Ramadan, the sacred fasting month in Islam, is underway. The Islamic festival’s beginning is determined by astronomy – the moon is first sighted in the Gulf countries and the West, while India and its neighboring countries observe a day late. In India, Ramadan started on Thursday, February 19, marking a time for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal for Muslims in the country.
The fasting from dawn to sunset during the Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. During daylight hours, practicing Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, harmful thoughts and actions, and marital relations. The practice is believed to strengthen faith as well as instill self-restraint.
The start of Ramadan is traditionally determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, which is first seen in Gulf countries and western regions, and a day later in India and nearby nations.
Ramadan 2026: What is Sehri and Iftar?
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Sehri and Iftar are key components of this holy month.
Sehri or Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal that Muslims consume before the Fajr (morning) prayer, which marks the beginning of the daily fasting period.
Iftar is the meal with which Muslims break their fast at sunset, following the Maghrib (evening) prayer.
Because sunset times vary based on geographic location, Iftar and Sehri timings fluctuate across different regions. Specific schedules will differ significantly depending on whether you are located in Delhi, Hyderabad, Lucknow or Mumbai.
Spiritual Significance and Traditions
Muslims honor Ramadan as the most hallowed month in the Islamic calendar. Defined by fasting, deep introspection, and heightened devotion to Allah, this ninth month of the lunar year sees believers worldwide abstain from all food and liquid during daylight hours. This time is dedicated to reciting the Quran and strengthening one’s spiritual foundation.
Fasting, or Sawm, is the fourth pillar of Islam. This practice encourages Muslims to cultivate discipline, gratitude, and empathy for the less fortunate. By sacrificing physical needs during the day, believers commemorate the history of their faith and the spiritual importance of self-restraint.
While fasting is a fundamental Islamic practice, specific exemptions are made for the elderly or those with health complications. Those unable to fast are expected to provide Fidyah (charitable compensation). Additionally, all Muslims are encouraged to practice Zakat and Fitrana, acts of charity that have been central to Ramadan traditions since its earliest days.
