By Hareem Rehan, VP Welfare
This year, Ramadan felt like it passed in the blink of an eye. From the early mornings of suhoor to the quiet, reflective moments before iftar, each day carried a sense of purpose that is difficult to put into words but deeply felt by those observing it.
For many, Ramadan is often understood simply as a month of fasting, but it is much more than abstaining from food and water between sunrise and sunset. It is a time of self discipline, reflection and intentional growth. Muslims are encouraged not only to control physical needs, but also to work on their character. This includes managing anger, avoiding harmful behaviour, increasing acts of kindness and giving more in charity. It becomes a period where individuals consciously strive to become better versions of themselves.
The structure of the day itself carries meaning. Waking before sunrise for suhoor requires commitment and discipline, while breaking the fast at sunset during iftar becomes a moment of gratitude and togetherness. Back home, iftar is rarely a solitary experience. Families, friends and neighbours gather, often inviting one another to share meals. It is not just about food, but about connection, generosity and community.
Ramadan also brings a heightened awareness of those less fortunate. Experiencing hunger, even temporarily, allows people to reflect on poverty and the realities faced by many around the world. It reinforces the importance of gratitude and encourages a mindset where giving is seen not as a loss, but as something that enriches both the giver and the receiver.
After the month of fasting comes Eid, a three day celebration that feels like both a reward and a continuation of the joy built during Ramadan. Homes are filled with guests, laughter and the sharing of food, especially sweets, which hold a special place in the celebrations. Traditions such as applying henna and exchanging eidi, whether in the form of money or gifts, add to the excitement, particularly for younger members of the community. It’s like an Eid Met Gala where everyone dress up and enjoy their day with their loved ones.
Celebrating Eid away from home, however, brings a different emotional experience. Being in the UK meant that while the sense of community was still present, there was also an underlying feeling of homesickness. Many students travelled back to be with their families, but for those who stayed, smaller gatherings became incredibly meaningful. I had the opportunity to celebrate iftar with friends, as well as with the Islamic Society and the Pakistani Society at university.
On Eid, a mini social organised for students away from home created a space where we could still celebrate together, share food and recreate a sense of belonging.
In many ways, these experiences highlight one of the most powerful aspects of Ramadan and Eid. They are not only about faith, but also about community, resilience and connection. Even when far from home, people find ways to come together, support one another and keep traditions alive.
Ramadan teaches that discipline is possible, that kindness can be intentional and that giving only increases what we have. Eid reminds us to celebrate those lessons, to appreciate the people around us and to carry the spirit of the month forward into everyday life.
Although the month may pass quickly, its impact lingers, shaping perspectives, strengthening faith and leaving behind a sense of renewal that extends far beyond thirty days.