For Muslims, it’s a time for spiritual reflection and growth, to help those in need and to spend time with loved ones – a time when Muslims around the world fast during daylight hours for the month.
Auburn Islamic Community Centre (AICC) President Mohammed Al-Zoubi says the word ‘Ramadan’ comes from the Arabic word ‘Ramd’, which means ‘to burn’; fasting in this holy month is a means to burn away all kinds of sins and sinful thoughts.
The beginning of Ramadan changes every year as it’s based on the Islamic lunar calendar, with each year starting on average 10 days earlier.
Auburn Gallipoli Mosque General Manager Osman Goreli said that meant the first week-and-a-half of Ramadan will take place during daylight saving before clocks are turned back on April 2.
“It could be a little more challenging with the sun going down later but it’s just an adjustment we will be making,” he said.
The mosque will host a free community Iftar dinner on Monday, April 17, from 5.38pm, normal daily prayers and on Eid Friday, April 21, a morning prayer at 7.15am.
“Worshippers will then head home to enjoy breakfast with family for the first time in a month, followed by visiting the sick,” Osman said.
“It’s important to remember that during Ramadan, the blessings of Allah are multiplied many times over for all good works of worship and charity.”
AICC will be hosting nightly prayers at its centre at 12 Harrow Road during Ramadan and two Eid Prayer at the Park events on Friday, April 21, at Wyatt Park in Lidcombe and Campbell Hill Reserve in Guildford, complete with children’s activities, sweets and drinks from 8.30am.
Granville’s Himalayan Restaurant will offer a nightly Iftar Buffet from 5pm, costing $40 a person or half price for children under 10.
Auburn’s Student Biryani is not offering the traditional Iftar Buffet this year, however Iftar products and meals are available in store or via home delivery services.
Harkola Auburn is also selling a range of Iftar products including dates, walnuts and pistachios.
Meanwhile Dougie’s Grill will feature a stand outside their Auburn store, 8pm-2am, with Iftar meals made fresh to order including delicious camel and beef burgers, corns, breads and cheeses.
