Al Owais stressed that the festival will invigorate the tourism sector, thereby bolstering the broader business community…reports Asian Lite News
The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) is set to launch the 34th edition of the Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2024 from 8th March to 13th April. The 37-day event will cover all cities and regions across the emirate. The festival’s organising committee disclosed that preparations for the launch involved meetings with numerous government and private institutions and agencies to foster coordination and collaboration to ensure the event’s success. Key shopping centres, destinations, and retail stores across the emirate will take part in the event, offering a series of marketing, entertainment, and heritage activities that celebrate the holy month.
The 2024 season’s festivities will extend to the cities and suburbs of the central and eastern regions, providing a wide range of products at substantial discounts. The festival will be further enhanced by exciting draws, competitions, and valuable prizes for attendees, along with a variety of recreational activities that celebrate the unique spirit of Ramadan. Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the SCCI, emphasised that the Sharjah Ramadan Festival has become a vital catalyst for stimulating the emirate’s economic landscape, particularly the retail sector, a cornerstone of the emirate’s economic activity.
Al Owais stressed that the festival will invigorate the tourism sector, thereby bolstering the broader business community. He highlighted the event’s social significance, pointing out how its entertainment and heritage events create a special ambiance for Ramadan, spreading joy among Sharjah’s residents and visitors, and fostering social and cultural engagement. For his part, Mohammad Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of the SCCI, said that the upcoming edition of the Sharjah Ramadan Festival has been meticulously planned to engage major shopping centres and retail outlets across the emirate to present competitive offers and enticing discounts to the public. Aligning with this initiative, the Ramadan Nights exhibition at Expo Centre Sharjah is set to launch, aiming to broaden the community’s access to a diverse range of products and merchandise at competitive prices throughout the holy month, enhancing the festive shopping experience.
evotees offer prayers (Namaz) on Jumu'atul-Wida, the last Friday in the month of Ramzan before Eid-ul-Fitr, in the Old City of Hyderabad on Friday. (ANI Photo)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday greeted the country on the occasion of Eid-al-Fitr and prayed for the health and well-being of the people.
In a tweet, PM Modi said, “Greetings on Eid-ul-Fitr. May the spirit of harmony and compassion be furthered in our society. I also pray for everyone’s wonderful health and well-being. Eid Mubarak!” Meanwhile, the beautiful glimpses of people offering namaz nationwide emit positivity.
Greetings on Eid-ul-Fitr. May the spirit of harmony and compassion be furthered in our society. I also pray for everyone’s wonderful health and well-being. Eid Mubarak!
Muslims across India as well as different parts of the world on Saturday are celebrating the festival of Eid-al-Fitr by offering namaz. The festival marks the end of the holy month of Ramzan.
In Delhi, people hugged each other after offering namaz at Delhi’s Jama Masjid on the occasion of Eid-Al-Fitr.
Devotees greet each other as they offer prayers (Namaz) on Jumu’atul-Wida, the last Friday in the month of Ramzan before Eid-ul-Fitr, in Nagpur on Friday. (ANI Photo)
While talking to ANI, a man who came to offer namaz said, “I extend my wishes to the entire country on the occasion of Eid. This is a very important occasion after the 30 days of fasting. We are happy right now and special arrangements are made for the morning namaz. Delicious food items will be made in our houses today.”
“Eid-Al-Fitr sends the message of peace, brotherhood, humanity and love. I wish all evils are removed from the country and happiness spreads everywhere. I wish the nation keeps moving forward and keeps prospering,” he added.
“The nation comes first. We are known by our country. We are ‘Hindustani’ first,” he further added.
Another man, G R Siddique from Ghaziabad said, “Today is a very happy day. Namaz is being offered everywhere in India with love.”
“My only message is that Hindus and Muslims in the country maintain the spirit of brotherhood and spread this message all across the globe,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police were fully prepared to ensure the security of those offering namaz.
