AhlulBayt News Agency: Across areas like Malad, Mumbra, and Mira Road, mosques and social groups ensured that the underprivileged weren’t left behind. “This is more than just meat. It’s a gesture of dignity and togetherness,” said Abdul Rashid Mahi from Noorani Masjid Committee in Malad East. The mosque, continuing a 13-year tradition, gathered donations from community members — this year, collecting meat from 60 goats, up from 53 last year. Volunteers then carefully packed and distributed the meat in 1 kg portions after verifying the recipients’ needs.
In Mumbra, the Care and Unity Foundation played a critical role, reaching over 3,200 families this year — a significant leap from the 1,800 homes it helped in 2023. The group set up a dedicated helpline for donors and recipients, even offering home delivery for those unable to travel. Their two-day campaign covered neglected localities like Azad Nagar, Bhaskar Nagar, and Sheel Phata, with nearly 3,600 packets distributed.
On Mira Road, efforts were similarly extensive. Jamiat Ulema (Mahmood Madani faction) supported dozens of families, while Bilal Masjid volunteers handed out 125 kg of meat. At Darul Uloom Sulaimaniya, around 200 people — including widows and orphans — received meat, part of a broader initiative to revive forgotten values of community care during religious festivals.
Jamaat-e-Islami stood out for its meticulous planning. Having maintained contact with vulnerable families year-round through healthcare, education, and financial aid programs, they were able to deliver 750g of meat to 188 deserving homes this Eid, based on door-to-door surveys.
Despite their widespread impact, many of these efforts went unnoticed by mainstream media. “When one Muslim is accused of wrongdoing, it’s headline news. But when thousands quietly serve the poor, it’s ignored,” remarked a volunteer from Mumbra. Another organiser said, “We don’t seek fame, but it’s painful to be stereotyped while our work goes unseen.”
Importantly, organisers stressed that aid wasn’t limited by religion. “We give to whoever is in need — Muslim or not,” explained a member of the Care and Unity Foundation. The focus was simple: serve the needy with dignity.
At a time when the Muslim community faces increasing scrutiny and bias, especially from right-wing rhetoric and selective media narratives, such grassroots efforts paint a very different picture. Instead of fear and division, these volunteers brought smiles, meals, and unity.
“This is what our faith teaches — to serve humanity. Helping the poor isn’t a choice, it’s our responsibility,” said Abdul Rashid Mahi. “That’s what it means to be a good Muslim — and a good Indian.”
Your Comment