Tag: ramadan

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Food Lite Blogs

Tilda celebrates global flavours of Ramadan

Parveen’s Iftar spread also included the must have Chana Chaat Cups and a cooling cucumber raita. And Zaleha’s spread included Pai Tees (crispy top hats with vegetable filling) and Kerabu Ikan (watercress and fish salad)…reports Asian Lite News

Ramadan is the holy month of rejuvenation and reflection which brings with it moments of togetherness and sharing for families and friends. It is a special time of holy significance for 1.9 billion Muslims across the world and over 3.9 million in the UK. An eclectic mix of communities celebrate Ramadan in the UK including Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, Indians, Arabs, Turks, Kurds, Persians, Africans, Malaysians, Indonesians, and several others. The beauty of Ramadan celebrations lies in the diverse range of flavours and cuisines that are brought together by various communities. While each community brings their unique flavours to the table, rice remains a fundamental ingredient that ties them altogether. Tilda has been bringing flavoursome and wholesome meals to the dinner tables, for over 50 years in the UK.

To mark the onset of the holy month of Ramadan, Tilda hosted a special evening of flavours in partnership with TV chef Parveen Ashraf (@parveenthespicequeen) and food writer Zaleha Olpin (@zaleha.olpin). While Ashraf gave a tribute to her Pakistani heritage on a platter with her hero dish ‘Chicken Biryani’ using Tilda Grand Extra Long Basmati, Zaleha educated and delighted the audience about authentic taste of Malaysia with her classic ‘Nasi Goreng’ using signature Tilda Pure Original Basmati. The audience witnessed an evening interspersed with family stories, Ramadan rituals and memories of cooking rice.

Jean-Philippe Laborde, the Managing Director from Tilda, began the evening by wishing everyone Ramadan Mubarak and said “Ramadan is a special time for the communities and as a brand it is an equally important time for us as we want to make sure that our range of products enable home cooks to observe and enjoy their culinary cultures. Be it expert traditional cooks or explorers of world cuisine, Tilda is at the heart of Ramadan celebrations”.

Parveen’s Iftar spread also included the must have Chana Chaat Cups and a cooling cucumber raita. And Zaleha’s spread included Pai Tees (crispy top hats with vegetable filling) and Kerabu Ikan (watercress and fish salad). Rich aromas of saffron wafted through the room and converged with aromatic lemongrass through the evening.

Both the chefs made sure there were plenty of options for the vegetarian and vegan guests as well.  Zaleha’s Nasi Goreng Kerabu was a vegetable fried rice dish served with chunky slices of Tofu. And Parveen brought to the table a vegetarian version of her Biryani made with succulent pieces of jackfruit and sweet potato. To find the recipes from the menu served on the day, keep an eye on Tilda’s website.

Talking about her secret ingredient, Parveen Ashraf emphasised that “having the right ingredients always helps create wonderful family recipes, but one thing which makes any recipe special is the love you put in it while cooking. I have been a fan of Tilda since I was a child as my mother always cooked with Tilda Basmati, and today it gives me immense pride to serve my Pakistani heritage to everyone through this collaboration”.

Zaleha’s Malaysian flavours were an absolute delight for people, especially when she spoke about the special ingredients which had gone in to enhance the flavours, like turmeric leaves, torch ginger flower, lemongrass and many more. Talking about her menu she said “A big part of Ramadan is all about sharing and I was so proud to have been able to share a bit of my Malaysian culture at the Tilda Flavours of Ramadan event. The vibrant venue set the mood for guests as they enjoyed an array of Malaysian Ramadan favourites such as Pai Tee, Kerabu Ikan, Kuih Lopes and my showstopper dish, Nasi Goreng Kerabu, all using a brand that my household loves, Tilda.’’

No meal is complete without a dessert, and the evening culminated with a generous serving of coconut creamed kheer made with Tilda Fragrant Jasmine rice, topped with pistachios and rose petals and Kuih Lopes (sticky rice dessert with sugar syrup), made with the newest member of Tilda ready to heat microwaveable rice family, Tilda Sticky Rice.

The host chefs mingled with the guests and talked about their special cuisine for the evening as they joyfully served the meals they had prepared with such warmth and passion.

