As the holy month of fasting began on Sunday, Dhaka University embraced the spirit of Ramadan, with students coming together in a joyous and reflective celebration of harmony and fraternity.

The university campus, adorned with dazzling lights, banners and festoons, reflects a unique blend of religious solemnity and communal celebration.

Residential halls have been exquisitely decorated, adding to the aura of festivity, while the dining facilities have introduced special iftar and sehri menus, ensuring students can partake in the traditional meals with ease and comfort.

Mass Iftar at TSC

One of the most heartwarming sights of the season unfolded at the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC), where a mass iftar event, spearheaded by the newly emerged organisation ‘Bangladesh Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad,’ brought together more than five hundred students and passersby in an inspiring display of unity.

Dhaka's streets abuzz with Iftar delicacies on Ramadan’s first day

The gathering epitomised the spirit of Ramadan—where boundaries of background dissolve, and a collective sense of brotherhood takes precedence.

Sharing his sentiments, a student attending the mass iftar expressed, “Ramadan is a time for self-purification, and what better way to break our fast than in the company of friends and peers? This sense of togetherness makes the experience all the more special.”

Abu Baker Mojumdar, convener of the organisation, reflected on the importance of such an initiative, saying, “Last year, under the rule of fascist Hasina, we witnessed undue restrictions on Ramadan gatherings, notably at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology. In response, we took the initiative to host a mass iftar at TSC’s Payra Chattar. Today’s event is a continuation of that tradition, reaffirming our commitment to upholding religious and communal harmony.”

Resurgence of Religious Freedom

For years, students at Dhaka University have voiced concerns regarding obstacles to religious practices on campus. However, with shifting political tides, a renewed sense of religious liberty seems to be emerging. Many students have noted a significant change, expressing a newfound comfort in observing their faith openly.

A student shared, “I feel a greater sense of freedom in practising my religion on campus now. Prayer congregations, religious discussions, and other spiritual activities are unfolding more naturally and without interference.”

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Recounting past incidents, Pavel Ahmod, a student of the Law Department, recalled, “Last year, an attack was orchestrated against students holding a ‘Productive Ramadan’ discussion. Additionally, a Quran recitation event at Batola led to the Arabic department chairman being served a show-cause notice. This year, however, we are experiencing a welcome shift—religious gatherings are proceeding without disruption.”

A Tapestry of Harmony and Fraternity

Beyond the religious observances, Ramadan at Dhaka University has become a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and inclusivity. Students from diverse backgrounds have come together, sharing in the traditions of the holy month regardless of personal faith.

At the Jasimuddin Hall playground, students gathered in small circles, their laughter and camaraderie punctuating the tranquil evening air as they broke their fast together.

Another student from Jagannath Hall recounted a touching moment: “Last night, I greeted my Muslim friend for Ramadan. In return, he invited me for iftar, and we shared a meal together. It is these small gestures that truly reflect the beauty of our coexistence.”

With Ramadan underway, students express their hopes that the spirit of peace and unity prevailing on campus will continue throughout the month, fostering an environment where faith and fraternity flourish hand in hand.