Sri Vijaya Puram, March 17: In the true spirit of the holy month of Ramadan, the All India Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (AIKMCC), Andaman State Committee, organized a grand Interfaith Iftar Meet at Jalsa Banquet Hall, School Line, Port Blair, bringing together people from different faiths, communities, and walks of life. The gathering reflected the essence of Ramadan — a time of compassion, generosity, reflection, and strengthening bonds of brotherhood and harmony within society.
The Iftar Meet witnessed the gracious presence of several eminent religious leaders and community representatives, who shared their thoughts on the importance of unity, peace, and coexistence in a diverse society like the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Among the distinguished guests who addressed the gathering were Swami Shuddhanandaji of Chinmaya Mission, Father Deonis Kerketta representing the Church, Giani S. Rajinder Singh from the Gurudwara, and Hameed Ali Nizami.
The speakers appreciated the initiative taken by AIKMCC in organizing an inclusive Iftar gathering that transcended religious and cultural boundaries and highlighted the values of mutual respect, compassion, and communal harmony. They emphasized that such platforms play a significant role in strengthening social cohesion and promoting understanding among different communities in the Islands.
As part of the programme, donors and supporters of AIKMCC who have been continuously extending their support to the organization’s humanitarian activities were felicitated in recognition of their valuable contributions. In a special gesture of appreciation, the Mortuary Drivers and Postmortem Staff of GB Pant Hospital under PBMC were honoured for their dedicated and often unsung service to society, particularly during difficult times when families require compassionate assistance.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Sh. Anas, Joint Secretary of AIKMCC, Andaman State Committee, who highlighted the various humanitarian initiatives undertaken by the organization in the Islands. He elaborated on the Free Ambulance Service being provided to the community, the monthly distribution of free ration kits to identified needy households, and the organization’s continued efforts in supporting patients requiring transportation to tertiary healthcare facilities in the mainland.
He also spoke about the assistance extended by AIKMCC in embalming and facilitating the transportation of deceased persons to the mainland as well as from the mainland to Port Blair, a service that has brought immense relief to many families during their most difficult moments.
National Secretary of AIKMCC, Advocate Shihabuddin Yasir, also addressed the gathering and spoke about the global functioning and outreach of AIKMCC, particularly in the Middle East countries, where the organization has been actively engaged in various welfare, charitable, and community support initiatives. He emphasized that the strength of AIKMCC lies in the collective goodwill and support of the community across the world.
Speaking on the occasion, President of AIKMCC Andaman State Committee, Abdul Siddique, expressed his happiness in organizing such a meaningful Iftar gathering that brought together people from all sections of society onto a common platform. He reiterated that AIKMCC remains committed to serving humanity without any discrimination.
He stated that the organization does not see caste, creed, or religion, and that anyone approaching the organization with genuine issues is assisted with all possible support and resources. He also acknowledged that the organization has been able to carry out its humanitarian activities in the Islands primarily due to the generous contributions and unwavering support of philanthropic donors, well-wishers, and volunteers.
The programme was compered by Sh. Abdul Waheed, who conducted the proceedings smoothly. The event concluded with the breaking of the fast and prayers, symbolizing the spirit of unity, gratitude, and collective goodwill during the blessed month of Ramadan.
The Iftar gathering stood as a beautiful reflection of the pluralistic and harmonious social fabric of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, where people from diverse backgrounds come together in mutual respect and shared humanity.