Muslims welcome ‘Covid-free’ Ramzan

Month-long fasting begins sans restrictions; businesses upbeat

LUCKNOW : The month of Ramzan, during which the Muslims observe fasts from dawn to dusk across the globe, began in the state capital on Sunday.

And the first day was marked by excitement in what some termed as a Covid-free Ramzan after two years, with many restrictions lifted due to a sharp dip in Covid cases in the state.

“Last year my mother contracted Covid-19 during the beginning of Ramzan and unfortunately died. The entire month meant for peace and prayers was a daily struggle of finding oxygen cylinders and medical supplies. Almost every family lost some loved ones to Covid-19. I am happy to begin this Ramzan without restrictions and protocols. This time Ramzan will be observed with true peace and celebration,” said Syed Ahmad Nadeem, a civil engineer.

Youngsters also have plans to celebrate and spend evenings with friends and family , which also means some great food and iftar parties.

“Covid-19 caught us by surprise two years back. It was very difficult to get anything. And then last year, we were scared to even pick up calls because there were so many deaths. It was a very dismal atmosphere. Thankfully, the Ramzan this year is very normal. My family observes pretty traditional iftar and sehri at home,” said Nashat Hayatullah, social worker and researcher.

Tarawih prayers

Tarawih, a special prayer after iftar held at mosques, commenced again after a gap of two years. More than 1500 Muslims visited Eidgah for the same. This will continue until the end of Ramzan.

Mughlai food

Famous eateries at Akbari Gate, Nakkhas, Chowk, Nazirabad, and other restaurants were crowded after ‘tarawih’ on Sunday. People visited to enjoy famous Mughlai dishes, mainly kulcha nihari and biryani.“I went for ‘tarawih’ after two years. It brought me immense pleasure and peace. After praying, I also met my friends and ate at a famous outlet. We had forgotten the feeling of a normal Ramzan,” said Aarish Ahmad.

People were also seen during the time of sehri at various food outlets to relish non-vegetarian delicacies before beginning their fast.

First time Rozedars

Many ‘rozedars’, who will be observing a fast for the very first time, are happy that they will do it in a Covid-19-free atmosphere. “It was exciting to observe my first fast (roza) this Ramzan. Last Ramzan was observed amid constant fear of Covid-19 and trauma due to loss of our loved ones. We have high hopes that this Ramzan will be filled with joy,” said Hassan Ahmad (12).

Businesses are ‘looking up’

With people lining up to relish delicious Mughlai cuisine since the first day of Ramzan, food businesses are expecting to thrive.

“Things are slowly getting better after the Covid-19 lockdowns and curfews. We are very optimistic this Ramzan as people are more cheerful,” said chef Mujeebur Rehman, owner of Afreen restaurant.

“Things are surely looking up as all Covid-19 restrictions are withdrawn. We expect lot of customers throughout Ramzan,” said Mohd Javed Wahid, owner at Wahid Biryani.

Other businesses and markets also expect to see rise in sales and customers with as Eid draws closer.

“All the traders hope that their businesses will also pick up and the markets will stay crowded in a run-up to Eid,” said Tanveer Raza, a businessman.