Samai and sevaiyan come together for Eid at Gujarat University

For Sheegufa, a Master’s student of Sustainable International Business and Foreign Trade, Ramadan is personal. “Each day, I strive to become a better version of myself, focusing on self-discipline, enhancing my spirituality, and strengthening my connections with family and friends. It’s a time for reflection on my actions and intentions, fostering a greater sense of humanity within me. Ultimately, Ramadan is a journey that enriches my faith and strengthens my commitment to being a compassionate individual,” she shared.

“Although I deeply miss my family, I have found a new family in the friendships I have built here”, she added. Her friends, many of whom are also international students, have been her support system. “We share Iftaar meals together, exchange stories, and learn about each other’s cultures, making Ramadan a shared experience despite our different backgrounds”, Sheegufa said.

Echoing her sentiments, Julious, who is pursuing BA in English Literature at LD Arts College, said, “Ramadan away from home is challenging, but with the right mindset, it can be fulfilling. I have found a local Muslim community here that makes me feel at home.”

Practicing Ramadan in Ahmedabad requires a balance of faith and adaptability. Mouhcinat, a BBA (Management) student at Som Lalit College from Comoros, emphasised the importance of staying connected to faith. “Living in an environment where different religions coexist has strengthened me. I have Hindu, Christian, and Muslim friends, and it reminds me that beyond our beliefs, what truly connects us is our shared humanity. Kindness has no religion or color, and this diversity has taught me humility and modesty. My faith is a personal journey, enriched by interactions with others.”

For Angel, a Political Science student, being away from home during Ramadan has been emotionally challenging. “It is very tough. Ramadan brings up mixed emotions, especially when you’re used to the warmth of family, familiar traditions, and a strong sense of community.”

Osama, a PhD student in Agribusiness, recalling the “unsettling incident” in the university area last year said, “While incidents like last year’s can be concerning, they should not be a reason to spread negativity (Some foreign students were allegedly attacked while offering prayers on the hostel premises last year), it is important to focus on fostering dialogue, understanding, and peaceful coexistence. The matter was handled appropriately by the authorities, ensuring the due process was followed. This year, Ramadan has been peaceful and harmonious for most of us. More than anything, I hope for a world where people embrace diversity with kindness and coexist in peace.”

As Ramadan comes to an end, these students look forward to celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr in their own unique way.

“This year, I am excited to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with my friends, both local and international. I have invited everyone to my place, and we plan to celebrate. Since this will be my last Eid in India before I leave in June, I want to make it truly special, filled with love, delicious food, and cherished moments. While celebrating Eid away from home is different, the friendships I have built here have become my second family. This celebration is not just about marking the end of Ramadan but also about appreciating the bonds I have formed. I am looking forward to catching up with my friends, sharing traditions, and creating beautiful memories that I will carry with me forever,” said Sheegufa.

Julious has a plan to start the day with prayers, dressing in his best and then celebrating with friends and classmates.

Mouhcinat rues the fact that the atmosphere won’t be the same as back home, “But I will try to keep some traditions alive, wearing nice clothes, maybe getting henna, and cooking a traditional meal. It won’t be the same, but it’s my way of staying connected to home. More than anything, I miss the warmth of family and the joy of celebrating together”, she says.

Osama, having spent several Ramadans away from Sudan, has adapted to celebrating in a different environment but fondly remembers the traditions back home, where festivities span several days. “Eid in Sudan is completely different. After the Fajr (early morning) prayer, we go door to door in groups, visiting friends and relatives. This usually lasts for three to five days, allowing us to celebrate together and enjoy the spirit of Eid.”
Breaking fast during Ramadan is a sacred moment. These students have embraced Ahmedabad’s culinary scene while holding on to their traditional meals.

Mouhcinat, Julious and Angel are grateful to the Humanity Welfare Organisation, a social services organisation, which has provided them with Iftaar and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) throughout Ramadan.

Sheegufa, on the other hand, has embraced Ahmedabad’s rich flavors. “I mostly break my fast with fruits, and Ahmedabad, with its incredible variety of fruits, makes this experience even more enjoyable! The freshness and diversity add a special touch to my Iftar. When it comes to food, I love exploring local dishes while also preparing my own Fijian meals at home. For this Eid, I will be making Sevaiyan, known as Samai in my culture. It’s a traditional sweet dish that holds a special place in our Eid celebrations, bringing a taste of home to my festivities here. Food has a beautiful way of connecting people and cultures.”

Despite the distance from their families, these students have found ways to keep the spirit of Ramadan alive. As Eid approaches, they look forward to celebrating in their own special ways through bridging cultures, strengthening friendships, and cherishing their faith in a city that has, for now, become their second home.

(Sande Gona is an intern with The Indian Express, Ahmedabad)