This Ramadan, explore the flavours of Persia, the aromas of Jordan, the tastes of Afghanistan, the delicacies of the Middle East, the comforts of Bangladesh, the vibrance of Africa, the wholesomeness of Somalia and much more as Tilda promises to elevate your plate.

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-Top News Ramadan UAE News

MBZ exchanges Ramadan greetings with Rulers

They all performed Al Maghreb Prayers before attending the Iftar banquet hosted by the President for the Rulers, Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers, Sheikhs, and visitors…..reports Asian Lite News

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan today received the Supreme Council Members, Rulers of the Emirates at Qasr Al Watan Palace and exchanged with them the Ramadan greetings.

They prayed to perpetuate the blessings of security and stability, and to revisit the fasting month with more goodness, progress, and prosperity for the UAE and its people.

Those received by the UAE President included Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; Sharjah Ruler Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ajman Ruler Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Fujairah Ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Umm Al Qaiwain Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla and Ras Al Khaimah Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi.

He also received Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai; Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance; Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of Ajman Executive Council; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah; Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Crown Prince of Umm Al Qaiwain; and Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah along with a number of sheikhs from across the country, as well as ministers, members of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and high-ranking officials.

In attendance during the reception were Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region; Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region; Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council; Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation; Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior; Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court; H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Zayed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

They all performed Al Maghreb Prayers before attending the Iftar banquet hosted by the President for the Rulers, Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers, Sheikhs, and visitors.

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Lite Blogs

Best Iftar meals for this year Ramadan

Traditionally, the fast is broken with dates and water followed by a light and nutritious meal…reports Asian Lite News

Ramzan, which is considered to be the holiest month in the religion of Islam, has finally arrived. It marks the beginning of the month-long fasting period.

During the 30 days or so, people belonging to the Muslim community exercise restraint in their eating habits and eat only twice a day — a pre-fast meal at dawn called ‘sehri’, and a post-fast meal after sunset called ‘iftar’.

Traditionally, the fast is broken with dates and water followed by a light and nutritious meal. However, there are also some special dishes made only during Ramzan and enjoyed at Iftar get-togethers.Here’s a list of the best Iftar meals to try:

Hara Bhara Kebab

Hara bhara kebabs are perfect for vegetarians. This evening snack is made with spinach and gram dal, which is high in protein, iron, vitamins and minerals.

2. Seviyaan

Made in a number of ways, this delightful dessert is not just super easy but also quite versatile. It is made using vermicelli and milk. It’s creamy, easy to make, and most importantly, delicious.

3. Biryani

One can never get bored of the classic mutton biryani served with salan. Why not make your Iftar meal fulfilling and healthy with biryani?

4. Mohabbat ka sherbet

Mohabbat ka Sherbet is a rose-flavoured milk-based drink. One can also add watermelon chunks to it. Many carts can be found selling this refreshing drink during the month of Ramzan.

5. Cardamom Kheer

No meal is complete without sweets. If you want to add a sweet touch to your Iftar meal, then you should definitely try cooking cardamom kheer. It’s basically a rice pudding seasoned with cardamom and cinnamon.

Don’t forget to treat your taste buds with these mouth-watering dishes. (ANI)

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-Top News PAKISTAN

Inflation dampens Ramadan spirit in Pakistan

People buy items at a shop in southern Pakistani port city of Karachi on April 7, 2022. (Str/Xinhua/IANS)

The festival of prayer and lavish food preparations has been overshadowed by soaring inflation in the country…reports Asian Lite News

As Pakistan is reeling under inflation, the people are feeling pocket pinch in the holy month of Ramadan. Many seem to have lost their faith in the State that governs them, reported DW News.

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 Ramadan 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 cost, reported DW News.

“Inflation has risen so much that things selling for Pakistani Rs 200 per kg past year are now priced 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.

High prices mean many travels further afield to find deals at wholesale markets, reported DW News.

The all-time high price of wheat flour pushed weekly inflation in Pakistan up 1.80 per cent week-on-week and 46.65 per cent year-on-year during the seven-day period that ended on March 23, pointing to even tougher times ahead in the country, Geo News reported.

Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) data issued on Friday attributed the surge in the sensitive price indicator (SPI) to the increase in prices of tomatoes (71.77pc), wheat flour (42.32pc), potatoes (11.47pc), bananas (11.07pc), tea (7.34pc), georgette (2.11pc), lawn (1.77pc), long cloth (1.58pc), pulse mash (1.57pc), prepared tea (1.32pc), and gur (1.03pc).

“Everything has become too costly. I ask the government to reduce prices because of Ramadan. They should think of the Muslims who are fasting. There are poor labourers here who push wheelbarrows from morning until evening and earn only Rs 200 at the end of the day. What are they going to eat during Ramadan?” another Pak citizen told DW News.

The PBS noted a decrease in the prices of chicken (8.14pc), chilli powder (2.31pc), LPG (1.31pc), mustard oil and garlic (1.19pc) each, pulse gram and onions (1.06pc) each, vegetable ghee 1kg (0.83pc), cooking oil 5 litres (0.21pc), pulse moong (0.17pc), pulse masoor (0.15pc) and eggs (0.03pc), Geo News reported.

For the week under review, the SPI was recorded at 250.66 points against 246.22 points registered last week and 170.92 points recorded during the week ended March 24, 2022.

“Prices have really risen this year. What can a poor person do? We cannot buy anything. I am a working woman myself. I work for other households. What can people like me do?” said the lady.

Pakistan is going through one of its worst economic crises in years. Inflation has surged more than 30 per cent. The Pakistani state usually offers relief packages during the month of Ramadan, but this year, the cash-strapped government have little to give.

“So far the government has only arranged flour at discounted prices, nothing else. I think that’s not enough. The government should also pay attention to the price of sugar, cooking oil and other things that are consumed during Ramadan. The government should subsidize some other items, especially cooking oil,” said another Pakistan citizen.

“The major reason behind the increase in wheat price is the change in subsidy mechanism. The government has now shifted from general subsidy to a targeted subsidy through BISP [Benazir Income Support Programme],” said Fahad Rauf, head of research at Ismail Iqbal Securities, adding with the onset of Ramadan, food prices would continue to rise, Geo News reported.

 Muslims break their day fast on first day of Holy month of Ramzan on March 24, 2023 in New Delhi, India.Muslims throughout the world are marking the month of Ramzan, the holiest month in Islamic calendar.    (Pallav Paliwal)

Moreover, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has asked Islamabad to provide external financing assurances before it takes the next step with Pakistan to release the bailout tranche, reported Geo News.

“Timely financial assistance from external partners will be critical to support the authorities’ policy efforts and ensure the successful completion of the review [with Pakistan],” said Julie Kozack, the IMF’s Director of Strategic Communications at a press briefing.

It should be noted that Pakistan and the IMF have been negotiating since early February an agreement that would release USD 1.1 billion to the cash-strapped, nuclear-armed country of 220 million people and its supercritical for the liquidity-challenged country, whose deficient foreign exchange reserves needed an urgent shoring up.

The funds are part of a USD 6.5 billion bailout package the IMF approved in 2019 — vital to Pakistan to avert defaulting on external payment obligations, reported Geo News.

The IMF wants Pakistan to get the assurance of up to USD 7 billion to fund this fiscal year’s balance of payments gap. (ANI)

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-Top News Asia News

China bans Muslims from fasting Ramadan

As Ramadan begins, China's Muslims face fasting ban, monitoring

Hui community members were able to openly participate in mosque communities, Arabic schools, and for private worship, albeit under restrictions facilitated by party liaisons…reports Asian Lite News

 As Muslims around the world prepare to begin the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims in China are facing fasting ban while their cultural and religious traditions are increasingly coming under attack, according to a media report.

Uyghurs in the northwestern region of Xinjiang are being ordered not to allow their children to fast, with the latter being quizzed by the authorities as to whether their parents are fasting, local officials and rights groups said, RFA reported.

“During Ramadan, the authorities are requiring 1,811 villages [in Xinjiang] to implement a round-the-clock monitoring system, including spot home inspections of Uyghur families,” World Uyghur Congress spokesperson Dilshat Rishit said, RFA reported.

During Ramadan, Muslims are called to fast during daylight hours.

