On the final evenings of Ramadan, as the sun slowly sets in the west, a completely different scene can be observed at the Cumilla University campus. Around a small table in the university’s central courtyard, a long queue gradually forms. The reason: affordable iftar packs are available for just Tk 10. This initiative has been undertaken by Kazi Miraj, a 2020–21 student of the Anthropology Department, using his tuition savings.
University officials have praised the initiative as a humanitarian effort. On the ground, it can be seen that as iftar time approaches, a diverse crowd gathers at the designated campus spot—from young madrasa students to university students and staff. Miraj and his friends bring in ready-made iftar packs from outside vendors and begin distributing them. Around 80–100 fasting individuals benefit from the packs each day.
The iftar program will continue until the university reopens this year. Each Tk 10 iftar pack contains 8–10 food items, including piyaju, burinda, boot, alur chop, jilapi, muri, and banana, which normally cost Tk 50–60 in the market. Occasionally, biryani packets are also distributed.
Students are delighted to receive iftar at such a low price. Adnan Saif, a fellow 2020–21 student, praised Miraj’s effort: “Initiatives like this truly deserve appreciation. Starting from the past two Ramadans, this iftar distribution has continued on campus. Initially, the response was not very strong, but now everyone is participating. It especially benefits those who are financially constrained.”
With growing interest, the demand for iftar packs has increased. Even though 80–100 packs are prepared daily, many people in the line are unable to get one. Miraj expressed hope that with some support, this shortage could be addressed.
Miraj himself said, “Around 120–150 people line up daily, but I cannot provide for everyone. I try to give as much as I can with my own money. If someone helps, it may be possible to serve everyone. I intend to continue this initiative as long as the campus remains open. My religious beliefs and the spirit of Ramadan motivate me to do this.”
He added, “We spend money in many ways, but giving during Ramadan brings reward. Providing iftar to someone in need gives me joy, and I hope to receive blessings from Allah as well. I want to continue this initiative every Ramadan, at least within the university campus.”
Miraj also expressed his hope for the future: “I am now in my final year of my bachelor’s degree. If I pursue a master’s, I may continue for another year; otherwise, this may be my last year personally. But even if I am not here, I will ensure that this system of providing Tk 10 iftar packs continues at Cumilla University every year, Inshallah.”
