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The quest for best hotels in New York City isn’t easy, especially when you have about more than 700 options around. And it gets even harder when it’s your first time in Big Apple, which can be overwhelming but a possibility for so many new experiences. Some trendy non-touristy, some sit in the heart of it all. Some you stay at for the scene, others ideal for not being seen at all. But the common denominator among them? They’re all, well, cool. Because it’s New York City and there’s no denying to how people and places here define the trends for hotels worldwide. Its hospitality here that is haute.I had always romanticised New York City, thanks to Gossip Girl and any other drama-show based in the town and so for me first time being in there was special: first summer abroad, studying filmmaking and in the centre of it all – finding myself weekending on the Fifth Avenue at The Langham, before even my classes kick off, was just a perfect warmup to New York. The ornery, enduring truth about New York is that it’s all always right here — the talent, the beauty, the energy, the vitality, the smarts, the grit and the peerless cinematic backdrop – “the only city which in reality looks better than on the postcards,” but it’s about how well you can absorb and take it in. And well, The Langham was just the right spot for it. To absorb the piercing skyline and the haute stilettos you notice crossing the Bryant Park. Keep your eyes open, because all it needs is a focus and a frame to know you’re in the right place and at the right time in New York.Set on New York’s favourite Fifth Avenue, which happens to be the most happening place, The Langham is located in Midtown Manhattan, between Bryant Park and the Empire State Building, featuring 234 luxury rooms, range of recreational facilities and an award winning French and Italian Riviera inspired restaurant Ai Fiori.I walked into an open lobby, a large mural behind the reception desk clutched my attention. Beautifully crafted six abstract portraits that form one art piece reflected natural sunlight against beige and navy tones — muted pastels added to a space that was expansive on a grand scale and maturely stride the line between achingly hip and just plain cool.The swift check-in, even when the hotel is almost full, had to be a highlight, because it was literally so convenient and hassle-free.At this point, as soon as I was handed the key to my Executive Club Room, all I could think of was changing into my shorts and heading to explore the city. However, as I entered my room, I realised the thought of heading out from this space instantly needed to be put on hold.The contemporary, modern room, much to my surprise, was lavishly spacious and at my disposal for the entire weekend; naturally, it seemed like the right thing to absorb the place completely before actually looking for other amenities at the hotel. Warm lighting, shades of beige, in-room workstation, a little seating area to invite some friends over, the city view, to look out over the busy streets of New York spotting some fashion and the tip of Empire State Building, a kitchenette installed with coffee/tea machine, a bed that simply hugs your body as you sink into oblivion, and a restroom with a modern, solid-base, freestanding tub, which is great for relaxation with a luxurious spa feel — in short, the room was actually a cute apartment that offered the luxury of just staying in with the views of New York City which itself is expensive in every sense.It was cosy and filled with sweet details, including the chocolate boxes and a pastry for a warm welcome, handwritten note, placed on the workstation ‘Dear Asad, Welcome to The Langham, New York! We are so happy to have you as our guest. I hope you enjoy your stay with us.’So, then I got my robe on, put my feet up in the comfortable cotton slippers as my bath tub filled with bubbles and I got my recent read out of my luggage because it was a break, at last! I felt refreshed, and the sun was almost set as I head for the evening drinks and canapes at The Langham Club while waiting for my friend to join me for dinner later. The facility is exclusively available to guests staying in one of the Club Rooms or Suites and, I must say, it was worth my upgradation. It has a calm ambience, dim lighting and lives and breathes an absolute vibe of fine dining. It’s a perfect lounge for some family bonding.For dinner, I opted for Ai Fiori, an award winning restaurant offering some exquisite French and Italian delicacies that has also introduced some new authentic dishes to the menu. With so many people vacationing in Italy on my social media, but gone are the days where you have to buy a plane ticket to visit the Italian Riviera and Paris in order to enjoy the wondrous Italian and French cuisine. And so I thought why not also be part of the experience, whilst sitting right here in New York? A city so inclusive. Everyone who’s into Italian and French food will recommend authentic places to you in New York that doesn’t involve too much fusion of cuisines and here’s why I am at Ai Fiori: it’s fantastic.Spaghetti (blue crab, lemon, bottarga, calabrian chiles) was truly a great starter to begin the meal. The crab was so delectable and lightly seasoned that, for someone who’s not a huge seafood fan, it was a tasty palate-changing moment. One can figure how it was cooked slowly to make it really tender and grilled to give it charred crispy edges.As I sipped my sparkling water with lemon waiting for my main: Pesce Spada (grilled swordfish, fava beans, ramps bagna cauda), I noticed the detailing of the beige and muted interior, the beautiful wicker lighting and the open bar that’s quintessentially true to the strand the restaurant follows.Not only was the flavour off the charts of sword fish, it was also such a healthy dish. The well marinated fish with onions and peppers along with herbs and spices does it for me —all crunchy and nicely coloured.I called it a night post dinner, and head back to my room looking forward to the next morning.The comfort of bed made me late for breakfast but morning carbs are essential for me and so I began my day with a delectable breakfast at the Club: carrot juice and full English breakfast including omelette with cheese, onions and chillis with baked beans and chicken sausages. A kind of hearty breakfast that I’d have in the comfort of my home.With looking forward to a shopping spree and a walk to Bryant Park and Rockerfeller – my day’s been all about sun tanning, getting the right dosage of summer warmth and Vitamin D.A chilled out weekend in New York is hard to find and manifest. If you’ve been to the city you’d know. So, in respect of that I called it a night, snuggled in my bed with laptop on running the new episode of Gossip Girl reboot, a franchise I have been profoundly fond of.Signing off from my staycation at The Langham New York, everyone can agree on one thing, tans fade, highlights go dark and we all get sick of sand in our shoes. But the end of a staycation is the beginning of a new season. Bisou Bisou.If you’re planning for a summer in New York, The Langham New York is a place to stay and experience.