China’s 11.4 million Hui Muslims – close-knit ethnic Chinese communities who have maintained their Muslim faith over centuries – are in danger of being erased entirely under the Communist Party’s draconian religious rules, rights groups have warned in a new report.

They have been identified by Beijing as “a threat to be resolved through forcible assimilation”, said a report from a coalition of rights groups, including the Network of Chinese Human Rights Defenders (CHRD), RFA reported.

This is in stark contrast to the relative freedom they enjoyed before President Xi Jinping launched a renewed attack on religious worship, forcing Christians, Muslims and Buddhists alike to submit to party control and censorship of their religious lives under his “sinicisation”, the report said.

“Hui community members were able to openly participate in mosque communities, Arabic schools, and for private worship, albeit under restrictions facilitated by party liaisons. Hui entrepreneurs were encouraged to develop business and tourism connections with the wider Muslim world as part of the Belt and Road Initiative,” it said, RFA reported.

China has also targeted Muslim communities with its “ethnic unity” campaign under which officials impose Han Chinese “relatives” on ethnic minority Uyghur families, who then put pressure on them to observe non-Muslim traditions, including drinking alcohol and eating pork.

“Unity” policies haven taken place in Xinjiang against the backdrop of the mass incarceration of at least 1.8 million Uyghurs and other ethnic minority Muslims in “re-education” camps, and their involvement in forced labour, as well as amid reports of the systemic rape, sexual abuse, and forced sterilization of Uyghur women in the camps, RFA reported.

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Health Lifestyle Lite Blogs

RAMADAN – Can you take medicine? myth busting

Ifti Khan, Superintendent Pharmacist at Well Pharmacy, who will be observing Ramadan himself, said: “Confusion can sometimes arise when it comes to medication and managing health conditions whilst fasting…reports Asian Lite News

With Ramadan starting this week, a leading independent pharmacy chain has issued some myth-busting advice on managing your health and the use of medication while fasting, including prescribed medicines, injections and eye drops, to name a few. 

While Ramadan month is a total fast in terms of oral consumption, it’s still ok to have vaccinations and blood tests during that period, say Well Pharmacy, and to use eye drops or use other medical items that are not ingested through the mouth. 

It’s also important for people to keep taking their prescribed medication over the Ramadan period – and Well Pharmacy are stressing that anyone who is concerned should speak to their pharmacist about whether they can take their medicine at different times, as stopping it could have serious consequences. 

Ramadan involves complete abstinence from both food and drink between dawn and sunset, including water. As one of the five pillars, or duties, of Islam, fasting during the month of Ramadan is mandatory for all healthy adult Muslims. Its purpose is to remind Muslims of the less fortunate whilst reinforcing the need to be thankful.  

Ifti Khan, Superintendent Pharmacist at Well Pharmacy, who will be observing Ramadan himself, said: “Confusion can sometimes arise when it comes to medication and managing health conditions whilst fasting. 

“If you are worried, please pop in and speak to your local pharmacist as they may be able to allay your fears – it is important to keep managing your health during Ramadan. 

“Having injections or vaccinations is fine, as are blood tests, using eye or ear drops, and using anything that you don’t consume orally – so nicotine and other transdermal patches, pessaries and dialysis, for example. It’s also ok if you eat and drink as a result of a condition which causes forgetfulness. 

“You should also keep taking prescribed medications during Ramadan as not doing so could have serious consequences, but we’d recommend speaking to your pharmacist who is best placed to advise if the times that you take them can be changed or the doses adjusted. 

“You should also continue to attend any medical appointments you have booked assuming you feel well enough. If you become unwell while fasting, you can break your fast if you want to on the account of avoiding harm – again, if this happens you should speak to your pharmacist or GP. People fasting can sometimes feel bloated or constipated, especially in the first few days. There are over-the-counter medicines available to help with this, and our pharmacy teams can help with a recommendation.

“People who are exempt from fasting during Ramadan are able to make an obligatory donation to provide meals for people who need help, and it’s important not to risk your health. 

