The Indian Muslim Community of Jersey City (IMCJC) came together once again for their 2nd Annual Grand Iftaar in the month of Ramadan, held at Lincoln Park on Sunday, March 31, 2024.
This event, organized by a soon-to-be non-profit organization, showcased the community’s unity and shared respect, a press release from organizers said.
With the collaboration of city officials and the Jersey City Police Department, the event welcomed more than 600 attendees, “a testament to the community’s spirit of giving and solidarity,” manifested in more than 12 years of being a pillar of support for the local Indian community, the press release said.
This year’s Iftaar was no exception, with the organizing team comprising dedicated volunteers from within the community, both men and women, who worked tirelessly to ensure the event’s success. Organizers included Hussain Kolani, Mohammed Farooq Khan, Mohiuddin K Gulam, Pervez Khan, Shahbuddeen Khan, Mo- hammed Nadeem Abrar, Aamir Moghul, Munaf Indawala, Shakeel, and all the boys volunteers: Saif Ansari, Shoaib, Amaan, Danish, Samad, Shadab, Ibrahim, Abdul, Zainuddin, Mansoor, Saad, Talha, Adil, Adeeb, Afnan, and Hisham, as well as the girls sponsors: Sana Afroz, Seema Afroz, Falak Noor Baig, Zoha Fatima Ahmed, Sumayya Fa- tima Ahmed, Harshini Borra, Syeda Sana Amjad, Ayesha Fatima, Mariam and Ayesha.
Organizers gave special thanks to Arjumand Jaweria, who helped with all the permits from the city, and Usman Gani, who played a pivotal role in inviting some of the city officials.
The evening commenced with a “profound reflection” on the significance of Surah Qadr by Zoha Fatima Ahmed, followed by an eloquent recitation of Surah Baqrah by Dania Mehreen. The participation of young members like Ahmed and Mehreen underscores IMCJC’s commitment to nurturing future leaders and fostering a sense of belonging among the youth.
Gratitude was extended to the city officials and Jersey City Police Department for their unwavering support, ensuring the smooth execution of the event. Spe- cial thanks were also extended to Sgt Osama Badawi for all the help provided by the Jersey City Department.
City officials including Councilwoman Mira Prinz-Arey, Administrator Peter Hoton, Congressman Rob Menendez, Former Governor McGreevy, and Con- gressman Jeremy Julis attended the event. Special thanks were extended to the County Sheriff for facilitating the event location and providing essential logistical support.
Organizers gave kudos to the Lincoln Park management team for their assistance and cooperation throughout the planning and execution of the Iftaar.
Central to the success of the event were the generous contributions of numer- ous food sponsors, including Bombay Vada House, Hyderabadi House, Dosa Biryani House, Deccan Spice, Dosa House, Golconda Chimney, Saptagiri, Las- sani, Parata Junction, Southern Spice, Pariwar Delights, Bawarchi, JP Canteen, Brooklyn Pizza, and Desi Adda. These sponsors provided attendees with a feast of scrumptious delicacies, leaving taste buds tingling and hearts full. Special thanks to Mohammed Farooq Khan, one of the organizers who played a cru- cial role in the event. His efforts were instrumental in encouraging the sponsor restaurants to provide food, ensuring the success of the Iftaar. We deeply appreciate his dedication and kindness in making the event a grand success.
Medina Pharmacy, owned by Omar Chaudry, emerged as the event’s biggest sponsor.
Looking ahead, IMCJC expressed its commitment to continue organizing such events, with the hope of welcoming even more individuals into the fold and making a meaningful impact in the community.
