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Ramadan 2023 Live Updates: Crescent moon sighted in India, fasting begins today

March 24 is the first day of Ramadan in India this year as the crescent moon has been sighted here on Thursday evening. Elsewhere in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia fasting has already begun. 

A view of Jama Masjid Illuminated on the eve of the holy month of Ramadan, in New Delhi, India, on Thursday, March 23, 2023. India. (HT)Premium
A view of Jama Masjid Illuminated on the eve of the holy month of Ramadan, in New Delhi, India, on Thursday, March 23, 2023. India. (HT)

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is celebrated by Muslims with fervor and grandeur as the 30-day festival is marked by hope and spiritual growth. During this period, Muslims pray, reflect, fast, and let go of worldly pleasures. They wake up early for Suhoor and then abstain from food and drink until sunset. Iftar, a meal that includes a variety of delicacies, is eaten after breaking the fast with dates and water.

The beginning of the Islamic holy month depends upon the sighting of the crescent moon. It was first sighted in Saudi Arabia, UAE, UK, some western countries, and then other parts of the world along with India. Muslims will begin fasting from today, March 24, Friday, in India for Ramadan. 

Jama Masjid, the popular mosque in New Delhi, was illuminated with lights on the eve of the holy month of Ramadan. People also thronged the market near Jama Masjid on the eve of Ramadan, Thursday evening, March 23. 

Catch all the latest updates about Ramadan 2023 here, 

24 Mar 2023, 08:45:41 AM IST

Evening prayers in Mecca as Ramadan begins

Muslim worshippers gather before the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, as they perform the Maghrib (sunset) prayer to mark the end of the first day of fasting in the holy month of Ramadan, at the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca on March 23, 2023. (AFP)
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Muslim worshippers gather before the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, as they perform the Maghrib (sunset) prayer to mark the end of the first day of fasting in the holy month of Ramadan, at the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca on March 23, 2023. (AFP)
24 Mar 2023, 08:40:31 AM IST

What Muslims do during holy month of Ramadan?

For the next 30 days, Muslims will refrain from eating or drinking anything — even the tiniest sip of water — from sunrise to sunset.

24 Mar 2023, 08:29:11 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Visuals from Jama Masjid market in Delhi

People buy dates near the Jama Masjid ahead of the start of the holy month of Ramadan, in New Delhi, Wednesday, March 22, 2023. (PTI)
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People buy dates near the Jama Masjid ahead of the start of the holy month of Ramadan, in New Delhi, Wednesday, March 22, 2023. (PTI)
24 Mar 2023, 08:20:36 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Fasting tips for diabetic people

1) Get good sleep.

2) Keep hydrating

3) Adding probiotics

4) End the fast with sugar-free drink

5) Keep monitoring your blood sugar

24 Mar 2023, 08:09:42 AM IST

Complete Sehri, Iftar timings in major Indian cities are here for Ramadan 2023

Check out the complete Sehri and Iftar timings for major Indian cities from March 23, 2023 to April 22, 2023. Kindly note that, since Sehri concludes one minute earlier and Iftar begins one minute later, there is a preventive difference of one minute between the two. It is always advisable to seek a second opinion from your neighbourhood mosque.

24 Mar 2023, 08:00:13 AM IST

How fasting dates are decided during Ramadan?

The date for Ramadan fasting changes every year as Muslims follow the Islamic calendar which is based on the lunar cycle or phases of the moon. Therefore, the start and end date of Ramadan depend upon the sighting of the crescent moon. Typically, the crescent of Ramadan is first sighted in Saudi Arabia and certain parts of India, as well as some Western countries. It is then usually sighted a day later in the rest of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and other nations.

24 Mar 2023, 07:49:50 AM IST

Visuals of Ramadan decoration from Dubai | See Image

Crescent-shaped festive decorations adorn a shopping mall in Dubai on March 23, 2023 on the first day of the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan. (AFP)
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Crescent-shaped festive decorations adorn a shopping mall in Dubai on March 23, 2023 on the first day of the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan. (AFP)
24 Mar 2023, 07:39:49 AM IST

All you need to know about Ramadan 2023

Muslims all over the world celebrate Ramadan, an auspicious month. Because the Holy Quran was revealed during this month, the holy month of Ramadan is very important to Muslims.

