New Delhi

More than 360 guests of all backgrounds gathered in St George’s Hall, known for hosting state banquets, to mark the start of Ramzan 2025 at Windsor Castle, a 1,000-year-old castle considered the largest occupied castle in the world.

The Castle was founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and has been the home of 40 monarchs. Queen Elizabeth mother to King Charles lives there in her last days.

According to the British media, The event was organised by the Ramadan Tent Project (RTP) in collaboration with the Royal Collection Trust.

This is the first event of its kind to celebrate the Muslim holy month of Ramzan inside the State Apartments of the castle.

Omar Salha, founder and CEO of the Ramadan Tent Project, said: "Breaking our fast and marking the holy month of Ramadan at Windsor Castle, one of the most famous and iconic royal landmarks in the world, is an incredibly surreal and poignant moment to share with people of all faiths and none.

"It serves as a powerful reminder of how proud we are to represent a pillar of Britain's rich cultural ecology celebrating community, belonging and inclusion."

The open iftar is part of the annual Ramzan Festival, which features a collection of artistic, cultural, and creative events to inspire and engage diverse audiences.

Windsor Palace, the UK

The festival is organised by the Ramadan Tent Project and includes the UK’s largest community event series in the holy month, Open Iftar.

Open Iftar has brought together over one million people across the UK and today sees some of Britain’s most well-known venues open their doors to visitors from all faiths to foster community, inclusivity and cultural exchange during Ramzan.

Simon Maples, visitor operations director (London and Windsor) at the Royal Collection Trust, said: "After the success of hosting our first Open Iftar event last year in the Castle’s Learning Centre, we were delighted to be able to work with Ramadan Tent Project again this year.

"Even more excitingly, this year we are hosting the event in St George’s Hall, the largest of the Castle’s magnificent State Apartments, where State Banquets usually take place – meaning that we can welcome more than 350 guests to share an Iftar meal in this historic setting."

Bilal Hussain of Ramadan Run Club said: "It's a common misconception that you must stop physical exercise during Ramadan, or that dehydration while fasting prevents you from being active.

"However, we're proving with our Ramadan Run Club that it is possible to keep moving during the month."

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The festival will also see the return of the Fast A Day initiative, encouraging businesses, corporates, executives, staff, and the wider business network to host a small Iftar gathering on their premises, raising awareness about Ramadan and joining in fasting a day during the holy