An Iftar reception was hosted at the Ismaili Jamat Khana and Centre, Dhaka, attended by leaders of fellow faith communities, including Hindu, Buddhist, Christian and Bohora communities, as well as members of the civil society, alongside leaders of the Jamat and the Aga Khan Development Network.

In Muslim societies and communities around the world, including in Bangladesh, the holy month of Ramadān ushers in a remarkable change to the patterns and rhythms of daily life. People rise early to pray and eat a meal, known as suhoor, before beginning their daily fast. Kitchens are busy during the day preparing for iftār, and in the evenings, the streets come alive, as people attend to prayers and gather to break their fast. In the spirit of inclusion and generosity, an Iftar reception was hosted by the Ismaili Council for Bangladesh on April 8, 2023, to celebrate the holy month of Ramadan, attended by leaders of fellow faith communities, including Hindu, Buddhist, Christian and Bohora communities, civil society actors and activists, alongside leaders of the Jamat and the Aga Khan Development Network.

The President of the Ismaili Council for Bangladesh, Mr. Amyn Saleh, in his speech emphasized the importance and value of pluralism and tolerance in our lives. He said, “A central purpose of the Ismaili Centers built around the world, is to encourage mutual exchange and understanding between diverse peoples and to play an active role in building bridges between different communities, faiths, and cultures and for creating a space for encounters and dialogue. This purpose has a special meaning during the Holy month of Ramadan, as it reminds us of the values of harmony, respect for human dignity, and empathy that we hold dear and share with people of multiple faiths.” A video on the Global Center for Pluralism was shown to highlight His Highness Aga Khan’s perspective on pluralism and inclusion. 

Guests enjoyed a delicious iftar and great company.