Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds profound significance for Muslims. It is the sacred month where religious practices including fasting, prayers and spiritual reflection are increased, offering believers to deepen their faith.
In India, it is expected to begin on the evening of March 1 and will conclude on March 30 or 31 (The date will depend on the sighting of the crescent moon).
Significance Of Ramadan
It was the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad that established the occasion of spiritual importance for Muslims around the world. The Month of Ramadan is the holiest period for Muslims in the whole Islamic calendar.
The occasion marks the presence of a holy period for Muslims when the gates of heaven are open, Beyond that it is also believed that the gates of hell are closed and the devils are chained to confinement. It’s a time when good deeds are multiplied and spiritual growth is emphasized.
The month-long period of fasting and Observance is considered to be one of the five pillars of Islam. These ceremonies are fundamental religious duties that form the foundation of the Muslim Life. Through the benign efforts showcased in this period, Muslims can walk on a path of faith and reverence for their holy being. Fasting, charitable giving and and prayers purify the souls of the devotees.
Fasting Guidelines
The main practice during Ramadan is Roza (fasting) from dawn to dusk which requires abstaining from food, drink, smoking and sexual activity.
Who Must Fast And Who Is Exempt
Muslims who have reached puberty and are healthy, physically and mentally capable of fasting without harm. There are some conditions where some are exempt from fasting which include children who haven’t reached puberty, elderly people with health concerns, pregnant or nursing women, menstruating women, travellers on long journeys and those who are suffering from chronic illnesses. Those who are exempt from fasting are often encouraged to feed the poor or makeup missed days when able.
Daily Schedule During Ramadan
Suhoor/Sehri – The pre-dawn meal consumed before beginning the fast.
Daytime – In daylight hours, Muslims abstain from eating or drinking while going on with normal activities, while maintaining religious practices such as prayers (Namaz), Quran reading, and charitable acts.
Iftar– The evening meal at sunset that breaks the fast, traditionally beginning with dates and water, followed by other dishes.
Taraweeh– Special night prayers performed during Ramadan where portions of the Quran are recited.
Recommended Foods & Foods To Avoid
It is important to make the right nutritional choices in Ramadan to maintain energy and health.
Consuming the right food in Sehri is crucial to stay energized throughout the fasting day. Protein-rich foods such as eggs and yoghurt are a good way to sustain energy levels and including Hydrating foods such as cucumber, watermelon or coconut water can help prevent dehydration. It is also advised to include carbohydrates, healthy fats and fiber-packed foods in iftar to sustain good health.
Whereas, Sugary and Processed foods are advised to limit or avoid as they cause energy crashes. Usage of caffeine should also be limited as it increases thirst and disrupts sleep patterns.
Beyond Fasting Spiritual Practice
Ramadan goes beyond just fasting and encompasses a broader spiritual practice. Muslims tend to recite the entire Quran during the month and perform additional voluntary prayers. The acts of Charity (Zakat- an obligatory almsgiving) are increased as people strive to help those in need and extend kindness. And working on their spiritual growth along with patience, gratitude, compassion and self-reflection while abstaining from worldly distractions and focusing on strengthening their faith.
Also Read: Ramadan 2025: WhatsApp Messages, Greetings And Quotes To Shared With Your Loved Ones
As Ramadan approaches this year Muslims all around the world would begin to fast, pray and offer to showcase heightened devotion through discipline, fasting and prayers. The month marks a spiritual training program that impacts all facets of a devotee’s life ranging from dietary choices as well as ethical behaviour.
