The bazaar hit list is back for another of our favorite moments and activities to do during the Holy Month of Ramadan. We all have different experiences when it comes to Ramadan, be it the extra number of family gatherings, or the simple act of giving back to the local community. So without any further ado, here are the teams’ favorite moments of the month!
Yasmine El Charif (Content Manager): Actively engaging in community activities, and not paying someone else to do the work for you (totally not judging you if you do, every little
Why I love it: While I completely recognize that Kuwait in general is quite the humanitarian nation, I personally love it when small groups of people get together to feed the less fortunate, gather donations for group Iftars, or sponsor a family’s Ramadan food basket. There’s something special about taking the time to do something for others, when you put in the effort personally, the reward feels so much greater.
My recommendation: You don’t have to be fancy about this. Grab some friends, buy some ready-made meals and drive out to your closest mosque or co-op right at Iftar time to stop those still on the road to feed them. Another idea is to host a Ramadan pot luck for Iftar, and gather small donations from friends and family toward sponsoring a family’s (or more) Ramadan basket or Machla.
Umika Pidaparthy (Online Producer): Being invited to Iftar (hint, hint!)
Why I love it: There’s something about sharing a fulfilling meal during Ramadan that is so festive – people of all backgrounds, breaking their fast and enjoying a feast together. You always feel so welcome and leave totally satisfied!
My recommendation: If you are lucky to be invited to an Iftar meal, just say yes! It’s a delicious way to bond with your friends/colleagues.
Yasmin Gamal (Mixed Media Content): Ramadan Radio Dramas.
Why I love it: I am not a fan of TV Ramadramas and haven’t followed one in years, but I really enjoy listening to a good show on the radio. It reminds me of when I was much younger and would listen to them with my father in his car.
My recommendation: You can tune in using any good radio app to almost any radio station in the world. That is how I get my fix of cheesy Egyptian radio shows right before Iftar time, it’s a great way to pass the time. The entire process also sounds and tastes like home during Ramadan.
Hallah Danbouh (Mixed Media Content): Gergea’an.
Why I love it: Candy, Duh! It’s during those three days where I would actually fall in love again with family gatherings, because of the amount of candy we receive that ends up lasting us for the rest of the month. It is also difficult to resist during fasting, but it’s definitely something to look forward to after Iftar.
My recommendation: If there’s a pile of candy in front of you, and you’ve already spotted your favorite ones, trust me and grab them all! Kids during these days are high on sugar and they will be merciless. So tread carefully, but also use your adult powers to your advantage.
Jennifer Cádiz (Mixed Media Specialist): Being on the roads when it’s super quiet.
Why I love it: Kuwait roads and traffic is not the greatest experience at the best of times, but if you are fortunate to be able to experience the roads when they are quiet, it is bliss.
My recommendation: If you can, try and go work an hour earlier and leave at least an hour later than the shortened office hours for Ramadan, or after Iftar if you do not have to observe with friends or family. If it is possible to avoid being on the roads just before Iftar then you will not experience those desperately trying to make it home to families and loved ones to break their fast. On your day off get up early and drive to somewhere you normally wouldn’t go