Devotees offer prayers (Namaz) on Jumu’atul-Wida, the last Friday in the month of Ramzan before Eid-ul-Fitr, at johri bazar Jama Masjid, in Jaipur on Friday. (ANI Photo)
While talking to ANI, Special Commissioner of Police Dependra Pathak said, “This is a time of joy and festivities. Delhi Police has professional excellence in crowd management, especially when it comes to festivals or celebrations. Strategic deployment, communication with people and community policing is done every year. Forces do come from outside, across Delhi.”
“Thousands of Police personnel deployed in the Central District – both in uniform and civil clothes. The local population also cooperates in creating an orderly atmosphere,” he added.
Muslims in Mumbai offered namaz on the occassion of Eid at Mahim Dargah.
Eid Al-Fitr in Madhya Pradesh’s Bhopal was celebrated on a grand scale as people gathered at Eidgah in Bhopal to offer greetings.
Devotees offer prayers (Namaz) on Jumu’atul-Wida, the last Friday in the month of Ramzan before Eid-ul-Fitr, at Leisure Valley ground, in Gurugram on Friday. (ANI Photo)
Eid al-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The festival is of great significance due to the moon sighting which has been part of Islamic culture for a long time. It is believed that Prophet Muhammad used to wait for news of sightings of the crescent moon as it narrated the beginning of a new month.
Ending the holy month of Ramzan and starting a new spiritual journey also marks the beginning of a new Islamic year.
Eid-al-Fitr marks the month-long Ramzan fasting and the beginning of Shawwal which is the tenth month per the Islamic calendar. Since the observance of the moon is essential for ending Ramzan month and celebrating Eid, it is celebrated in different parts on different days usually with a one-day difference. (ANI)
Try the superb chicken and paneer changezi for sure.. Explore by yourself so that you can suggest others…reports Asian Lite News
The month of Ramzan and the charm of Old Delhi! Even if you haven’t paid a visit to the Jama Masjid Road during this time yet, you must have heard loads of stories about this place from your friends. All these stories must be connected by a single thread, which is called food.
From juicy kebabs to Shahi Tukra, from fresh sharbat to sheermal… this place can be termed as the ‘heaven’ (Jannat) for the food-lovers. To increase your gastronomic appetite, let’s walk through the lanes of Jama Masjid Road which invites people from different parts of the world to savour their delicacies, especially during the month of Ramzan. The festive glory remains incomplete if you haven’t tasted the kebabs and nalli here!
Qureshi Kebab Corner – Situated just opposite Jama Masjid, this is a place for juicy and succulent kebabs. This is a must one in your list.
Haji Mohd. Hussain – For some juicy succulent fried fish and fried chicken taken out fresh from the frying pans to your plate, this is the address you need to search for. This place is located close to Al jawahar and Karims and serves some lip-smacking meats.
Aslam Chicken – You can’t miss this place for the legendary butter chicken. It’s not your usual gravy butter chicken. It’s a tandoori chicken topped with real butter. Try this with a Roomali Roti and write a food blog later.
Haji Shabrati Nihari Wale – For outstanding Nihari with a khameeri Roti, this is the place. Must try the brain curry too. The Nihari is cooked for for 8-10 hours. So it’s no wonder that it’s tender and the gravy is just outstanding.
Karim Hotel – Visit this place only for the legendary value. Try some kebabs and mutton stew here nonetheless.
Al-Jawahar – Try the superb chicken and paneer changezi for sure. Explore by yourself so that you can suggest others.
Cool Point: Even though you will find the entire street lined with shops selling the melt-in-mouth delicacy of shahi tukda and freshly made phirni and kheer each evening of this entire month, Cool Point serves the most heavenly form of it. The royal bread pudding, topped with rich dry fruits is considered as the must-have ones prepared specifically for the occasion.
What are you waiting for now? Book your date before Eid and savour all your favourite delicacies with your loved ones! (ANI)
The festival of prayer and lavish food preparations has been overshadowed by soaring inflation in the country…reports Asian Lite News
Festivities around Ramzan in Pakistan, which is home to more than 95 per cent Muslims, is turning out to be a costly affair this year amid mounting inflation, Pakistani vernacular media Himalya Today reported.
