Muslims unperturbed over prayers at home

In south India, making and distribution of ‘nonbu kanji’ (rice gruel) for the fast-breaking meal (Iftar) through mosques has ceased. While the act of prayer hasn’t been affected, the community spirit that mosques foster during the holy month may be missing this year. But we hope everything will go smoothly as usual,” Nawab Mohammed Abdul Ali, the Prince of Arcot, who is based in Chennai, told The Hindu . It is part of the sayings of Prophet Muhammad, (peace be upon him), that during medical emergencies and inclement weather, one should not go to the mosque for prayers,” he said adding that people should stay at a safe distance this year while conveying their festive wishes to one another rather than embracing or shaking hands as is commonly done. Having Iftar with one’s family members is more peaceful and blessed,” said K Syed Jafar, general secretary of the Muslim Literary Society (MLS), a community philanthropic organisation in Tiruchi. “The lockdown may be a blessing in disguise – one will be more focused on prayers and less distracted by Iftar parties and shopping,” said Fathima Sulaiman, a homemaker based out of Chennai, who is visiting her hometown, Tiruchi. “The meals may not be as sumptuous and varied as during previous years, but it is an opportunity for me to spend time with my extended family of 15 members. “There will be no prayers in mosques, but there is no plan to shift sermons online,” said Moulvi Abdul Rahim, Tiruchi district secretary of Tamil Nadu Jamathul Ulama Sabai (a council of Islamic scholars). “This Ramzan may be a chance to rediscover ourselves, bond better with our families, chat with old friends to rekindle past memories and do all those small things, which we wanted to do but lacked the time.” Subscription Benefits Include Today's Paper Find mobile-friendly version of articles from the day's newspaper in one easy-to-read list.