Read more here

24 Mar 2023, 07:30:53 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: What islamic scholars say about fasting?

Islamic scholars say the merits of fasting include cultivating gratitude and compassion for the less fortunate and poor.

24 Mar 2023, 07:20:08 AM IST

Visuals from Kerala's Kochi market on first roza of Ramadan 

24 Mar 2023, 07:12:46 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Send wishes, messages to your friends and family

1) May Allah bestow with lots of joy and happiness in this blessed month of Ramadan. I wish you Ramadan Mubarak 2023.

2) Ramadan is an auspicious and blessed month. May Allah accept your prayers and accept your prayers. Ramadan Mubarak.

3) Keep fasts, do charity, recite Holy Quran, and seek forgiveness from Allah. I am sure you will get whatever you have ever wished. Ramadan Mubarak 2023.

4) Ramadan teaches you how to be disciplined and how to restrain from bad things. We must not abstain bad habits in Ramadan only, but we must follow this throughout the year to become best Muslims. Ramadan Mubarak To You and Your Family.

5) Throughout this holy month, we are reminded of the Quran's proclamation that "Allah is with those who exercise restraint."

Read more here

24 Mar 2023, 07:02:53 AM IST

Significance of fasting on Ramadan 

Abstaining from all food and drink -- not even a sip of water is allowed-- and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan is regarded as an act of piety and devotion to God and an exercise in self-restraint.

Islamic scholars say the merits of fasting also include cultivating gratitude and compassion for the less fortunate and poor.

In Islam, fasting is one of The Five Pillars of the faith, along with the profession of faith, prayer, almsgiving, and pilgrimage, which is known in Arabic as hajj. There are exemptions from fasting, including for the sick.

24 Mar 2023, 06:53:05 AM IST

When will the holy month of Ramadan end?

Ramadan will end on April 21, Friday. 

24 Mar 2023, 06:42:31 AM IST

People throng market near Jama Masjid on Ramadan eve

People throng the market near Jama Masjid on the eve of Ramadan month, in Delhi on Thursday. (ANI)
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People throng the market near Jama Masjid on the eve of Ramadan month, in Delhi on Thursday. (ANI)
24 Mar 2023, 06:33:04 AM IST

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal extend Ramadan wishes 

“Happy Ramadan to all of you. May this holy month of worship bring lots of happiness and progress in your lives," the AAP Supremo tweeted. 

24 Mar 2023, 06:23:32 AM IST

Omar Abdullah greets people on Ramadan 

24 Mar 2023, 06:13:07 AM IST

Muslims offer prayers in Jammu and Kashmir as Ramadan begins

Muslims offering prayers inside the Dastigeer Sahib Shrine during the first day of Ramadan in Srinagar on Thursday. While a majority of Muslim population began fasting in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, some will start on Friday. (HT)
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Muslims offering prayers inside the Dastigeer Sahib Shrine during the first day of Ramadan in Srinagar on Thursday. While a majority of Muslim population began fasting in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, some will start on Friday. (HT)
24 Mar 2023, 06:03:19 AM IST

JK LG Manoj Sinha greets people as Ramadan begins

“May this holy month illuminate our lives, bless us with love, compassion and affection and enriches our lives with the spirit of brotherhood and empathy for the deprived," Sinha said in an official statement as quoted by Kashmir daily, Rising Kashmir. 

24 Mar 2023, 05:52:46 AM IST

Who all are exempted from fasting during Ramadan?

Fasting is required for all healthy Muslims, with exemptions for those who are sick and for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Small children are not expected to fast.

24 Mar 2023, 05:45:15 AM IST

A look at crescent moon in J-K's Srinagar | See Image

A crescent moon was sighted in Srinagar on Thursday evening, March 23. 

Srinagar: First Ramadan moon seen in the Sky, in Srinagar, Thursday evening, March 2023. (PTI)
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Srinagar: First Ramadan moon seen in the Sky, in Srinagar, Thursday evening, March 2023. (PTI)
24 Mar 2023, 05:36:04 AM IST

Stay healthy during Ramadan: WHO

"Eat a balanced diet, drink enough water, stay off tobacco and vaping, take care of yourself, and take care of others," the World Health Organisation said.

