‘It’s a time for mass spirituality and peace’: Muslim Students Association hosts mass Iftaar

Banathi Nkehli

On 6 April, the Muslim Students Association (MSA) hosted a mass Iftaar on Hatfield Campus in the evening. The mass Iftaar was open to all students to participate in the breaking of the fast during Ramadan. PDBY engaged with MSA’s head of social events, Naseeha Jooma, on the event.

During Ramadan, Muslims from across the world fast from sunrise to sunset and engage in religious tasks, with the goal of deepening their spirituality and becoming closer with God.

“Iftaar” refers to the breaking of the fast during Ramadan. The event began at 17:30 when students performed Maghrib Salaah, a prayer, after which students broke their fast and ate traditional Muslim cuisine such as Akni – a traditional rice dish – and other savoury meals.

Why is

a mass Iftaar so special?

In answering this question, Jooma stated, “One of the main points of Ramadan is building unity and love among not only Muslims, but mankind as a whole, which is why MSA Tuks carrie[s] on the tradition of hosting the mass Iftaar.” Elaborating further on the inclusive nature of the event, Jooma stated, “Students of other faiths were able to see how the Muslim students perform this prayer and the whole concept of it. It was a very wholesome and peaceful moment for all of us.” This was a sentiment echoed by the rest of MSA’s social committee. Jooma further remarked, “The event was a huge success, and we hope for this tradition of the MSA Tuks mass Iftaar to always continue.”

A message to UP students

As the event came to a close, Jooma left UP students with the following message: “We welcome all to participate in our events so that we can create a better understanding about our religion and provide both Muslim and non-Muslim students a safe space.”