From dawn to dusk: The unsung heroes who keep the Ramadan spirit alive

As the call to prayer echoes through the streets and the sun dips below the horizon, millions gather daily to break their fast in the holy month of Ramadan. Yet, we often fail to recognise the unseen army of workers who put their hearts and souls into ensuring that we have a blessed moment of comfort and togetherness. 

From filling our plates with crispy piyajus and begunis to filling our hearts with happiness, these people leave no stone unturned to serve our needs, even sometimes above their own. 

In Bangladesh, Ramadan is observed with immense devotion and enthusiasm. From the early hours of the morning until late at night, countless individuals labour to make Ramadan special for everyone else. 

These unsung heroes-cooks, delivery riders, street vendors, mosque staff, and volunteers-deserve our recognition and gratitude. This hidden workforce is the backbone of the holy month. 

The Pre-dawn hustle: Seheri preparations

While the city sleeps, a group of dedicated workers prepare the seheri meal- the pre-dawn meal that sustains fasting individuals throughout the day. For the past few years, restaurants have been offering such meals catering to those individuals who prefer eating out or those who may not have the time or resources to prepare meals at home. 

The roadside eateries remain illuminated as they serve warm meals to rickshaw pullers and labourers who rely on them for nourishment before the long day ahead. 

Night-shift workers, including security guards and hospital staff, often have to eat their seheri alone, in between duties, or sometimes not at all. For them, the concept of having this meal with their respective families is a luxury. Their dedication keeps the city safe and functional even in the quietest hours of the night.

The Iftar rush: Street vendors and restaurant workers

From the late afternoon, Dhaka's streets come alive with the aroma of fried delicacies, as street vendors brave the sweltering heat to prepare the snacks that make Ramadan evenings special. 

While most people eagerly wait for iftar, these vendors are too occupied with serving long queues of customers to break their fasts on time. They do not have the luxury of pausing and taking a break, hence, they often sneak in quick bites in between frying another batch of begunis or pouring another glass of lemonade.

On the other hand, restaurant workers find themselves in an endless rush as they have to prepare orders, handle large crowds, and ensure timely home deliveries all at once. 

Ramadan is one of the busiest work periods for them. It is thanks to their sacrifices that thousands can enjoy a heartfelt and fulfilling iftar, especially those who do not have the time or resources to cook at home.

The unsung heroes: Delivery riders and transport workers

For the past few years, we have seen the rise of food delivery services and how it has added another layer to Ramadan's workforce. Clad in bright uniforms, the delivery riders weave through traffic like superheroes to ensure that people can receive their iftars just in time for Maghrib. 

These riders often have to battle unpredictable weather, exhaustion, and hunger while making deliveries. Sometimes, they even have to break their fast on the go with a bottle of water and a date. 

A 48-year-old delivery rider named Rahim shares, "I have been delivering meals for the past five years after losing my job. I remember one Ramadan I was heading towards Bashundhara R/A and suddenly it started raining heavily and the roads were flooded. I was drenched and exhausted but I knew I could not stop. When I finally reached the house, the family was kind enough to invite me in to break the fast with them. That moment of warmth and kindness made all the struggles worth it". 

Then there are the rickshaw pullers, CNG drivers, and bus conductors who keep the city moving. While most people aim to head home early during Ramadan, these workers remain on the streets as their jobs demand them to ferry passengers who are desperate to make it back in time for iftar. Hence, these workers often have to break their fast on the road with a simple banana or piece of bread.

The caretakers of faith: Mosque workers and volunteers

In the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims aim to strengthen their relationship with the Almighty since this is the time of heightened prayers and spiritual devotion. Mosques lie at the heart of this spiritual journey as these are the sanctuaries in which millions of Muslims gather and worship. 

These mosques require a dedicated team of individuals who can work tirelessly in order to keep everything running smoothly and seamlessly. Each and every individual has their own role to play from the muezzin who calls the faithful to pray to the volunteers who clean and maintain the mosque.

Mosques also prepare and distribute iftar to millions of people all across Bangladesh during the evening. This ensures that no one breaks their fast alone. Volunteers tirelessly arrange seating, serve the meals, and clean up afterward often breaking their fast in between multiple tasks. 

During the Taraweeh prayers, which can stretch for hours, the mosque staff ensures that the place remains clean, well-lit, and comfortable so that worshippers can pray without facing any distractions or inconveniences.

The invisible hands of generosity

Ramadan is known to be a season of boundless giving. There is an army of selfless individuals who toil long hours often sacrificing their comfort and time to uplift the spirits of people. Every day, charitable organisations and dedicated volunteers come together to provide iftar meals for millions of men, women, and children who might otherwise go hungry. 

They regularly collect funds, coordinate donation efforts as well and pack food parcels for distribution. In Bangladesh, where poverty is a pressing issue, these efforts turn out to be especially significant. Hence, these efforts become more than just a gesture of charity- they are testaments to the enduring power of human compassion.

Recognising their sacrifice

While we arrange iftar meals for the less fortunate and donate to charities, it is equally important to acknowledge and honour those who work behind the scenes. In this month of reflection and generosity, we can show our gratitude by extending kindness to all service workers, supporting livelihoods by purchasing from small vendors and tipping them generously, and sharing our blessings by offering food or water to those who might be breaking their fast alone on the streets or are on the go. 

Hence, instead of just passing by, let us make a conscious effort to see them, appreciate them, and support them. The kindness and empathy we extend now should not be temporary gestures but lasting values that shape how we treat the people around us during Ramadan and beyond.

This Ramadan, as we sit down for iftar, let us remember those who make it all possible. Their sacrifice may be invisible, but it deserves to be recognised, honoured, and appreciated.

Kazi Farbeen, a senior at North South University, is passionate about exploring cultural narratives and societal perspectives through writing. 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.