With Ramadan lasting 30 days, from the evening of 2nd April 2022 until sundown on 1st May 2022, we spoke to Meharunniza (Me-hair-ru-nee-sa) JaffarAli, Assistant Manager – Finance & Accounts, Chennai, India to find out what Ramadan means to her and how work and life mix during this time. As many of our 5000 plus people recognise Ramadan, it is a great time for all of us to learn about this important religious event and support our people during this time.
“Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. It plays a vital role in our faith and the benefits are immense. It is a mandate for each individual Muslim to practice, apart from a few exceptions. Ramadan is treated as the holiest month, and it makes both our soul and body clean. Ramadan keeps us away from all bad activities and that becomes the habit. We fast during Ramadan, recite Quran, and learn patience.
Over Ramadan, the fasting is done between sunrise and sunset. During this time, we are not allowed to drink water. We usually wake up before dawn and eat a light meal known as suhoor. After the sun fully sets, the fast is broken with water and dates, followed by prayers and a meal called iftar. During this Ramadan time we will realize the importance of food and water. We will taste the feel of hunger. All the good deeds are followed for the entire month.
My favourite thing about Ramadan is that it makes us close to the almighty Allah. Ramadan makes our soul pure. The entire month will look like a festival each day. All the family members gather and Fast and it will allow us to spend time with family.
During Ramadan we find we work effectively, with a clear mind in the morning. Post afternoon, we will become a little tired. We often take a small break and work through lunch time, so we can leave early to reach home and arrange for the Iftar. As it is very hot and sunny, working from home is a good option at times.
I find having open conversations with my manager, helps with understanding, flexibility, and two-way respect. This helps me balance work and life, particularly at this time.
IDP plays a vital role in hearing people’s stories, and I am really proud that the company cares about our pains during fasting. I’m so happy to share my story during fasting time.”
Thank you, Mehar, for educating us about this important Islamic time and for sharing your experience. We encourage everyone at IDP to learn more about their teams’ cultures and experiences!