London gets its first Ramadan Lights decorations – and it’s beautiful

The dazzling display was switched on by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.

While we are used to seeing London filled with Christmas lights, this year it as gone international. London has put up its first-ever Ramadan Lights, and it has been attracting attention across the world as well as the gram.

The Ramadan Lights in London are located in the West End, which is in the heart of the city. The lights declare “Happy Ramadan”, and include crescent moons, full moons and stars. Plus, it has been created using 30,000 sustainable lights.

The initiative was set up by the non-profit organisation Ramadan Lights UK, which raised money through public donations. Plus, it was sponsored by Aziz Foundation, which was founded by King Charles and Asif Aziz.

London is famous as a melting pot of cultures, but this extends beyond the capital. While there are 1.28 million Muslims in London, it attracts visitors from the GCC and across the world.

The Scottish National Party leader, Humza Yousaf, and Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, are both practising Muslims. Both of the leaders have shared publicly about fasting during the Holy Month. Plus, the lights were turned on by the Mayor of London.

At the start of Ramadan, King Charles also sent a message to Muslims. He shared across social media: “Wishing all Muslims in the UK, the Commonwealth and around the world a blessed and peaceful Ramadan.”

Wishing all Muslims in the UK, the Commonwealth and around the world a blessed and peaceful Ramadan. #RamadanMubarak pic.twitter.com/62Wa9Ym07y

— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 23, 2023

During the Holy Month, there are special Iftars across the capital. Across London has organised an Iftar at the Victoria and Albert Museum, and Chelsea Stadium in Stamford Bridge. Plus, in previous years, there have been public Iftars in Trafalgar Square.

Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam, and normally lasts 29 or 30 days. The Holy Month marks when the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Mohammed PBUH. During the month, Muslims across the world fast from sunrise to sunset. The last ten days of the month coincide with Laylat Al Qadr.

Eid is expected to fall around 21 April, but the exact date is yet to be confirmed.

Ramadan Kareem.

GO: Visit www.azizfoundation.org.uk for more information.