Red Sea Tamil
Jeddah: In a heartfelt celebration of the sacred month of Ramadan, the Red Sea Tamil Community hosted a dignified Iftar gathering in Jeddah, reflecting the month’s enduring values of compassion, unity, and spiritual renewal. Held at the banquet hall of Chennai Express Restaurant in Sharafiyah, the event drew an impressive turnout from the Tamil diaspora, creating an atmosphere filled with warmth, fellowship, and cultural harmony.
The evening commenced shortly after the breaking of the fast with a melodious and reverent recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Selvan Imran Abubacker, setting a spiritually uplifting tone. This was followed by a gracious welcome address from Ghulam Maideen, senior administrator of the Red Sea Tamil Community. Adding depth to the proceedings, prominent social worker Fayaz Ahmed delivered a compelling address that highlighted the deeper significance of fasting and the transcendent values embodied in Ramadan.
The gathering was further elevated by the presence of distinguished guests. Ezhil Maran, Organizer of the DMK NRI Wing (NRTIA) for the Western Region of Saudi Arabia, extended his felicitations, while Dr. K. Ansari, Founder of ST Couriers and the evening’s chief guest, offered reflections enriched with personal insights and nostalgic memories of Jeddah’s earlier days. His remarks resonated strongly with the audience, adding a meaningful dimension to the event.
Continuing the reflective spirit of the evening, Ahmed Basha delivered a succinct yet profound discourse on the timeless wisdom and moral guidance of the Holy Qur’an, reaffirming its relevance in shaping ethical and compassionate lives. This was followed by an insightful address from Guru, a teacher at the International Indian School, whose words further enriched the intellectual and spiritual fabric of the gathering.
The programme was seamlessly compered by Thanjai Lion Jahir Hussain, founder of the Red Sea Tamil Community, who also delivered the vote of thanks. The evening concluded with an elaborate dinner hosted by Chennai Express Restaurant, exemplifying refined hospitality and meticulous care.
The event stood as a testament to the unity and dynamism of the Tamil diaspora in Jeddah. Among the many notable attendees were Ashab Varkala, Secretary of OICC Western Region; Ramana Shankar and Al Aman of Jeddah Tamil Sangam; Prem Nath, former President of the DMK Overseas Wing; and Abubacker of Jeddah Muthamizh Sangam. Also present were office bearers from Jeddah Tamil Mantram and Jeddah Tamil Solventhargal Mantram, including Ibrahim Maraikkar, Abdul Fatah, and Adam Abul Hasan, along with Abdul Majeed, former Western Region President of Indian Welfare (TMMK); Engineer Haleem; Noorul Ameen of MEPCO; Sadakkathullah of Ramada Hotel; Rafique Hussain; and Banu Shakul, a teacher at the International Indian School. Their collective presence reflected the community’s sustained commitment to cultural preservation, unity, and social cohesion.
The seamless execution of the Iftar gathering was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Red Sea Tamil Community members, including Joharal Ghulam, Naresh, Irfan, Abbas, Rayees, Praveen, Ilakkiya, Shafan, and Kali. Their tireless contributions ensured the event’s resounding success. More than a customary social gathering, the evening emerged as a poignant celebration of unity, compassion, and shared purpose—reaffirming the enduring truth that collective goodwill and committed service strengthen the very fabric of community life.
