The Mayor of London switches on the city’s first glistening Ramadan lights

Image by Twitter @MayorofLondon

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan switched on the city’s first ever Ramadan lights on 21 March, a day before the beginning of the holy month for Muslims all over the world.

The magnificent installation has lit up Piccadilly Circus in West End and will remain there for a month. It features 30,000 sustainable lights, which is the first time that a decoration of such a scale has been installed in Europe. 

Khan said, “I’m delighted that London is the first major European city to host a spectacular light display to mark Ramadan. Thanks to Ramadan Lights, for the first time ever the West End will be lit up by a fantastic display of 30,000 lights, a true symbol of how our capital celebrates our diversity. I would like to extend my warmest wishes to all Londoners and those around the world who are observing the holy month of Ramadan.”

Non-profit organisation Ramadan Lights UK took the initiative to pay an ode to the British Muslim community through the stunning display. 

The founder of Ramadan Lights, Aisha Desai said, “As a child, a trip into central London to see the festive lights was an annual treat.

“My sister and I would lie in the back of the car looking at the lights through the sunroof. It was magical.

“As a proud Muslim, I wanted to bring some of that magic to my community… And three years ago, that journey began with Ramadan Lights.

“And our generous donors have helped us go from strength to strength.”

The lights read ‘Happy Ramadan’ with shiny moons and stars surrounding it. 

Ramadan is a period of spiritual reflection, fasting, giving back to the community and spending time with loved ones for Muslims. Millions across the world observe this month long holy period and devote themselves to prayer and spirituality.