During every Ramzan inflation increases by 500 per cent and this has not changed in the last 75 years. The rise of inflation during Ramzan in Pakistan is very strange because, in countries where the Muslim population is one per cent or even less, the governments supply up to 75 per cent relief to them during Ramzan. In civilised countries, people follow the law voluntarily, but not in Pakistan, the report said, adding that no one cares for the law, including government officers. Law enforcement agencies provide protection to criminals. The bribe is considered extra income.
Every year, the federal and provincial governments announce a special Ramzan relief package but practically it never happened. The utility stores remain vacant throughout Ramzan. The entire stock is bought by sellers with the help of the utility store staff and then sold at higher prices. The PDM government has failed in its claims and promises and now should wait for its funeral by the public, according to Himalya Today.
Rising inflation has dampened the Ramzan spirit in Pakistan. Rising food inflation in the country has hit Pakistanis particularly hard this year. The festival of prayer and lavish food preparations has been overshadowed by soaring inflation in the country. Tightened budgets have hit Pakistan’s poorest hardest.
Unlike previous years, indulgence in Ramzan month is proving to be a pricey proposition for many this year. Dates are being sold for up to euro 3.5 per kg, which is unaffordable for many households with staggering food costs, reported DW News.
“Inflation has risen so much that things selling for Pakistani Rs 200 per kg past year are now priced at Rs 500 per kg. At the same time, petrol, bus fares, rent and other expenses have also increased tremendously. What can we do?” said a Pakistani citizen.
A man carries a sack of vegetable at a fruit and vegetable market ahead of the Ramadan in Islamabad. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal/IANS)
Meanwhile, in March, Pakistan’s Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation raced to 35.4 per cent, the highest annual rise in prices on record since 1965, driven mainly by skyrocketing costs of food, electricity, beverage, and transport, according to official data, reported Pak-based publication Business Recorder.
Pakistan’s year-on-year inflation hit 35.37 per cent in March — the highest in nearly five decades — as the government scrambled to meet International Monetary Fund (IMF) conditions to unlock a desperately needed bailout.
The March inflation number was the highest annual rate since available data, i.e. July 1965, according to the research firm Arif Habib Ltd, and is expected to rise in the coming months, reported Dawn.
A spokesperson for the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics confirmed that “this is the highest ever inflation recorded in the data we have.” (ANI)
The event features over 170 exhibitors from top retailers and showcases more than 500 brands…reports Asian Lite News
Ramadan Nights 2023, organised by Expo Centre Sharjah and supported by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has kicked off to an impressive start, attracting thousands of visitors in its first week.
This prestigious event has earned a reputation as a premier shopping and entertainment destination, offering a wide range of activities, exclusive events, and customised promotions to cater to the diverse preferences of attendees.
The event features over 170 exhibitors from top retailers and showcases more than 500 brands, offering visitors an extensive selection of goods, products, services, and luxury items.
The centre is organising the exhibition from 8th to 21st April as part of the 33rd edition of “Sharjah Ramadan Festival”. The exhibition boasts an impressive program of shopping surprises, exciting entertainment activities, and valuable prizes and gifts, all of which contribute to a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
In the upcoming days, residents and visitors of the Emirate can expect more enjoyable Ramadan evenings, heritage shows, dining experiences, and family entertainment activities, in addition to major discounts of up to 75 percent on a wide range of products from prominent local and international brands.
Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, emphasised that “Ramadan Nights” undergoes a renewal process annually to offer unique experiences to both residents and visitors of the Emirate. Expo Sharjah is committed to fostering a marketing atmosphere that complements the promotions and entertainment events, drawing a considerable number of visitors who relish exceptional shopping experiences and delightful Ramadan evenings.”
Additionally, Al Midfa stressed that Expo Centre Sharjah has planned numerous exciting surprises and entertainment events for both residents and visitors of the emirate in the upcoming period, urging everyone to seize this opportunity to visit the exhibition and discover the great offers and surprises it has to offer for the whole family to enjoy.
