UNESCO Adds Iftar to Intangible Cultural Heritage List
The decision was announced on Wednesday, after a joint application by Iran, Turkey, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.
“Iftar — also called Eftari or Iftor — is observed by Muslims at sunset in the month of Ramadan, upon completion of all religious and ceremonial rites,” said UNESCO.
UNESCO said that iftar fosters family and community bonds, as well as charity, solidarity, and social exchange. It also said that iftar celebrates the values of generosity and gratitude, which are important during Ramadan.
The tradition of iftar varies across different Muslim countries, with different recipes and customs. For example, in some countries, iftar is marked by eating a date and drinking tea. UNESCO said that “the iftar practice is typically transmitted within families, and children and youth are often entrusted with preparing components of traditional meals”.
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The recognition of iftar was made by the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which had been meeting in Botswana since Monday. The committee is responsible for selecting and protecting the cultural expressions and practices that reflect the diversity and creativity of humanity.
Source: Agencies
