Our series Muslims Who Fast has documented Ramadan rituals of people from many walks of life, spanning different continents.
Today we’re closer to home in Luton, where we chat with British-Bangladeshi model Ramzan Miah.
The actor and model is starting to make a name for himself, having appeared in horror film Ghost Stories and blockbuster Rocketman.
Ramzan has also modelled for G Star RAW, River Island, Levi’s, Microsoft, George at Asda, and Charlotte Tilbury.
His professional life is usually pretty hectic but, like most things at the moment, has come to a halt.
But Ramzan has still been using his social media to encourage others to pursue the arts and creative industries which are largely underepresentative.
As an ambassador for The Mix – a digital support service for young people – Ramzan has also been trying to talk about mental health with the youth.
Despite his busy schedule, Ramzan penciled us into one of his iftars and told us about his Ramadan.
Let’s see what he had to eat.
First, tell us more about yourself
I am an actor and model, I use Instagram to share my work journey as I feel that the modelling industry is still under representative when it comes to British Bangladeshis. Therefore I want to use this platform to embrace and create awareness in a positive way.
Outside of this industry, I love travelling and experiencing different lifestyles. There are also days where I get the best of both worlds, travelling to different places and working at the same time, which is epic.
What are you eating today?
Today we are having fulab, which is pilau rice mixed with meat, and homemade lamb burgers, salad, and kisuri (made from rice and lentils).
I break my fast by having Medjool dates with some nice cold water. Once this is done we usually go and pray Maghrib.
After the prayer is completed, my family and I eat all together and end the iftar by having refreshing fruits or sweets with a nice cup of chai.
What is Ramadan normally like?
During the month of Ramadan, we would be at our brother’s or aunties’ houses, eating altogether, sharing food, and praying. We love spending time with family as this is important to us.
I would also go to the mosque with my dad and brothers and perform the Ramadan prayer called Taraaweh (night prayer).
Whats a must-have staple during the month?
We always make sure we have dates, a rice-based dish, and sweets. Usually, we buy a sweet dish from our local store. However, this year we made homemade Jalebi (Indian sweet).
What has Ramadan under lockdown been like?
This Ramadan has been a blessing as I have more time to focus on my faith and values and spend quality time with the family.
I have been researching and focusing more on charity work and understanding the Qur’an. In terms of work I have also been busy collaborating with different brands from home and doing home content shoot, and that has been going well.
We have also been cooking for Luton and Dunstable Hospital as during Ramadan we know hospitals might be finding it difficult to produce meals, so we have been delivering food in compliance with the social distancing rules.
What do you miss when you’re fasting?
I miss snacking away and exercising during the morning – I like to focus on my mind and body and do exercise early. However, during Ramadan, this can be challenging.
I also miss going out to different restaurants to break our fasts!
What does Ramadan mean to you?
Ramadan is about sharing, not just with food, but sharing our prayers, our humanity, and our community. It’s about changing for the good. As humans, we are always constantly busy, but this month is the time to pause and reflect on your faith.
Any particularly fond memories?
Yes, I love spending time at my aunties’ houses during Ramadan, this has always happened during my childhood and I love that we eat together, share jokes, pray in one household and leave with positive energy after.
How are you spending your Ramadan in lockdown? To get involved in Muslims Who Fast, email MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
Share your stories in the comments section below.
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source https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/13/muslims-who-fast-ramzan-british-bangladeshi-model-shows-off-iftar-style-12687630/
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