24 Mar 2023, 05:26:32 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Statewise list of Iftar timings in India

Mumbai- 05:33 am to 06:49 pm

Delhi- 05:11 am to 06:32 pm

Chennai- 05:05 am to 06:20 pm

Hyderabad- 05:11 am to 06:29 pm

Bangalore-05:16 am to 06:34 pm

Ahmedabad- 05:33 am to 06:50 pm

Kolkata- 04:30 am to 05:47 pm

Pune- 05:29 am to 06:48 pm

Jaipur- 05:18 am to 06:39 pm

Lucknow- 04:57 am to 06:17 pm

Kanpur- 05:00 am to 06:20 pm

Indore- 05:20 am to 06:40 pm

Patna- 04:41 am to 06:00 pm

Chandigarh- 05:11 am to 06:35 pm

24 Mar 2023, 05:17:54 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Crescent moon sighted in India, fasting to start today

Ramadan crescent moon has been sighted in India, hence, the fasting for the Islamic holy month will begin today, March 24. 

23 Mar 2023, 09:54:49 PM IST

Ramadan Celebrations 2023: Jama Masjid Illuminated 

A view of Jama Masjid Illuminated on the eve of the holy month of Ramadan, in New Delhi, India, on Thursday, March 23, 2023
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A view of Jama Masjid Illuminated on the eve of the holy month of Ramadan, in New Delhi, India, on Thursday, March 23, 2023 (Hindustan Times)
23 Mar 2023, 08:23:48 PM IST

Ramadan 2023: What should you keep in mind during the holy month?

During Ramadan, it is considered impolite to eat, drink or smoke in public places. It is essential to be mindful of your colleagues or passersby who may be fasting while dining out. Revealing clothes and public displays of affection are also not considered appropriate during this time. It is important to be considerate and avoid loud music or aggressive behavior, which can be disruptive to those who are fasting.

Additionally, it is not recommended to give money to individuals begging on the street during this month. Business and work meetings should be scheduled based on fasting times and reduced working hours, ensuring that those who fast are able to get home safely and on time to end their fast. It is also advisable to plan entertainment or dining outings in advance to avoid the peak traffic hour before iftar time.

It is important to maintain a charitable and friendly demeanor during this time and contribute to Ramadan care packages or donate to approved organizations. Lastly, it is essential to teach children the importance of self-reflection and charity during Ramadan.

23 Mar 2023, 07:37:48 PM IST

Ramadan celebrations 2023: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority to distribute 40,000 meals 

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has decided to distribute 40,000 meals to drivers, workers, low-income families, and senior citizens for the celebrations of Ramadan 

23 Mar 2023, 06:59:12 PM IST

Ramadan prayers 2023: Crescent moon sighted in India

Crescent moon of Ramadan 2023 sighted in India 

23 Mar 2023, 06:15:28 PM IST

Ramadan prayers in Srinagar: See image

Muslim devotees pray inside the Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jeelani shrine on the first day of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in Srinagar
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Muslim devotees pray inside the Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jeelani shrine on the first day of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in Srinagar (AFP)
23 Mar 2023, 05:40:01 PM IST

Ramadan 2023: Statewise list of Iftar timings  

Mumbai- 05:33 am to 06:49 pm

Delhi- 05:11 am to 06:32 pm

Chennai- 05:05 am to 06:20 pm

Hyderabad- 05:11 am to 06:29 pm

Bangalore-05:16 am to 06:34 pm

Ahmedabad- 05:33 am to 06:50 pm

Kolkata- 04:30 am to 05:47 pm

Pune- 05:29 am to 06:48 pm

Jaipur- 05:18 am to 06:39 pm

Lucknow- 04:57 am to 06:17 pm

Kanpur- 05:00 am to 06:20 pm

Indore- 05:20 am to 06:40 pm

Patna- 04:41 am to 06:00 pm

Chandigarh- 05:11 am to 06:35 pm

23 Mar 2023, 05:07:53 PM IST

Ramadan celebrations: 5 tips diabetic patients should follow

Ramadan 2023 is approaching, and Muslims will fast from dawn to dusk, breaking their fast with dates. But if you are diabetic and still want to fast, then you must first seek advice from your healthcare provider regarding insulin dosage and medication adjustments. Read More

