Ramadan, the holy month of fasting in Islam, is underway. The start of the Islamic festival is given by astronomy – the moon is first sighted in the Gulf countries and the West, while India and neighboring countries observe a day later. In India, Ramadan began on Thursday, February 19, a time of prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal for the country’s Muslims.
Fasting from dawn to dusk during 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. This practice is believed to strengthen faith and also instill self-control.
The start of Ramadan is traditionally determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, which is first sighted in the Persian Gulf countries and western regions and a day later in India and surrounding 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.
As sunset times vary depending on geographical location, the timing of Iftar and Sehri varies in different areas. The specific timetables will vary significantly depending on whether you are in Delhi, Hyderabad, Lucknow or Mumbai.
Spiritual significance and tradition
Muslims honor Ramadan as the holiest 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 liquids during daylight hours. This time is devoted to reciting the Qur’an and strengthening the 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 are reminded of the history of their faith and the spiritual meaning of self-control.
While fasting is a basic Islamic practice, there are special exceptions for the elderly or those with medical complications. Those who cannot fast are expected to give Fidyah (charitable compensation). In addition, all Muslims are encouraged to practice zakat and fitran, acts of charity that have been central to the traditions of Ramadan since its inception.