A group of 19 delegates from DPS-Modern Indian School participated in the 12th annual THIMUN, Qatar Conference, 2023. The four-day event brought together over 500 students from across the world to discuss and debate important global issues. DPS team, consisting of Azhar Jaleel Mohamed, Daiwik Dhar, Vaibhavi Reddy, Vaidehi Rogiye, Leen Sameer, Abid Siyad and Priyankshu Dev Burman, won the second place in the Global Act with Impact Award programme. Sanskriti Pathania and Vidit Dalal served as the deputy secretary general and Mohamed Saad chaired GA-1 which focused on Disarmament and International Security, debating important global issues such as small arms proliferation, cyber warfare, and nuclear disarmament. The delegation was accompanied by Amir Khan and Jolly Sabu.

MES Indian School celebrated the kindergarten graduation ceremony. Jenan Abu-Shaikha, manager of Admissions and Student Development - Oryx Universal College was the chief guest and MES Governing Board president K Abdul Karim was the guest of honour. Principal Dr Hameeda Kadar welcomed the gathering. The tiny tots presented song and dance performances. The little graduates were felicitated by school officials, Dr Najeeb K P, Khaleel A P, Hazmal Ismail, Kashif Jaleel, Abdul Fathah P O, M Mohamed, and M P Saleem. Mehra Nazeer (KG II) and Faihan Fayaz (KG I) spoke. Teacher Safna Shafeek proposed a vote of thanks.

The Little Kingdom of Rajagiri Public School (RPS) celebrated graduation of its seniors (KG 2) with officials. Each of the four classes was represented by the respective valedictorian - Prarthana M (KG 2A), Jayden Pinto (KG 2B), Fathima Zayn (KG 2C) and Adwaith Nair (KG 2D). Principal Sanjeev Kumar made the graduation address. KG teacher Deepa Jayesh welcomed the dignitaries and the parents. The programme concluded with a song by the little graduates.

Ideal Indian School (IIS) marked the graduation of the tiny tots of kindergarten to primary section with a celebration. President Dr Hassan Kunhi M P was the chief guest. Principal Shaik Shamim Saheb, KG headmistress Shirley De Sales, heads of other sections and heads of departments attended the function. The children presented a cultural performance with the theme, 'Wonder kids in Wonderland,' comprising a variety of dances. KG2 students Abbad Farooq recited verses from the Holy Qur'an and Chris Mathew proposed a vote of thanks. Gauri Selvaraj hosted the programme and Seenath and Jasna co-ordinated the event.

