Muslim Members in the Army Join ‘Iftar’ Ritual at Army Headquarters with Commander

A gathering of Officers and Other Ranks of Islamic faith at the Army Headquarters Friday (29) evening sat together with their head of the organization, General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army in order to perform the ‘Iftar’ ritual, the breaking of fast at sunset.

Organized by the Army Muslims' Association, the performance of the ritual ‘Iftar’ symbolized the degree of reconciliation and the goodwill as well as the deep respect the Army Headquarters attaches to this religious performance, practised by world-wide Muslims. It was also meant to invoke blessings on the prosperity of the country.

This new practice of ‘Iftar’ was initiated and introduced to the Army when General Shavendra Silva was the Adjutant General of the Army several years ago providing a platform for all Muslim brethren in the Army to meet with one another under one roof.

Moulavis (Clergy) who graced the occasion were full of praise to the Army for organizing such a well-arranged ‘Iftar’ ceremony and claimed that it was the best of all and the most neat and tidy ceremony. “The Army Chief as well as troops rendered an unmatched service during the times of the war and so did they during the most recent COVID-19 epidemic for which the nation is indebted. Had that support not materialized in a systematic manner, we would continue to suffer. Therefore, the Army should be congratulated for its timely and praiseworthy roles,” they remarked.

The welcome speech of the event was conducted by Brigadier Askar Muthalif. Two brief talks delivered by Maulavi, Rev Mohamad Irzad and Maulavi, Rev Safraz Iqbal in Sinhala and English languages explained what ‘Iftar’ ritual is all about and its meaning to the conduct of life.

After prayers for breaking of the fast 'Iftar', the Commander of the Army, Chief Guest for the occasion, together with Major General Vikum Liyanage, Chief of Staff, Brigadier Askar Muthalif Chairman, Army Muslims’ Association and the gathering partook of refreshments and symbolized the practice of the ritual.

At the same occasion, the Commander of the Army awarded mementos to both Maulavis who conducted ‘Iftar’ ritual sessions during this ceremony after a brief address to the gathering.

Lieutenant Colonel J.K Jalal delivered the vote of thanks towards the end of the programme.

Mrs Sujeewa Nelson, President Army Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Janaki Liyanage, Vice President Army Seva Vanitha Unit, a representative group of spouses, Army Officers and Other Ranks also joined the occasion.