Traditional iftar banquets get modern touch
Ramzan is the season for iftar parties and a number of them have already been held in the city since the holy season for Muslims began. One can’t help noticing that these parties are getting bigger and better with every passing year. From special themes, to bonding with people of different communities, iftar parties are getting a modern makeover today.
Alisha Abdullah, India’s only woman bike racer, says that that these elegant dinner parties are snazzy and a whole lot of fun. “After a full day of fasting, it’s a wonderful feeling to binge on mouth-watering delights with friends and near and dear ones. Many of my non-Muslim friends attend these iftar parties at my place, where we have various themes, like for instance the ethnic theme, when they all dress up in pretty salwars and sherwanis. We click lots of pictures, play simple games and discuss the nitty-gritties of the festival of Eid,” says Alisha adding, “These days iftar parties are turning cosmopolitan, as many non-Muslims also throw cool parties for their friends during Ramzan.”
It’s friends who add the much-needed zing to these fun-filled get-togethers. Then there’s the superbly-cooked food, which can be a great unifier. Actor Abbas says, “The iftar parties today are very different from what they used to be earlier, when you were expected to get together with your family and relatives. Now I invite my close friends for iftar parties, where we catch up and chat over some yummy authentic Hyderabadi fare.”
Fashion designer Rehane Yavar Dhala is happy that the concept of iftar parties has spilled over to different communities and is gaining popularity among people of all age groups. “The main focus of Ramzan is to get together with as many people as possible and spread happiness and good cheer and these bashes promise that. It’s a purification time for one’s body and soul and fosters friendship. When I host an iftar party I invite just about anybody, irrespective of their caste, creed or social status.The beauty of our country is that everyone celebrates all festivals here with the same enthusiastic spirit. So the iftar parties have grown bigger as they now aren’t restricted to a particular community,” she says.
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