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Ramadan in Guyana: An Observance of Unity, Faith, and Shared Values

Feb 28, 2025 Letters

Dear Editor,

As we commence the blessed month of Ramadan, it is fitting to reflect on its significance, particularly in a diverse and multi-religious society like Guyana. Ramadan, the ninth and most significant month of the Islamic calendar, is observed by over 1 billion Muslims worldwide. It is a month of intense fasting, special prayers, supplications, reflection, solitude and charity. From dawn until sunset, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs, using the time to strengthen their piety, draw closer to their Creator, cultivate self-discipline, and develop empathy for those less fortunate. It is a time of profound spiritual connection and renewal, emphasising patience, generosity, and community values.

Ramadan is even more remarkable in Guyana because of the deep respect and understanding of its people of different faiths, ethnicities, and cultural heritages. Despite our diverse religious inclinations, Guyanese from all strata of society observe, respect and appreciate the importance of this auspicious month, exemplifying the true spirit of unity and coexistence. During this month, many non-Muslims offered encouragement, participated in iftar meals, and even observed some days of fasting. They appreciate the discipline and dedication required to observe the fast. This mutual respect and love are a testament to the unique social fabric of our country, where religious harmony is not just an ideal but a daily reality.

Remarkably, this year’s Ramadan corresponds with other important religious observances such as the Christian season of Lent, which also emphasises fasting, prayer, and sacrifice and Phagwah (Holi), the festival of colours, symbolising the shared motifs of renewal, self-discipline, and the triumph of good over evil. This significant similarity reminds us of the universal values that unite us in our spiritual paths. These overlapping observances emphasise a beautiful truth—though our religious practices may vary, our core values of devotion, dedication, self-improvement, sacrifice, spiritual enlightenment and community bonding remain strikingly similar.

Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink; it is a jihad (struggle and challenge) of the nafs (soul), a personal battle for self-perfection, moral improvement, and the cultivation of wisdom and higher ethical values. It teaches patience, self-restraint, gratitude, empathy and compassion, virtues that benefit everyone regardless of religious inclinations. Fasting serves as a physical detoxing of the body, a spiritual cleansing of the nafs and a break from harmful habits; that is, it reforms and develops the individual physically, spiritually and socially.

In this spirit of community bonding, we must be cognizant of the importance of One Guyana—a vision of national unity that transcends religious, ethnic and cultural differences. President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s One Guyana Initiative seeks to develop a society where respect, inclusivity, and equality are the cornerstones of national development. Like Lent and Phagwah, Ramadan offers an opportunity to advance more profound understanding, appreciation, respect, and solidarity among all Guyanese. As we welcome this auspicious month, let us reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of mutual respect and shared humanity that define us as a nation.

As someone whose name combines Hindu and Muslim heritage, I take pride in our country’s rich multicultural and multi-religious fabric. My name signifies Guyana’s unique blend of traditions, cultures, and beliefs. We are a nation where Muslims, Hindus, Christians, and people of all faiths stand together in love, respect, harmony, understanding, and compassion for each other.

May this Ramadan bring peace, understanding, empathy, love, and a renewed sense of community.

Sincerely,

Shazad Sookram

(Ramadan in Guyana: An Observance of Unity, Faith, and Shared Values)

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