A group of international students in Australia are celebrating the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the Hindu festival of Navratri together.
Students of Fred Hollows College in Sydney are giving multicultural and religious tolerance a new meaning.
"There are only a few Muslim and Hindu students here in our residence, so we decided to celebrate both Ramadan as well as Navratri together. After all, it is the peak festive season for both the Hindu and Muslim community. We have done it last time too," Suraj Verma, a student told Indian Link, an ethnic Indian newspaper.
"It is difficult for an international student to follow Ramadan, especially during the break (Iftar) as most of them are preoccupied with the college and part time jobs. So, we have decided to help our Muslim brothers in our accommodation to prepare for Iftar and other things related to the holy month," Verma added.
Back in India, the festival of nine nights, dedicated to goddess Durga is celebrated with fervour. Likewise, during the holy month of Ramadan, which falls this year between September 23-Oct 22, devout Muslims fast till dusk and observe strict abstinence.