Iftar ‘dastarkhwans’ spread for the needy

The charitable spirit of Ramazan has encouraged NGOs, communities to feed the poor across the district

RAWALPINDI:

The traditional activity of providing free charity meals during the holy month of Ramazan to needy continues in the city as traders’ communities, generous individuals, and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) come together to serve Iftar meals.

Various 'dastarkhwans' and 'langars' (free Iftar food spots) have been set up in different parts of the city, with banners and posters displayed on main roads near the prescribed locations to invite those fasting during Ramazan.

One large free food spot has been set up in Namak Mandi, Raja Bazar area, where a considerable number of people including labourers and daily wagers are being served with food at Iftar time.

"This is only to seek Allah Almighty's pleasure, a way to show our compassion to those who are needy," said Faisal Malik, a cloth shopkeeper, emphasising the importance of serving those in need.

Similar arrangements have been made by the business community in Purana Qila and College Road to serve deserving people, while another dastarkhwan is active near Benazir Shaheed Hospital on Murree Road, catering to both labourers and travellers.

In addition to community-based dastarkhwan arrangements, NGOs and welfare organisations have also organised daily Iftar dinners at prescribed locations to support those in need. A volunteer at a langar khana mentioned that there has been an increase in the number of individuals attending the food drives each year, noting that the economic situation has led to more deserving visitors joining in during the holy month of Ramazan.