great importance. Thus, we would all to meet our needs by keeping up with the technological advances which are practical to use, when doing your bathroom practicality is need but this is also a chance to invest in your home. Helping to make your day that bit more relaxing and lavish, creating a private spa in the comfort of your home. At NG Tiles & Bathroom you find exactly what you need, new bathrooms and latest technology jacuzzi options are available. KUTAHYA CERAMIC FASHION As in everything else, fashion is

also a topic in ceramics. Kütahya ceramic is constantly following trends and innovations for bathroom models. In addition, we can say amongst the models you would like to use in your homes NG Tile & Bathroom offers the best quality with the best options. One of Turkey most well known ceramic brands we offer large sized tiles varieties and is regarded as one of the most reputable ceramic and tile producers in the world. First introduced by NG Tiles & Bathroom Kütahya ceramic has become very popular choice in the UK. NOT JUST INTERNAL TILING NG Tiles & Bathrooms doesn’t just offer product for internal use, you can create you vision externally with their products. With products to make any space look polished, from your front and back gardens to the exterior of office buildings. NG’s product that are up to 2cm thickness making them hardy for the outdoor environment, you can now widen your vision externally creating new spaces and areas to bring outdoor living to the next level. Cement, outside tiles, stone and many more with different options to choose from at NG the team can help you create your desired look, while also making sure you have the right finish fit for the outdoor environment.

MAKE YOUR BUSINESS STAND OUT

measure made easy for you.

Investing in your business also means investing in your surroundings; offices, shops floors, showrooms and even to the bathrooms and kitchens, no matter how big or small the space it’s important to remember your business needs to project the quality you provide. NG Tiles and Bathrooms is here to help you do this with quality products at factory prices, turning your commercial space into something that will leave your customers, potential clients being wowed. NG Tiles & Bathroom is ready to help you achieve a sophisticated and stylish workspaces, investing in their expertise will showcase your quality.

DEFINITION OF STRENGTH IS KALEKIM

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NG Tiles & Bathroom has all kinds of covering products which could be used anywhere also, offers laminating and engineering flooring services too. The company aims to provide the best service to its customers in every way, crowning its wide product range with its professional staff. NG Tiles & Bathroom is one of your biggest solution partners in the UK, bringing elegance and quality to your spaces, especially with large size tiles of 80x80 and 60x120. Reliable and dependable NG Tiles & Bathroom can helping

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RAMADAN MUBARAK

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Mouth-watering appetizer from the brand everyone reaches for Mr.Dips

r. Dips offers a delicious, wonderful appetizers which ensures that you will be craving it more and more after just one bite. The brand has because a household name, having crafted and perfected our favourite dips for years Mr.Dips has been providing quality and great ingredients in their products. Over the years with the introduction of Turkish and Cypriot cuisines with restaurants and TV cooking shows there has been a widespread craze for the Eastern Mediterranean ‘meze’ dishes become a firm favourite across the kitchen in the UK. With expertise, Mr.Dips has mastered its dips which have become so popular in our fridge’s, with different sizes available to fit all occasions, from snacks, to appetizers with dinner or part of a meze, plus no barbeque is complete without them! YEARS OF EXPERIENCES Hasan Erdin the General Director of Mr.Dips, explains how the product range has grown with the leadership of his expert staff. Mr Dirps definitely leads its rank in the food industry. The successful businessman Hasan Erdin has over 15 years of professional experience that has established a great brand which is one of the leading producers of Mediterranean dips and salads. Mr.Dips is a registered trademark with an international quality management system. Manufacturing all of its products in a modern site, operated in accordance with HACCP and ISO9001 guidelines to ensure the highest quality reaches its customers. All ingredients are specially sourced and imported to meet their high-quality standards. Along with his Professional experience in the appetizers sector, Hasan Erdin, a young Turkish Cypriot businessman who has portrayed great accomplishments in this field for many years, provides a wide variety of appetizers to supermarkets, hotels, food wholesalers, catering companies and restaurants in the United Kingdom. Thus, Mr.Dips firmly continues to offer one of the substantial appetizers around the UK. WHAT MAKES A GOOD DIP? The most important thing in appetizer is that an appetizer should not be very hard to eat. It should be light yet tempting. The main function of appetizers is to increase your hunger and prepare you for

the main course. Dips are a great mini-dish to have Mr.Dips has perfected their receipt making the line of dips perfect refreshing dips, light and tasty with different options available to make sure everyone’s favourite is desires. With a wide range of products, Mr.Dips has created different dips and unique blends which you are sure to enjoy. The products are a healthier alternative to traditional snack foods and spread. NOT JUST DIPS! Mr.Dips also specialises in strained yoghurt and has introduced a new product, proudly announces its specialized yoghurt from fresh cow milk, which makes it suitable for vegetarians. The health benefits of yoghurt provide means you can get numerous vitamins and minerals and is relatively low in calories. Yoghurt also is a great ingredient to add to recipes when you want to extend a leftover, it also makes a great healthy option to add to shakes or smoothies. Or if you want to keep it traditional on the side of any plate yoghurt is a perfectly refreshing taste with your food, Mr.Dip’s Yoghurts are the products of great additions to any meal. WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE? The General Director of Mr.Dips Hasan Erdin, continues to add new alternatives to his list of appetizers, the wide range of products are inclusive of the following; Hummus, Taramasalata, Tzatziki, Yogurt, Roasted red pepper & feta cheese, Tahini dip, hummus with roasted red pepper, hummus with olive, hummus with jalapeno, hummus with avocado, hummus with aubergine, mixed olive salad, chickpea salad, mixed bean salad,

couscous salad, falafel and falafel with hummus. With a large range of product, Mr.Dips is brand which will enrich and bring your dinner table, products and customers with its mouth-watering tasty products. Speaking to Londra Gazete, the Mr.Dips General Director Hasan Erdin stated: “We are proud to be one of the first names which come to mind when we talk about meze in the United Kingdom. We work really hard to expand the range of high-quality products to our customers also to ensure our products satisfy the expectations of our customers. Mr.Dips line of refrigerated dips and yoghurts are perfect for a wide variety of uses as a dip, a spread, or as a side dish - whether eaten alone or for entertaining and get-togethers. Our products are a healthier alternative to traditional snack foods and spread. All our products are natural, made with Greek-style yoghurt also consists of low fat. For that reason, we supply a huge variety to all consumers being supermarkets, hotels, wholesalers, and restaurants. With over 15 years’ experience Mr.Dips always our mission is to continually improve our products and services to meet our customer’s needs.” In regards to the terms of nutritional value, resources used in appetizers products and the health

benefits, Hasan Erdin further commented: “According to my experience of 15 years in this sector, we worked non-stop to improve and expand our products range, therefore, as Mr Drips we are extremely thankful for the interest and support portrayed by our customer. As the Dips team, we are doing our job with great excitement and along with the great support we receive, our motivation is constantly multiplied. The products we provide are not only supported by the Turkish speaking community but also well favoured by all ethnic backgrounds in the UK. Therefore, we also have a cultural mission to reflect our traditional taste to other communities. In line with this mission, we

continue to illustrate hard work without compromising on international quality standards.” If you would like to taste these amazing and delicious products and get your Ramadan dinner’s table ready with the health and tasty products available, you can visit Mr.Dips which is located at 1/B Uplands Business Park, Blackhorse Lane, London E17 5QJ. You may also give a call from this number 0203 225 10 07 or email Mr.Dips info@ mrdips.co.uk for further information and any enquiries you have, they offer a wide range of sizes and products which mean not only are they great for household kitchens but caterers, restaurants and many more can enjoy in their products.

