In a tragic turn of events, the peaceful observance of Ramadan rapidly transformed into devastating heartbreak for many in Sagaing, Myanmar. Just hours before the final Friday prayers of the holy month, a powerful earthquake struck, claiming nearly 3,000 lives, including approximately 500 Muslims who were gathering in mosques for prayer.

The clock struck 12:51 PM local time when the earth trembled violently, collapsing three major mosques, including the prominent Myoma mosque. Among the victims was Soe Nay Oo, a former imam who now resides in the Thai border town of Mae Sot. Separated from the devastation, he received the heartbreaking news that about 170 of his relatives, friends, and former congregation members perished in the disaster.

“I cannot hold back my tears,” Soe Nay Oo expressed to BBC reporters. With Ramadan nearing its end and the joyous occasion of Eid fast approaching, the tragedy hit harder, as families had prepared to come together in celebration rather than mourning.

Witnesses shared that the Myoma Street was the epicenter of destruction, where many homes also fell to pieces. Survivors now shelter alongside roads, grappling with the dual fears of homelessness and aftershocks. Food supplies have run critically low, deepening the suffering in the affected areas.

In Soe Nay Oo's recollections, the tragedy struck with a visceral intensity. Survivors reported seeing victims attempting to escape from the mosques, desperately trying to save one another as walls crumbled around them. The sense of community that characterized the lives lost was palpable; many were key figures in Sagaing’s Muslim population, including teachers, business leaders, and dedicated community members.

Among those lost was a beloved cousin of his wife, described by Soe Nay Oo as 'the most painful loss' he has endured in his 13 years as an imam. He fondly recalled her kindness and the warmth she brought to family gatherings. The aching loss extended to other cherished individuals, such as a former assistant imam known for his exceptional Quran recitation skills and a benevolent school principal who supported local mosque programs financially.

As the community grapples with overwhelming grief, complications have arisen due to ongoing military conflicts. With the region's Muslim cemetery under the control of rebel forces, many bodies must be transported to Mandalay for burial, a distressing process that defies Islamic mourning traditions. The military tensions have further exacerbated the logistical struggle of securing a proper farewell for the deceased.

Soe Nay Oo, battling feelings of survivor's guilt, reiterated the sorrow of not being able to assist during the tragedy. 'If I were there, I would have gone with them,' he reflected, filled with regret and anguish.

He has been actively assisting with rescue efforts from afar and believes that over 1,000 Muslims in the region are in dire need of aid. His deeply emotional connection to the community, fueled by memories of shared prayers and joyful moments, drives his commitment to help however possible amidst the chaos.

In this time of loss, the tragic irony of a disaster occurring during Ramadan has not gone unnoticed: 'All the departed have returned to Allah’s home,' Soe Nay Oo reflected, considering the souls of those lost as martyrs in faith. As the efforts to unite families and offer solace continue, the bonds of community, resilience, and faith remain steadfast amidst the overwhelming sorrow.

For those affected and mourning like Soe Nay Oo, the emotional toll is unfathomable, with a long and painful journey ahead as the community strives to heal and rebuild after this catastrophic loss.