In the Ramadan atmosphere, the historic neighbourhood of Anderkilla in Chattogram comes alive each afternoon as nearly 1,500 people gather daily for a month-long mass iftar at the historic Shahi Jame Mosque courtyard.
Continuing the tradition this Ramadan, around 1,500 people broke their fast together on Saturday.
Amid rising prices of essentials, the arrangement has brought relief to many, organisers said.
They said the initiative draws participation from all sections of society, with no separate rows or special arrangements, as day labourers, rickshaw pullers, shop workers, students, employees and businessman sit on the same dastarkhan.
On Saturday, preparations were under way from 4pm, with 15 volunteers arranging plates and spreading mats, while cooking had begun at 8am.
Ten cooks prepared chickpeas, onion fritters, aubergine fritters, samosas, chops and jilapi in large pots and pans, while lemon and iced drinks were readied in large drums.
Mosque authorities said large-scale mass iftar has been organised since 2008, though the tradition of distributing iftar dates back much earlier.
Built during the Mughal era, the mosque has long served as a centre of religious and social activities.
An official from the khatib’s office said the event is entirely funded by donations, many of which are made anonymously.
Some donors contribute cash while others provide food items, he said, adding that recently one donor supplied a truckload of chickpeas, lentils and oil without revealing his identity.
No money from the mosque’s own fund is spent on the arrangement, he said.
Participants said the gathering represents not only shared food but also social solidarity.
A rickshaw puller said work pressure increases during Ramadan while income falls, and being able to break his fast there offers significant support.
A student of Chattogram University said the event reflects equality, where profession or status carries no distinction.
By 5:30pm, the mosque courtyard fills to capacity, and at the call to prayer, all begin iftar together, momentarily setting aside differences of profession and background.
Organisers said participation has been increasing each day this Ramadan, with many joining as volunteers to help prepare and distribute food.
They said the spirit of restraint, compassion and equality embodied in Ramadan finds daily expression at the historic mosque, creating a unique atmosphere in the heart of the city.
