Athar Jamath Mosque
| Photo Credit: K Ananthan
As Coimbatore prepares for Eid al-Fitr, a heritage walk invites residents to step into the heart of the celebrations. Organised by KV Siddhartha of Coimbatore Art and Theatrical Society (CATS), the Talk-A-Walk Eid special will take participants through some of the city’s most vibrant areas — Athar Jamath Masjid, Big Bazaar Street, and Karumbukadai.
Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramzan, is a time of spiritual renewal, community gatherings, and festive indulgence. During the month of Ramzan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, breaking their fast at sunset with iftar — often starting with dates. The festival itself is a celebration of gratitude and togetherness, where families come together for prayers, feasting, and charity.
It is this spirit of festivity that Siddhartha hopes to capture in the Talk-A-Walk event. “The heritage walks we conduct have been going on for a couple of years, but this is the first time we’re formally organising one around Eid,” he says. “Last year, my wife and I visited Karumbukadai and were captivated by the vibrant colours and atmosphere. I felt others should experience it too, to better relate to the occasion.”
A perfume shop near Athar Jamath
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
The walking route
The walk will commence at the Athar Jamath Masjid, a mosque deeply rooted in Coimbatore’s history. “It was established by perfume traders from Tirunelveli, which is why it is named after athar (perfume),” Siddhartha explains. “Unlike some of the more ornamental mosques, it is relatively simple, yet significant.”
From the mosque, participants will move through the bustling Big Bazaar area, where markets, roadside eateries, and local vendors will be in full swing, preparing for Eid. “This event is not just about fasting — there is a lot of feasting and shopping involved,” Siddhartha says. “I can safely assume that the roadside shops and eateries will be packed with people buying sweets, clothes, and other festival essentials.”
The final leg of the walk will take participants to Karumbukadai, a locality known for its strong cultural identity. “We’ll drive under the flyover and explore the area, but the walk needs a clear start and end point,” Siddhartha explains.
A food stall in Karumbukadai
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
Not just a walk
For Siddhartha, these heritage walks are about fostering a deeper connection with one’s city. “Often, we take our local heritage for granted. Through Talk-A-Walk, I have learned so much about Coimbatore’s history, and I believe others should too.”
He says that participants are free to explore the neighbourhood for an hour, after which they will meet once again before wrapping up.
Heritage walks like these, Siddhartha believes, are essential to fostering civic pride and understanding. “If you want to take pride in your town and understand what changes can be made, you need to experience it firsthand. Otherwise, it’s just hearsay. We’re looking for 12 participants, and maybe half of them will later organise something independently with their families.”
On 30 March, at 6pm. With only 12 spots available, those keen on joining can register by sending ‘25C-034D+Name’ via WhatsApp to 98942 88422.
Published – March 21, 2025 05:03 pm IST
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