Eid Mubarak - Reflecting on Ramadan..

There are approximately 4 million British Muslims in the UK and around 1.8 billion Muslims around the world, and the vast majority of those will be completing the holy month of Ramadan today. It is important to understand this unique cultural experience and its meanings but also a lifestyle change from a large, influential community which also positively impacts the rest of Britain in many ways.

Many know Ramadan as a month of fasting and whilst this is the most identifiable activity during the month, there is a lot more to be understood about Ramadan.

It is an extremely peaceful month, with many commitments to prayer and readings of the Qur’an to understand the teachings of Islam. It was also during the month of Ramadan that the Qur’an was revealed - one of the most important days in the Islamic calendar. And given the month reinforces the religion and it’s teachings, expect to see young British Muslims a little more religious and brands are starting to adapt to this. For example both M&S and H&M launched “modest” fashion collections this year just in time to cater for those who want to dress modestly during Ramadan.

Ramadan is also an incredibly giving month where charity and charitable causes are highlighted. In the UK we saw many leading charities heavily marketing their Ramadan campaigns and appeals. The British Muslim community donates over ￡100 million to charity just in the month of Ramadan alone, partly why British Muslims are regarded the most charitable faith group in the country. 

There were several high profile events at London’s most recognisable venues to celebrate the meal of Iftar, the break of fast each day. The tradition of fasting from the break of dusk till sunset - in the British summer months an 18 hour day - is the most noticeable lifestyle change seen from Muslim friends and colleagues during Ramadan. This incredible commitment to faith for a month is an experience which is unique to any religion. It also bears a significant change in diet and meals which is why some supermarket retailers and restaurants have adapted to the needs of those fasting. 

Supermarket chains such as Asda, Tesco, Morrison’s and Sainsbury’s tried to cater to these needs and are increasingly stocking Halal products and these will be most visible during Ramadan with more displays and special offers on such food items than ever before. Several restaurants put on special Iftar meals and offers as well as Eid festivities to mark the end of the month of Ramadan.

"the Ramadan economy is worth in excess of ￡200 million each year in the UK"

It is estimated the Ramadan economy is worth in excess of ￡200 million each year in the UK. And whilst it remains a tradition which may need more cultural understanding from wider communities, it is certainly a time of year which is becoming more “mainstream” year on year as brands start to cater to the lifestyle changes of British Muslims nationwide. 

Eid Mubarak to all of my muslim followers..

@paulsagoo