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Have a peaceful and happy Ramadan!

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£18 million raised DEC Cyclone Idai Appeal

Muslims donate £100 million during Ramadan ◂The Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) evaluated that each year in Britain

during Ramadan, Muslims donate an estimated £100million to charities. Most people in the United Kingdom are aware that Ramadan is a time for fasting; however fewer people know that it is the month in which Muslims donate more money to charity than at any other time. Why is that?

slam is found on five pillars – belief in Allah as the one true God; praying five times a day; fasting during Ramadan; pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in a lifetime; and compulsory charitable donations, known as Zakat. ZAKAT Zakat stands in need of Muslims to pay 2.5% from their qualifying wealth to ‘the poor and needy.’ To be liable for Zakat, one’s wealth must amount to more than a threshold figure, termed the ‘nisab’. Once this threshold is met, it must be paid immediately and

then every year after. Although many Muslims choose to pay their Zakat during the month of Ramadan, because rewards for good deeds during Ramadan are multiplied. Islamic Relief depends on these donations to support its charitable work. We are currently working in over 40 countries, including the UK, to help the poorest and most vulnerable people. £100 MILLION TO CHARITIES The Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) estimates that each year in Britain during Ramadan, Muslims give an estimated £100million to

charities. Islamic Relief UK alone raised £11million last year. In reference to the online fundraising platform, JustGiving, during Ramadan 2017, donations to Islamic charities rose by a massive 487% in comparison to the previous month. Hence, even though Ramadan is the time when most Muslims donate to charity, it is worth outlining that a recent ICM poll found that Muslims were the most generous donors to charity of all the faith groups in the UK. The poll illustrated that Muslims provide an average of £371 per year, Jewish givers average £270 per person; Protestants £202, Roman Catholics £178 and atheists only £116. THE QUR’AN The Qur’an teaches that Zakat is not just a duty on those who have wealth, however also a right that poor people have over them. The Qur’an also promotes the sanctity of life, stating ‘whosoever saves a life, it is as if he had saved the whole of mankind’ (Qur’an 5:32). That is why Islamic Relief’s Ramadan campaign message – displayed on buses, tube stations and billboards across the UK – declares ‘For the love of Allah, save a life now.’

PEOPLE especially donate during Ramadan but this does not mean they only donate during this holy month. Solidarity is always visible through the year and this unity is a global act. For instance, the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) which is link with Islamic relief and 13 other big name charity’s has appealed to help people affected by Cyclone Idai has raised £18 million since launching on Thursday 21 March. £8 million was raised in the appeal’s first 24 hours, with a further £10 million added to the total in the three days since. The UK Government matched up to pound for pound £4 million worth of donations by the public to the DEC Cyclone Idai Appeal. Cyclone Idai swept through Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe more than a week ago, leaving behind a trail of destruction, and killing more than 700 people. Strong winds and widespread flooding ripped apart roads, bridges, houses, schools and health facilities and submerged vast swathes of agricultural land.

DEC Chief Executive Saleh Saeed said: “As always the British public has been hugely generous, and we are so very grateful for their donations. The full scale of the disaster in Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe has yet to become clear but we do know that this is developing into one of the most pressing humanitarian emergencies in the world at the moment. Whilst conditions remain challenging, aid is getting through and DEC members are working hard to reach those who so desperately need help.” DEC member charities are working closely with national partners to support the rescue and relief effort, delivering clean water, emergency shelter materials and blankets, food such as pulses and maize flour, and urgent health assistance. The appeal has received the backing of a number of high-profile figures on Twitter including Raymond Blanc, Alesha Dixon, JB Gill, Bear Grylls, Shobna Gulati, Myleene Klass, Annie Lennox, Adrian Lester, Simon Pegg, James Purefoy and Emma Watson.

£6,000 paid for one banana at London University charity auction ONE single banana was sold for £6,000 and three cakes for nearly £40,000 at charity auctions organised by Muslim students at London universities. The money was raised as part of Charity Week, a national fundraising initiative largely run by university Islamic Societies across the country, raising money for Islamic Relief UK. Students from multiple university societies pooled their resources together to bid for the banana at University College London (UCL). And fellow university students all agreed to chip in together to make the final amount. Himaayat Choudhury, one of the organisers of the charity auction and a third-year medical student at UCL said: “It was less about who would win the banana bid and more about coming together in unity to raise as much money as possible to help

children in desperate need.” The most expensive cake was sold by UCL for £16,000; St George’s sold their cake for £14,400 and King’s College raised £8,000. Although King’s College and St George’s struck a competitive edge with bidders divided by gender, at UCL the auction followed a different track. The male and female students pooled their resources to bid for the cake together. During Charity Week, Muslim student societies at universities across the UK raised money for Islamic Relief through a range of activities, including bucket collections, bake sales and sumo wrestling. The campaign, which ran between 22 and 28 October 2018, saw students in the UK raise £1.01m, while their counterparts in Canada, Qatar, Germany, the US, Australia and South Africa raised almost £360,000, taking the international total to £1.3m.

