Ramadan is a holy month celebrated by Muslims around the world. Ramadan usually last for 29 to 30 days. It begins with the sighting of new moon and ends with another crescent new moon. During Ramadan, Muslims are obliged to fast.

Fasting is not only a form of abstaining food and drinks; it also involves refraining from sinful acts like lying, cursing, gossiping etc. during month of Ramadan Muslims won’t eat or drink during daylight hours, including water. Fasting is important during Ramadan because it allows individuals to devote themselves to their faith and it also brings them closer to God, Allah.

There are some exceptions from fasting during Ramadan including children, elderly people, and people with physically or mentally ill, pregnant women and breastfeeding women.

Muslims eat Suhoor or the meal before the beginning of the fast, while Iftar is the meal after sunset. During this time they start their day with Fajr or the first prayer of the day and reading the holy Quran. Five pillars of Islam are: shahada, salat, zakat, sawm and hajj. Many muslims donate to charity and commit good deeds as this is another of the five pillars. It’s a period to reflect on your faith and spend time with family and loved ones.

Anora D’souza Class:2–Q India International School