Ramazan in Russia

Moscow, August 22, 2009 (Khabar) - Dozens of religious people came to one of the main mosques in Moscow, the Moscow Cathedral Mosque, in order to celebrate the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. Like other Muslims from across the globe, they will spend this month praying and reading the Koran on a daily basis. Work on expansion of the complex has been conducted at the Moscow Cathedral Mosque for several years so far. It was planned to construct separate buildings for representatives of the Muslim communities of Russia as well as the Islamic cultural centre. Several thousands of people will be able to say prayer at the same time as early as in two years-time. 70 metre high minarets have already been built. All in all, six mosques designed for 1500 mosque members are operating in the Russian capital city. Mosque officers noted that the majority of members are young people under 35 years of age. Kazakh people who work in Moscow also came to the mosque in order to provide words of encouragement and say their prayers.

Marat Arshabayev, imam of Moscow Cathedral Mosque:
- The holy month of Ramadan is a long-awaited month for every Muslim including those from Russia, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Malaysia and other parts of the world. Remembering the words of the prophet at least on these days is considered to be a great advantage for our businesses, deeds and actions.

In the middle of the holy month, a charitable “Ramadan tent” will be established near the main memorial mosque in downtown Moscow. After sunset, Muslims and guests will be able to try hot dishes prepared by cooks from Turkey and Iran.