Ramadan 2026: Ramadan, the holy month of fasting in Islam, is already underway. The start of Ramadan is closely linked to the lunar cycle – the moon is usually sighted first in the Gulf countries and western regions, while India and neighboring countries observe it a day later.
Ramadan began in India on Thursday, February 19, ushering in a period of prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal for Muslims across the country.
The start of Ramadan is traditionally marked by the sighting of the crescent moon – which is first sighted in the Gulf countries and western regions, and a day later in India and neighboring countries.
Ramadan 2026: What is Sehri and Iftar?
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Sehri and Iftar are key parts of this holy month.
Sehri or Suhoor is a pre-dawn meal consumed by Muslims 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 after the Maghrib (evening) prayer.
How do Sehri, Iftar timings differ in different cities?
As the daylight hours move throughout the month, the timings of iftar and sehri change regularly.
Times also vary from city to city. Whether you are in Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata or Mumbai – the timings of Sehri and Iftar are different – so each day of Ramadan is slightly different depending on where you are.
For example, this year Sehri timings in Lucknow and New Delhi were usually a few minutes apart – while Kolkata timings are 30-35 minutes ahead of New Delhi timings.
What are the timings of Sehri and Iftar on February 27?
Here’s a glimpse of Sehri and Iftar timings in various cities for Friday, February 27:
Ramadan honors the fourth pillar of Islam, Sawm, or fasting, which encourages Muslims to practice self-control, gratitude and compassion. Through these teachings, Muslims remember the history of Ramadan and the importance of fasting by abstaining from food and water during the day.
