Birmingham Sikh Family Fasts During Ramadan in Solidarity with Muslim Community
A Sikh businesswoman from Birmingham has revealed how her family demonstrates profound respect for the Muslim community by participating in Ramadan fasting traditions. Rani Rawji, 56, serves as the business liaison officer for Soho Road's Business Improvement District and is a dedicated mother of two, actively working to foster connections between different religious groups in the city.
Embracing Diversity from Mumbai to Birmingham
Rani, who resides in Handsworth Wood, attributes her inclusive outlook to her upbringing in Mumbai, where she was immersed in various religious events and cultures from a young age. She moved to England as a teenager in August 1988 and has carried this mindset into her adult life, emphasizing the importance of respecting everyone. "We respect everything. Everyone. I've been brought up like that," she stated in an interview with BirminghamLive.
Family Traditions of Interfaith Support
This commitment to unity is vividly reflected in her family life. Rani explained that her daughter-in-law, who is Muslim, has had her faith wholeheartedly embraced by the family. Each year, relatives of different religions come together to complete a fast on the 27th day of Ramadan, known as roza, a tradition initiated by Rani's husband. "To give my daughter-in-law company during Ramadan, we do the 27th roza with her," she shared. Additionally, Rani enjoys iftar meals daily during the holy month, further immersing herself in the experience.
Extending Hospitality Beyond the Family
Beyond her immediate family, Rani is dedicated to organizing an annual iftar meal for her Muslim friends. "I arrange iftar every year without fail for my Muslim friends at home. They all come and eat together, I provide and cook the food," she said, highlighting her efforts to create a welcoming and supportive environment.
Educational Insights on Sikh Beliefs
While Rani is passionate about bringing religions together, she also provided an educational perspective on how Sikhism differs from Islam in terms of fasting. She clarified that Sikhism does not traditionally involve fasting, describing it as a way of life rather than a religion. "Don't forget, I come from a Sikh background, we don't believe in fasting. Sikh is a way of life, not a religion. But a lot of people think it's a religion - it's not a religion," she explained. She emphasized that Sikhism prioritizes humanity and karma, with religion being secondary.
Through these actions, Rani Rawji exemplifies the spirit of interfaith harmony in Birmingham, showcasing how simple gestures of solidarity can strengthen community bonds and promote mutual understanding.
