Muslims around the world, including here in Winnipeg, marked the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
Eid al-Fitr was celebrated Sunday, with hundreds taking part in an event at the RBC Convention Centre.
“I think it’s a really important festival for every single Muslim,” said Mohammad Sheheryar. “For me, it’s a month for coming together as a community and coming together to pray, to connect you to your religion again. Usually, every single person is busy in their own life, doing their own things, school, work, and everything like that. So, Ramadan gives an opportunity for every Muslim to come and connect to God and revive why they are living and what is the purpose of their life.”
The month of Ramadan, which is one of the five pillars of Islam, sees Muslims fast from dawn to sunset and focus on spiritual growth, including reading the Quran, praying, and giving to charity.
“Ramadan is all about how we feel about the poor people in our community, which includes all the people who are not able to afford food for themselves and even shelter for themselves,” said Zeshwin Muhammad.
The fasting also gives Muslims an opportunity to reflect on their lives and experiences.
“It’s a revival for your body, and it’s a connection for your soul,” Sheheryar said. “By not eating, you’re feeding your soul, you’re striving, you’re starving, and you’re trying to be a better person. So that gives you a lot of opportunity to reflect on your body, on your bad habits, and on your own issues that you might face in the world and come back as a new person at the end of Ramadan.”
