A NIGHT of thanksgiving to God for the completion of Ramadan and a display of solidarity with the victims of the Lusignan and Bartica Massacres. That was the meaning of Eidfest 2008, which was hosted last night on the Lusignan tarmac.

The festival was a collaborative effort of the Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) with the Muslim committee of Guyana and the people of Lusignan.

Guyanese of various denominations joined Muslims from all across the country in the celebration. Hajji Shaheed Mohamed Imam of the Queenstown Masjid dedicated his opening prayer to all Guyanese and not just Muslims alone. The event, which was also attended by distinguished guests from overseas, featured recitations of the Holy Quran, the singing of Quaseedas, poems and chants.

Prime Minister, Mr. Samuel Hinds, and Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud, were present at the event. The Prime Minister said that he is pleased to be in Lusignan. He spoke about the value of fasting as an act that makes us aware of the spiritual things as opposed to the material things, and as an act which allows us to develop empathy for those whom it is not an option but a state where they do not have.

Neaz Subhan and Shazhad Ali (the owner of Apex Academy) organised Eidfest 2008. Another Eid celebration will be hosted at Anna Catherina Complex at 16:00hrs today.