“To stay as healthy as possible during Ramadan, try to eat healthy meals when breaking your fast, and make sure that you stay hydrated. Take some light exercise if you can – and if you smoke, why not harness some of your self-control into quitting for good. Again, speak to your pharmacist if you need advice.” 

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Ramadan special: Home makeover tips

Tasty treats for Iftar(IANSLIFE)

Use a planter that doubles as another decorative element. Choose from porcelain or metal depending on your personal taste. Little things like these add up to bringing more definition to your home without any single piece standing out…reports Asian Lite News

After a two-year hiatus, we are back in time to celebrate the holy festival of Ramadan with joy and fervour. As people are meeting more often than ever these days, there is an obvious need to do up your home for the festivities Be it indoor or outdoor, your home for Iftar celebrations should have a mix of colours, and textures and should create a vibe that is casual and not over manicured.

25 ways to decorate your home on a budget.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Ramadan is the festival of being thankful and coming together with your family, hence your home should be cozy. The right furniture and decor can create a sense of peace and invoke the spirit of the season. It’s the best time to update your home with lights, lanterns, and colourful dinnerware ahead of Eid Al Fitr.

Candles and Lights: During the month of Ramadan, create a magical atmosphere in your living room by hanging fairy lights across the wall and candles strategically placed on your corner tables. The string lights and candles together brighten up the space beautifully and bring a peaceful effect on our senses. You can also use them on your balcony to enjoy cosy evenings.

The Living room: Add bohemian flair to Ramzan celebrations by giving your sofa a makeover with printed cushions that are adorned intricately with kutch embroidery. Fresh flowers and plants are nature’s colourful scent diffusers. They can brighten up your spirit. They are also a great way to make a statement to loved ones.

Use a planter that doubles as another decorative element. Choose from porcelain or metal depending on your personal taste. Little things like these add up to bringing more definition to your home without any single piece standing out.

Adorn the walls with Art: Bring home some wall art that brightens ups your home with spurts of colour. You may use a variety of little pieces to tell a story on the walls, or you can choose a single statement piece. Family images can be framed and hung on the walls. Bookshelves are usually a good idea, and you may experiment with how you arrange them.

25 ways to decorate your home on a budget.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Serverware: One can get really creative with decorating their centre table. Start with adding a table runner that matches the cushions. Use wooden platters, trays and serve ware to place the assortment of Ramadan snacks. Set up a side table for all your Ramadan drinks such as dates with milk, rose milk, watermelon juice, sulaimani tea and more. You can choose a set of copper tumblers and jugs and mix them up with floral printed coffee mugs. The use of pastel tones gives a pleasant and happy impression that is perfect for Instagram aesthetics

Outdoor Area: What better place to have that glorious meal than outdoors in the garden by the light of the moon? Create a comfortable ambience in your balcony with cushions, a set of statement chairs and benches. You can also set up a low table for the family to surround it.

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-Top News Ramadan UAE News

UAE leaders share Ramadan greetings

President Sheikh Mohamed greeted for continued good health and well-being, and further progress and prosperity…reports Asian Lite News

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent congratulatory messages to the Kings, Emirs and Presidents of Arab and Islamic nations on the advent of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Sheikh Mohamed wished the leaders and their peoples continued good health and well-being, and further progress and prosperity for Arab and Islamic nations.

He also had phone calls with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain; King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein of Jordan; Egyptian President Abdul Fatah el-Sisi; and President of Tunisia Kais Saied.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, sent similar messages to Arab and Muslim leaders and people on the occasion.

Rulers of Sharjah, Fujairah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al-Quwain have sent cables of congratulations to President Sheikh Mohamed.

They wished further welfare and progress for the UAE and good health for President Sheikh Mohamed, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, and the Supreme Council Members.

Ramadan pardons

Sheikh Mohammed has ordered the release of 971 prisoners of different nationalities from Dubai’s correctional and punitive establishments, ahead of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Attorney General of Dubai Chancellor Essam Issa Al Humaidan said the pardon reflects Sheikh Mohammed’s keenness to reunite the pardoned individuals with their families during the Holy Month. The pardon gives the released prisoners an opportunity to get a fresh start in life and reintegrate into the community, he added.

Dubai Public Prosecution, in collaboration with Dubai Police, has already commenced the legal procedures to implement Sheikh Mohammed’s order, Al Humaidan said.

