In a bustling incident during the first day of Ramadan in 2024, the Hyderabad Police were called to manage a situation involving a throng of people at a Malakpet restaurant. The restaurant, named ‘Aazebo’, had caught the public’s attention with an offer of free haleem, a dish traditionally enjoyed during Ramadan. The crowd, eager to take advantage of the complimentary delicacy, grew unmanageable, leading to the police intervening with a lathi-charge to restore order. A local inspector confirmed that a case would be registered against the restaurant’s management for causing a disturbance to the free movement of traffic.
Ramadan, the holy month for Muslims, commenced on a spirited note as the crescent moon was sighted in various parts of India, marking the beginning of a period marked by fasting and communal iftars. Haleem, a rich stew comprising lentils, meat, wheat, and spices, prepared in ghee and simmered for several hours, is a ritualistic part of the iftar meals. The restaurant had chosen to inaugurate its offering on this significant day, a decision that eventually led to the large gathering and consequent disruption.
Despite the chaotic situation, the religious fervor remained unshaken as the sighting of the Ramzan moon kicked off a month of piety and celebration among the Muslim community. As crowds gathered to partake in the generosity of ‘Aazebo’, the authorities were forced to step in to maintain public safety and ensure the continuance of this yearly solemnity without further interruptions.