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protecting your heart from cardiovascular disease. This can be explained by our eating and exercise habits. In Ramadan, people tend to go for healthier options such as dates, nuts, lentil soup, and home cooked meals. Studies have noted that the overall saturated fat consumption, usually found in butter, lard, fatty meat and fast food, is reduced in Ramadan. In addition, the night prayers of “tawarih” may provide an adequate level of physical activity equivalent to moderate physical activity which, for some, may be more than they usually exercise. MAY HELP OVERCOMING ADDICTIONS

The spiritual effects of Fasting on the soul and body

amadan is a very special time for Muslims, but the feelings and lessons experienced carry on throughout the year. In the Quran, Muslims are commanded to fast so that they may "learn self-restraint" (Quran 2:183). This restraint and devotion is especially felt during Ramadan, but Muslims are expected to strive to make those feelings and attitudes stay carry over during their "normal" lives. That is the true goal and test of Ramadan. The spiritual purpose of fasting is the surrender, the submission to a higher authority, which is the creator. Not eating is central because, as human beings, how many times do we aim our hands toward our mouth? Many. It's the physical body we are feeding all day, but by abstaining from eating we

are paying attention to the pains of hunger and thirst, and that makes you aware of those who don't get to break their fast because they're hungry all the time. It makes us very grateful for what we do have. PROVIDES TRANQUILITY OF HEART AND MIND There is intense spiritual meaning to Ramadan for those who fast. Muslims practice generosity by being charitable, family-bonding by gathering around the iftar table, spirituality by praying, and self-control by practicing good manners. All these habits build a feeling of peace, tranquility and self-satisfaction. IMPROVES YOUR BLOOD FAT LEVELS A study conducted in 1997 in the Annals of Nutrition Metabolism

demonstrated that fasting lowered bad “LDL” cholesterol levels by 8%, triglyceride by 30%, and increased good “HDL” levels by 14.3% thereby

Addictions can come in all shapes and forms and Ramadan provides an excellent opportunity to ditch them. Because Ramadan teaches you self-restraint for most of the day, you will come to realize that forgoing your addiction all together may not be has hard as you think! Smoking is one thing that is highly recommended to give up and Ramadan is a great start in breaking the habit. It’s said to only take 21 day to break an addition and the period of Ramadan creates a great opportunity for those who wish to take the step to overcome their addictions.

PROMOTES FAT BREAKDOWN AND WEIGHT LOSS Calorie consumption is overall decreased in Ramadan. Of course if you’re binge-eating on Arabic sweets that’s not going to happen. However, if you maintain your usual eating habits, you are very likely to eat less amounts of food and lose weight. This is especially true in Ramadan, when your source of Energy during your fast is mainly fat. Trying to stay lightly active during the day can promote even more fat break-down.

RESTRAINT IS NOT JUST FOR FOOD: It is a time for Muslims to practice self-restraint, in keeping with şawm (Arabic: “to refrain”), one of the Pillars of Islam. Although şawm is most commonly understood as the obligation to fast during Ramadan, it is more broadly interpreted as the obligation to refrain between dawn and dusk from food, drink, sexual activity, and all forms of immoral behaviour, including impure or unkind thoughts. Thus, false words or bad deeds or intentions are as destructive of a fast as is eating or drinking. MAKING AMENS Şawm can be invalidated by eating or drinking at the wrong time, but the lost day can be made up with an extra day of fasting. For anyone who becomes ill during the month or for whom travel is required, extra fasting days may be substituted after Ramadan ends. Volunteering, performing righteous works, or feeding the poor can be substituted for fasting if necessary. Able-bodied adults and older children fast during the daylight hours from dawn to dusk. Pregnant or nursing women, children, the old, the weak, travellers on long journeys, and the mentally ill are all exempt from the requirement of fasting.

What does Ramadan means spiritually to Muslim?

he spiritual purpose of fasting is the surrender, the submission to a higher authority, which is the creator. Not eating is central because, as human beings, how many times do we aim our hands toward our mouth? Many. It's the physical body we are feeding all day, but by abstaining from eating Muslims paying attention to the pains of hunger and thirst, and that makes you aware of those who don't get to break their fast because they're hungry all the time. It makes us very grateful for what we do have.

Ramadan is best known around the globe as a holy month of fasting that represents one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It's a time of spirituality, self-reflection, and prayer that's observed throughout the Muslim world. For many, Ramadan is a time to distance themselves from the stresses and vices of daily life and make more time for family and friends, spirituality and closer attention to religious principles. Faithful observers of the fast abstain from consuming any food and water from the call to Morning Prayer at sunrise through to the call to prayer at sunset.

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Ramadan: How to exercise, eat and sleep well while fasting

xercising and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be difficult at the best of times. But imagine doing it while not eating or drinking for most of the day. The Islamic month of Ramadan

begins Sunday, 5 May - with Muslims around the world abstaining from food or drink between dawn and sunset for 30 days. Dr Ranj Singh a well know British Muslim doctor and TV personal makes some important recommen-

What it’s like to train as an athlete during Ramadan

hile many take a step back and relax their sport s regime during Ramadan as they are not eating or drinking anything for the majority of the day. Muslim professional athlete have to adapt they’re whole regime to ensure they can eat well, exercise and perform to a high level all while fasting . That means no Gatorade during a workout. No pregame meal. No protein bars during a run while In order to get the nutrients and energy needed throughout the day, fasting Muslim athletes are advised to eat slow-release carbohydrates like sweet potatoes and corn instead of sugar-heavy carbs that are released faster. While most would assume a decline in performance due to fasting during Ramadan, studies have shown varied results. Due to a lack of hydration, body mass in many athletes declines as a result of less water weight or decreased fat-free mass. Dehydration is also a concern. According to Effects of Ramadan Fasting on Health and Performance of Athletes, “Performance during brief or very short-duration exercises is generally maintained, while single or repetitive short-term maximal or long-duration efforts are reported to be impaired during Ramadan in comparison with before ... However, the point at which the components of performance are affected is not well established.” But those who do fast have adapt and change their diet, exercise plan and mental state to ensure they stay health and safe during this period.

dations on how to exercise, eat and sleep well while fasting. He suggests three key principles: eat and drink the right things during non-fasting hours, do light exercise and make sure you get enough sleep. Dr Ranj says sleep should be

prioritised just as much as your diet during Ramadan. "There is evidence that people who sleep better tend to eat and snack less during the day, so a good night's sleep may help you control your cravings when fasting," he adds. So what type of activity is best if you're not to put too much strain on your body? Dr Ranj recommends brisk walking, gentle jogs and other light aerobic workouts, but stresses the importance of timing your exercises. "Many people will find it easier to work out when they get up in the morning before dawn - that way they have had a chance to build their energy stores overnight. This is probably the best way since your muscles will need energy to be readily available." With a window of around six hours a day when you can eat and drink, mostly overnight, it is important to think about what you consume in the pre-dawn meal and in your evening meal, to make sure you have enough energy throughout the day. Many Muslim families will break their fast together, eating traditional Asian and middle-eastern foods which can often be fried and high in fat. Dr Ranj advises that you avoid the temptation of too many sugary, oily or fried foods. "Firstly, make sure your diet is

varied and has a good balance of all the major food groups - for example carbohydrate, protein and fat - including lots of fruit and vegetables," he underlines. "Secondly, try to eat things that release energy slowly so you will feel less hungry between meals and it will keep you going, such as oats, whole grains and high-fibre foods. Thirdly, pay attention to hydration and make sure you drink plenty. Drinking water is extremely important and you need to make sure you hydrate enough during non-fasting hours to keep yourself well. Levels of hydration will affect how much energy you have and your alertness during the day, which is why it is so important." EVERYTHING IN MODERATION The month of Ramadan throws up many challenges, but 'everything in moderation' is the key concept when looking at what to eat and drink and how much to exercise, advises Dr Ranj. He also sees the month as a chance for Muslims to make positive changes to their lifestyle. "If you are going to fast, then use it as an opportunity to think about what you are eating and to make positive changes to your diet, and lifestyle, for example giving up smoking," he adds.

