In a historic first, Windsor Castle’s State Apartments hosted an open Iftar event, welcoming over 350 guests at St George’s Hall on Sunday to break their Ramadan fast.
Simon Maples, visitor operations director at Windsor Castle, emphasised the King’s long-standing commitment to “championing religious diversity and encouraging interfaith conversation” for years, according to BBC.
St George’s Hall, traditionally reserved for hosting state dignitaries and grand ceremonial banquets, served as the venue for this significant occasion. Following tradition, attendees consumed dates and offered prayers before commencing their meal.
King Charles and Queen Camilla had also participated in pre-Ramadan preparations last week during a visit to Darjeeling Express, an Indian restaurant in London.
Sharing the moment on X, the official Royal Family account posted a video with the caption: “Packing dates at Darjeeling Express! Traditionally, dates are eaten as the first food to break the fast at sunset during Ramadan. Their Majesties helped pack dates that will be sent to local hospitals for Iftaar during the holy month.,” the post read.
Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, is a time when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. The free event was organised by the London-based charity Ramadan Tent Project.
This year marks the second time the MAC has hosted an Iftar to celebrate the sacred month, which began over the weekend.