23 Mar 2023, 04:43:57 PM IST

Ramadan celebrations: Prayers in Jakarta 

Muslim women attend mass prayers known as 'Tarawih' during the first evening of holy fasting month of Ramadan at the Great Mosque of Istiqlal in Jakarta
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Muslim women attend mass prayers known as 'Tarawih' during the first evening of holy fasting month of Ramadan at the Great Mosque of Istiqlal in Jakarta (REUTERS)
23 Mar 2023, 04:29:46 PM IST

Soaring prices are proving a further concern for those set to celebrate Ramadan

From Gaza to Khartoum and Tunis to Sanaa, soaring prices are proving a further concern for those set to celebrate the occasion. Arab countries are continuing to suffer from the economic fallout of the war in Ukraine, with many reliant on grain imports from eastern Europe.

23 Mar 2023, 03:13:03 PM IST

Ramadan lights illuminate London's Piccadilly Circus

For the first time, Ramadan lights illuminated London's Piccadilly Circus for the celebration of the Islamic holy month beginning. London Mayor Sadiq Khan on Tuesday switched on the lights, and it has become the first European city to put on such a display for the festival. Read More 

23 Mar 2023, 02:55:17 PM IST

Sehri, Iftar timings in major Indian cities 

The date for Ramadan fasting changes every year as Muslims follow the Islamic calendar which is based on the lunar cycle or phases of the moon. Therefore, the start and end date of Ramadan depend upon the sighting of the crescent moon. Read More

23 Mar 2023, 02:21:36 PM IST

Stay healthy during Ramadan: WHO 

"Eat a balanced diet, drink enough water, stay off tobacco and vaping, take care of yourself, and take care of others," the World Health Organisation said. Read More 

23 Mar 2023, 01:57:36 PM IST

Ramadan 2023 in India: Statewise list of Iftar timings

Mumbai- 05:33 am to 06:49 pm

Delhi- 05:11 am to 06:32 pm

Chennai- 05:05 am to 06:20 pm

Hyderabad- 05:11 am to 06:29 pm

Bangalore-05:16 am to 06:34 pm

Ahmedabad- 05:33 am to 06:50 pm

Kolkata- 04:30 am to 05:47 pm

Pune- 05:29 am to 06:48 pm

Jaipur- 05:18 am to 06:39 pm

Lucknow- 04:57 am to 06:17 pm

Kanpur- 05:00 am to 06:20 pm

Indore- 05:20 am to 06:40 pm

Patna- 04:41 am to 06:00 pm

Chandigarh- 05:11 am to 06:35 pm

23 Mar 2023, 01:49:13 PM IST

Fireworks on Ramadan in Dubai

This Ramadan, you will be able to watch fireworks displays every Saturday, starting next week, according to a report published by Gulf news. 

23 Mar 2023, 01:32:13 PM IST

Soaring prices are proving a further concern for those set to celebrate Ramadan

From Gaza to Khartoum and Tunis to Sanaa, soaring prices are proving a further concern for those set to celebrate the occasion. Arab countries are continuing to suffer from the economic fallout of the war in Ukraine, with many reliant on grain imports from eastern Europe.

23 Mar 2023, 01:20:01 PM IST

Who is exempted from fasting during Ramadan? 

Fasting is required for all healthy Muslims, with exemptions for those who are sick and for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Small children are not expected to fast.

23 Mar 2023, 01:11:36 PM IST

Israeli, Palestinian leaders pledged to lower tensions as Ramadan begins

Israeli and Palestinian leaders pledged this week to lower tensions as Ramadan begins, following months of deadly violence in the West Bank and east Jerusalem. This year, the fasting period coincides with the Jewish festival of Passover, spurring concern about fresh flare-ups with large numbers of Jewish and Muslim faithful expected to pour into Jerusalem's Old City.

23 Mar 2023, 01:03:24 PM IST

Ramadan begins in Mideast amid high costs, hopes for peace

The first daily fast of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan began Thursday, as hundreds of millions of Muslims worldwide enter a four-week period of worship.

