16th April 2024 15:31:54 Hours
Islamic ‘Iftar’ ritual, the breaking of fast at sunset during the month of Ramadan was held at 23 Infantry Division Headquarters, Punani on 8 April 2024 with the participation of a large gathering of dignitaries of Islamic faith in the area.
Major General K.V.N.P Premaratne RSP USP psc, the General Officer Commanding, 23 Infantry Division warmly welcomed the gathering and highlighted the importance of religious harmony among all communities. Later, prayers for breaking the fast were observed, and gathering partook refreshments to symbolize the practice of the ritual. Moulavi M. Shakeel conducted a sermon underscoring the importance and necessity of observing fast in the Islamic faith and its similarities among other religious faiths in Sri Lanka.
Subsequently, followers of the Muslim faith gathered at the venue and conducted a prayer as per their traditions. As the last segment of the event, participants honored the Commander Security Forces - East, Major General M.K.U.P Gunarathne RSP ndu psc IG, and General Officer Commanding 23 Infantry Division by adorning a golden cloth, a traditional way of paying their highest tribute to an individual.
Participants praised the organizers for arranging an event of this magnitude respecting their religious faith. The event was attended by more than 40 Guests of Islamic faith. Commanders of 231, 232, and 233 Infantry Brigades, Senior Officers and Officers from Security Force Headquarters - East and 23 Infantry Division, Government Officials, and Police Officers also participated in the event.