People are pictured at the site of stampede in southern Pakistani port city of Karachi on March 31, 2023. At least 11 people were killed and more than 10 others injured in a stampede during ration distribution in Pakistan's southern port city of Karachi of Sindh province on Friday, police and rescue officials said. (Str/Xinhua)
The plight of the Pakistani people is worsening day by day. While political representatives in Islamabad bicker over power, impoverished citizens are dying in stampedes for a single bag of wheat flour … writes Dr Sakariya Kareem
Pakistan’s economy has been left to flounder without any signs of assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and record levels of inflation. Additionally, even friendly nations like Saudi Arabia and China have ignored Pakistan’s pleas for a bailout. With no immediate financial aid in sight and the possibility of further political turmoil, the incumbent Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) coalition government has resorted to desperate measures, such as a free or subsidised flour distribution program for the poor. This could have provided some relief for the economically disadvantaged and allowed the PDM alliance to gain some political leverage. However, the program turned out to be a colossal failure, causing international embarrassment for Pakistan.
Policemen examine the site of stampede in southern Pakistani port city of Karachi on March 31, 2023. (Str/Xinhua)
Several stampedes have occurred across all provinces in the last one month, resulting in the tragic deaths of numerous individuals, including women and children. In addition, thousands of flour bags have been stolen from trucks and distribution points. On March 23, a man was killed, and four others injured during a stampede at a distribution point in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Charsadda district. Similarly, on March 28, two women lost their lives, and 45 others sustained injuries during a stampede at a free flour distribution in Punjab’s Sahiwal district. Since the PDM government launched an initiative in March to offer free flour to low-income families during the month of Ramadan, large crowds have been gathering at distribution centers. This program was originally aimed to address the severe impact of record-breaking inflation, which is currently at a 50-year high of over 30 per cent, causing poverty rates to surge in Pakistan.
According to media reports, there have been allegations of preferential treatment, where flour is being distributed to those with ‘connections’ or those who have paid bribes to government officials. Social media in Pakistan has been inundated with videos and photographs depicting women, children, and elderly individuals standing helplessly in long lines for hours, getting harassed and manhandled to obtain a sack or two of flour. To compound their difficulties, Pakistan’s Ministry of Finance has predicted further inflationary pressure as a result of the “second-round effect” of policy decisions made previously to increase energy and fuel prices, in order to secure an IMF bailout tranche of US $1.1 billion, which has been overdue since last September.
Some private business owners and non-profit organisations have also been distributing essential food items to those in need. However, even these efforts have not been able to prevent tragic incidents like the latest stampede on March 31, where at least 12 people died, women and children, during the distribution of Zakat among the families of employees working at a private company in Karachi. At least 23 fatalities have occurred since the commencement of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan due to stampedes at free food centers throughout Pakistan.
Meanwhile, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) released a statement saying it was “deeply concerned by the mismanagement causing stampedes at wheat flour distribution centres set up by the government”. The commission termed the incident in Karachi to be “particularly alarming”. The HRCP tweeted its official statement on March 31, calling on the government improve the distribution system: “This situation is adding insult to injury for the marginalised people of Pakistan who are braving the economic injustice perpetuated by the elites who dominate the state.”
Expectedly, Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) is using these incidents to target the PDM alliance and make political gains in Punjab. They are reportedly indulged in spreading misinformation regarding stampede incidents and questioning the “quality of flour” to create chaos and anger among public against the ruling government.
Pakistan is currently facing one of the worst economic crises in its history, leaving millions of people struggling to afford two full meals a day. The cost of living crisis has caused the prices of basic goods to skyrocket, with flour prices alone rising by over 45 per cent in the past year. The recent stampedes illustrate the desperation of the Pakistani people, who are grappling with rising costs, a falling currency, inflation, a current account deficit, and a foreign exchange crisis. According to the latest report by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Pakistan’s economic growth is expected to slow significantly to 0.6 per cent in FY2023 from 6 per cent in the previous fiscal year. Similarly, the World Bank has sharply lowered Pakistan’s growth forecast for the current year, which is now expected to be 0.4 per cent instead of the previously forecasted 2 per cent growth in October.
Additionally, as per the Global Climate Risk Index, Pakistan has been ranked among the “ten most vulnerable nations” worldwide for the past two decades, adding to the country’s struggles. These factors collectively paint a grim picture of Pakistan’s current economic situation, with the population facing immense challenges to meet their basic needs.
