Windsor Castle Hosts Historic Iftar in St George’s Hall

The historic gathering took place in St George’s Hall, a venue typically reserved for state banquets and official ceremonies.

“It’s an amazing atmosphere – it just doesn’t feel real,” one attendee told the BBC.

The event, held on Sunday, was organised by the London-based charity Ramadan Tent Project. As the call to prayer echoed through the hall, guests broke their fast with dates and water before performing prayers and sharing a meal.

“It’s very kind of the Royal Family to open their home to us,” one woman said.

Another guest expressed astonishment at the momentous occasion. “We never thought we’d be here breaking Iftar. We’ve come a long way.”

Simon Maples, visitor operations director at Windsor Castle, emphasized the Royal Family’s longstanding commitment to interfaith dialogue.

“The King has been championing religious diversity and encouraging interfaith conversation for many years,” he said.

Special Experience

For many attendees, the experience was deeply personal.

“I studied history at university, so to actually open my fast in Windsor Castle is not something I ever thought I would do,” one guest share.

“To mix my Muslim identity with that historical knowledge is a real privilege.”

Another attendee, visiting the castle for the first time, described it as “an awesome experience. The first time to be here and to do it in an Islamic way – amazing.”

Some guests even extended an invitation to King Charles himself.

“Any day, any time,” one attendee said. “We’ve got Ramadan for 30 days. Let me know when you’re ready.”

Omar Salha, founder and chief executive of the Ramadan Tent Project, praised the King’s role in fostering inclusivity.

“The King is an excellent ambassador for this cause and is committed to community cohesion,” he said. “We are incredibly grateful for his support towards the British Muslim community.”

Open Iftars, which welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds, are being held throughout the UK for the duration of Ramadan.

For those who experienced Windsor Castle’s first-ever Iftar, the night was truly unforgettable.

SOURCE: https://aboutislam.net/muslim-issues/europe/windsor-castle-hosts-historic-iftar-in-st-georges-hall/