Ramadan, revered as the holiest month among Muslims, commences and concludes with the sighting of the moon, marking the beginning and end of this sacred period. The sighting of the moon heralds the start of Ramadan, initiating a month-long period of fasting known as "roza," wherein individuals abstain from food and drink from dawn until dusk each day. This spiritual practice serves as a means of purification, self-discipline, and heightened devotion. As the month draws to a close, the sighting of the moon once again holds significance, signaling the onset of festive celebrations for Eid-ul-Fitr, a joyous occasion that follows the month of fasting
Ramadan 2024 in India is expected to start on March 11 or March 12, contingent upon the sighting of the crescent moon.
The holy month will span approximately four weeks, concluding with Eid-ul-Fitr.
Eid al-Fitr is anticipated to take place on either April 10, 2024 or April 11, 2024.
Different nations may observe Ramadan on different dates, as Muslim communities worldwide commemorate this sacred month.
This year, the commencement of Ramadan in India hinges on the official sighting of the crescent moon in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Islamic tradition places high importance on this celestial event, signifying the holy month's arrival.
While Saudi Arabia observes the moon first, other regions often follow suit a day later. This explains the potential one-day delay in the official start of Ramadan for countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. As a result, Ramadan in India is anticipated to begin on either Monday, March 11th or Tuesday, March 12th.
The appearance of the crescent moon marks the beginning of significant religious events in Islam, making moon sightings eagerly anticipated among Muslims worldwide.
Moon sighting determines crucial timings such as the start of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, signifying the end of the fasting month.
It also influences the commencement of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, occurring during the month of Dhul-Hijjah.
The precise sighting of the moon is essential for the timely observance of these religious practices.
Before Ramadan, moon-sighting committees convene on the 29th day of Shabaan to search for the crescent moon, following a tradition passed down through generations.
Moon sighting fosters community cohesion as Muslims gather to engage in this spiritual practice together.
Prophet Muhammad endorsed the tradition of moon sighting, emphasizing the importance of commencing Ramadan based on its observation or after completing a full thirty days.
This tradition strengthens the sense of unity and devotion among Muslims globally.
The observation of the crescent moon holds profound religious significance in Islam, marking the start and end of the sacred month of Ramadan.
Religious authorities diligently scan the night sky before Ramadan to ascertain the sighting of the crescent moon, a practice rooted in tradition and religious observance.
This age-old tradition is crucial because the Muslim calendar follows the lunar cycle, distinct from the Gregorian calendar.
The sighting of the crescent moon heralds the beginning of a new lunar cycle, initiating the start of the Hijri calendar.
Ramadan, consisting of 12 lunar months alternating between 30 and 29 days, follows the month of Shaaban. It commences after the sunset of the 29th day of Shaaban and concludes with the sighting of the crescent moon marking the start of the Shawwal month.
Throughout Ramadan, Muslims worldwide immerse themselves in prayer and observe Roza, symbolizing their unwavering devotion to Allah. This sacred month sees followers abstaining from worldly pleasures, dedicating their time to prayer, Quranic recitation, and cherished moments with family.
The day begins with Sehri, a pre-dawn meal where individuals partake before the break of dawn. From sunrise until sunset, they refrain from consuming food or drink. As dusk approaches, families gather for Iftar, breaking their fast with a feast of delectable dishes.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds deep spiritual significance. Its origins trace back to the 7th century when Prophet Muhammad received the initial verses of the Holy Quran. The revelation commenced on the 27th night — Laylatul Qadr — regarded as the holiest of all nights.
During this month-long period, Muslims not only abstain from physical nourishment but also actively engage in charitable endeavors and spiritual pursuits to draw closer to Allah. Ramadan serves as a transformative journey, fostering self-discipline and introspection while reinforcing adherence to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
The fasting period of Ramadan serves as a means to cultivate resilience against negative influences, guiding believers towards a path of spiritual growth and enlightenment. It stands as a testament to the enduring commitment of Muslims worldwide to deepen their connection with the divine and uphold the values of compassion, empathy, and righteousness.