The Swiss International School (SISQ) welcomed the public to their annual SISQ Fair recently. Thanks to the hard work of Juliana and everyone on the wonderful support team, the SISQ community and visitors enjoyed a great event filled with incredible performances, food from sponsors and vendors, games, and a lot of fun activities for the whole family, a statement said.The young visitors had a lot of fun on the inflatables, decorating cookies, watching a live bubble show and enjoying the presence of the mascots Donald Duck and Daisy. Visitors had their faces painted, others had henna tattoos and others were taking part in various activities. Both young and older guests enjoyed great sports activities, Zumba, capoeira and aerobics, and took pictures at the digital photobooth station.Abdelhamid's aerobic routine, Sophie's Zumba and Axe Capoiera group offered visitors memorable performances. The SISQ Choir, SISQ Rock Band and Irish dancers brightened the evening with their wonderful performances and special talents.

Noble International School (NIS), Doha organised a three-day teachers’ empowerment programme. The session was handled by Nisam A P (Coach India Academy), a renowned psychologist, and master trainer, who covered various topics in the teaching-learning process. All the faculty members participated in the session and received certificates from the academic director Muneer and principal Shibu Abdul Rasheed.

Rajagiri Public School (RPS) celebrated nature over three days, by observing World Sparrow Day (March 20), International Day for Forests (March 21) and World Water Day (March 22).The senior grade students prepared presentations and mockumentary showing the present status of forests and water and their inter-connect. They pledged to reduce wastage of resources and to minimise waste generation. Principal Sanjeev Kumar emphasised the empowering aspects of such observances by the students themselves. The academic director Dr Prashant congratulated the school for having taken on Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) framework in earnest, and having adopted Goal No 2 (Zero Hunger) and Goal No 13 (Climate Action), for the school activities this year. A bird bath and bird feed were installed by the students. Four tree saplings – Miswak, Hibiscus, Lemon and Mulberry – were introduced to the campus and students have pledged to monitor their growth.

A four-day extravaganza was held at Birla Public School as the Kindergarten section celebrated its annual day and graduation ceremony through an event titled Soiree Musicale. It was a combination of the students of KG1 performing a musical followed by the KG2 students graduating. The proceedings began with the school prayer and recital of verses from the Holy Qur'an followed by the national anthems of Qatar and India. Indian embassy first secretaries Sachin Dinkar Shankpal and S Xavier Dhanaraj, school chairman Gope Shahani, vice chairperson Maria Pakalomattom and management representative Nevile Lukose were present. The academic director-principal Harish Sanduja read the annual report.

Podar Pearl School Grade 5 student, Ferin Farin, set a record in the India Book of Records for making the maximum number of cartoon characters using Plasticine. She made 10 models of cartoon characters using colourful Plasticine.

Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), a Qatar Foundation partner, held its annual Dean’s Honors Reception on their Education City campus to recognise the outstanding academic achievements of 207 students during the previous two semesters. A total of 124 students received First Honors for earning a semester grade point average (GPA) of 3.9 or higher, while 83 students were awarded Second Honors for achieving a GPA between 3.7 and 3.89. GU-Q dean Dr Safwan Masri expressed his gratitude to the faculty and staff who provide the holistic learning environment students need to thrive, and admiration for students who made the most of the university’s resources. GU-Q offers the same renowned Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service degree as Georgetown University in Washington through four majors: International Economics, International Politics, Culture and Politics, and International History.

A futsal tournament organised by OBA of Hameed Al Husseinie saw Hilaalians FC secure the Elites Champions Trophy beating Puttalam FC. Al Misbah FC was third. Golden Glove went to Mohamed Shakeer (Hilaalians FC) and Golden Boot was given to Mohamed Afrar (Misbah FC). Doha Veterans became the champions of veterans' category beating Matrix FC. Mohamed Zameer (Doha Veterans) secured the Golden Glove and Mohamed Fazly (Fantastic FC), the Golden Boot.

The Doha Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) held its 26th DCICAI annual cricket fiesta over one and a half months recently.In the women’s finals, between Brunel against Qatar Design Consortium, the latter won the title. Apexa was named the woman of the match. Men’s finals between Applebee’s and Quantum Global Solutions, saw the former lifting the cup. Mohit Monga was named both the man of the match and the man of the series.The teams’ sponsors were Quantum Global Solutions, Papa Johns Pizza, Morison Qatar, Kreston SVP - Chartered Accountants, Applebee’s Qatar, MS Partner, Brunel and Qatar Design Consortium WLL.Cricket Support Sponsors were Rayyan Water, Sports Corner, Almuftah Group, Sasco, STE - Chartered Accountants, Blue Salon, Alfardan Group, GANT, YOLO FIT, Marzooq AlShamlan, Crowne Plaza, Nando's, Intertec Group, Qbake and Dandy. The trophies were given away by the sponsors and past chairmen of the chapter.The presentation ceremony was conducted by chapter vice chairman Kamlesh Tibrewal who thanked all involved. The Doha Chapter of ICAI, established in 1981, is the oldest among the 38 overseas chapters of the ICAI. The chapter currently has about 300 members, who hold key positions in private and public sector establishments in Qatar.

