Kerala Plans for Biggest Ramadan Congregation

TRIVANDRUM: The Madin Academy in Kerala is preparing for the largest Ramadan congregation to be held on the 27th night of the Holy Month.

Last year, more than half a million faithfuls were estimated to have attended the nightlong prayer meet held at the Swalath Nagar where the Islamic learning centre is situated in Malappuram district.

On the 19th day of the sacred month, a special session will be held to remember the departed UAE leader Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan that includes charity distribution, Ifthar meet, Prayer Majlis and a commemoration conference, organisers said on Sunday.

 “We have prepared a 25-point action plan to be implemented during the holy month. This will send out the message of charity and mercy to half a million families,” said Sayyid Ibrahim Khaleel Al Bukhari, chairman of the academy.

Last week, he inaugurated a campaign that includes spiritual gatherings, Iftar meetings and online meet ups discussing spiritual matters besides learning and charity activities.

The Madin Grand Masjid also hosted Marhaban Ramadan, the relief programme held as part of “Hands of Mercy” project in the district.

Muslims in Kerala, who constitute 24.7 per cent of its 33.3 million population, began fasting on Sunday after various religious heads confirmed sighting of the Ramadan moon on Saturday night.

During this month, scholars address the faithfuls stressing the need for tolerance in a pluralist society.

“This is an occasion for spreading the message of peace and tolerance. Spiritual gatherings will be held every Friday from 9am onwards and there will be Hadith classes and Itikaf Jalsa at the Grand Masjid on all the 30 days of fasting depending on the sighting of the Shawwal moon,” said Al Bukhari, who also organises interfaith harmony events every year.

For the attendees of Itikaf Jalsa, the organisers offers accommodation on its premises.

Special study classes on religious matters are held every day after Maghrib prayers.

Thousands of believers gather for the Iftar where delicacies donated by the local community are served.

Women can attend home science classes, Rayyan, led by eminent scholars from July 2.

The participants will get an opportunity to clarify their doubts.