Free Iftar dastarkhwans serve hundreds in capital

Mosques, charities and volunteers unite to support underprivileged during Ramazan

ISLAMABAD:

As the holy month of Ramazan continues, free Iftar dastarkhwans have been established across the federal capital, providing daily meals to hundreds of underprivileged individuals, including labourers, daily-wage earners, motorbike riders, commuters, persons with disabilities and the homeless.

Sponsored by local philanthropists, mosques and non-profit organisations, the initiative seeks to assist those in need while fostering a spirit of generosity and communal solidarity during Ramazan.

Murad, a representative of Jamia Masjid Rehmat lil Aalameen Centre in F-8, said the mosque has organised a free Iftar dastarkhwan annually for the past five years, serving approximately 250 people each day. The beneficiaries include daily-wage workers, labourers, professional riders and travellers.

He noted that, alongside the provision of meals, the mosque also arranges religious lectures focusing on moral development and Islamic teachings. "The initiative offers not only a meal to break the fast but also a welcoming and dignified environment where guests are treated with respect," he said, adding that community volunteers actively participate in meal preparation and distribution.

Murad reaffirmed the mosque's commitment to continuing and expanding the initiative in the years ahead.

Ateeq Afridi, founder of a youth-led volunteer organisation, said his team has been organising the 'Ramzan Meherban' free Iftar dastarkhwan in G-9 for nine years, serving between 400 and 500 people daily. He highlighted the enthusiastic participation of local and international university students as volunteers.

The menu typically includes dates, bananas, pakoras, samosas, chicken qorma, naan, roti, halwa and occasionally zarda, ensuring a wholesome meal. Funding is provided by friends and well-wishers. Afridi described feeding the needy as a form of Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity) in Islam and urged others to contribute to the cause.

Sharukh, Chief Executive Officer of the non-profit organisation Helping Hands, said his organisation has been arranging a free Iftar dastarkhwan in F-11 for the past six years. In addition to daily meals, special ration packages are distributed to underprivileged families, particularly widows, enabling them to observe Ramazan with dignity.

He emphasised that charitable efforts should extend beyond Ramazan, noting that sustained service to humanity is a collective responsibility.

Volunteers expressed pride in their involvement. Fatima, who has served for a decade, described her participation as deeply fulfilling. Ocean Lee, a student at Bahria University, said the experience was "heart-warming" and pledged to remain engaged in volunteer work.