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JEDDAH: Reflecting the profound ethos of Ramadan—an enduring season of compassion, unity, and spiritual renewal—the Red Sea Tamil Community hosted a dignified Iftar gathering in Jeddah, bringing together members of the Tamil diaspora in an atmosphere imbued with warmth, fellowship, and cultural harmony. The event, held at the banquet hall of Chennai Express Restaurant in Sharafiyah, witnessed an impressive and enthusiastic turnout, underscoring the community’s vibrant collective spirit.
The evening’s proceedings commenced shortly after the breaking of the fast, with a melodious and reverent recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Selvan Imran Abubacker, setting a contemplative and spiritually elevating tone. This was followed by a gracious welcome address from Ghulam Maideen, senior administrator of the Red Sea Tamil Community. Adding depth to the occasion, prominent social worker Fayaz Ahmed delivered a compelling address, articulating the deeper significance of fasting and the transcendent values embodied in the holy month of Ramadan.
The gathering was further distinguished by the presence of eminent personalities. Ezhil Maran, Organizer of the DMK NRI Wing (NRTIA) for the Western Region of Saudi Arabia, extended his felicitations, while Dr. K. Ansari, Founder of ST Couriers, graced the occasion as chief guest. His engaging reflections, marked by personal insights and nostalgic recollections of Jeddah’s earlier days, resonated deeply with the audience.
In continuation of the evening’s reflective tenor, Ahmed Basha delivered a succinct yet profound discourse on the timeless wisdom and moral guidance of the Holy Qur’an, reaffirming its enduring relevance in shaping ethical and compassionate lives. This was followed by an insightful address from Guru, a teacher at the International Indian School, further enriching the intellectual and spiritual fabric of the gathering.
The programme was seamlessly compered by Thanjai Lion Jahir Hussain, founder of the Red Sea Tamil Community, who also delivered the vote of thanks. The evening concluded on a note of refined hospitality, with Chennai Express Restaurant hosting an elaborate dinner, exemplifying generosity and meticulous care.
The event stood as an authentication to the unity and dynamism of the Tamil diaspora in Jeddah, marked by the presence of several prominent community leaders and active members. Among those in attendance were Ashab Varkala, Secretary of OICC Western Region; Ramana Shankar and Al Aman of Jeddah Tamil Sangam; Prem Nath, former President of the DMK Overseas Wing; and Abubacker of Jeddah Muthamizh Sangam. Also present were office bearers from Jeddah Tamil Mantram and Jeddah Tamil Solventhargal Mantram, including Ibrahim Maraikkar, Abdul Fatah, and Adam Abul Hasan, alongside Abdul Majeed, former Western Region President of Indian Welfare (TMMK); Engineer Haleem; Noorul Ameen of MEPCO; Sadakkathullah of Ramada Hotel; Rafique Hussain; and Banu Shakul, a teacher at the International Indian School. Their collective participation reflected the sustained commitment of the community towards cultural preservation, unity, and social cohesion.
The seamless execution of the Iftar gathering was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Red Sea Tamil Community members, including Joharal Ghulam, Naresh, Irfan, Abbas, Rayees, Praveen, Ilakkiya, Shafan, and Kali, whose tireless contributions ensured its resounding success. Beyond a customary social gathering, the evening emerged as a poignant celebration of unity, compassion, and shared purpose—reaffirming the enduring truth that collective goodwill and committed service have the power to inspire, uplift, and strengthen the very fabric of community life.
M. Siraj
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