The climate crisis also brings together communities as we all struggle with its impacts. It threatens all of humanity, all faiths, and all cultures. If we do not work together, we cannot adapt or prevent the destruction…writes Afzal Khan MP
Islam is inherently environmental. Harmony and balance in the natural world is central to our Muslim faith. It is our duty to conserve nature and the Earth deserves respect and care. Nationally and internationally, we are seeing Muslim environmentalists and campaigners highlight how Muslims can make a positive impact by putting the environment at the centre of their faith.
The impact of the climate crisis is being felt across the globe. We have seen unprecedented fires, devastating droughts, life-threatening heatwaves, and catastrophic flooding. But most of the impact of climate change is felt by the world’s poorest countries. Those who contribute the least to global carbon emissions, and including much of the Muslim world. In Pakistan, a country close to my own heart, faced devastation last year from floods over an area larger than the United Kingdom. Over 1,000 people died, and 33 million lives were turned upside down in hours, displaced from their homes by a climate disaster.
We are all responsible for our own actions. Although we must hold governments and corporations accountable, we are all khalifah (stewards) of the Earth. “Thus We have made you trustees on the earth after them, to see how you would act.”[Qur’an 10:14]. Allah (swt) allows us the use of nature, but expects us to be responsible for balance and sustainability.
Kalifah is not a concept unique to Islam. We see this variations on natural stewardship across different faiths, including Christianity and Judaism. Together, being of faith means caring: caring for people and caring for the planet. Our faith and values are a tool that allow us to achieve a goal towards a common cause.
Our faith is not the only thing to bring us together. The climate crisis also brings together communities as we all struggle with its impacts. It threatens all of humanity, all faiths, and all cultures. If we do not work together, we cannot adapt or prevent the destruction.
There are many ways we can become better climate activists using our faith. But, the overarching theme is remembering balance (Mizan). The Qur’an says, “O Children of Adam, dress well whenever you are at worship, and eat and drink [as We have permitted] but do not be extravagant (Mizan): God does not like extravagant people.” [Quran 7:31] This is a reminder that we should act in moderation and with balance. When considering the environment, we must avoid excess waste, pollution, or environmental destruction. This is particularly important to remember as we near the end of Ramadan and may consider items or gifts that are unnecessary or extravagant for Eid al-Fitr. This was reflected by Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) in his own actions, during ablution (wudu) he used limited water, and he spoke of why we do not waste water, even if at a running stream.
During this holy month of Ramadan, I am proud to see so many Muslims across the world engaged and ready to make change. I am delighted to work with climate activist Zehra Abbas to mobilise communities in the UK, Palestine, Canada, Lebanon, Malaysia, Cyprus, Bangladesh and more to coordinate ‘green’ iftars in each country.
Afzal Khan MP
Each of these iftars have the aim to have the same programme, so all attendees can discuss the importance of climate action. These events are free or low-cost, interfaith, plant-based, and zero-waste and in[EY1] many of the events, the food is what Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), had noted as some of his favourites. This includes foods such as barley, dates, and pomegranates, which in most regions has little carbon footprint. The food is purchased with no plastic packaging wherever possible, attendees are encouraged to bring their own cutlery and plates, as well as no food waste being produced. There are guest speakers at the event who speak on the importance of interfaith work, what zero-waste is and how we can all do it, stewardship in Islam, and animal rights in Islam. Attendees are encouraged to walk, cycle, or rideshare to the event to reduce their own carbon footprint and wasteful decorations are excluded, opting instead for natural décor. A zero-waste event can be seen as daunting, but instead it is scaling down what many would consider to be the norm.
During Ramadan, I know myself and many others reflect. We reflect on what we do and how we can be better Muslims and community members. This is why during Ramadan I attend many interfaith iftars – it is a way to break down barriers in our community and talk about our shared goals. It is also important for me to reflect on the principles and key messages of Islam, such as Mizan and Khalifah, with those around me.
As a Muslim, I consider my faith to be part of who I am. My values and beliefs stem from by belief in Allah (swt) which Qu’ran teachers me how to put into practice. This is why I am passionate about action against the climate crisis, and I want to do all I can to improve our planet for our generation and future generations. When nature thrives, we all thrive – I hope together as Muslims and the wider community we will continue to come together on this global movement.