Healthy eating tips during Ramadan RAMADAN is a 30-day period during which Muslim fast from sunrise to sunset every day. During the day, fasting Muslims only have two meals: the Suhoor (pre-dawn meal before starting the fast) and Iftar (the meal to break the fast). Because of the long break between meals, a fasting person needs good, nutrient-rich food that provides enough energy to manage tasks and activities right through the long day.

REDUCE CARB INTAKE During the fasting month when you spend most of your days without eating or drinking, try to cut down your carbohydrate intake and eat foods that contain more fibre and protein. This will keep you full for longer and it will help your digestion system. AVOID WHITE FOODS White foods are bread, rice and sugar. And some of them are processed with rather unhealthy compositions and have ended up with reduced nutritional value. Instead of eating white foods, you can down wheat bread, brown rice, and honey as a natural sweetener. STAY AWAY FROM JUNK FOOD It is not difficult to get junk food. They are available almost immediately, but they hardly contain any nutrition. It is always better to either order healthy meals or cook your own meals, especially during Ramadan. KEEP HYDRATED Dehydration is the most common thing that happens during Ramadan. Try drinking a lot of water, eating foods that contain a lot of liquid, and avoid

coffee, soda drinks and juices high in sugar as they can lead to dehydration. Foods that are fried, too sweet or too spicy are not recommended for consumption during the fasting month. Drinking alkaline water and coconut water for hydration, protein shake and healthy smoothes This is because they are difficult to digest and can trigger some serious health problems. As an alternative, you can have boiled, steamed or grilled foods.

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Staying healthy while fasting during Ramadan

he holy month of Ramadan falls in the warmer month of the year, which means that fasting hours longer, warmer and this mean that those fasting need to take care to ensure they stay health. Here are some important information to take in consideration when fasting so you can make sure that this Ramadan your fasting is done safety and healthy. When you fast, your energy mainly depends on the sugar glucose that you consume during your Suhour (Sahur) meal. But this meal can only provide energy for a few hours and then your body has to depend on its stored glucose (glycogen) and fats. And after fasting the whole day, it is the food you eat at Iftar that will provide your body cells with calories and nutrients to give you energy and vitality.

absorbable foods which are rich in fibre such as complex carbohydrates (whole-wheat breads, rice, pasta, potatoes and whole wheat grains such as Burghul). These foods give you energy that can last for many hours unlike foods high in sugar which provide energy for only a short time and then lead to a drop in the blood sugar levels, leading to low energy. You can also eat protein-rich foods together with your complex carbohydrates, such as milk and dairy products (yogurt, Labneh, and cheese, preferably white cheese which has a lower fat content) or legumes (fava beans or chickpeas) that will make you feel full for a longer period. Having a balanced diet will not only help to ensure you have energy for the long period of fast each day but also has endless health benefits.

For longer lasting energy, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the food you eat at this predawn meal. It is considered essential, as it prevents hunger, tissue breakdown and offers better endurance ability during the long day. Try to eat slowly digestible and

Health benefits of fasting

WEIGHT LOST: Fasting can be a safe way to lose weight as many studies have shown that intermittent fasting – fasting that is controlled within a set number of hours – allows the body to burn through fat cells more effectively than just regular dieting. Intermittent fasting allows the body to use fat as it’s primary source of energy instead of sugar. Many athletes now use fasting as means to hitting low body fat percentages for competitions.

It’s custom to break your fast with glass of water and a few dates. Dates, juices and soups are good sources of carbohydrates and help bring your low blood glucose to normal levels. Liquids (water, juice, soup) also help maintain the fluid and electrolyte balance in the body and replenish whatever was lost during the day, giving the burst of entry that you need. For more energy and vitality make sure this meal is balanced by including complex carbohydrate sources, protein from meat or legumes, vegetables as well as fruits. YOU MAYBE THEASTY RATHER THAN HUHNGRY A common mistake is to over eat during Suhar or Iftar and not re-hydrate yourself properly. It is also vital that enough water, at least two litres is consumed through the non-fasting hours to maintain balanced hydration. Dr Farhana bin Lootah, an internal medicine specialist from the Imperial College London Diabetes Centre, highlights the importants of drinking water “Water is very important, and should ideally be the main fluid you use to replenish your thirst during Ramadan,” bin Lootah says. “Unfortunately though, some people do not drink enough and have only small amounts at iftar and then forget to drink water until the next day. Water also plays a significant role in weight loss and maintenance because it helps to get rid of toxins and reduce the feeling of hunger.”

WHAT TO EAT FOR MORE ENERGY AND ENDURANCE?

f done right Muslims fasting and preparing their minds and bodies during the holy month of Ramadan can, have many health benefits. Despite potentially feeling some heartburn, irritability, dehydration, and a decline in concentration levels and some mild dehydration which are expected when fasting they can be many health benefit. Research shows that fasting can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, control diabetes and reduce weight.

REPLENISH YOUR ENERGY STORES AT IFTAR

BRAIN FUNCTION: Fasting has shown to improve brain function because it boosts the production of a protein called

brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF.) BDNF activates brain stem cells to convert into new neurons, and triggers numerous other chemicals that promote neural health. This protein also protects your brain cells from changes associated with Alzheim-

er’s and Parkinson’s disease. IMMUNE SYSTEM: Intermittent fasting improves the immune system because it reduces free radical damage, regulates inflammatory conditions in the body and starves off cancer cell formation. In nature, when animals get sick they stop eating and instead focus on resting. This is a primal instinct to reduce stress on their internal system so their body can fight off infection. We humans are the only species who look for food when we are ill, even when we do not need it.