The observance comes at a time when numerous countries and governments across the Middle East are taking tentative steps towards calming enduring conflicts and crises made more acute by the costly war in Ukraine and a devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria that killed over 52,000 people.

23 Mar 2023, 12:52:24 PM IST

Ramadan 2023: What should you keep in mind during the holy month? 

During Ramadan, it is considered impolite to eat, drink or smoke in public places. It is essential to be mindful of your colleagues or passersby who may be fasting while dining out. Revealing clothes and public displays of affection are also not considered appropriate during this time. It is important to be considerate and avoid loud music or aggressive behavior, which can be disruptive to those who are fasting.

Additionally, it is not recommended to give money to individuals begging on the street during this month. Business and work meetings should be scheduled based on fasting times and reduced working hours, ensuring that those who fast are able to get home safely and on time to end their fast. It is also advisable to plan entertainment or dining outings in advance to avoid the peak traffic hour before iftar time.

It is important to maintain a charitable and friendly demeanor during this time and contribute to Ramadan care packages or donate to approved organizations. Lastly, it is essential to teach children the importance of self-reflection and charity during Ramadan.

23 Mar 2023, 12:36:59 PM IST

When Ramadan will begin in India?

In India, Ramadan will begin tomorrow, March 24, Friday. 

23 Mar 2023, 12:29:42 PM IST

Ramadan celebrations in Indonesia | See Image

Muslims attend 'Tarawih' mass prayers during the first evening of the holy fasting month of Ramadan at the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, March 22, 2023. (Reuters)
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Muslims attend 'Tarawih' mass prayers during the first evening of the holy fasting month of Ramadan at the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, March 22, 2023. (Reuters)
23 Mar 2023, 12:15:47 PM IST

Dates to remember during Ramadan 2023

Ramadan begins: March 22 (Wednesday), or March 23 (Thursday), or March 24 (Friday)

Ramadan ends: April 21, Friday

Laylat al-Qadr: April 17, Monday

Eid al-Fitr Start: April 22, Saturday

23 Mar 2023, 12:05:23 PM IST

Ramadan 2023: Sehri and Iftar timings of Delhi

Delhi:- 05:11 am to 06:32 pm

23 Mar 2023, 11:58:32 AM IST

People read Quran ahead of Ramadan fasting

People read the Koran at the Grand Mosque ahead of the fasting month of Ramadan in Sanaa, Yemen March 22, 2023. (Reuters)
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People read the Koran at the Grand Mosque ahead of the fasting month of Ramadan in Sanaa, Yemen March 22, 2023. (Reuters)
23 Mar 2023, 11:53:55 AM IST

Ramadan: The month of reflection and prayer

Ramadan is the month of prayer, reflection, and community.

23 Mar 2023, 11:48:24 AM IST

All you need to know about Ramadan 2023

Muslims all over the world celebrate Ramadan, an auspicious month. Because the Holy Quran was revealed during this month, the holy month of Ramadan is very important to Muslims.

Read more here

23 Mar 2023, 11:43:57 AM IST

How people in space will observe fast during Ramadan 2023?

According to Gulf news, the International Space Station (ISS) will see 16 sunrises and sunsets over the course of 24 hours - either happening every 45 minutes approximately for people fasting there.

UAE's Sultan Al Neyadi will be spending this Ramadan at the International Space Station. 

23 Mar 2023, 11:35:34 AM IST

US President Biden sends Ramzan greetings to Muslims worldwide

US President Joe Biden has sent his best wishes to the Muslims worldwide who begin the Islamic holy month of Ramzan - a time of fasting, renewal, charity, worship, and growth.

During Ramzan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims across the world fast from dawn to dusk and shun worldly pleasures.

“To my fellow Americans observing Ramadan, and to Muslims around the world: Ramadan Kareem- we wish you a blessed and peaceful Ramadan," President Biden and First Lady Dr Jill Biden said in a statement on Wednesday.

23 Mar 2023, 11:32:00 AM IST

Ramadan 2023 crescent not sighted in Maharashtra

Ruet-e-Hilal committees in Maharashtra's Malegaon and Jamner have announced that Ramadan 2023 moon has not been sighted hence, fasting to begin from March 24 this year.

