Special iftar gatherings hosted for special children

MUSCAT, MARCH 10
While mass Iftars are proving to be an ideal platform to reinforce brotherhood and solidarity with fasting people across the world, a different thought of including a segment in society is gaining brownie points.
Two Iftar gatherings were held recently in support of the special children, thus enhancing their sense of purpose and boosting their confidence to accentuate their rehabilitation.
Hotel Grand Millennium Muscat, in the true spirit of the holy month, embraced compassion, togetherness and generosity through a heartfelt CSR initiative, invited children with Down Syndrome to break fast and spend some quality time with the pride world.
The initiative, under the Millennium Green Path programme, was dedicated to children from the Oman Down Syndrome Association, at the Bahriyat Hotel, where their families too were welcomed for a warm and meaningful Iftar experience.
The evening also honoured each child’s unique abilities, inspired confidence and strengthened community bonds through a series of engaging activities.
The children were encouraged to express themselves, build self-assurance, and enjoy moments of joy within a supportive and inclusive environment. This initiative not only aimed to inspire confidence in the children, but also reinforced the importance of empathy, acceptance and unity, reflecting the true spirit of Ramadhan.
The evening also witnessed these children's cookery show and commemorated the beloved Omani tradition of Qaranqashouh. The children assembled custom Fanoos lanterns before embarking on a sweet-collection experience across the hotel’s key venues. The evening culminated in a community Iftar that allowed families to connect and share in the magic of the season.
“Hospitality is about people; it’s about creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued and celebrated. These children inspired us with their joy, resilience and individuality. We were truly honoured to welcome them and their families for an evening that was both festive and empowering,” Ahmed Ashfaq, Taskforce General Manager, told the Observer.
Meanwhile, Care & Special Education (CSE), a division of the Indian School Muscat, hosted a special Iftar gathering for their students and parents at the school premises, bringing together families and school representatives in the spirit of unity and Ramadhan.
Such gatherings serve as a meaningful opportunity to strengthen the bonding between the children and parents along with their caretakers and counsellors while celebrating the values of compassion, community and togetherness that define the holy month of Ramadhan.