UNESCO Recognises Iftar As Part Of Its Intangible Cultural Heritage

Pic courtesy The Telegraph

New Delhi: The United Nations (UN) on Wednesday recognised the tradition of Iftar, the meal that breaks daytime fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, by including it on its list of intangible cultural heritage.

Iran, Turkey, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan had jointly submitted the application for socio-the cultural tradition to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, reported AFP.

“Iftar (also called Eftari or Iftor) is observed by Muslims at sunset in the month of Ramadan, upon completion of all religious and ceremonial rites,” said UNESCO.

Iftar follows the sunset call to prayer during Ramadan month, and is associated with gatherings “strengthening family and community ties and promoting charity, solidarity and social exchange,” UNESCO said.

“The iftar practice is typically transmitted within families, and children and youth are often entrusted with preparing components of traditional meals,” the UN body said.

The Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which has been meeting in Botswana since Monday, recognised the age-old tradition.