Indian Cultural Centre's (ICC) outgoing committee led by P N Baburajan has handed over the reins to the new committee headed by A P Manikantan at a ceremony. Indian embassy first secretary and ICCco-ordinating officer Xavier Dhanraj was the chief guest. ICC general secretary Krishna Kumar Bandhakavi conducted the ceremony. Baburajan, in his valedictory message, thanked ambassador Dr Deepak Mittal and Dhanraj for their support and guidance. Dhanraj lauded the outgoing committee. Shweta Koshti proposed a vote of thanks.

College of Engineering, Trivandrum Alumni Association, Qatar Chapter (Cetaaq), recently had its AGM and celebrated 24th year of its inception, at an event titled Tanza Nite.General secretary Faris Ibrahim presented a brief on the activities of the management committee (MC) and treasurer Mohamed Mahroof submitted the financial report for the period, 2021-23. As part of the AGM proceedings, the incumbent MC under Thomas K G stepped down and a new MC led by Sajil Abdul Salam was presented. Prizes for the winners of the sports competitions conducted during the past two years were handed over during the function.In the public function which followed, Indian Business and Professionals Council (IBPC) chairman and chief guest J K Menon and president and guest of honour Jaffer Us Sadik spoke. A keynote address on ‘Engineering for a Better and Sustainable World’ was delivered by Dr Tony Thomas, chief digital and information officer, Signify (previously Philips Lighting).IBPC vice presidents Abdul Sathar and Hisham Abdul Raheem also graced the occasion. Mementos for children who excelled academically in Class X and XII during the past two years were presented by the invited guests. The cultural event featured a welcome dance jointly by dancers from Cetaaq and Abhinaya School of Performing Arts, as well as a dance performance by Cetaaq kids and a music show by Funkaar Beats.

Noted Indian fiction writer Zakia Mashhadi and eminent Pakistani novelist, playwright and short story writer Mirza Ather Baig have been declared winners of the 27th Aalmi Frogh e Urdu Adab Award (International award for promotion of Urdu literature) for 2023.The annual award is instituted in 1996 by Majlis e Frogh e Urdu Adab (MFUA), renowned Qatar-based Urdu literary organisation. The award carries a cash prize of Rs150,000 and a trophy for each winner. It is given every year to a fiction writer/or scholar/or researcher /or critic, each from Pakistan and India, for their significant contribution towards the promotion of Urdu language and literature.The awards will be presented at a function, in October or November, this year, subject to the approval of the Ministry of Culture, Qatar. Majlis chairman Mohamed Atiq said the award winners were unanimously chosen by two independent juries - from Pakistan and India – comprising reputable Urdu scholars.The Pakistan Jury was headed by renowned scholar, critic, researcher and poet- Prof Dr Khurshid ul Hassan Rizvi, with members Prof Fateh Mohamed Malik, Prof Dr Tehsin Firaqi and Prof Dr Zahid Munir Amir.The Indian Jury comprised of the new chairman Dr Shafey Kidwai - who took over following death of Prof Dr Gopi Chand Narang on June 15 last year - with members Syed Mohamed Ashraf, Prof Dr Ateequllah, Prof Qazi Obaid ur Rehman Hashmi and Sheen Kaaf Nizam.Zakia Mashhadi has to her credit nine collections of short stories and a novel and eight books translated from Urdu to English, Hindi to Urdu and from English to Urdu.Her translation of Jeelani Bano's famous novel ‘Aiwan e Ghazal’ into English has been published by the National Book Trust (NBT) and has been highly appreciated at the global level. She has also translated her own 12 selected short stories, also published by the NBT.Zakia Mashhadi has been honoured with numerous awards, which include Iqbal Samman, Ghalib Award for fiction (2016), Sahitya Academy Tarjuma Award (2018), awards from Bihar University for the first three collections of short stories and many awards from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh Urdu academies.Mirza Athar Baig, a native of Sharaqpur, Punjab, Pakistan, is regarded by critics as one of the most important contemporary writers in the Urdu language. A veteran professor of post-modern and post-colonial philosophy at Government College University, Lahore, Baig announced his entry into fiction with avant-garde works that completely re-shaped contemporary Urdu fiction. He is also currently associated with the Department of Philosophy at the Government College University in Lahore.Baig’s fiction works include three novels, a short story collection and numerous plays for television. His first novel, Ghulam Bagh is considered one of the central works of literature in the Urdu language. Five editions have been published since its initial publication in 2006. Baig has been honoured with ‘Pride of Performance’ award by the Government of Pakistan, the Majlis statement added.