(The writer is Shadow Minister for Legal Aid of the United Kingdom)
الشارقة في 28 مارس / وام / أطلقت "القلب الكبير" المؤسسة الإنسانيّة العالميّة المعنيّة بمساعدة اللاجئين والمحتاجين، حملة إنسانية تحت شعار "حاضرهم غائب.. تبرّع لمستقبلهم" لجمع أموال الزكاة والصدقات والتبرعات خلال شهر رمضان المبارك لمواصلة تقديم المساعدات الإنسانية لضحايا الزلزال في سوريا وتركيا وإعادة تأهيل المؤسسات الأكاديمية والطبية هناك لاستعادة قدرتها على تقديم الخدمات لأفراد المجتمع إلى جانب توفير الموارد لدعم قطاعات الصحة والتعليم والتأهيل ضمن المجتمعات المحتاجة في عدد من الدول.
ويترجم شعار الحملة إيمان مؤسسة "القلب الكبير" بأهمية العمل على محورين متوازيين الاهتمام بحاضر اللاجئين والمحتاجين وتحدياتهم الحياتية اليومية والعمل على تأسيس مشاريع وبرامج إنسانية مستدامة لضمان مستقبل يقدم لهم ولأبنائهم حياة كريمة.
ودعت مؤسسة "القلب الكبير" أفراد المجتمع والمؤسسات والهيئات والجهات الحكومية ومنظمات المجتمع المدني والجمعيات الخيرية والمؤسسات الإنسانية وشركات القطاع الخاص للمشاركة في الحملة وتخصيص أموال زكاتهم وصدقاتهم وتبرعاتهم لتوفير الموارد اللازمة لتغطية احتياجاتهم الآنية والمستقبلية من خلال وسائل متعددة وهي: الحوالات المصرفية على رقم الحساب: 0011430430020 – مصرف الشارقة الإسلامي والشيكات والدفع نقداً في مقر المؤسسة والتبرع عن طريق خدمة الرسائل القصيرة ومن خلال الإنترنت على الرابط التالي: https://tbhf.ae/zakat.
وتؤكد الحملة أن حق اللاجئين والمحتاجين بخدمات صحية وتعليمية وتأهيلية هو الركيزة الأساسية لضمان مستقبلهم وتحوّل واقعهم نحو الأفضل وأن بناء المؤسسات ودعم قدراتها على توفير كافة الخدمات اللازمة خطوة استراتيجية لمواصلة تقديم المساعدات وحماية المجتمعات من تداعيات المتغيرات الصعبة التي تمر بها كما تترجم الحملة الرؤية الإنسانية التنموية لمؤسسة القلب الكبير والتي تتجسد في توفير مقومات النهوض بالمجتمعات بالاعتماد على ثرواتها البشرية.
وتركز الحملة على دعم القطاع الصحي في المجتمعات المحتاجة من خلال تطوير مراكز الرعاية وتدريب الطواقم الطبية وتوفير المعدات اللازمة وبناء عيادات متخصصة في المناطق النائية؛وعلى صعيد التعليم ستوجه الحملة أموال الزكاة والتبرعات نحو بناء وتطوير المدارس ورياض الأطفال وتوفير المعدات التعليمية اللازمة إلى جانب تقديم المنح الدراسية للطلبة الذين تحول ظروفهم دون استكمال مسيرتهم التعليمية.
كما ستخصص الحملة جزءاً من أموال الزكاة والتبرعات للاستجابة الإنسانية الطارئة وتوفير الحماية والمأوى لتخفيف تداعيات الزلزال المدمر في سوريا وتركيا من خلال المساهمة في دعم مشاريع البنية التحتية السكنية بالإضافة إلى المساهمة في وضع خطط متكاملة لتعزيز مراحل التعافي وإيجاد حلول جذرية مستدامة على المدى الطويل.
