Lokesh visits Muslim family for Iftar, promises them new home

Minister for HRD Nara Lokesh having Iftar at the house of a Muslim family in his Mangalagiri Assembly Constituency on Friday.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

On the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan, Andhra Pradesh Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh made a surprise visit to the home of a poor Muslim family near the Mangalagiri Bus Stand on Friday evening. He joined Sheikh Shahenshah and his family for the Iftar dinner, embracing the spirit of togetherness and communal harmony.

Upon arriving at Shahenshah’s home, Mr. Lokesh performed ‘Wudu’ (the ritual of washing hands and feet) and wore a traditional ‘kufi’ cap as a mark of respect for Islamic traditions. He personally served fruits to the family members, helping them break their fast. Later, he also took part in special prayers alongside the family.

Mr. Lokesh enquired about the well-being of the family members and greeted Mr. Shahenshah’s elderly parents, Sheikh Jamaluddin and Rehmatunnisa, and had a warm conversation with them. Mr. Jamaluddin explained that he had worked as a tailor for over 50 years but had stopped due to old age and health issues. He expressed gratitude for the State government’s timely disbursement of the ₹4,000 monthly old-age pension, which he said had provided him financial security.

Education

The Minister also spoke with the grandchildren of Mr. Jamaluddin, and asked them about their education. They said they were studying in a nearby government school and English was their favourite subject. Encouraging them to excel in their studies, Mr. Lokesh assured them that the government was making efforts to upgrade public schools to match private institutions. He highlighted upcoming reforms in the Intermediate curriculum and emphasised that education up to the 12th standard would open the doors for vocational training and job opportunities in sectors like healthcare and tourism. He also announced that major infrastructure projects, including underground drainage and water supply systems, would commence in Mangalagiri from May to improve living conditions.

Upon realising that they were living in a small house built by Mr. Jamaluddin’s father on a single cent of land, he assured them that he would take full responsibility for the family and construct a new home for them. He also urged them to prioritise their children’s education, emphasising that the government was committed to securing their future.