The Institute of Jainology was honoured to represent the Jain community at a major interfaith Iftar reception held at Lancaster House in London on 4 March, during the holy month of Ramadan.
The event, hosted jointly by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, brought together more than 180 community leaders, faith representatives, parliamentarians and diplomats from across the United Kingdom to celebrate the contributions of British Muslim communities to the country’s social, cultural and civic life.
Representing the Institute of Jainology, Amit Lathia, Honorary Secretary, attended the reception and had the opportunity to engage with ministers and faith leaders, including Steve Reed MP, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Miatta Fahnbulleh MP, Minister for Faith and Communities, and Lord Khan of Burnley, former Minister for Faith.
The gathering highlighted the importance of interfaith dialogue, community cohesion and collaboration between faith communities. Ministers spoke about the vital role British Muslims play in shaping national life and emphasised the significance of bringing communities together during Ramadan — a time of reflection, compassion and shared values.
Speaking at the event, Communities Secretary Steve Reed MP noted that the United Kingdom is home to one of the most diverse Muslim communities in the world and emphasised the importance of moments such as these that allow communities to come together and reflect on the values that shape society.
The evening also featured a number of exhibitions highlighting the historic contributions of Muslims to Britain. These included “Great Faith” by British war artist Arabella Dorman, portraying Muslim servicemen and women who served Britain from the World Wars to the present day; “Pioneers” by the Muslims in Rail network, recognising Muslim staff who helped rebuild Britain’s railways after the Second World War; and archival material from the National Archives documenting the life of Noor Inayat Khan, the British wartime spy and the first female wireless operator sent to France to support the resistance.
Events such as this reinforce the importance of dialogue, understanding and cooperation across faith communities. The Institute of Jainology remains committed to strengthening interfaith relationships and promoting the shared values of respect, compassion and peaceful coexistence that are central to both Jain philosophy and wider society.
The Institute extends its warm wishes to all those observing Ramadan.