Two interfaith iftar events hosted by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Tilford brought together diverse communities in celebration of Ramadan.

Qurans translated in various languages on display at Unity in Diversity event in Tilford.
Qurans translated in various languages on display at Unity in Diversity event in Tilford. (Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association)

The gatherings aimed to foster understanding and unity while providing an opportunity to experience the breaking of fast during the holy month of Ramadan.

Ramadan is the traditional month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection, during which Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset, breaking their fast in the evening with the iftar meal.

Guests learn about the Holy Month of Ramadan at the Big Iftar event in Farnham.
Guests learn about the Holy Month of Ramadan at the Big Iftar event in Farnham. (Ahmadiyya Muslim Women's Association)

Last week, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) hosted the ‘Unity in Diversity’ event, welcoming more than 160 guests from across the region.

Attendees were given a guided tour of the mosque before participating in a discussion on Islam and the community’s humanitarian work. It was followed Q&A session addressing topics such as women’s rights, peace, justice and Islam’s representation in the media.

Clothing items on display at the Big Iftar event in Farnham.
Clothing items on display at the Big Iftar event in Farnham. (Ahmadiyya Muslim Women's Association)

Speaking to the attendees, Ibrahim Ikhlaf, the national secretary for Ahmadiyya’s outreach department, quoted the Prophet Mohammed, saying: “A Muslim is the one who protects other people (whatever their background is); he protects them from his tongue and his hands.”

Cards at the Ahmadiyya Big Iftar event.
Cards at the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women's Association’s Big Iftar event. (Ahmadiyya Muslim Women's Association.)

Abdul Quddus Arif, president of Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association, added: “We, as Muslims, believe that every religion’s source is from the same God. Just as we believe in the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him), we believe in all the other previous prophets as well.”

A similar event, the ‘Big Iftar’, was hosted by the Farnham branch of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association. The gathering featured cultural activities, including Arabic calligraphy and a ‘Try on a Hijab’ station, to dispel misconceptions about Islam.

More guests at Big Iftar Ramadan event.
More guests at Big Iftar Ramadan event. (Ahmadiyya Muslim Women's Association)

An interfaith panel discussion focused on the role of women in peace-building. Local dignitaries, including councillors and school representatives, also attended.

Both events underscored the importance of interfaith dialogue, leaving attendees inspired by the shared values of peace, unity, and mutual respect.