Members of the Naqshbandi Arshadi Youth Association gathered at the Clock Tower to distribute 350 red roses.
The event, the first of its kind in the city, was held to celebrate the Prophet’s birth and to counter many of the negative images about Islam reported in the mainstream media.
Association member Ahsan Ahmed said: “Together, we can represent the true character of Isalm through peace and love, building bridges in our community. The rose is the international symbol of love, compassion and peace. As Muslims we celebrate Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) every day and we constantly seek to adorn our ways with the remembrance of his perfected example.”
He added: “At first people thought we were trying to sell them the roses, but when we explained what it was about and why we were doing it, people thought it was a good idea. It got a good reception. The roses went in about half an hour.”
The event, called Mawlid - “Birth of the Prophet” - is celebrated in countries across the world.
