A Campus Iftar

I have always welcomed Ramadan with deep affection. Before every iftar, an indescribable excitement blossoms within me, as if a new piece of good news is about to touch my heart… As the three months approach, time transforms for me into a river flowing steadily toward Ramadan. I count the days and patiently await its unique atmosphere.

The memory of past Ramadans is always beautiful in its own way. Streets awakening to the sound of drums, the rush of iftar preparations, exchanges of greetings among friends, and conversations that stretch into the night… Even though the saying “Old Ramadans were different” echoes in my ears, I greet each new Ramadan with the same excitement as if experiencing it for the first time, fueled by the vitality of youth.

^{Main Entrance of Istanbul University (Photo: Azra Karaca)}

The most recent Ramadan coincided with one of the busiest yet most meaningful periods of my life. While the excitement of starting university was still fresh, campus iftars became moments I eagerly anticipated. At the same time, friendships formed since October—deep and sincere despite their short duration—added even greater value to this experience.

One of our friends played an active role in organizing the iftar event at Istanbul University. We were originally scheduled to attend a class that day, but our inner enthusiasm prevailed, and we made a small act of rebellion by deciding to go to the iftar instead. This spontaneous decision became one of the most beautiful surprises Ramadan offered us.

^{A Moment from That Day with My Friends (Photo: Azra Karaca)}

Istanbul University has always possessed a captivating atmosphere through its historical fabric, but during Ramadan nights, this grandeur is reborn. Areas adorned with flags, iftar tables set with colorful mats, traditional delicacies appearing at every corner… The warmth within the crowd enveloped you instantly. Reuniting with friends I had not seen in a long time added a special meaning to the night.

As the call to prayer echoed, everyone stood in unison. The sense of unity in that moment possessed a beauty beyond words. The melodies chanted in unison created a rhythm beating like a single heart within the crowd. Despite the cold air, it was this very sharing that warmed our hearts.

^{Istanbul University Square (Photo: Azra Karaca)}

As the night deepened, my close friend Meryem and I visited a modest semaver in Süleymaniye. Conversations that stretched out over steaming cups of tea became the quietest and most intimate moments of the evening. As our chilled bodies warmed, the memories accumulating within us grew deeper.

And now, with the memory of that night in my heart, only one phrase runs through me:

Ramadan 2027, come already.