The Right Way to End Your Fast KNOWING how to stop fasting is a crucial part of fasting. Since your body is in the resting phase during the fasting, your stomach shrinks and the intestines also become idle. Begin with frequent and small meals, and gradually progress to larger meals, until you reach the normal eating routine. It is recommended you have small meals because introducing solid foods slowly to the digestive system prevents kidney failure and other disorders related to indigestion. Also, if you need to travel suddenly, it is better not to continue fasting as improper consumption of food may lead to several health issues. Always remember that fasting in a healthy manner increases your energy and develops a feeling of lightness in your body and clarity in your mind. It also helps in relieving constipation and regulating the bowel movements.

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Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wishing you a blessed Ramadan!

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Conventional Ramadan in Turkish Cuisine

amadan, falls on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Following the birth and rebirth of the new moon, Ramazan shifts slowly from winter to summer and back again every decade or so. Ramazan is best known around the globe as a holy month of fasting that represents one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It's a time of spirituality, self-reflection, and prayer that's observed throughout the Muslim world. For many, Ramadan is a time to distance themselves from the stresses and vices of daily life and make more time for family and friends, spirituality and closer attention to religious principles. Faithful observers of the fast abstain from consuming any food and water from the call to morning prayer at sunrise through to the call to prayer at sunset. Only children, pregnant women, the elderly and the sick are not expected to fast, as well as people of other faiths. RAMADAN IS A CULINARY PARADOX From a culinary standpoint, Ramadan is a true paradox. Despite the diligent fasting that's carried out by so many, Ramadan is also a time that's very focused on cooking, eating, entertaining and dining out. During the month of Ramadan, daily life in Turkey focuses as much on the fast itself as it does around

meats like 'pastirma' (pahs-turMAH') and 'sucuk' (soo-JOOK') are some of the most popular items. Many markets set up separate displays to make Ramadan shopping easy. It's truly a wonderful time to stock up your pantry with classic Turkish ingredients and Turkish spices. After carefully choosing the day's ingredients from the local markets and bazaars, the ladies of the house commence with peeling and prepping vegetables, marinating and stewing meats and preparing soups and desserts, all in anticipation of the evening meal. WHAT TO EXPECT "Iftar" is a full, multi-course meal that begins with light fare and soup similar to breakfast. It then continues with several main courses and vegetable selections, desserts, Turkish coffee and fresh fruit. The fast is usually broken first with a sip of water, followed by light fare like black and green olives, a selection of Turkish cheeses, dates, and slivers of warm, flat bread called 'pide' (pea-DEH') that is only baked during the month of Ramadan.

breaking it. The preparation and anticipation for 'iftar' (eef-TAHR"), the first meal after sunset and "sahur" (sah-HOOR'), the final meal before sunrise, become the focal points of the day. All activities revolve around either preparing these meals or attending them on time. PREPARING FOR IFTAR While life and work during daylight hours tend to slow down during Ramadan, the opposite is true for the ladies in the kitchen. Preparing for the evening meal is

SPOTLESS TABLE Setting the "Iftar" table is an art form that would challenge even the most experienced line chefs. No matter how modest the household, the table is always spotless and set with the best wares the household has to offer. The soup is always steaming and ready in its bowls, water glasses are filled and warm bread is made ready just in time for the 'adhan', or 'ezan' (ay-ZAHN'), the evening call to prayer. Hungry, thirsty diners, anxious from a long day of fasting, will wait patiently at the table until the call to prayer comes to an end. Then with a quick acknowledgment of God, all begin their meal in unison. Dining and snacking often continue for several hours afterward, while families and friends socialize and enjoy spending time with one another. Often a short snooze is enjoyed before "sahur," the last meal just before dawn. Attending an 'iftar' meal, even if you're not fasting, is truly a great way to sample Turkish regional cuisine. And it's one of the best ways to experience the warmth of Turkish hospitality and culture at its finest.

an all-day affair that begins with shopping. During Ramadan, most cooks return to their roots and go for traditional Turkish favorites as well as preparing the standard fare that's expected to be part of every "iftar" table. Cooks shop in a frenzy as markets and bazaars begin advertising their specials for Ramadan several weeks before the start of fasting. Tender dates, pistachios, Turkish Delight, 'güllaç' (gool-LAHCH') and cured

Turkish Ramadan pide bread is paradise for your taste buds!

month of Ramadan, where people fast whole day and in the evening after the sun set they break the fast. In Turkey they make this delicious soft bread called Turkish Ramadan pide to go with meat and soup. It is traditionally served for the iftar and sahur meals during the holy month of Ramadan This is simple bread made with flour, yeast, sugar, milk, oil and water. But uniqueness of this recipe is that the characteristic crisscross pattern is made after egg wash using the fingers without any tool. Paradoxically, it’s also known for its special cuisine once the fast is broken each evening. Turkey, like every country, has its own unique set of foods served during this holiday period. There are many Turkish ingredients and classic dishes that are associated with Ramadan. But no

other item signifies the breaking of the fast better than a loaf of pide. Pide is a soft, porous, leavened bread that’s shaped by hand. Bakeries all over Turkey provide this Ramadan staple hot and fresh about an hour before evening prayer. Pide is also extremely popular in England, thus the delicious soft bread is a one and only option for many.

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The ‘Queen of Ramadan Desserts’

his fluffy sweet dessert is so popular among Turks that they often call it the 'Queen of Ramadan desserts' in fact 85% of Turkey’s Güllaç consumption take place during the Ramadan period. Turkish iftar is usually a hearty spread of rich soups, veggies, meat and drink, often going a little overboard. After such a heavy meal, people prefer a dessert that’s light on the stomach yet offers the perfect end to a fulfilling meal. And that’s why güllaç, a light milk-based pastry filled with walnuts and dipped in rose water is their ideal option. Its first known mention is in a 14th-century book, Yinshan Zhenyao a food and health manual written by Hu Sihui a physician to the Mongol court of the Yuan dynasty. The book documents primarily Mongol and Turkic dishes that exhibit a limited amount of Chinese influence. Güllaç was used for making Güllaç Lokması and Güllaç Baklavası, old Turkish desserts made during the Ottoman period in Turkey. The etymology of Güllaç is combination of two words Güllü and aş, meaning "food with roses". Although the dessert itself may contain rose leaves

and rose syrup, the name refers to the shape of layers which look similar to leaves of roses. Just like dates, in Turkey it is special for Ramadan. This simple and easy dessert is made with Güllaç sheets. You may think that they are similar to filo sheets, but are in fact paper-tin corn starch leaves. Güllaç is traditionally garnished with fresh pomegranates seeds and grounded cuts like pistachios, hazelnut for extra flavour and texture. How to make Güllaç You will need to buy readymade

güllaç sheets these can usually be found in Turkish markets and supermarkets.

