A special Ramadan and Ifthar program jointly organized by the Sri Lankan Embassy Seva Vanitha Unit and the Islamic Presentation Committee (IPC) was held on 04th September 2009 at the Embassy premises. A large gathering of Embassy staff, their families and well-wishers participated at the event at which two Guest Speakers viz: Mowlavi Mohamad Faizel and Mrs. Sharifunisa Hassan together with staff members from the Islamic Presentation Committee (IPC) were in attendance.

This is first ever Ifthar gathering of its kind to have been organized by the Sri Lankan Embassy Seva Vanith Unit in Kuwait. The event was patronized by the Embassy in keeping with its policy of celebrating Sri Lankan events and festivals of all faiths, ethnic and religious denominations. In doing so, the Embassy seeks to promote wider engagement of Diaspora in socio-cultural activities with a view to promoting unity, harmony and brotherhood among all individuals and groups in Kuwait. This is particularly important at a time when the Sri Lankan Government has united the country and is committed to ensuring the wellbeing and property of all Sri Lankans.



The event began with the observance of 02 minute’s silence in honour of the war heroes and those who fought and laid down their lives for the unity and the sovereignty of motherland. Ambassador Sarath Dissanayake addressed the gathering and appreciated the Embassy staff and IPC guests for their commitment and support for the occasion. He also noted the good deeds practiced by the Islamic devotees during the Ramadan fasting season which serves to strengthen humanity and compassion among fellow human beings through sharing of wealth and other charitable donation.

Mowlavi Mohamad Faizel, in his sermon invoked blessings on the invitees and enlightened them on the relevance of Islam and Ramadan for the muslims for the attainment of the self control, spiritual cleansing, enlightenment and values according to the teachings of the Prophet Mohammed. He appreciated the arrangements made by the Embassy in organizing the Ramadan & Ifthar program for the benefit of the Sri Lankan muslim community and invited them to partake in the special Ifthar and Sohour prepared for the occasion.

Mrs. Ramanika Dissanayake, President of the Seva Vanitha Unit also addressed the gathering and thanked the members and their families for their untiring efforts toward making the occasion a success.  She highlighted the importance of observing dignity and respect of human beings, transcending ethnic religious and social barriers. She also appealed to all those present to share love, compassion and kindness with one another so that the world in which we live will become a blessed place for all. She wished the gathering a peaceful and spiritual life during the Holy month of Ramadan and after.

Delivering a special sermon, Mrs. Sharifunisa Hassan thanked the Embassy staff for the opportunity afforded for the IPC to take-part in the special program at the Embassy. In her speech, she offered prayers to the God for the wellbeing and happiness of all. She noted the activities conducted by the IPC for the benevolence of Islamic devotees and briefed the invitees on the merits and the benefits of Ramadan fasting season in spreading the message of the God among his followers.

At the end of the program, a special prayer was conducted by the Islamic devotees following which the invitees enjoyed Ifthar dinner prepared by the members of the Sava Vanitha Unit.





 

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