Telangana Praja Samithi Qatar (TPS Qatar) celebrated Shree Subhakrit Nama Satswara Ugadi with an audience of about 1,000 comprising expatriate families and workers from Telugu states, under the leadership of president Gadde Srinivas.Telugu film singers and leading artists from the television industry entertained the guests. Telangana Food Suncons managing director Praveen Kumar Buyyani presided over the event.

The Sri Kerala Varma College Alumni has emerged champions in the Sevens Football tournament conducted by Anecx Qatar as a part its silver jubilee celebration, Silfesta.Anecx, an association of alumni in Qatar from the NSS College of Engineering in Palakkad, Kerala, India, has 400 active members. One of the oldest engineering institutions in Kerala, the institution is affiliated to the APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University.The festivities began with the inter-alumni sevens football tournament with 16 teams. The Sri Kerala Varma College Alumni became the champions beating Wayanad Engineering College. Mousif Naisan (Sri Kerala Varma College Alumni) was the top scorer, and Wayanad Engineering College's Amir was the best goalkeeper.In penalty shoot-out contest for ladies, Sri Kerala Verma College Alumni emerged winners. Anvin Qatar CEO Dileep Balakrishnan, organising committee chairman Santhosh Narayanan, Anecx president Ashiq Ahmad, sponsorship lead Arun B M and general convener Mohamed Riaz, took part in the awards ceremony.Mar Athanasius College of Engineering, MES College Aluva, TKM College of Engineering, Government Engineering College Kannur, Government Engineering College Palakkad, Al Amin College, Sri Chithira Tirunal College, MES Engineering College, KEF-PA College of Engineering, Government Engineering College Kozhikode, AWH College, Lal Bahadur Shastri Engineering College, and Vishwa Jyoti Engineering College were the participants.As part of 25 year celebrations, an indoor sports competition will be held during the upcoming Eid holidays in April at Aspire Dome, followed by an inter-school quiz competition on May 5 at Birla Public School and the grand finale and gala celebrations on May 26 at Holiday Inn, with live music band performance and felicitations to cap off the festivities.

