When is Ramzan 2024 beginning in India

NEW DELHI: From next week, Muslims around the globe will engage in the tradition of fasting daily from dawn until dusk with the onset of the holy month of Ramzan.
Here is all you need to know about Ramzan:
What is Ramzan and how do Muslims observe it?
Ramzan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims worldwide. It is observed by fasting from dawn to sunset, engaging in increased worship, charity, and community activities. During Ramzan, Muslims refrain from consuming food and drink during daylight hours, and focus on spiritual growth, reflection, and community.
How do Muslims observe Ramzan?
Muslims observe Ramzan in several ways:
Fasting (Sawm): Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. From dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib), Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, and other physical needs. The fast is broken each day with a meal called Iftar at sunset.
Increased Worship: Ramzan is a time for heightened spiritual devotion. Muslims engage in extra prayers, recitation of the Quran, and seeking forgiveness.
Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah): Giving to those in need is an essential aspect of Ramzan. Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat (obligatory almsgiving) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity) to support the less fortunate.
Good Deeds: Muslims strive to perform good deeds during Ramzan. Acts of kindness, helping others, and maintaining good character are emphasized.
Night Prayers (Taraweeh): Special nightly prayers called Taraweeh are performed at the mosque during Ramzan.
When is Ramzan?
The start of Ramzan depends on the lunar calendar and the sighting of the crescent moon. It shifts each year, advancing approximately ten days annually according to the Gregorian calendar. The exact beginning varies globally due to different geographical locations affecting moon sighting. This year, the first day of Ramzan is expected to be around March 11, but it may vary based on the local sighting of the moon.
Should the crescent moon be observed on March 10 in the Middle East, fasting for Ramadan will commence on March 11. Conversely, if the moon remains unseen on March 10, fasting will initiate on March 12 within the same region.
In contrast, in India, Pakistan, and other regions of the subcontinent, due to the Islamic lunar cycle being offset by a day compared to the Middle East, the search for the crescent moon will occur on March 11. Following this, if the crescent is visible, Ramadan fasting will start on March 12. However, if not observed, fasting will begin on March 13 in the subcontinent.
What is the significance of the crescent moon in Islam?
The crescent moon holds significant importance in Islam. It symbolizes the start and end of the Islamic lunar months since the Islamic calendar is based on lunar phases. This is particularly evident in the context of Ramadan and Eid celebrations, where the sighting of the crescent moon signifies the beginning of Ramadan and the conclusion of the fasting period, leading into the festival of Eid al-Fitr.
Furthermore, the crescent moon is often associated with the Islamic faith and is a common element in Islamic art and symbolism, representing progress, illumination, and the rhythm of time. It also reflects the cyclical nature of life and the universe, aligning with the teachings and perspectives within Islam.
Why do Muslims fast during Ramzan?
Fasting during Ramzan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It serves multiple purposes such as developing self-discipline, gaining empathy for the less fortunate, and increasing spiritual closeness to God. Muslims view fasting as an exercise in self-restraint and a method to cleanse the soul and improve moral character.
Are there exemptions from fasting?
Yes, exemptions are provided for individuals for whom fasting could be detrimental to their health, such as the sick, elderly, and pregnant women, as well as travelers. Those who cannot fast due to health reasons are encouraged to feed the poor instead.
What are some cultural and social traditions associated with Ramzan?
Cultural practices vary among different Muslim communities but often include nightly gatherings for iftar, decorating homes, visiting relatives, and increased communal worship. In many countries, special foods and delicacies are prepared, and the evenings are filled with prayers and recitations from the Quran.
How does Ramzan impact businesses and daily life?
In Muslim-majority countries, business hours may be adjusted to accommodate fasting hours. There’s often an increase in social activities and night-time shopping. Ramzan also influences economic activities, with increased spending on food, clothing, and charity. Businesses related to food, retail, and hospitality may see significant changes in demand during this month.
How is the end of Ramzan celebrated?
Ramzan ends with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, a day of feasting and celebration. Muslims attend special prayers, exchange gifts, and visit family and friends. It’s a time of joy, marking the completion of a month of fasting and spiritual growth.
How does the Ramzan moon sighting work?
The beginning and end of Ramzan are determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon. Islamic authorities in different countries monitor the skies and announce the start of the month. The method can lead to different starting times for Ramzan across the world due to variations in moon visibility.