وقالت مريم الحمادي مديرة مؤسسة القلب الكبير : يعاني المحتاجون واللاجئون من ظروف صعبة وقاسية وتغيب عنهم الاحتياجات الضرورية ونسعى من خلال هذه الحملة إلى الاستجابة العاجلة لاحتياجات حاضرهم وتأمين مقومات مستقبل يحفظ كرامتهم ومن أجل تحقيق ذلك نسعى لحشد الجهود المجتمعية لتوفير الموارد اللازمة فنحن أمام مهمات إنسانية عاجلة يتوقف عليها حياة الملايين من الرجال والنساء والأطفال في أكثر من مجتمع حول العالم.
وأضافت : نحن نعمل بإيمان كبير بحق الإنسان الكامل والشامل في الحياة بكل ما تحمله هذه الكلمة من معاني وما تفرضه من احتياجات فلا يكفي فقط توفير مقومات العيش الأساسية على أهميتها بل يجب أن نبقى متيقظين للاحتياجات الأخرى التي تمنح للحياة قيمتها وأبرزها الأمن والدفئ الاجتماعي والثقة بالمستقبل وتجنب خوف وقلق الأهالي على مصير أبنائهم وبناتهم وهذا ما نعنيه عندما نقول تبرع لمستقبلهم لأننا بذلك نتبرع للأمل بغد أفضل ليس للمحتاجين واللاجئين وحدهم بل لنا جميعا.
TBHF calls on members of the UAE’s community, charitable individuals worldwide, private sector businesses, government entities, civil society organisations and charities to respond to TBHF’s Zakat Appeal …reports Asian Lite News
The UAE non-profit, The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), is reinforcing efforts to extend both emergency response and developmental support to under-resourced communities with “Enlighten their Future”, a Zakat Appeal campaign designed to coalesce community’s support through charitable donations throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan.
The global humanitarian organisation, which has been serving millions of refugees, internally displaced people, and others in need for over a decade, will mobilise the funds raised to support sustainable long term development and humanitarian development projects in the vital sectors of education, and specialised healthcare in underprivileged communities across various countries, in addition to providing ongoing humanitarian response to the victims of the earthquake and natural disasters in Syria and Türkiye, supporting scientific and health centres, and helping institutions restore their ability to provide services to people in both countries.
Inspired by the illuminating spirit of the Holy Month, TBHF fundraiser’s slogan “Enlighten their Future” represents two parallel pillars of development that the entity focuses on – offering immediate and lifesaving aid to victims of crisis as well as initiating projects that will empower those affected by climate change, natural disasters, war, conflict and disease, and support them to build their futures in order to bring about sustainable development in under-resourced communities.
TBHF calls on members of the UAE’s community, charitable individuals worldwide, private sector businesses, government entities, civil society organisations and charities to respond to TBHF’s Zakat Appeal with their generous contributions, which can be made through bank transfers to Sharjah Islamic Bank account number 0011-430430-020, as well as cheque and cash payments, or donations via SMS and via: https://tbhf.ae/zakat.
TBHF Director, Mariam Al Hammadi, explained that the impact of the support from donor communities in the UAE and beyond will be massive, as the populations served by TBHF are now more than ever in dire need of emergency response, shelter, security, education, livelihoods, and other long-term developmental assistance.
“The lives of millions of families, women, children, and the elderly in many communities worldwide depend on humanitarian missions, which can only be possible and successful with the benevolence and support of humanitarian champions to whom we have presented this appeal. Contributions this Ramadan will improve educational opportunities, give families who have lost everything after the recent earthquake a chance to rebuild their lives, and take quality healthcare to remote locations,” Al Hammadi further noted.
“Human life in any circumstance is precious. It is God’s gift and therefore deserves to be nurtured and lived to the fullest. With our Zakat Appeal this year, we are fostering hope for a better tomorrow, not only for refugees and vulnerable people but for all of us,” TBHF Director concluded.
Those who support TBHF’s “Enlighten their Future” campaign, will be contributing to improving healthcare in under-resourced communities with the provision of better tools, equipment and services, medical teams, and will enable the construction of specialised centres in remote locations.
In the education sector, scholarships will be awarded to out-of-school children, new schools will be built, kindergartens will be supported, and so on.
