With the holy month of Ramadan finally upon us, for most believers in Australia, it is a time of sacrifice, piety and spirituality. Given the vibrancy of the multi-ethnic culture and communities in the country, what is it really like to spend this period of time in the land down under?
Our blog post this week takes an insider look for all those celebrating this blessed period of fasting and festival, yet another sign of the country’s rich religious and cultural endowment.
Read until the end for a surprise giveaway!
Fasting during the season
Given that Ramadan falls more or less during winter in Australia, this means that fasting hours are less for adherents in the country than for those abroad.
Despite the shorter hours, however, many still claim that the practice is no less challenging than for those celebrating abroad. Given that this period marks a time for spiritual introspection and prayer, Muslims around the country observe their religious practices and teachings with great diligence. While many practitioners of the faith return home for the season, many stay back in the country for a fundamentally different, yet no less rewarding, experience.
While more and more signs of religious sensitivity are manifesting within the Australian community, most workplaces, nonetheless, operate at regular hours during this time. This often means that anyone looking to make it on time for Iftar (break fast meal) and Tarawih (prayers after break fast), has found it to be a somewhat challenging undertaking.
Despite this, however, workplaces are reportedly growing more aware and attuned to the needs of their employees. This has meant that certain offices either excuse their Muslim staff or even close a little earlier than usual. Additionally, given that more and more mosques are being constructed due to the country’s growing Islamic population, individuals find it a little easier to find a place to pray and break fast close to work or university.
Celebrating Eid Al-Fitr
With the aforementioned growth in the Australian Muslim community, steps have been taken to spread the joy and festivities of the season with non-members as well. In 2017, Sydney witnessed a mini cultural explosion on Eid, when a street festival overflowing with sweetmeats and middle-eastern delicacies were prepared for all those who visited Haldon Street.
In 2016, for the first time in the country’s history, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull hosted a momentous Eid feast at his residence, inviting all Muslim leaders of the country to attend.
If you’re looking to celebrate the holiday with a wide range of celebrants, there are a number of Eid festivals that are organised Australia-wide. Canberra is known to take a colourful approach to mark the occasion, through the organisation of a multi-cultural festival with attractions for both children and adults alike. Local events can be found without too much difficulty and is a promising sign of the undeniable cultural vibrancy of the country.
All in all?
Ramadan is a time of simplicity and peace for Muslims around the world. For those who find themselves in Australia during this holy month, it is a time unlike any other. Given the growing cultural appreciation surrounding Ramadan, many adherents find a home away from home, in the land down under.
If you reside in Australia and wish to send your wishes for the season to your family, our money transfer services are ideal for all your needs.
Given the abundance of joy and prosperity with which Eid is celebrated, we wish to give all our loyal customers a chance to win BIG this Ramadan.
If you’re up for winning a brand-new iPad, simply send money transfers of more than $200 during this period and take a stab at guessing how many dates we’ve got in our jar!*
Visit our giveaway page for more information on this exciting new offer!
*Terms and conditions apply