Nowadays, we live in a time in which many ideologies exist - a time of confrontations with different misconceptions, challenges and questions that are often witnessed, heard and repeated. Each one of us in this world, regardless of his/her position, needs something at times to strengthen him, help him stay steadfast and increase his faith and reliance on Allah so he can face strong desires and new challenges as firm as mountains that are unaffected by strong winds or earthquakes.When a person feels lonely, or a problem occurs, when things are bad, when he is about to give up hope on the Mercy of Allah, or when he does wrong; he needs what guides him through such conditions to help him solve the problem, to remind him of the Mercy of Allah and to warn him when he does wrong.Unless a person heads in the right direction with his entire body (his feelings, heart and limbs) towards the Book of Allah, by reading it, contemplating its verses and practising what it contains, then one cannot hope to be steadfast and strong in his faith. He will not feel secure from being punished. He cannot expect a promise to be fulfilled nor to be mentioned or remembered after his death.The Qur’an is the pure spring that never depletes, the great treasure that does not diminish from use, rather it only increases. Its repetition and recitation add to its sweetness and encourage one to read from it again. The Qur’an is the Word of Allah that cannot be likened to any other words. It is protected from falsehood being entered into it from any direction. It was sent down by The All-Wise, Worthy of all praise, Allah, Glory be to Him, Who took it upon Himself to protect it so no one can add to it or subtract from it. It cannot be increased or decreased. It is written in a Preserved Book (in Arabic: Al Lawh Al Mahfooth). It is easy to learn and is often contemplated, memorised, and recited. Allah Says (what means): “And We have indeed made the Qur’an easy to understand and remember, then is there any that will remember?” [Qur’an 54: 17]Anyone, young or old, can memorise it even non-Arabic speaking people. It is not burdensome to read or recite repeatedly. Due to its sweetness, no one gets bored listening to the Qur’an. Scholars never have enough pondering over it, educating themselves from it and learning more of its meanings. Neither mankind nor jinn can produce a chapter that resembles it, because it is an eternal miracle and proof. Allah, Glory be to Him, Commanded us to recite it and to reflect upon it. He made it a blessing as well as blessed.Allah Says (what means): “[This is] a blessed Book which We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], that they might reflect upon its verses and that those of understanding would be reminded.” [Qur’an 38: 29]The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “He who recites or reads a letter from the Book of Allah gets a reward and the reward is multiplied by ten. I don’t mean ‘Alif Laam Meem’ is a letter, rather, Alif is a letter, Laam is a letter and Meem is a letter.” [At-Tirmithi] Allah gave a certain position to those who memorise and work according to it -- a position that makes one different from other people. The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “The best amongst you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it to others.” [Al-Bukhari].He, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, also said: “The example of the believer who reads the Qur’an is like the “Utrujjah” (a type of fruit). It has a nice smell and a sweet taste. The example of the believer who does not read or recite the Qur’an is like a date, which has no smell but tastes sweet. The example of a hypocrite who reads the Qur’an is like the Rayhannah, it smells nice but it tastes bitter. The example of the hypocrite who does not read the Qur’an is like the Hanthalah (colocynth) which does not have any smell and it tastes bitter” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]Tranquillity and true happiness lie in glorifying the Book of Allah, reading it, resorting to it as a reference and using it as a guidance. Wretchedness lies in turning one’s back on the Qur’an, degrading it and deserting it. Allah says (what means): “And whoever turns away from My remembrance - indeed, he will have a depressed life, and We will gather him on the Day of Resurrection blind. He will say, “My Lord, why have you raised me blind while I was [once] seeing? [ Allah ] will say, “Thus did Our signs come to you, and you forgot them; and thus will you this Day be forgotten.” [Qur’an 20: 124-126]The blessed month of Ramadan that we live in these days should remind the believing Muslim Nation of the importance of going back truly and sincerely to the Book of Allah, the great Book that Allah has honored by having revealed it during this month. He, The Almighty, Says (what means): “The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion.” [Qur’an 2: 185]The best way to spend time during the month of the Qur’an (Ramadan) is to give increased importance to the Qur’an by memorising, reciting, practicing and contemplating it. Let us look at our best model, the Messenger, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam. Ibn‘Abbaas, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that: “The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, was the most generous of people and he used to be more generous during the month of Ramadan, when he used to meet Jibreel (Angel Gabriel) and review the Qur’an with him. During this time, the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, was faster (in his generosity and bringing good) than a blowing wind”. [Al-Bukhaari & Muslim]We understand from this Hadith that it is recommended to review the Qur’an and study it in the month of Ramadan, even gathering in group sessions to do so. In addition, we can conclude from it that it is recommended to repeatedly recite the Qur’an during the month of Ramadan. Many people have the mistaken idea that they should recite the Qur’an repeatedly during the day of Ramadan and then stop reciting it during the night. Some of the Salaf (righteous predecessors, may Allah have mercy upon them) used to read the entire Qur’an in Ramadan every three nights, and some used to do it every seven nights, like Qataadah, may Allah be pleased with him; others used to finish it every ten nights. Ibn Rajab, may Allah have mercy on him, said: “The Salaf used to recite the Qur’an in the month of Ramadan during prayer and other times; Qataadah used to teach the Qur’an in the month of Ramadan. Whenever Ramadan started, Az-Zuhri, may Allah have mercy on him, used to say: ‘This is the month of reciting the Qur’an and giving food’.” During Ramadan, Allah gives honour and elevates people with the Qur’an and degrades others as a result of neglecting it. All thanks are due to Allah that the Qur’an is amongst us and it is very easy to obtain a copy: they are in the mosques, the homes, in the libraries and bookstores. In some of the Muslim countries you can even listen to it on the radio. Having the Qur’an available is a great bounty of Allah, glory be to Him. Being able to learn His Book, listen to it, and act according to it is another great favor and bounty of Allah, The Most Exalted.The Qur’an can also be a proven evidence against all of those who neglected it when it was so easily available. Allah Almighty says (what means): “Say (O Muhammad): ‘What thing is greatest in testimony?’ Say, ‘Allah is witness between me and you. And this Qur’an was revealed to me that I may warn you thereby and whomever it reaches...’” [Qur’an 6: 19]The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “The Qur’an is a proof or an evidence for or against you.” [Muslim] So we must fear Allah and pay attention to the Book of Allah, learning it, teaching it, acting according to it and applying it so that we will be among its people. About the Qur’an, Allah Almighty says (what means):“Indeed, this Qur’an guides to that which is most suitable and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that they will have a great reward. And that those who do not believe in the Hereafter - We have prepared for them a painful punishment.” [Qur’an 17: 9-10]Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/Spiritual and physical well-being via fastingAl-Bukhari, may Allah have mercy upon him, has reported that the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “Paradise has eight gates and one of them is Ar-Rayyaan through which none will enter but those who observe fating.” As-Suyooti, may Allah have mercy upon him, has reported that Al-Haarith Ibn Kalda, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated that: “Imposing abstinence from food” was the essence of medicine. Fasting, in medical terms, may mean a variety of things. Some health care practitioners might recommend juice fasting. This type of fast eliminates all solid foods and the person consumes only fruit and vegetable juices. Others might recommend elimination of all foods except fruits and water for a specified time. Some might even recommend eliminating all foods and drinks for specific periods. The reported purpose for these forms of fasting is to cleanse toxins and poisons form the body and the digestive tract. Islamically speaking, fasting both voluntary and obligatory is an act of worship. Although there may be health benefits, its primary purpose must always be to please Allah.Alternative medicine views fasting as a detoxification method. This simply means that it is used to purify the body by eliminating “toxins.” This process enhances the healing processes of the body. Fasting generally is perceived to spare any harm to vital organs but uses fatty tissue, etc. For energy production. Naturopathic healthcare practitioners generally proscribe short fasts. Because body temperature may drop during a fast, as does blood pressure, pulse, and respiration, it is considered important to stay warm. Fasting is seen as possible treatment for a variety of disorders and diseases including: obesity, chemical poisoning, arthritis, allergies, psoriasis, eczema, leg ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, bronchial asthma and even depression.Fasting is a protection for the body and the mind. At-Tirmithi, may Allah have mercy upon him, has reported that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “Fasting and the Qur’an intercede for a man. Fasting says, ‘O my Lord I have kept him away from his food and his passions by day, so accept my intercession for him.’ The Qur’an says, ‘I have kept him away from sleep by night so accept my intercession for him.’ Then their intercession is accepted.” Research has shown that fasting can improve the control of diabetes. Another study has shown that fasting improved the health of persons with irritable bowel syndrome and constipation. Another study suggests that fasting may improve cholesterol levels.Al-Bukhari, may Allah have mercy upon him, has reported that the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said that Allah said: “All the deeds of the children of Aadam are for them, except fasting, which is for Me and I will give the reward for it.” Al-Bukhari, may Allah have mercy upon him, has also reported that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, narrated that Allah said: “The fast is for Me and I will give the reward for it, as he (who observes the fast) leaves his (sexual) desire, food and drink for My Sake. Fasting is a shield (from Hell) and there are two pleasures for a fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord. The smell of the mouth of a fasting person is better in Allah’s Sight than the smell of musk.”There are specific requirements for the Muslim to consider when fasting. First is the intention to worship Allah and obey His commandments. Second, is that the fasting must take place between dawn to dusk. Muslims are prohibited from fasting for more than two continuous days without breaking the fast. This is based on the narration reported in Al-Muwatta, which states that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, forbade fasting for two days or more without breaking the fast in between. Likewise, fasting is prohibited on certain days: ‘Eid Al-Fitr, ‘Eid Al-Adha, and on Jumu’ah (Fridays unless the person has fasted the day before or will fast the day after). Married women are admonished not to fast without the permission of their husbands, as the husbands have a right over their wives.Breaking the fast with dates or sips of water is better. Again, this is based on the Prophet’s Sunnah and the narration reported by Abu Daawood, may Allah have mercy upon him: “When one of you is fasting, he should break his fast with dates, but if he cannot get any, then (he should break his fast) with water, for water is purifying.” Muslim, may Allah have mercy upon him, has reported that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “The Ajwah date is an excellent remedy.” The best days for fasting are Mondays and Thursdays. At-Tirmithi, may Allah have mercy upon him, also reported that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “The deeds of men are presented to Allah on Mondays and Thursdays, and I like mine to be presented when I am fasting.” The thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth of each lunar month are also recommended for fasting. While both the obligatory fasting during Ramadan and the voluntary fasting during the remainder of the year are acts of worship, they may provide healing to the body. Whatever healing may occur because of fasting is a blessing from Allah, however this should not be the intention or the goal of fasting. Fasting gives us a greater ability to control our desires and emotions. It should not be considered a “cure-all” or a diet programme. Those who fast will receive their reward from Allah as long as their intentions are pure and their fasting is not harmed or nullified by lying, backbiting, or evil deeds.Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/