“As the holy month of Ramadan begins, I wish you all a blessed month of reflection and pray that God continues to grant peace and harmony to the people of the UAE and the world.”
—-Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed

Ajman Ruler Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi has issued an order for the release of 135 prisoners who have demonstrated good conduct during their incarceration in Ajman’s correctional and punitive facilities.

Sharjah Ruler Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, has ordered the release of 399 prisoners.

RAK Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi has ordered the release of 338 prisoners and Fujairah Ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi released 151 prisoners. UAQ Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla also pardoned a number of prisoners.

Zero food waste during Ramadan

Under the directives of Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE Food Bank has initiated a campaign to provide 3 million meals and food parcels to disadvantaged individuals and families both in the UAE and abroad during the holy month of Ramadan.

In collaboration with various partners, the UAE Food Bank, affiliated with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has announced its initiatives for the Holy Month of Ramadan. Besides distributing three million donated meals, these initiatives are aimed at managing food surplus, reducing wastage, and providing sustenance to those in need both within and beyond the UAE. The organisation also seeks to raise public awareness regarding the crucial goal of achieving zero food waste.

Dubai community initiatives

Reflecting the spirit of giving that marks the Holy Month of Ramadan, ENOC Group unveiled a series of community initiatives that aim to benefit more than 400,000 less privileged people across the Emirate of Dubai.

ENOC Group is expanding and strengthening the reach of its Ramadan Aman campaign this year by partnering with Al Ihsan Charity Association to distribute 200,000 Iftar meal boxes to ensure that people who are stuck at traffic signals can break their fast on time.

“Congratulations to the people of the Emirates and to all the Arab and Islamic peoples on the occasion of the blessed month of Ramadan. May God bring it back to us and you with goodness, mercy, security and faith.”
—-Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid

On 10th April, apart from Dubai, ENOC’s employees will also distribute Iftar boxes across Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain.

Under the Ramadan Grocery Distribution initiative in collaboration with Zoom, 50,000 individuals in labour camps will receive a selection of essential grocery items for 14 days during Ramadan this year. ENOC volunteers will pack the grocery boxes which will be delivered from 23rd March to 5th April.

Through its long-standing partner, Beit Al Kheir, ENOC Group will distribute 10,000 Ramadan iftar meals during the last two weeks of the Holy Month to people in need in Dubai. ENOC employees will volunteer their services and help with daily distribution at labour camps in the emirate.

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Food Health Lite Blogs

Stay energised during Ramadan

Fasting for longer periods can make you feel tired and low on energy, during the day. To avoid this, add a short workout session and 5 -10 minutes of meditation will do wonders…reports Asian Lite News

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar wherein people go on a spiritual journey.

Abstaining from food and water during sunlight hours, fasting is supposed to cleanse the body and teach self-discipline. Abstaining from indulgences, meditating on God and encourage acts of generosity feeds the soul. During the holy month of Ramadan, one wakes up before dawn for ‘suhoor’ and then has ‘iftar’ in the evening, a feast celebrated with friends and families. 

While fasting, it is very important to start your day with healthy and nutrient rich food that will help keep you nourished through the day.  Eat healthy snacks in order to avoid stomach/gastro issues. As people across India celebrate Ramadan, here are some tips that to help you plan your meals better, and stay energised:

Opt for Healthy Meals 
The most important element during fasting for long periods is mindful eating. Prepare a plan for your meals; include food that is high in nutrients, proteins, and fiber such as fruit or nuts to keep the body as well as mind energised during the day. One food to definitely add to your Ramadan diet, if you haven’t already, is almonds.

Not only are almonds a good dose of nutrient value, as they are rich in essential nutrients like protein, vitamin E, Zinc, etc. Almonds also have satiating properties that promote feelings of fullness and keeps hunger at bay. So make sure to include a handful of almonds as a part of your meal at dawn.

