The holy month of Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection and self-discipline for Muslims all over the world. But for Mohan Das, a Hindu expat living in Dubai, it has also become a deeply meaningful and rewarding practice.
For the past 19 years, Das has been fasting for the entire month of Ramadan, drawn by a strong inner calling to participate in this tradition. “It gives me immense health and spiritual benefits. I cannot imagine Ramadan without fasting,” says Das, who originally hails from the south Indian state of Kerala.
Since relocating to the UAE in 1993 to work at the Dubai Marine Beach Resort, Das has been participating in Ramadan practices to show respect for his Muslim colleagues. In the initial years, he fasted for a few days during Ramadan, but since 2004, he has fasted for all 30 days of the holy month.
“I saw all my Muslim colleagues around me fasting, so I started to fast for just a few days to express my support,” he explains. “Now I also do it for health reasons and my own spiritual and personal growth.”
Das’ dedication to fasting has not only earned him the appreciation of his family and friends, but it has also inspired his 25-year-old daughter to follow his example. “She has started fasting as well, although not for the entire month yet. She makes traditional iftar dishes like fritters for me as my wife is currently away in India,” he shares.
Das breaks his fast with dates, fruits, and a light snack, followed by his favourite beverage, tea. “I am a tea lover. A hot cup of tea never tastes better than after iftar,” he says.
“When I am at work, I break my fast at the Dubai Marine Beach Resort, where we have a lavish iftar buffet that is packed with guests,” adds Das. “It’s a beautiful atmosphere, especially with the call for Maghrib prayer from the nearby Jumeirah Mosque adding to the spiritual ambience.”
Das uses an alarm to wake up for suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, and credits fasting for helping him maintain his blood pressure and stay in good health. “It has done wonders for me, and I would hugely recommend it to non-Muslims.”
Das’ experience is not unique in the UAE, where many non-Muslims participate in Ramadan by observing the month-long fast as a form of spiritual cleansing or to express solidarity with their Muslim colleagues and friends. This is a testament to the country’s diverse and inclusive society, where people from different backgrounds and faiths come together to celebrate each other’s traditions and practices.
Another UAE expat, Vinod Nambiar, has been observing Ramadan fast for the past 22 years to show solidarity with the Muslim community in the country. His fasting journey started in 2001 when he was working in Mallapuram, India, a village in Thanjavur district, Kerala, with a significant Muslim population. Initially, he didn’t understand the significance of Ramadan and struggled to find food during fasting hours. But, gradually he began to appreciate the essence of Ramadan practices and befriended the imam of a local mosque who inspired him to continue fasting.
In conclusion, Mohan Das’ decision to participate in Ramadan fasting is a testament to his dedication to respect and appreciation for other religions and cultures. Fasting has become an essential practice for him, not only for his spiritual and personal growth, but also for his health and well-being. His story serves as an inspiration to those who seek to bridge the divide between different faiths and cultures and to promote a more inclusive and understanding society.
Also Read: Ramadan in UAE: When faith surpassed religious boundaries! Meet the non-Muslim who has been fasting for over two decades during the holy month