With the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, people with chronic diseases such as diabetes, kidney failure and heart disease have questions about their ability to fast.Consultants from Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) assert that determining the patient's suitability for fasting depends on the assessment of the patient's health by the attending physician.HMC Deputy Chief Medical Officer Prof Abdul Badi Abou Samra said that patients should consult the attending physician before they start fasting, in order to adjust the level of blood sugar and avoid any complications during the fasting period.The decision of the attending physician to fasting depends on the nature of the diabetes patient's condition.Prof Samra said that type 1 diabetes patients dependent on insulin treatment as well as pregnant women with diabetes are advised not to fast.However, type 2 diabetes patients who do not have heart and kidney complications can fast with some precautions, to be determined by the attending physician well before the beginning of Ramadan.It is also preferable to delay Suhoor meal as much as possible, and to drink more water between Suhoor and Iftar to avoid dehydration.Furthermore, for diabetes patients to fast safely, Prof Samra stresses the need to maintain sugar levels within the patient's safe rate of 80-180 mg/dl after breakfast, and to consistently eat Suhoor and Iftar meals, while delaying Suhoor as much as possible and drinking as much water between iftar and Suhoor to protect the kidneys.Stimulants such as tea, coffee and soft drinks must also be reduced as they contain diuretic caffeine, which exposes those fasting to the loss of large amounts of liquids.Post-Iftar exercise should be postponed to avoid seizures due to low blood sugar.Going to the mosque is part of the daily physical and sporting activity allowed for patients during Ramadan.It is necessary to ensure that blood sugar levels are checked several times a day, especially in the early days of fasting, as well as any time the patient feels the effects of having low blood sugar.For kidney patients, senior consultant and head of the HMC’s Nephrology Department Dr Hassan al-Malki classifies kidney patients who wish to fast during Ramadan into three categories, according to the degree of illness.He said that for acute renal deficiency patients, their health condition is critical and therefore they are prohibited from fasting until their kidney condition improves and returns to normal.Chronic kidney patients have different stages of nephropathy, and those with third-degree kidney disease and worse are advised not to fast.This is because the kidneys at this stage are unable to retain body fluids, which can cause severe deficiencies in their function, and may lead to significant kidney damage.Patients should refer to the attending physician to determine the extent of kidney damage and the likely impact of fasting.Patients who are undergoing haemodialysis to treat kidney failure will typically receive the treatment three times a week and cannot fast due to IV fluid intake during the procedure; however, patients can normally fast during days they are not undergoing hemodialysis.For peritoneal washing patients (abdominoplasty) performed by the patient himself at home, they cannot fast due to the presence of substances fed with washing fluid.Kidney transplant patients are advised not to fast due to the effect of low fluid on the transplanted kidneys and the need to take medication on a regular and timely basis.On the ability of cardiac patients to fast, senior consultant cardiologist and head of the Cardiology Department at Al Khor Hospital and associate professor at Qatar University’s College of Medicine, Dr Amar Salam, asserts that the incidence of various heart diseases such as cardiac crisis (clot), cardiac failure, irregular heart (atrial tremor) decrease during Ramadan.Incidences of cardiac failure and atrial trembling resulting from coronary artery failure are also lower.Ramadan fasting also increases beneficial cholesterol by 30-40%, which in turn protects heart arteries from LDL cholesterol deposits.Research has shown that fasting and its accompanying religious rites lead to self-tranquility and lowers excitement of the parasympathetic nervous system, resulting in lower blood pressure and heartbeat, which are good medical signals for most heart patients.Dr Salam said that the attending physician should be consulted several weeks before fasting begins, especially for patients with acute arterial deficiencies, to adjust the dates of taking the medication and receive the necessary instructions to avoid symptoms such as the sense of headache during fastingThe consumption of tea, coffee and other caffeinated drinks should be reduced five days before fasting, as well as foods containing high sugars and fatty substances should be avoided during Ramadan.For cardiac patients taking medication during Ramadan, Dr Salam said that the patient can take the medication at Iftar and again at Suhoor.For patients who take their medication three times a day, they have to see the competent doctor to replace it with a long-acting medication to be taken once or twice a day. – QNA