◂10 güllaç sheets ◂ 1 liter milk ◂ 2 cups sugar ◂ 1/6 cup rose water ◂ 1 cup of ground hazelnut

Bring the milk to a boil and lower heat to simmer. Then add the sugar and stir it. Place a güllaç sheet in a wide pan and pour a ladle of hot milk on it. (Milk must be really hot) Wait until it absorbs the milk and softens, then again place a sheet and pour

milk. Repeat this with three more sheets and then spread the grounded nuts over the layer. Finish off with the remaining sheets and milk. There will be some milk, unabsorbed, don’t worry that’s what we exactly want. Before serving let it cool in the refrigerator and then cut güllaç into square pieces and sprinkle over the rose water. Garnish it with slices of

fruit, pomegranate seed or ground pistachio, anything you like. Alternate fillings can be hazelnut, walnut and coconut, whichever you prefer you could even add rose petals for decoration.

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Prayer Rugs

Ten Prayers for Ramadan ◂Ramadan the ninth month in the Islamic calendar when Muslims fast from dawn

to dusk and engage in the spiritual reflection of God-is one of the most easily identifiable aspects of the religion. Fasting, which is typically the avoidance of food and/or drink, is part of most world religions. But fasting in Ramadan is a special part of the Islamic faith, one of its five pillars, and a time when rewards for fasting and worship are bountiful. With this in mind, here are ten prayers one can recite during Ramadan to become closer to God.

THE PRAYERS FOR FASTING INTENTION With most things in Islam, like going for the spiritual pilgrimage of Hajj or even praying the five daily prayers, fasting starts with making a du’a, or prayer, for intending to fast, which is called the niyyat. This prayer serves as a notice to God that you intend with your heart and soul to fast during Ramadan for His pleasure. It can be done once before the month begins, or it is recommended to be done every morning at suhoor, the pre-dawn meal before fasting begins. FORGIVENESS Ramadan is a time when Muslims are told through the Qur’an and in hadiths that God will absolve them of their sins if they engage in sincere worship and repentance. TARAWEEH PRAYERS There are infinite prayers that Muslims recite during Ramadan ones from the Quran, ones from hadiths, and others that companions of the Prophets and Islamic scholars recited. But a special type of prayer exclusive to the month of Ramadan are taraweeh prayers, which are special prayers said at night after breaking fast with physical move-

ments akin to those Muslims do during their five daily prayers. In taraweeh prayers, a hafiz, or one who has memorized the Quran, recites one chapter of the Qur’an each night while followers stand behind and pray along. Over the course of Ramadan, the Qur’an is recited in its entirety, one chapter at a time. As reading the Quran (and finishing it, is highly recommended during Ramadan, attending taraweeh prayers is a great way to absorb the virtues of the Quran in a congregational setting. PRAYERS FOR ZIKR Zikr, or prayers recited over and

over again in the remembrance of God, is often thought to be part of the Sufi Islamic tradition, when in fact it is an integral part of all Muslims’ lives and especially important during Ramadan. A great way to connect with God while doing all the mundane chores of daily life (driving, waiting in line, preparing the evening meal), is to recite over and over these short phrases: Subhan’allah, an expression used by Muslims to express strong feelings of joy or relief and recalls how everything Muslims have is thanks to Allah. Alhamdulillah, or "Praise be to God!" (It is a Qur'anic exclamation with a similar meaning as hallelu-

During Islamic prayers, worshippers bow, kneel and prostrate on the ground in humility before God. The only requirement in Islam is that prayers be performed in an area that is clean. Prayer rugs are not universally used by Muslims, nor specifically required in Islam. But they have become a traditional way for many Muslims to ensure the cleanliness of their place of prayer, and to create an isolated space to concentrate in prayer. Prayer rugs are usually about one meter, just enough for an adult to fit comfortably on when kneeling or prostrating. Modern, commercially-produced rugs are often constructed from silk or cotton. While some rugs are made in solid colors, they are usually adorned. The designs are often geometric, floral, arabesque, or depict Islamic landmarks such as the Ka'aba in Mecca or Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. They

jah.) Astaghfirullah, which means "I seek forgiveness from God." Allahu Akbar, or "God is the Greatest." PRAYER FOR THE FIRST 10 DAYS RAMADAN Muslims scholars agree that Ramadan is such a holy month that any sort of prayer, whether it is a personal one from your heart or one from the Qur’an or other Islamic sacred texts, will surely be received by Allah and the rewards for those prayers will be numerous. But the Prophet Muhammad did recommend Muslims to recite certain du’as at particular times during Ramadan. For example, during the first 10 days of the months, reciting the following prayer provides extra benefits: “Rabbigh fir war hum wa anta khair ur rahimeen.” PRAYER FOR THE SECOND 10 DAYS OF RAMADAN This prayer, which is from the Quran, was recommended by the Prophet Muhammad to be recited as much as possible during the second 10 days of Ramadan for maximum rewards and forgiveness of sins.

are usually designed so that the rug has a definite "top" and "bottom" the bottom is where the worshipper stands, and the top points towards the direction of prayer. When the time for prayer comes, the worshipper lays the rug on the ground, so that the top points towards the direction of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. After prayer, the rug is immediately folded or rolled and put away for the next use. This ensures that the rug remains clean. The Arabic word for a prayer rug is "sajada," which comes from the same root word (SJD) as "masjed" (mosque) and "sujud" (prostration).

PRAYER FOR THE THIRD 10 DAYS OF RAMADAN This particular prayer was recommended by the Prophet Muhammad to be recited during the last 10 days Ramadan as much as possible. It beseeches God to forgive us, because God is indeed the best at forgiving humans for their mistakes. NIGHT OF POWER As beneficial all prayers are during Ramadan, any prayers recited on Laylat Al Qadr, or “The Night of Power,” receive the most reward. Laylat Al Qadr is one of the holiest nights of Ramadan. It falls on the night of one of the odd days during the last 10 days of Ramadan and is widely believed to fall on the 27th fast of the month. The night is commemorated as when the Prophet Muhammad received the first revelation of the Quran. PERSONAL PRAYERS IN RAMADAN The key to praying during Ramadan (or at any other time, for that matter), is praying sincerely with all your heart and soul.

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Have a peaceful and happy Ramadan!

HAWKES

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Mosques the Turkish-Speaking Community visit Across the UK mosques open their doors to Muslims of many fifferenet cultures and different backgrounds. Here are a number of Mosques that the large Turkish-Speaking Community in London and across the UK visit.

