Potomac, Maryland. March 30, 2025 (TW) __ Eid al-Fitr was celebrated in the United States of America on Sunday, March 30, 2025. Eid al-Fitr is observed as the accomplishment of religious duties during the month of Ramadhan — month of fasting. Americans of Kashmiri ancestry always organize Eid Milan parties in major cities of the United States – New York, Chicago, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Washington metropolitan area, etc.
One such Eid Milan party was organized by the Americans of Azad Kashmir ancestry at Islamic Community Center of Potomac in Maryland which was attended by more than 500 people including women and children. Azad Kashmir Eid Millan party was officially sponsored by the board of directors of Kashmir American Welfare Association (KAWA).
KAWA is a non-profit organization that works to promote the welfare of the Kashmiri people, primarily through advocacy and humanitarian efforts. It was founded in 1990s, with the goal of supporting the Kashmiri people in the diaspora and in Kashmir. Its aims to raise awareness about the situation in Kashmir, advocate for the rights of Kashmiri people, and provide humanitarian assistance to those in need.
In his opening remarks, Sardar Zarif Khan, Advisor to the President of Azad Kashmir mentioned that the purpose of Eid Milan is to strengthen our community bonds and share our rich cultural heritage. Raja Liaqat Kayani, President of KAWA said that we want to make this Eid Milan unforgettable memories.
Sardar Zubair Khan, representative of ‘Voices of Justice in Kashmir’ said that while we celebrate the Eid today, but we cannot forget the pain and suffering of our brothers and sisters in Jammu & Kashmir. We express our unconditional moral support to the people of occupied land.
It is pertinent to mention here that the banner at the main entrance of the Eid Millan venue read, “Happy Eid Mubarak: With prayers for the oppressed people of Jammu & Kashmir.”
Sardar Shoaib Irshad, General Secretary, KAWA appealed the Trump Administration to stand up and speak up for the freedom of Kashmir.
Khalid Faheem explained that KAWA works to raise awareness about human rights violations and political issues in Kashmir, and advocate for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Sardar Abid Khan highlighted the role of KAWA that provides support to communities affected by conflict and natural disasters in Kashmir. It organizes events and programs to educate the public about Kashmir and promote cultural exchange.
Insaniat Foundation, which is headed by a prominent businessman, Akram Butt, gave 100,000 Pakistani rupees to Rehana Shafi Khan, 6 years old girl whose names was drawn through the Raffle tickets. She will contribute it to a charity of her choosing in Pakistan which helps the needy and homeless people there.
Likewise, KAWA Board members also gave 100,000 Pakistani Rupees to Zaheeruddin Ahmed Khan of Ghaziabad, Bagh whose name was also chosen through Raffle ticket, and she will also contribute to a charity of her own choice in Pakistan.
Gifts prepared by Semab Shafiq, CEO of SEMA COLLECTION were given to the children under the ages of 14 by Semab Shafiq, Sardar Zarif Khan, Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai, Sardar Shakeel Anjum, Ashfaq Shah and Raja Liaqat Kayani. The gift boxes included American and Azad Kashmir flags, pen and various kinds of chocolates.
KAWA welcomes four brothers to Washington metropolitan area which included: Saleem Sahib, Sardar Kabir khan, Advocate Haider Irshad, Asad Khan
KAWA Board of Directors and volunteers include:Raja Liaqat Kayani, Sardar Shoaib Irshad, Sardar Zubair khan, Raja Latif Kayani, Sardar Asghar Khan and Sardar Zahid Khan, Khalid Faheem, Sardar Abid khan, Waseem khan, Sardar Sharez Hayat, Azhar khan, Awais Khan, Imtiaz Kayani, Sohail Khan, Shafi khan, Zeeshan khan, Maqsood Hussain.
For more information, please contact:
Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai, Chairman, World Forum for Peace & Justice
He can be reached at: WhatsApp: 1-202-607-6435. Or. gnfai2003@yahoo.com