Children in Lucknow celebrate first Ramadan fast joyfully

In Lucknow, many children are celebrating their first fast during Ramadan, known as ‘roza kushai’. For 11-year-old Hashim Ansari, this year’s birthday was extra special as it coincided with his first fast. He wore a new Pathani suit and was excited about iftar. Hashim's family celebrated with gifts and blessings from his grandparents. Another 11-year-old, Hammad Aslam, made a cake for his first roza. His mother, Shiri Shakeel, shared that he carefully gathered all the ingredients for his caramel custard cake. Hammad felt great and enjoyed iftar with his family and friends. Areeba Fatima, 12, celebrated her first fast by dressing in a beautiful sharara and applying henna. Her father, Anwar Hussain, shared how she enjoyed shopping for her outfit and taking selfies with cousins at her roza kushai party. Mohammad Zaid, also 11, recited the Qur'an and attended prayers at the masjid on his special day. He expressed excitement about iftar, especially when he smelled the delicious food his mother prepared, including biryani and pakoras. Lastly, siblings Hammad Abdullah, 9, and Haram Abdullah, 10, observed their first fast together. They shared a meal before dawn and dressed in new clothes for the occasion. Haram initially felt nervous, but his brother’s support helped him feel more at ease about their shared experience.