Turkish Religious Foundation Mosque Address: 31 High Street Hornsey, London N8 7BQ

Shacklewell Lane Mosque / Ramadan Mosque Address: 15 Shacklewell Ln, London E8 2DA

Mevlana Rumi Mosque Address: 337 Fore St, London N9 0NU

New Peckham Mosque Address: 99 Cobourg Rd, Camberwell, London SE5 0HU

Sheikh Nazim Sufi Center Address: 277 St Annâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road; N15 5RG London

West London Turkish Association Address: 670 Hanworth Rd. Hounslow TW45NP

Aziziye Mosque Address: 117 Stoke Newington Rd, London N16 8BU

Luton Turkish Education and Culture Center Address: 58 Dumfries Street, LU1 5BS Luton

Valide Sultan Mosque Address: 1A Clissold Rd, Stoke Newington, London N16 9EX

Bristol Turkish Islamic Center Mosque Address: 272 / A Gloucester Rd. Horfield, Bristol BS7 8PD

Wood Green Fatih Mosque Address: 10 Caxton Rd, Wood Green, London N22 6TB

Taunton Architect Sinan Mosque Address: 2 Yarde Place, Taunton, Somerset TA11UR

Suleymaniye Mosque Address: 212-216 Kingsland Rd, London E2 8AX

Newcastle Kotku Mosque Address: 35 Grainger Park Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE4 8SA

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North Cyprus a perfect location for a Eid Holiday

orth Cyprus is a secular Muslim country. This means that Islam is not enforced with the country welcomes residents and visitors of all religions or none yet there is a strong, peaceful and very spiritual Muslim presence making North Cyprus ideal as a Europeanised Muslim holiday destination for families seeking halal and Eid holidays. Oriental flavour of North Cyprus can be found in every corner with its beautiful and ornate tiled mosques, the distant call to prayer, Turkish crafts and culture. Muslim families from the Middle East and all over the world enjoy visiting North Cyprus since they can enjoy an Europeanised Islamic culture with access to Islamic culture as well as the fact that the restaurants serve Halal Food.

(Eid Al Adha – One of Eid Holidays). Northern Cypriots celebrate these festivals with the Turkish word of “Bayram” the first is known as Seker or Ramadan Bayram (or Sugar Holiday as Turkish sweets are served during celebrations) and the second as Kurban Bayram. During this period of time, businesses are usually closed and there is a lovely festival atmosphere. HOSPITALITY You are certain of a very warm welcome in North Cyprus, not just the weather but the Turkish Cypriots are famous for their welcoming personality. In Islamic culture, hosting a guest is seen as very important and many people find themselves returning year after

year to re-experience the genuine hospitality of Turkish Cypriots, the stunning mountain and Mediterranean scenery and the lovely Turkish Cypriot food. HALA SULTAN TEKKE If you are interested in Islamic history, you will find some fascinating Islamic history in Cyprus. Although most people assume that Islam arrived in North Cyprus with the Ottomans in the 16th Century, in fact, Islam first came to Cyprus just after a few years Islam was founded. The aunt of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Nursemaid, Hala Sultan, came with a missionary expedition in the year 647 – 649 and died when she fell off her horse near to modern day Larnaca. She

was buried on the island but when Islam left Cyprus for many years, her grave fell into anonymity. Many centuries later, a Sufi Sheikh or Dervish was shown in a dream that she was buried there and her grave was rediscovered. Today Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque is in fact, the 3rd holiest pilgrimage site in Islam. Hazreti Omer Tekke Mosque Another ancient Islamic Tombs in the Hazreti Omer Tekke Mosque

RAMADAN IN NORTH CYPRUS

DELICIOUS FOOD

A former British colony North Cyprus, visitors can enjoy all the normal facilities of a European holiday destination (bars, beaches, restaurants, etc.) yet a more reserved Muslim family can easily find a location or hotel to stay in which is more private as well as restaurants to enjoy their halal food and beautiful mosques to pray in for the daily prayers. In that sense, North Cyprus is truly where “East meets West” and a perfect and cosmopolitan holiday destination with English widely spoken. Many Middle Eastern Muslim families customarily travel abroad for the two “Eid” holidays every year – one at the end of the fasting month of Ramadan (Eid Al Fitr – One of Eid Holidays) and one two months later

The Halal diet is, of course, important in North Cyprus, even if you are not Muslim you will not notice much difference (apart from the lack of pork in restaurants – although there are British shops which sell this). The food is delicious for all and similar to the Turkish diet with the addition of lovely Cypriot specialities (especially the slow clay-oven cooked lamb dishes). All meat and other foodstuffs sold and served in North Cyprus supermarkets and restaurants, however, is halal unless otherwise indicated – and lamb and chicken are the most commonly served meats. This means that you can relax and enjoy your holiday with a fabulous choice of halal restaurants if eating halal is important to you.

Favourite Turkish Cypriot Deserts

ere are a few favourite deserts you will be sure to find around the dinner table of many Turkish Cypriots during Ramadan and Eid. Some maybe a light refreshing bite along with Turkish coffee or tea to enjoy after dinner, while others perhaps a richer treat to indul-genced in. LOKMA This is bite-size pastries, these small crispy balls are usually served hot and when you take a bite, your mouth will be filled with the individual flavours of all the ingredients. Interesting-ly, it has a mild sour taste due to the addition of lemon juice. In other

just near to Catalkoy, Kyrenia. Less ornate, and less well known, this beautiful and still functioning mosque houses the tombs of seven Muslim saints. It dates from the Muslim expeditions of the 7th century and was revered as a holy place even by the Orthodox Christians when they were living in that area. Whatever your religion, to go down to this lovely seafront mosque at dusk, to hear the call to prayer and either pray or just sit and take in the atmosphere whilst others pray, is a truly unforgettable experience.

words – fried, sweet dough, coated in simple sugar syrup, and served as a dessert. This Turkish-Cypriot dessert is popular as an accompaniment to coffee. Alternately, you

can add other toppings including honey, cinnamon, chocolate sauce, sesame, or grated walnuts to enhance the taste. These bits are usually found at Eid

festivals, adding that extra sweetness to the big celebra-tions. LOKUM In the 18th century, the travellers took lokum to Europe and introduced it as 'Turkish Delight'. Lokum also gained popularity, at first it was

mixed with honey, fruit syrup and flour. Now with the invention of starch and refined sugar, there are now hundreds of flavours to choose from. Making these small bites the perfect gift to take when visiting at family and friends during Ramadan and Eid.

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Mark your calendars: 8th June London’s Eid Festival EACH YEAR MILLIONS OF MUSLIMS AROUND THE WORLD AND THE UK CELEBRATE EID

The celebration revolves around when Allah appeared to Ibrahim in a dream and asked him to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, as a sign of his faith.

he festival is known in full as Eid al-Fitr and it is just around the corner in June. Here is everything you need to know… WHEN IS THE EID FESTIVIAL?

