Free Iftar Dastarkhwans set up across capital

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 28th Feb, 2026) As the holy month of Ramazan continues, free Iftar Dastarkhwans have been set up across the Federal capital, offering meals daily to hundreds of underprivileged individuals, including labourers, daily-wage workers, bike riders, passengers, persons with disabilities and the homeless.

Sponsored by local philanthropists, mosques and non-profit organisations, the initiative aims to support those in need while fostering a spirit of generosity and communal well-being during Ramazan.

Murad, a representative of Jamia Masjid Rehmat lil Aalameen Centre in F-8, stated that the mosque has been organising a free Iftar Dastarkhwan every Ramzan for the past five years for daily-wage earners, labourers, professional bike riders and travelling commuters, serving approximately 250 individuals daily.

He shared that the initiative is aimed at supporting deserving members of the community while also fostering spiritual growth. In addition to the daily Iftar meal for the underprivileged, the mosque also arranges special religious lectures focused on moral development and Islamic teachings.

“The initiative provides not only a meal to break the fast but also a welcoming and respectful environment where guests are treated with dignity and care. Volunteers from the community actively participate in meal preparation and distribution, reflecting a strong spirit of unity, compassion and service,” he said.

Murad emphasised that the mosque remains committed to continuing this noble cause and expanding its outreach to serve more deserving individuals in the coming years.

Ateeq Afridi, founder of a leading youth-led volunteer organisation, said his team has been organising the Ramzan Meherban free Iftar Dastarkhwan in G-9 for the past nine years. He noted that the response has been overwhelming, with local and international students from leading universities actively participating as volunteers. The Dastarkhwan serves approximately 400 to 500 people daily.

“Labourers, bike riders, taxi drivers and others rely on this initiative to break their fast,” he said.

He added that the menu includes dates, bananas, pakoras, samosas, chicken qorma, naan, roti, halwa and occasionally zarda, ensuring a fulfilling meal for all. Funding for the initiative comes from his circle of friends and well-wishers.

He emphasised that feeding the needy is considered Sadaqah Jariyah in islam.

“I urge everyone to contribute to this noble cause. These people are part of our society and look to us for support,” he remarked, vowing to continue serving his homeland and humanity.

Sharukh, CEO of the non-profit organisation Helping Hands, said he has been organising a free Iftar Dastarkhwan in F-11 for the past six years. Continuing its annual tradition, the foundation is once again arranging free Iftar Dastarkhwans during the holy month of Ramzan.

He shared that special arrangements have been made to provide ration support to underprivileged individuals, particularly widowed women, enabling them to observe Ramzan with dignity and respect.

“We should not limit our support for those in need to the month of Ramzan alone; rather, we must extend our help throughout the year. Providing Iftar is indeed a great act of charity, but true success lies in making service to humanity our continuous responsibility,” he added.

He affirmed that his organisation would continue its mission with the same commitment and spirit, sustaining its efforts to serve humanity and support those in need.

Fatima, a dedicated volunteer for the past ten years, expressed her fulfilment in being part of the initiative. “I feel immense satisfaction in serving others. I will continue to contribute to humanitarian efforts in the future,” she said.

Ocean Lee, a volunteer and student at Bahria University, shared her experience, saying, “It’s heartwarming to be part of this initiative. The kindness and generosity of the people here are inspiring.” She pledged to remain engaged in volunteer work.

Kaleem, a daily-wage labourer earning between Rs1,200 and Rs1,500 per day, expressed his gratitude. “I am the sole breadwinner for my family. This Dastarkhwan helps me save money for other necessities. It’s truly a relief in these tough times,” he said, offering prayers for those who organise the free meals.

A philanthropist involved in the initiative highlighted the growing number of attendees, underscoring the impact of such charitable efforts. “It is a great relief for the needy, and we are committed to continuing this service,” he affirmed.

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