The holy month of Ramadan is one of the most significant periods in the Islamic calendar, marked by fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity. For Muslims in India and across the world, it is a time of spiritual renewal and community bonding. (Image: AI-Generated)
In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of February 18 or 19, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon, and will conclude around March 19 or 20 with the celebration of Eid al‑Fitr. (Image: AI-Generated)
Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar is lunar. Each month begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon. This means that the exact start of Ramadan cannot be fixed in advance and may differ by a day depending on local sightings. In India, astronomers project February 19 as the likely start date, but mosques and religious authorities will confirm it only after the moon is sighted. (Image: AI-Generated)
During Ramadan, Muslims fast daily from dawn (known as sehri or suhoor) until sunset (iftar). In India, fasting hours in 2026 are expected to last around 12 hours and 45 minutes at the beginning of the month, gradually lengthening as the days grow longer. Timings vary by city, so local prayer schedules are published by mosques and Islamic organizations to guide worshippers. (Image: AI-Generated)
Ramadan is not only about abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours. It is a holistic spiritual practice that includes:
– Prayer and Reflection: Muslims perform five daily prayers, with special nightly prayers called taraweeh held in mosques.
– Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah): Giving to the poor and needy is emphasized, reinforcing the values of compassion and community.
– Reading the Qur’an: Many aim to complete reciting the entire Qur’an during the month.
– Community Gatherings: Families and communities come together for iftar meals, strengthening social bonds. (Image: AI-Generated)
Fasting is obligatory for adult Muslims, but exemptions exist for children, the elderly, pregnant or nursing women, travellers, and those with health conditions. (Image: AI-Generated)
Ramadan concludes with Eid al‑Fitr, a joyous festival marking the end of fasting. In 2026, Eid is expected to fall on March 19 or 20, again depending on moon sighting. The day begins with special prayers at mosques and open grounds, followed by feasts, exchanging gifts, and acts of charity. (Image: AI-Generated)