Ramadan 2026: The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is currently underway. Since its onset is strictly controlled by the lunar cycle, the crescent moon is usually observed first in the Gulf countries and western regions, while India and neighboring countries usually begin their observance a day later.
In India, Ramadan officially began on Thursday, February 19, ushering in a period of prayer and spiritual renewal Muslims throughout the country. This traditional start relies on the physical sighting of the new moon, which often results in a slight time shift between the Middle East and South Asia.
Read also | Trump and Mamdani hold ‘productive’ meeting: Will New Yorkers get 12,000 homes?
Understanding Sehri and Iftar
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims observe the dawn-to-dusk fast. Sehri and Iftar are the two main pillars of daily fasting.
- Magic: This is the pre-dawn meal eaten before Fajr (morning) prayer. It serves as the final intake of food and water before the start of the daily fast.
- Iftar: This represents the cornerstone of daily compliance. It is the dinner that is used to break the fast immediately after Maghrib (sunset) 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, Kolkata or Mumbai.
Sehri and Iftaar timings for Saturday 28 February.
Here is the list of Sehri and Iftaar timings for various cities on Saturday, February 28:
Delhi – Magic 05:29 A.M., Iftar 6:20 p.m
Lucknow – Sehri 05:14, Iftar 18:06
Calcutta– Sehri 4:44, Iftar 5:39 p.m
mumbai – Sehri 5:46, Iftar 6:43 p.m
Chennai – Sehri 5:15, Iftar 6:17 p.m
Bengaluru – Sehri 5:25, Iftar 6:28
Kochi – Sehri 5.30am, Iftar 6.35pm
Jaipur – Sehri 5:35, Iftar 6:27 p.m
Ahmedabad – Sehri 5.47am, Iftar 6.42pm
Read also | Ramadan Schedule 2026: Check Sehri, Iftar Timings in Delhi, Lucknow, Hyderabad
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.
Read also | Ramadan Mubarak 2026: Best Wishes, Greetings, Quotes and WhatsApp Status to Share
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.
