New Yorkers welcome Ramazan in this way

A large number of Muslim worshippers gathered in New York’s Times Square to mark the advent of the holy month of Ramazan. Some of the worshippers were displaying Palestinian flags in solidarity with Gazans.

The faithful offered the first Taraweeh, a special Ramazan night prayers, with bright LED advertising billboards in the backdrop.

Young Salman Al-Hanafy said that it’s good to come here as Muslims. He added that he saw Muslims from everywhere. The forklift operator from Cairo said it was his first time here.

Over 100 Muslims  gathered for the prayer Taraweeh despite cold and windy conditions. Children were seen reciting from the holy Qur’an. Copies of holy Quran were offered to both Muslims and curious passersby on the occasion.

An IT student said that a lot of people are interested in the Quran. We have almost run out of French ones, Ahmad Yar said and added the Quran explains the importance of fasting during Ramazan.

During the holy month of Ramazan, observant Muslims refrain from eating and drinking from dawn to dusk. They gather with family and friends to break the fast in the evening.

During the holy month Ramazan, Muslims traditionally gather in large numbers at mosques, especially at night.

Since Oct 7, New York has been the hub for dozens of protests, some pro-Palestinian and others pro-Israeli.