Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa hosted an Iftar function in his official residence in Colombo, yesterday (19). 

According to Mahinda Rajapaksa’s Office, the event was attended by several prominent Islamic religious leaders and Muslim devotees who praised the Former President for his efforts to strengthen national reconciliation.

The event also saw the participation of several ministers including M.U.M Ali Sabry, Tiran Alles, Vidura Wickramanayake, Nazeer Ahmed, and MP’s Rauf Hakeem, A.H.M Fouzie, Marijan Faleel, S.M.M Musharraf, as well as high commissioners and a large number of Islam devotees.

The Iftar function began with prayers being offered for national reconciliation in the country.

Speaking at the event, the Former President said, “I am honoured to have you all here today to celebrate this special occasion. This is a time for us to come together as one community, to share our blessings and to pray for the peace and prosperity of our country.”

“It is my firm belief that all Sri Lankans, regardless of their religion or ethnicity, must be treated with respect and dignity. We must work towards building a society that is inclusive, where all citizens have equal opportunities to thrive and succeed,” he added.

Mahinda Rajapaksa’s Office further stated that the Iftar function was a testament to the Former President’s commitment to promoting unity and harmony among Sri Lankans of all communities. (NewsWire)

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Once held but differed due to the pandemic, “Break-Fast at Sunset” will be held again on the 2nd of April 2023 at 5.30 p.m. at Independence Square to which an open invitation is being extended by the Sri Lankan Muslim Community to anyone free to join in the customs and traditions of Ramadan.

“This is an open invitation to our brothers and sisters in and around Colombo. In fact, we would love to have more participation from other communities/ faiths and the opportunity to host them, stressed a member of the organising committee that is made up of the Sri Lanka Muslim Civil Society (SLMCS), Soup Kitchen Sri Lanka and Torrington Walkers’ Team on behalf of civil organisations in Sri Lanka.

The month of Ramadan sees a rise in activity amongst Muslims. Mostly, people see them flocking to mosques for prayers, but the month signifies much more than spiritual cleansing. It is equally meant to cleanse the character of a person by improving the quality of his/her relationships and transactions with those around them. Hence, breaking fast together or facilitating it for others is considered one of the highest of good deeds and displays of exemplary character.

Prophet Muhammad – may peace be upon him – taught us that, “By his good character, a believer will attain the degree of one who prays during the night and fasts during the day”, said the committee member, adding that Ramadan is not only a month of fasting but also a month of building the habits of giving, sharing, and practising good character. 

Talking about the event, he explained, “we expect to host circa 1,500 – 2,000 people for “BreakFast At Sunset”. Given the location, there will be ample parking, but everyone needs to be a little bit considerate when doing so. It will be simple, charming, and end within a short time with food being served at the location.” 

He further explained that Prophet Muhammad – may peace be upon him – taught us that “There are three whose duas (prayers/ supplications) are not rejected – a just ruler, the prayer of the oppressed person, and that of a fasting person when he breaks his fast. We will be praying that evening for the well-being of our motherland and fellow Sri Lankans, for better times ahead economically, and socially, and for good health. Those joining us can unite in this prayer,” he said. 

The month of Ramadan is special to Muslims. They hold fast daily for 30 days and spend the nights in prayer. The month is rich with the history of revelations from God and the teachings of the Prophet. Hence, it is sought after by Muslims as a period to seek forgiveness and reflect on leading holistic lives in this world together with those around them and prepare for life in the hereafter. 

On behalf of the Muslim Community, the organisers extended their thanks to the relevant authorities who facilitated the event including the Ministry of Public Administration and Colombo Municipal Council and those who supported arranging the logistics and event coordination. 

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