Naveed Ahmed Khan
Islamabad: Chairman Senate of Pakistan and former prime minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani said that Ramzan is a month of mercy, blessings, sacrifice and forgiveness, urging people to come forward to serve humanity.
He expressed these views in an exclusive conversation with during an Iftar dinner hosted by Founder and Chairman of , Luqman Ali Afzal, at the newly inaugurated Monal restaurant .
The Chairman Senate said that Muslims are bound together in a bond of brotherhood and that the month of Ramzan teaches patience and consideration for others. Mutual harmony and unity, he observed, are among its core principles. He further emphasized that Muslims follow one religion, Islam, along with shared faith and culture. Fasting, he added, instills discipline and serves as training that should be carried throughout the year.
Earlier, Mr and Mrs Luqman Ali Afzal warmly welcomed the guests, exemplifying traditional hospitality with grace and cordiality. Mr Afzal, widely known in business and diplomatic circles for his hospitality, is regarded as a host whose invitations are seldom declined.
The Iftar dinner was attended by a large number of distinguished guests, including Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives , Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination , Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs , Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa , former Federal Ombudsman Ms. Kashmala Tariq , as well as provincial ministers, diplomats, prominent members of the business community, civil society representatives and leading media personalities.
Their presence underscored the importance of the occasion in promoting unity and goodwill during the holy month. Guests enjoyed a rich selection of traditional Pakistani dishes alongside continental cuisine, prepared to Monal’s renowned standards. The gathering was further enhanced by the elegant décor, meticulous arrangements and the breathtaking panoramic rooftop environment, one of the largest in the capital, offering sweeping views of the city.
The Iftar also served as a soft launch of Monal’s latest branch at IMARAT Downtown, following the brand’s reopening in 2025–26 after its relocation and revival in partnership with the . The new venue revives the celebrated Monal legacy with modern elegance, signature cuisine and unmatched views, positioning it as a premier dining destination along the Islamabad Expressway.
Welcoming the guests, Luqman Ali Afzal reiterated Monal’s commitment to excellence and community spirit during Ramadan, noting that the brand aims to blend tradition with contemporary luxury.
The evening reflected the true spirit of Ramadan by fostering friendship, goodwill and meaningful exchange in a serene and cordial atmosphere. With its promise of fine dining, family gatherings and special events, the new Monal rooftop at IMARAT Downtown is poised to become a landmark destination, symbolizing both culinary excellence and the shared values of unity and compassion central to the holy month.
