On Tuesday, March 18th, Bolton School hosted their first ever Iftar event for the holy month of Ramadan, bringing the school community together for an evening of events, and giving everyone the chance to break their fasts together.
This included recitations of the Quran by pupils from the school, as well as stories about the Prophets.
The Boys’ Division Dining Hall was beautifully decorated, adorned with “Ramadan Mubarak” balloons, and large bouquets of white flowers on each table.
Alongside these decorations, leaflets from the Global Rahmah Foundation (GRF) were placed on the tables, informing guests about charitable causes such as orphan sponsorship and the Gaza appeal.
Since Zakat, a form of charity, is one of the five pillars in Islam, making donations becomes even more meaningful during the month of Ramadan.
Speeches were made by the Head Girl and Boy, each conveying their respective views on the importance of Ramadan and the significance of the event itself.
This was followed by Quran recitations from both a Lower School pupil and a Sixth Form student, as well as Prophet stories read by students from both Divisions.
Shortly after, everyone proceeded to either the Boys’ Division Great Hall or the Girls’ Division Great Hall to break their fasts and complete the Maghrib prayer. Dates and water were provided to all before the prayers began.
Once the prayer concluded, everyone went back to the Dining Hall and were met with plates and plates of much loved dishes in the community, such as biriyani (spicy rice and meat dish), chicken tikkas, samosas and daal (lentils).
A final speech was delivered by Head of Foundation, Mr Britton. He highlighted his experience and appreciation for the well-delivered, organised event.
One that will likely become a cherished tradition at Bolton School for years to come.
“I loved the event, it went above and beyond my expectations. The people who organised it made sure to give the best of the best, and my family and I were so impressed – my dad couldn’t stop talking about how well the Maghrib prayer was led. The catering was top tier, and everything from praying, to opening our fasts went so smoothly, thanks to the prefects. The Iftar was certainly a huge success, and was such an important event to hold in school, especially for those who do fast in Ramadan, and also for those learning about it. I especially loved to see everyone’s gorgeous outfits, and the Quran recitations and Prophet stories made the experience all the more perfect” – Marryum Gul, Girls’ Division Year 11 Student.
by Soha Pal