For the last 30 days, billions of Muslims across the world have been observing the month of Ramadan, a 30-day period of abstinence from all food, drink and inappropriate behaviour, amongst other things, from sunrise to sunset each day. The act of fasting is meant to remind Muslims of the less fortunate, and to reinforce the need to be thankful. It is mandatory for all healthy adult Muslims, although the elderly, pregnant women, children, and travellers are exempt. Of course, this has been no different in Hounslow, but what has the community been doing in this month to ease the difficulties that come with fasting, and what have Muslims been doing to increase their piety and thankfulness towards God?

After sunset, Muslims break their fast with ‘Iftar’, a meal that usually begins with dates and water. Hounslow Jamia Masjid, the largest Mosque in West London, have been providing free meals at Iftar, to any who wish to participate. These meals were paid for by the mosque through generous donations by the Muslim community, with it being recommended to donate more during this month. Not only were these meals served inside the mosque, but there was also a ‘street Iftar’ that took place on Hounslow High Street, where over 200 people turned out. Food was provided free by the Mosque

With the need for donations to charities more compelling than ever, the Mosque has been holding fundraisers frequently throughout the month. These charities have been donating to various places throughout the UK and the world, including Tanzania and Palestine. There have also been donations to 400 Muslim prisoners for Eid, as this is a time for celebration and giving to all. Furthermore, each Friday during this month, around £2000 was raised, contributing to the day to day operations of the mosque for the mosque- further fundraising activities are taking place to contribute to the completion of an extension project for the mosque, something that had to be halted due to the multiple lockdowns we have experienced over the last couple years.

With the end of the month rapidly approaching, all eyes are set on Eid, and the celebrations that come with that. On the morning of Eid, the mosque is a hive of activity, with prayers taking place at 6 different times, and over 2000 people attending each prayer, as Muslims from all over Hounslow flock to complete their mandatory Eid obligations.