Non-Muslim Residents Join the Takjil Rush at Benhil During Ramadan

The takjil bazaar at Bendungan Hilir (Benhil) in Central Jakarta was packed with visitors on the first day of fasting. Those who came were not only Muslim residents but also non-Muslims.

Among them was Putri (21), a native of Manado, North Sulawesi, who was holidaying in Jakarta. The university student said she wanted to try the food on offer at the Benhil takjil bazaar.

“I’m from Manado. I’m actually just here on holiday, sightseeing. It just so happened that the timing coincided, so I came here to Benhil to try the food available here,” said Putri when met at Benhil on Thursday (19/2/2026).

Putri then recounted her experience of first learning about the takjil bazaar at Benhil. She admitted she had only just discovered how much busier Benhil becomes during Ramadan.

“Yes, I already knew Benhil was a culinary destination. But I was rather surprised that during Ramadan it gets this crowded and there are so many choices. So I’m really happy,” she said.

She had purchased a wide variety of takjil snacks. Putri said she had spent around Rp 150,000.

“There’s batagor, doughnuts, fruit ice, and I’m also here with friends — some bought dim sum and Palembang pempek, which we shared. So far it’s been about Rp 150,000,” she said.

Putri described the takjil “war” — the frenzy of hunting for breaking-fast snacks — as beneficial for everyone. She noted that non-Muslim residents also have the opportunity to try takjil foods.

“Actually, this takjil phenomenon benefits everyone. Not just those celebrating — our Muslim friends — but we non-Muslims are also really happy about this takjil event during Ramadan. Because we get to try so many of the foods being sold at these stalls,” she said.