The royal residence opens its doors for the inaugural Iftar event, fostering interfaith unity…reports Hasil Odungat
Windsor Castle made history by hosting a grand Iftar celebration, welcoming devotees and guests from diverse backgrounds. The event was attended by more than 350 guests, including His Majesty the King. Hosted by the Ramadan Tent Project, welcomed people of all faiths in a spirit of unity and inclusivity.
Held within St George’s Hall, which was normally reserved for state-banquets marked a significant moment in interfaith engagement in the UK. Attendance was managed through a ballot system, with registration in advance to accommodate high demand.
Last year for the first time in history, The Berkshire Royal Residence opened its doors for the devotees to break their fast. Last year, for the first time, the Berkshire royal residence welcomed worshippers to break their fast in its Learning Centre. Due to the overwhelming success of that event, the castle once again became the setting for this significant interfaith gathering.
The event was widely praised online as a symbol of religious harmony, though it also drew criticism from some social media users. One Twitter user questioned the King’s decision, posting: “Will our Head of State be hosting an Easter banquet for Christians at Windsor?”
Despite the mixed reactions, the King has remained a steadfast advocate for religious diversity and interfaith dialogue, says Simon Maples, the Visitor Operations Director for the Royal Collection Trust. He highlighted that the event served as a meaningful opportunity to welcome individuals from all faiths and backgrounds, aligning with the Royal Collection Trust’s mission to ensure the Palaces and the Royal Collection are accessible to everyone.
Omar Salha, CEO of the Ramadan Tent Project, described the event as “Simply breathtaking! A royal Open Iftar for the first time in British history!” He points out the significance of hosting 400 guests from diverse backgrounds in Windsor Castle’s St George’s Hall for the first time in its 1,000-year history.
The Ramadan Tent Project is known for its open iftars all across the country and will be collaborating with the Royal Collection Trust to host many more open iftars this Ramadan, including the Shakespeare’s Globe, Brighton & Hove Albion FC stadium.
