Trending Iftar parties: Let us preserve their essence

By: Dr. Fiaz Maqbool Fazili

Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth, holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide. It is a time for self-discipline, humility, and seeking forgiveness, as well as an opportunity to strengthen communal bonds through acts of charity and shared meals. Among these shared meals, Iftar—the breaking of the fast at sunset—holds a special place. It is a moment of gratitude, prayer, and togetherness.

However, in recent years, the tradition of Iftar has undergone a noticeable transformation, particularly in urban and political circles, where Iftar parties have become increasingly common. While these events may seem harmless or even celebratory, they sometimes risk overshadowing the spiritual essence of Ramadan, turning a blessed time into an occasion for socializing, networking, and even ostentation (riyakari).

This article serves as a timely reminder about preserving the essence of Iftar while hosting gatherings. It emphasizes that Iftar should remain a time of spiritual reflection and communal bonding rather than ostentatious events that may detract from the true meaning of Ramadan. Additionally, it provides a balanced critique alongside constructive suggestions for ensuring that Iftar remains spiritually enriching. The role of organizers is also discussed, highlighting the importance of intentionality and mindfulness during this sacred month.

Iftar is more than just a meal; it is a sacred ritual that marks the end of a day of fasting and devotion. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized breaking the fast with dates and water, followed by prayers and expressions of gratitude to Allah. This simple yet profound act is meant to remind Muslims of their dependence on God, the blessings of sustenance, and the importance of sharing with those less fortunate.

Fasting is deeply personal, serving as a means of purifying the soul, yet congregational Iftar fosters empathy, particularly for the poor, needy, and hungry, reinforcing a sense of humility.

Offering food to guests is highly encouraged in Islam, as it is considered a sign of generosity and is pleasing to Allah (SWT). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“He who provides a fasting person something with which to break his fast will earn the same reward as the one who was observing the fast, without diminishing in any way the reward of the latter.” (At-Tirmidhi)

In its purest form, Iftar is a time for reflection, prayer, and seeking forgiveness. It offers an opportunity to pause, reconnect with faith, and express gratitude for life’s blessings. The communal aspect of Iftar is equally important, as it brings families, friends, and communities together in a spirit of unity and generosity.

In recent years, the trend of hosting Iftar parties has gained momentum, particularly among the elite, celebrities, and political figures. While such gatherings may foster social interaction, their growing scale and extravagance raise important questions about their alignment with the core values of Ramadan. It is essential to ensure that Iftar gatherings retain their spiritual essence and do not become mere social displays or opportunities for ostentation.

Hosting Iftar parties that welcome people from all faiths is commendable, as it aligns with Islam’s emphasis on compassion, coexistence, and respect for diversity. Such gatherings can help bridge gaps between communities, foster mutual understanding, and celebrate shared human values. By opening the doors of Iftar to individuals from different religious and cultural backgrounds, hosts can embody the Islamic principles of inclusivity and kindness. These events provide a platform to break stereotypes, promote dialogue, and strengthen human bonds, reflecting the true spirit of Ramadan as a time for reflection, generosity, and unity.

One of the most concerning aspects of these Iftar parties is that the blessed time of Iftar, which should be a moment of humility and gratitude, risks being transformed into a mere social event. If not handled with care, attendees may prioritize socializing over engaging in prayers, seeking forgiveness, or reflecting on the deeper meaning of Ramadan. Gossip, networking, and even “phubbing” (ignoring people in favor of mobile devices) often take precedence over worship and devotion.

Additionally, when guest lists predominantly include privileged individuals—VIPs, politicians, media personalities, and journalists—while excluding the marginalized, the true purpose of Iftar is undermined. Islam places immense emphasis on caring for the less fortunate, and sharing a meal during Iftar holds deeper significance when it includes those who struggle to meet their basic needs.

By overlooking the underprivileged, such events risk becoming exclusive social gatherings for the elite, losing the spiritual and communal essence of Iftar. To truly honor Islamic teachings, Iftar parties must prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that marginalized individuals are not only invited but also made to feel valued and respected, thereby fostering a sense of equality and shared humanity.

The involvement of political parties in hosting Iftar events can be a positive step in fostering community engagement and inclusivity. By inviting people from diverse backgrounds to share a meal, political leaders can promote unity and goodwill.

There is nothing inherently wrong with political figures hosting Iftar gatherings, as they can serve as a means of building bridges and fostering dialogue, particularly with their constituents. However, the intention behind these events must be sincere. The focus should remain on the spiritual and communal aspects of Iftar rather than political agendas or personal ambitions.

To reclaim the true essence of Iftar, it is essential to strike a balance between celebration and spirituality. While there is no harm in enjoying a meal and the company of others, the primary focus should remain on the spiritual significance of the occasion.

Mindfulness and intentionality during Iftar should be cultivated. Instead of engaging in idle chatter or gossip, individuals can use this time for reflection, seeking forgiveness, making congregational supplications (duas), and expressing gratitude for life’s blessings. By doing so, Iftar can be transformed into a meaningful and spiritually enriching experience.

Additionally, there is a pressing need for greater awareness and education about the true essence of Ramadan and Iftar. By emphasizing humility, empathy, and gratitude, communities can work toward preserving the sanctity of this blessed time, ensuring that it remains a source of spiritual nourishment for all.

The trend of Iftar parties reflects broader societal shifts towards social networking and public displays of generosity. While these events may offer benefits, they risk undermining the spiritual essence of Ramadan if not approached with mindfulness. By preserving the focus on spirituality, humility, and communal bonding, organizers can ensure that Iftar remains a blessed and meaningful tradition.

A truly impactful way to celebrate Iftar would be to host gatherings at orphanages, old age homes, or by inviting individuals from below the poverty line as honored guests of Allah. In doing so, we can honor the true spirit of Ramadan and draw closer to the values that define our faith. May Allah grant us the toufeeq (ability) to uphold the sanctity of this blessed time.

The author is a medical professional and senior columnist who writes on social, moral, and religious issues. He can be reached at [email protected].