King's College to host Ramadan open Iftar event

Open iftar has been described as a "joyous moment" by organiser Omar Salha

Hundreds of people will share a meal and break their Ramadan fast at a free open Iftar event organised within a Cambridge college.

The holy month of Ramadan, which began over the weekend, sees Muslims fast and refrain from eating or drinking between dawn and sunset.

Ramadan Tent Project (RTP), a charity bringing people together during the Islamic month, is hosting about 20 open Iftars across the country at iconic venues including Windsor Castle with an aim to bridge gaps.

Founder Omar Salha said the team had seen an "overwhelming" interest in the project, adding: "It is a great moment of cultural diplomacy .. to raise the profile of inter-faith dialogue - now more than ever."

More than 300 people are expected to attend the open Iftar at King's College on Friday.

Muslims will break their fast at about 17:40 GMT after a call to prayer at the dining hall within the university grounds on King's Parade.

Omar Salha said the charity was "excited" to be back in Cambridge with the open Iftar

Worshippers will be joined for their meal by people of different faiths - and no faiths.

The open Iftars are free this year but visitors are encouraged to make a donation if they wish.

Mr Salha said: "Food is a great mediator and open Iftar is really what the name says - it's welcoming to all, irrespective of their faith or background.

"We have been overwhelmed by the invitations and interests from some of Britain's most loved and iconic spaces, who want to open their doors and welcome us too.

"It is a way of extending our arms to the wider community and turn strangers into friends."

'Spaces of belonging'

Ramadan Tent Project started in 2013 with an aim of fostering community ties and over the years it has brought together over a million people across the UK.

"People see the end product, Mr Salha said.

"But it is months of negotiation and conversation to make it happen.

"It is an excellent example of how methods of bridging can create spaces of belonging for all faiths and none."

The dean of King's College Chapel, Reverend Dr Stephen Cherry, said: "We're delighted that Open Iftar is returning to King's College this year.

"For us it is an important act of hospitality that allows members of the Cambridge community to come together during Ramadan in a spirit of shared learning, respect, harmony and celebration."

Ramadan Tent Project said it relies on its volunteers and without them it wouldn't be where it is today