Ramazan’s message of mercy resonates across faiths

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Feb, 2026) As the golden hues of sunset settle over the historic city of Peshawar, a quiet yet powerful gesture unfolds daily in the bustling lanes of Hashtnagri bazaar where foods are shared for joint Iftar parties.

Forty-five-year-old Rawandar Singh, wearing his traditional turban, stands beside neatly packed dates and freshly fried pakoras by distributing it among Muslims at Hastnagri bazzar, showing great spirit of friendship and interfaith harmony.

Moments before Iftar, he pulled down the shutter of his mobile accessories shop and with gentle determination, he distributes iftar items among fasting Muslims heading home.

For more than a decade, Rawandar has continued this act of kindness that was a tradition inherited from his late father, Awtah Singh.

“I feel inner peace and satisfaction while continuing this noble tradition throughout the 30 days of Ramazan,” Rawandar told APP. “I still remember my father handing out food especially dates and pakoras from Hashtnagri to Mohalla Jogan Ramdas. Those moments remain fresh in my heart even today.”

Now assisted by his young son, Rawandar sees the act not merely as charity, but as a heartfelt tribute to harmony, peace and mutual coexistence.

“It strengthens bonds of love and brotherhood,” he said with a warm smile, greeting passersby who respond with equal affection moments before iftar.

A tradition of shared compassion

In the same locality, Dewa Singh and his son Tajindar Singh who run a telecommunications business organize daily iftar arrangements for dozens of fasting Muslims.

“Inviting people of different faiths to iftar sends a strong message of love and friendship to the world,” they said. “Without winning hearts and minds, we cannot build a society where everyone enjoys equal rights and respect.”

For their family, the tradition stretches back generations which is a legacy rooted in solidarity with Muslim neighbours during the holy month.

As the sun dips behind the towering Koh-e-Sufaid mountains and the Maghrib Azan echoes across the city, long sheets are spread along busy roads for roadside iftars.

Plates of dates, pakoras, jalebi, fruits, sweet drinks and traditional delicacies are carefully arranged by philanthropists at various locations at Hashtnagri, Namak Mandi, Lady Reading Hospital and historic Qissa Khwani Bazaar where strangers sit shoulder to shoulder, enjoying shared meal that transcends religious identity.

Beyond its spiritual significance for Muslims, Ramazan has evolved into a living symbol of interfaith harmony and social cohesion.

Across the city from Qissa Khwani Bazaar to University Road, Takhto Jumat, Mohabat Khan mosque, General Bus Stand and Ramdas roadside mass iftars draw laborers, shopkeepers, travelers and families from diverse backgrounds.

The colourful spread of dahi bhallay, chappal kebab, polao, rice dishes and sweet beverages reflects not only culinary richness but communal unity.

Haroon Sarbdayal, a representative of the Hindu community in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and founding member of the Pakistan Council of World Religions, believes Ramazan provides a powerful platform for strengthening interfaith bonds.

“All prophets and founders of religions promoted peace, forgiveness, patience and love,” he said. “But we must promote acceptance along with tolerance as acceptance builds durable peace.”

He shared that the Hindu community also arranges iftar gatherings during Ramazan and plans to host a grand interfaith iftar in the last Ashra of the holy month in Peshawar, inviting leaders from all religions.

“Dialogue and interaction can remove misperceptions among followers of different faiths,” he added, suggesting the establishment of common study centers at universities to encourage understanding and mutual respect.

Maulana Tayyab Qureshi, Central Khateeb KP, described interfaith harmony as the foundation of a peaceful society.

“Inviting one another to iftar cements bonds of friendship and brotherhood among people of all religions,” he said.

He referred to the historic Charter of Medina, which granted religious freedoms and laid down principles of interfaith harmony and mutual coexistence.

“Its teachings remain relevant today for ensuring lasting peace,” he noted.

Calling charity a core component of islam particularly significant during Ramazan, he urged people to donate responsibly through reputable organizations so contributions reach those most in need.

As the Maghrib Azan signals the end of the fast, hands rise in prayer and dates are shared across faith lines in Peshawar bazaars and streets strengthening bonds of friendship.

In those fleeting yet profound moments, Peshawar’s streets transform into spaces of compassion and collective humanity especially at Ramazan.

From modest roadside dastarkhwans to organized Ramazan camps, these charitable initiatives are more than acts of generosity. They are living reminders that kindness, patience and service transcend religious boundaries.

In a world often marked by division, the spirit of Ramazan in Peshawar quietly tells another story of unity, respect and enduring friendship.