Keep up physical activity but reduce the intensity to avoid extra exertion. You can try simple workouts, walking, or yoga. Resistance training can also help you avoid muscle loss and build strength at this time…reports Asian Lite News
Think about the aroma of newly baked bread, the sizzle of grilled meats flavoured with spices, and the sight of vibrant colours bursting from each dish. That is the main focus of iftar.
Ramadan, however, is a celebration that encompasses much more than just food. It’s a time for spiritual development, for getting back in touch with one’s religion, and for being kind and compassionate to others. In order to concentrate on your inner self instead of food or drink, you can also fast for 30 days from sunrise to sunset.
With Ramadan drawing near and ‘iftari’ preparations on the mind, it is crucial to think about the best ways to support diabetics and those who care for them in fully celebrating the holiday. Navigating a fast can be challenging because it requires a significant shift in routine and way of life, which can make it challenging for people to maintain normal blood sugar levels throughout the day. In order to comprehend any risks and have a strategy in place to manage your diabetes as effectively as possible, it can be very helpful to consult your doctor before fasting.
Dr Shehla Shaikh, Consultant Endocrinologist, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai said: “For people with controlled diabetes, there are steps they can take to manage their sugar levels, especially while fasting for long periods during Ramadan. There are several healthy eating habits people should follow for the periods between ‘sehri’ and ‘iftar’. Don’t forget to monitor your blood sugar during your fast; you can do this effortlessly while on the go as there are now Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) device options available in addition to conventional blood glucose metres that require finger pricking. Taking one’s doctor’s advice is also important to understand any changes required with their medication.”
When it comes to managing diabetes while fasting, using metrics like time in range through a CGM monitor can be very beneficial. The proportion of time that a person’s blood glucose levels are within a given range (typically 70 to 180 mg/dl) is known as time in range. A longer period of time in the target range is linked to more frequent blood sugar checks, which can help you maintain better glucose regulation and lower your risk of developing long-term health issues. One should try to be within range for roughly 17 of each day’s 24 hours. In addition, there are a few important considerations for diabetics to bear in mind as they observe Ramadan.
Have an energy-boosting Sehri (pre-dawn) meal: Include more fibre-rich starchy foods that release energy slowly, from oats and multigrain breads to brown or basmati rice, along with vegetables, lentils (dal), and more. You can also have proteins like fish, tofu, and nuts for energy. Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid sugary or highly caffeinated drinks like coffee, soft drinks, and more.
Regularly monitor blood sugar levels: Checking your glucose levels more frequently is a must, and there are more ways to do this in the comfort of your own homes. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) wearable devices, like FreeStyle Libre, provide a simple option for people with diabetes to access real-time glucose readings and trends, such as while you were fasting or at the time of Iftar. This is all while avoiding the pain of pinpricks that come with traditional glucose testing options.
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Properly replenish during Iftar (breaking of fast): The fast is traditionally broken with dates and milk, which you can follow with complex carbohydrates. Make sure to hydrate yourself as well. Consume sweet and fried or oily foods in moderation, as these can affect your health. Fruit before bedtime can also help maintain sugar levels until early morning.
Follow a gentle exercise routine: Keep up physical activity but reduce the intensity to avoid extra exertion. You can try simple workouts, walking, or yoga. Resistance training can also help you avoid muscle loss and build strength at this time.
Sleep well: Adequate hours of sleep – of good quality – are key to good health and wellness. Especially during Ramadan when your pre-dawn meal is key to sustain your energy, getting enough sleep is key. This also helps avoid sleep deprivation, which can impact your hunger. This can also support metabolism and help regulate blood glucose levels, which is critical when managing diabetes.
In addition to following these suggestions, diabetics should be vigilant for any worrisome trends of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia and take quick action. The key to this is coming up with a strategy for what to do if your blood sugar levels are too high or low during, before, or after fasting. It’s also crucial to follow your doctor’s recommendations on how to keep your blood sugar levels in the goal range for at least 75 per cent of the day, even when you’re fasting.
Having a strategy in place can help you manage your health during Ramadan, even though some diabetics choose to fast during this holy month.