23 Mar 2023, 11:24:46 AM IST

Ramadan brings back many old residents to UAE

Ramadan brings back many old residents to the UAE, and among them is Hashim KU, who has lived in Dubai for over 50 years, according to a report published by Khaleej Times. 

23 Mar 2023, 11:21:51 AM IST

Ramadan 2023 crescent not sighted in Lucknow

Lucknow's Markazi Chand Committee has announced that the crescent for Ramadan 2023 has not been sighted on March 22 evening. Hence, the first fast of Ramzaan this year will be observed on March 24.

23 Mar 2023, 11:17:21 AM IST

How fasting dates are decided during Ramadan? 

The date for Ramadan fasting changes every year as Muslims follow the Islamic calendar which is based on the lunar cycle or phases of the moon. Therefore, the start and end date of Ramadan depend upon the sighting of the crescent moon. Typically, the crescent of Ramadan is first sighted in Saudi Arabia and certain parts of India, as well as some Western countries. It is then usually sighted a day later in the rest of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and other nations.

23 Mar 2023, 11:09:41 AM IST

Crescent moon sighted in THESE countries on March 22

On March 22, the crescent moon of Ramadan 2023 was sighted in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the UK and other Muslim-majority countries. Consequently, these nations are preparing to observe the first fast of Ramadan 2023 on March 23, while taraweeh prayers will begin after sunset on March 22.

23 Mar 2023, 11:07:14 AM IST

What are the order words for Ramadan? 

Ramadan, also known as Ramazan, Ramzan, or Ramzaan

23 Mar 2023, 11:05:53 AM IST

Complete Sehri, Iftar timings in major Indian cities are here for Ramadan 2023

Check out the complete Sehri and Iftar timings for major Indian cities from March 23, 2023 to April 22, 2023. Kindly note that, since Sehri concludes one minute earlier and Iftar begins one minute later, there is a preventive difference of one minute between the two. It is always advisable to seek a second opinion from your neighbourhood mosque.

23 Mar 2023, 11:00:50 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Fasting tips for diabetic people

1) Get good sleep. 

2) Keep hydrating

3) Adding probiotics

4) End the fast with sugar-free drink

5) Keep monitoring your blood sugar

Read more here

23 Mar 2023, 10:58:15 AM IST

What Muslims do during holy month of Ramadan? 

For the next 30 days, Muslims will refrain from eating or drinking anything — even the tiniest sip of water — from sunrise to sunset.

23 Mar 2023, 10:54:23 AM IST

Ways to greet each other during Ramadan 

They greet people by saying “Ramadan Kareem". This roughly translates into “Happy Ramadan".

23 Mar 2023, 10:51:07 AM IST

Sharjah Ramadan festival begins, residents to get upto 75% in malls

During the holy month of Ramadan, residents and visitors will have the opportunity to experience entertainment events, shopping promotions, and prizes, as well as major discounts 25 to 75 percent at shopping malls, according to Gulf news.

23 Mar 2023, 10:47:12 AM IST

US President Joe Biden's message on Ramadan 

President Joe Biden expressed "solidarity" Thursday with China's embattled Uyghur minority in a message to Muslims around the world as they celebrate the holy month of Ramadan.

"Together with our partners, the United States stands in solidarity with Muslims who continue to face oppression, including Uyghurs in the People's Republic of China, Rohingya in Burma, and other Muslim communities facing persecution around the world," Biden said in a statement.

"During this sacred time of reflection, the United States also reaffirms our support to Muslim communities suffering hardships and devastation," Biden said, referring to earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria, and flood victims in Pakistan.

"Today especially, we remember the universal human right to practice, pray, and preach our faiths peacefully and openly."

23 Mar 2023, 10:45:32 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Send wishes, messages to your loved ones

1) Happy Ramadan to all. May Allah spread peace and blessings all over the world throughout this holy occasion.

2) I wish you a great Ramadan that will give you the confidence and fortitude you need to overcome life’s obstacles! Happy Ramadan.

3) Welcome, Ramadan, with a heart full of peace, harmony, and joy. I pray that Allah’s beautiful blessings will guide and protect you.

4) May this Ramadan be filled with benefits for all of humanity so that we can travel the path of harmony and peace! A happy Ramadan to all.