LONDON’S EID FESTIVIAL

This year, London’s Eid festival is on Sunday 8 June 2019 and marks the end of a Ramadan with a big celebration. The dates can be adjusted slightly nearer the time due to lunar sightings and change each year. This is because the Islamic calendar – known as the Umm al-Qura calendar – is based on the moon’s cycle, whereas the Gregorian one is determined by the sun. WHAT IS EID? Eid or Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, which is a month of fasting. Eid kick-starts the month of Shawwal, which begins with a feast to end the period of fasting. The celebration is a public holiday in many Muslim countries, but is not one in the UK, despite a campaign for it to be recognised back in 2014.

During Eid, Muslims will often purchase new clothes for the occasion, and take part in festivals and celebrations. Many will wake up early to pray at a mosque or outdoor prayer venue.

Gifts and cards are often exchanged among friends and family. IS THERE ANOTHER EID? Yes, as well as Eid al-Fitr, Muslims

celebrate Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Adha is expected to take place on September 1 this year which falls in the middle of the 12th and final month in the Islamic calendar.

London Mayor’s Office officially invites everyone to the festival, with a press statement welcoming everyone to take part: “Come and join us on Saturday 8 June for the Eid Festival 2019 at Trafalgar Square! Thousands of Londoners and visitors join us every year for this event hosted by the Mayor of London, celebrating the end of Ramadan with an exciting stage line up, family fun and the compelling smells of delicious food!” The free event is from 12 noon until 6pm. With music, performance, dancing, food and endless entering the festival not only celebrates the Eid but also the diversity of London’s cultures with many non-Muslim also join the fun and learning more about the religion signalling unity and harmony.

Wishing you all the blessings of the holy month.

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Ending the month with Eid

id is a sense of happiness. It is one of the most predominant and largest Muslim festivals of all over the world. Withal, it is extremely wide known festival throughout the world. Eid-ul Fitr acknowledged as an Islamic religious festival, however, the spirit of the festival is so immense that many non-Muslims participate in Eid celebration. They also stream to make their Eid shopping or purchasing new clothingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. In relation, we can comment that the festival of Eid-ul Fitr has become a global festival. Muslim Community celebrates two great festivals annually identified as Eidul Fitr and other is Eid-ul Azha. Eid ul Fitr is an Arabic word precisely, `Eid' Means happiness, or festivity that emerges from the Arabic word `Aud' and Fitr means breaking of fast, termination of fast. Consequently, Eid-ul-Fitr conveys the festival of Fast-Breaking which return after a year. Though, Eid-ul- Fitr is commemorated on the first day of Shawaal, the tenth month in the Muslim calendar, to impress the end of a month-long fast during the month of Ramadan. It is celebrated with immense passion and with great eagerness around the world. It is additionally a day of forgiveness, peace, and thanksgiving.

Eid falls on a day which values great merry-making. It is also a day of love, affection, harmony, and brotherhood. As it happens, the festival proceeds for three days, but most of the celebration transpires on the first day. Eid is perceived colourfully in an advantageous mean and with a great zeal and zest. The common tradition of Eid is the gathering of families at the patriarchal home after the Eid prayers. Before the special Eid meal is served, young children line up in front of each adult family member who present money to the children. Eid-ul-Fitr is enthusiastically celebrated by all Muslims of the world. ORIGINATION OF EID By reference to the Islamic tradition and historians, it was in the year 610 A.D. Prophet Muhammad (sm) was meditating in the Mount Hera when He was 40 years old. One night during the month of Ramadan the prophetic vision the angel of Jibrail (ah), the messenger of Allah while he was meditating in the mount of Hera and said to read but Muhammad (sm) replied that he could not to read. The Jibrail (am) teaches him five verses from the Holy Quran that is also known as the first verse of the Holy Quran. These verses are"Recite in the name of Your Allah

who creates you, creates men from a clot. Recite and your lord is the most beautiful who teaches the man. He teaches the man what he doesn't know." from then Jibrail (am) visited with Muhammad (sm) many times following his 23 years and thought him the holy knowledge inverses. This sacred knowledge consists of the code of conduct that Allah wants his people to maintain on earth. As a mark of respect to Allah and show gratitude to him for the true knowledge that he gave to the people. The prophet asked him to pass the month of Ramadan in fasting, prayers and other austerities and end of the month-long restraint with a festive celebration. This practice laid the foundation of Eid- ul Fitr. And the first Eid-ul Fitr was celebrated in 624 A.D by the prophet Hz. Muhammad (sm) with his friends and relatives after the victory of battle Jang-e Badr. IMPORTANCE OF EID The importance of Eid-ul-Fitr is completely spiritual. It is the day which the Muslim population portrays appreciation to Allah for having given them the will, the strength and the endurance to observe fast and obey His commandment during the holy month of Ramadan. Eid reveals delight and

happiness and it greatly enjoyable with the nearest and dearest ones .On this day, special prayers are held the world over, between sunrise and noon, when the Muslims assemble, in large congregations, wearing their best dresses standing shoulder to shoulder, demonstrating for everyone the universal brotherhood which is another distinguishing

feature of Islam. On this specific day all the Muslim population, regardless of class, economic and social status, perform the Eid Salat under open the sky and they forget their own class, status, power and they embrace each other. This manner illustrates us about the equality of Islam. Eid is a sorrow, and this is additionally a definition of the same word. It is cited in Hadith - "Eid is not a matter of festival for those who didn't fast during the month of holy Ramadan. Wore new clothes, used fragrant items; rather Eid bears a cautionary message of punishment for these people, these people should be repent for their misdeeds and also make a pledge in this manner that they will not indulge in evil activities anymore" from this declaration the immense importance here laid. The essential happiness of Eid-ulFitr only for those people who practice the fasts generally, Eid is for them who went hard practice; who materialized all the principals of the holy Ramadan make the best of this precious chance and form a special progress spiritually, due to this they hold a reason to be happy; thus, the word 'Eid commonly conveys a happiness that is recommended every year since Muslims cooperatively are anticipated to perceive the fast. This day, in the Muslim world, emerges rejoicing and harmony. The happiness is not, yet, at the departure of the month of Ramadan; it is the joy which Muslims feels subsequent to successfully accomplishing a meaningful task. Eid al-Fitr is a day of great spirits and thanksgiving. Muslims commemorate by getting together with friends and family, preparing sweet delicacies, wearing new clothes, providing each other gifts and putting up lights and other decorations in their homes. A common greeting during this holiday is Eid Mubarak, which means, "Have a blessed Eid!"

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Wishing you a blessed and happy Ramadan!

Wishing you a Happy Ramadan!