Windsor Castle is a vast and historic royal residence where the British royal family has its official residence. This castle is used for state ceremonies and hosting official guests. One of its most prominent features, the Round Tower, is of particular interest to tourists.
On Sunday, March 2, as Ramadan began, something unprecedented happened—an Iftar party was hosted in this magnificent royal palace for the first time in 1,000 years. Over 350 Muslims broke their fast with dates and drinks. The echoes of the Maghrib Adhan (call to prayer) resounded through the royal halls, filling the palace with the words “Allahu Akbar”. The attendees performed their Maghrib prayer in congregation and then shared a meal together.
Those who attended described it as an extraordinary atmosphere, something that felt almost unreal.
The free event was organized by the London-based charity Ramadan Tent Project.
According to Simon Maples, Windsor Castle’s Visitor Operations Director, this event was a result of King Charles III’s long-standing commitment to promoting religious diversity and interfaith dialogue.
“We have come a long way,” he remarked, acknowledging the progress in interfaith engagement.
Royal Hospitality and Muslim Identity
For many, this Iftar was not just about breaking fast but about connecting their Muslim identity with a significant historical setting.
This event will likely have far-reaching effects on British and European societies, promoting inclusivity and interfaith harmony.
The holy month of Ramadan offers Muslims an opportunity to seek Allah’s blessings while fulfilling their obligations toward family, neighbors, and society. Fasting teaches patience and gratitude, which form the essence of a believer’s life.
In the UK, around 4 million Muslims observe Ramadan with dedication. There are more than 4,000 mosques, where congregational Taraweeh prayers, extra prayers, and special religious gatherings take place.
In Muslim-majority cities, mosques cater to followers from diverse sects, backgrounds, and ethnicities. Communal Iftars bring people together in spiritual gatherings full of prayers and remembrance of Allah.
However, some cities see crowded markets at Iftar time, resembling shopping scenes in Pakistan. Unfortunately, some South Asian Muslim shopkeepers increase prices on essential food items like dates, meat, and groceries, whereas large non-Muslim supermarkets offer special Ramadan discounts on flour, lentils, rice, and daily essentials.
Islam as the Second Largest Religion in the UK
Islam is the second-largest religion in the UK after Christianity.
In major cities, Adhan (call to prayer) for Dhuhr, Asr, and Maghrib is publicly broadcast on loudspeakers.
Muslims enjoy complete religious freedom, and in some cities, parking restrictions are relaxed during Friday prayers to accommodate worshippers.
However, Muslims sometimes create problems by parking irresponsibly, blocking roads, buses, and even ambulances.
In cities with large Muslim populations, two separate Friday and Taraweeh congregations are held to manage the crowds.
During prayer times, police presence is increased to ensure security and prevent any untoward incidents.
Muslim Youth and Ramadan in the Workplace
Young Muslim professionals in the UK often try to schedule their annual leave during the last ten days of Ramadan to focus on worship.
Fasting in summer can last up to 19 hours, making it a challenging test for working individuals.
Some employers even allow Muslim employees to leave work an hour or two earlier and, in return, expect them to cover for their Christian colleagues during Christmas holidays—a beautiful example of mutual respect in the workplace.
Muslims in the UK continue to advocate for official Eid holidays, similar to Christmas, but this goal remains distant for now.
Muslims in UK Prisons
It is estimated that around 12,000 Muslim prisoners are currently in UK prisons.
Each prison officially appoints an Imam, ensuring that Muslim inmates can perform daily prayers, Friday prayers, and Taraweeh.
During Ramadan, special arrangements are made for Suhoor and Iftar. Some Muslim prisoners are even granted a one-day release to celebrate Eid with their families.
Interestingly, UK prisoners receive pocket money, can pursue education, and learn new skills.
Immigrant inmates are also taught English, preparing them for a dignified return to society.
Some prisoners even convert to Islam while in jail. Unlike many Muslim-majority countries, UK prisons do not force or discriminate against inmates based on religion.
The Growth of Islam in the UK and Europe
Over the past 25 years, an estimated 20,000 people in the UK and Europe have converted to Islam.
For Pakistani and Kashmiri Muslims, the UK is now their permanent home, and their new generations are the true ambassadors of Islam.
Many religious and spiritual groups from Pakistan have established their own communities and centers in the UK.
However, these groups often promote sectarianism, leading to division among Muslims rather than unity.
The Language Barrier Between Scholars and Youth
Today’s young Muslim generation is highly tech-savvy and seeks evidence from the Quran and Hadith in English.
Unfortunately, many visiting scholars from Pakistan and Azad Kashmir continue to deliver sermons in Urdu, which the younger generation struggles to understand.
This has widened the generational gap—parents attend Urdu-speaking mosques, while their children prefer Arabic or English-speaking mosques, where Friday sermons include discussions on current affairs.
Due to differences among scholars, Muslims in the UK started Ramadan on different days and will celebrate Eid separately, further highlighting sectarian divides.
Challenges in Mosque Management
One significant issue in Pakistani and Kashmiri-run mosques is the exclusion of young Muslims from mosque management committees.
Allowing youth leadership in mosque affairs could be beneficial for the future.
Fundraising and Charity Transparency
During Ramadan, Islamic charities raise millions of pounds and euros through live TV fundraising campaigns.
While many Muslims donate generously, concerns remain about whether all funds truly reach the poor and needy.
If all collected donations were properly utilized, poverty in Muslim-majority countries could be eradicated.
The Need for Muslim Unity in the UK
British Muslims must unite their younger generations and move beyond sectarian divisions.
Despite Islamophobia and racial bias, UK laws ensure equal rights for all.
However, Muslims must work together to improve their collective social and economic status.
Lastly, let us pray for the hardworking Muslims, especially Pakistanis, who have built mosques in this country, ensuring that Islam continues to flourish.
May Allah be our protector and guide.