Create a sleep routine for yourself 
Since you have to wake up early for the first meal of the day, try to adjust your sleep pattern accordingly. With everyone under lockdown, working from home can be exhausting at times, eventually delaying your time to sleep. However, during Ramadan, ensures outlining a scheduled time to sleep, and close all work tasks within that period while also accounting for in-between breaks. As a part of that schedule, make sure to account for at least 7 – 9 hours of sleep. A healthy sleep pattern and regime are an important indicator of your overall health and well-being and helps in increasing productivity as well. 

Make sure to include a workout session followed by some meditation 
Fasting for longer periods can make you feel tired and low on energy, during the day. To avoid this, add a short workout session and 5 -10 minutes of meditation will do wonders. These need not be high intensity workouts, and can instead be basic exercises like breathing, low intensity yoga, stair climbing or even just stretching. This will calm your mind and rejuvenate the aura around you. 

Divert your mind with your favourite novel
During this time, days might feel longer and tiresome than usual.A good way to avoid feeling like this is to plan your day in advance, and allocate time for all sorts of activities beyond work. Invest your time in reading; this is especially great for people who aren’t working from home these days.  Reading a good novel will also help strengthen your vocabulary, brain health and memory as well as relieve stress

Invite the little ray of sunshine! 
Being in the sun improves your metabolism and induces a refreshing feeling in the body. Your mood will lighten up and that will give you the energy to be more productive. Open up the windows and let the sunlight brighten up not only your home but also your mood. 

Try to follow these simple steps to keep yourself energised during the day and focus on self-care during Ramadan. Do not push your body or stress yourself with minor things, instead immerse yourself in doing what you love during the month. 

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Fashion Lite Blogs

Mashroo unveils top Ramadan ’23 collection

A one-of-its-kind brand, Mashroo has been endorsed by ace celebrities and international sports persons like Irfan Pathan, Salman Yusuff Khan, Moeen Ali, Tushar Khandekar, mehrajuddin Wadoo, parvez rasool and Danish Bhatt which adds credibility and a personality to the brand’s aura…reports Asian Lite News

Mashroo, a homegrown Indian brand that is a pioneer in producing traditional fashion with an upbeat touch has recently announced their collaboration with renowned comedian Munawar

Faruqui for the showcase of their Ramadan 2023 collection.

Incepted a decade ago with humble beginnings, the brand has scaled itself to be celebrated as a seasoned player in the industry known for leading a new wave of fashion that stands out. With a steep upward curve of growth, fame and relevance for their target audience , Mashroo today is a class apart platform for those who cherish fashion.

“Munawar resembles our strive for modesty with class. We are more than a clothing brand as we seek to introduce fashion which is elegant and comfortable. We take pride in having come this far and our brand ethos are synonymous to the values brought to the forefront by Munawar”, says the team in a statement.

The Ramadan 2023 collection is an ensemble of handpicked Thobes, Kurtas, and Pathani suits. The exquisite line of clothing can be accessed at their online store, mashroostore.com, and at easily accessible retail outlets in Mumbai and Bangalore. Besides this, the brand has resellers all across India, including Chennai, Hyderabad, Srinagar and a plethora of other tier 1 , 2 and 3 cities , they also have a global presence in Europe, US, and Africa.

 Mashroo is the choice of men and women who prefer style that’s sheek yet modest. Their meticulously designed Thobes, Jubbahs, Pathanis, Abayas, and Scarves cater to people who desire to dress modestly without compromising on style. The 10-year-old legacy has enabled households to prefer their outfits and pass it on to children because of a vast collection.

A one-of-its-kind brand, Mashroo has been endorsed by ace celebrities and international sports persons like Irfan Pathan, Salman Yusuff Khan, Moeen Ali, Tushar Khandekar, mehrajuddin Wadoo, parvez rasool and Danish Bhatt which adds credibility and a personality to the brand’s aura.

An alluring amalgamation of traditional and modern elements, the Ramadan 2023 collection is amongst the much-awaited releases of the brand. It is because of the brand’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction which reflects in the steady increase in the brand value over time.

The collaboration with Munawar Farooqui is another endeavor which speaks about the brand aura and will add to the brand’s already impressive reputation. Mashroo speaks a language of superior quality fashion which can be worn on any occasion. Like their previous collections, Mashroo’s recent launch is gathering traction amongst its buyers especially the assorted range of Thobes, Kurtas, and Pathanis.

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