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The biggest Eid gathering in the UK's capital is back. Thousands of Londoners from the Muslim community have come together to celebrate Eid al-Adha in London's iconic Trafalgar Square. We're trying to come together as a community, show joy, celebrate the occasion, enjoy as much as possible, enjoy this beautiful sunshine, and really celebrate the diversity and the beauty that is London. The day begins with a spiritual welcome prayer, followed by performances including a mix of traditional and contemporary acts from across the Muslim world, as well as activities and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.
This is a fencing workshop encouraging and empowering young Muslim girls. We often work with young people who are seen as not sporty or quiet, and actually it makes them come out of their shells. They get so confident. It's something that's really different for them. It's something that like I think there's something about being literally on guard with a sword in your hand that feels really powerful. And so often they use the words things like, "I feel powerful. I feel strong." But I think more than that, they find a sense of community with each other. Of course, no Eid celebration is complete without its food. This is chicken satay from Indonesia and it is delicious. In fact, there are so many
different cultures on display here today to celebrate London's diversity. And it's not just Muslims here. The event is open to everyone, no matter their faith. Well, it's just to enjoy the culture really, to come and see what's what's, you know, what's to offer, experience other cultures, you know, just enjoy the whole experience and the ambience really. This is an absolute great event for families, friends who celebrate Eid and who don't celebrate Eid, cuz this is educational for them. How uh warm, welcoming Muslims are throughout the world. culture is in inside the heart of London now.
Yes, and uh it shows that many uh also many non-Muslims are participating in The backdrop in the capital is less celebratory. Islamophobia in London is on the rise. But this event aims to unite. Eid on the Square is a really great way of us demonstrating how much our Muslim communities matter to us here in London, but also at a time of increasing division, it's really important to use events like this to say how much we value and stand alongside our Muslim communities. The Eid al-Adha event celebrates Muslim Londoners. It shows the capital's unity amid diversity is arguably one of its greatest strengths.
Shada Islam, TRT World, London.
