The campus of Dhaka University (DU) buzzes with activity during iftar with classes and exams continuing in the holy month of Ramadan.
In the afternoon, students engage in various activities to prepare iftar making the campus vibrant and lively. The concerted efforts add a new dimension to the joy of Ramadan.
Iftar gatherings take place in various locations on the campus, including TSC, Mall Chattar, Central Playground, Shahid Sergeant Zahurul Haque Hall Playground, Curzon Hall, Battala, and hall premises.
Having iftar with friends serves as an alternative to familial gatherings for those students who are away from their families.
This year, the university authorities prohibited the setting up of makeshift iftar stalls on the campus to control the influx of outsiders.
Instead, iftar stalls are operating within the halls, offering a variety of items such as chickpeas, puffed rice, ‘beguni’, ‘piyaju’, jilapi, juice, banana, and dates.
DU student Rifat Rashid said, "At the time of iftar, we terribly miss our family. But our friends make every effort to make us happy. The experience of iftar at the university is truly beautiful." "The skyrocketing prices of iftar items, however, pose a major challenge for university students. Despite our desires, we can’t afford to indulge in our favorite iftar delicacies," Rifat added.
Hasib Al Islam, a student of sociology department, said, "Iftar transcends the differences between rich and poor. Regardless of religious or ethnic background, people come together to enjoy iftar. This fosters communal harmony and strengthens bonds beyond societal divides."
Besides, former students also joined the iftar celebrations at DU, reminiscing about their time on the campus.