5) The Holy Quran descended this month, bringing with it the guide for humankind. Its texts are pure; its teachings are classic. May this Ramadan help you make the proper judgment. May the holy month categorize truth from falsehood. Happy Ramadan!

23 Mar 2023, 10:42:07 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Fasting in Saudi Arabia begins today

The date of Ramadan 2023 has been declared in Saudi Arabia.

As expected from astronomical predictions, the moon was not seen and so the current month (Shaban) will continue for another day and the first day of Ramadan 2023 will be Thursday, March 23.

23 Mar 2023, 10:39:54 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Crescent moon sighted in Pakistan

Thursday will be the first day of Ramadan in Pakistan, as the crescent moon has been sighted in the country, as per Khaleej Times report. 

23 Mar 2023, 10:37:38 AM IST

Antony Blinken extends Ramadan wishes

23 Mar 2023, 10:34:09 AM IST

What is the reason behind fasting during Ramadan?

The fasting is aimed at bringing the faithful closer to God and reminding them of the suffering of the poor. Muslims are expected to strictly observe daily prayers and engage in heightened religious contemplation. They are also urged to refrain from gossip, fighting or cursing during the holy month.

23 Mar 2023, 10:32:31 AM IST

How do Muslims begin and end the roza during Ramadan? 

Muslims who observe the fast during the month of Ramadan begin each day with a pre-dawn meal called "suhour" before starting their fast. They then pray Fajr and continue to fast until sunset, when they break their fast with the Maghrib prayer and a meal called "iftar".

The fast is traditionally broken with dates and water, and iftar is often a communal event shared with family and friends.

23 Mar 2023, 10:30:15 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Crescent moon not sighted in New Zealand. When will fasting begin here?

The crescent moon has not been sighted in New Zealand yet, hence, the fasting will begin from March 24. 

23 Mar 2023, 10:25:16 AM IST

When will Muslims in India observe the first Ramadan fast?

This year, fasting will begin from March 24 for the holy month of Ramadan in India. 

23 Mar 2023, 10:22:48 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Fasting will begin on March 24 in Bangladesh

Bangladesh's Islamic Foundation on Wednesday announced that the fasting will begin on Friday in the country. 

23 Mar 2023, 10:19:36 AM IST

Ramadan fasting to begin on March 24 in India

In India, fasting will begin on March 24, Friday, for the holy month of Ramadan. 

23 Mar 2023, 10:17:20 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: Crescent moon not sighted in India

Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind on Wednesday announced that Ramadan 2023 crescent moon not sighted anywhere in India

23 Mar 2023, 10:14:50 AM IST

Many struggles to afford holiday treats during Ramadan - here's why

This year many will struggle to afford holiday treats amid soaring prices fueled in part by the war in Ukraine. Iran, Egypt and Lebanon are grappling with economic crises that have weakened their local currencies, making things even more expensive.

The holy month will also be shadowed by the suffering in Turkey and Syria, where an earthquake last month killed more than 52,000 people, and in conflict zones across the Muslim world, though there have been some encouraging signs of possible reconciliation.

“We used to look forward to Ramadan as the most beautiful month of every year," said 19-year-old Rama Jamal, recalling how her family would decorate the house and sit together reading the Quran.

Now she lives alone in the war-ravaged northern Idlib province of Syria. After surviving more than a decade of war, her parents and brother were killed in the earthquake. (AP)

23 Mar 2023, 10:12:42 AM IST

What Muslims believes about Ramadan?

Muslims believe God began revealing the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad during Ramadan more than 1,400 years ago.

23 Mar 2023, 10:09:33 AM IST

Ramadan 2023: UAE provides 3 million meals and food parcels to needy

The UAE Food Bank has started a campaign to provide 3 million meals and food parcels to disadvantaged individuals and families both in the UAE and abroad during the holy month of Ramadan, according to a report published by Khaleej Times. 

23 Mar 2023, 10:04:39 AM IST

What happens after sunsets during Ramadan?

After sunset prayers, family and friends gather for “iftars" — feasts with local holiday treats like candies and nuts. Mosques and charities set up outdoor banquets where the poor can eat for free each night of Ramadan. Muslims then wake up early for “suhoor," a small meal eaten just before dawn.

23 Mar 2023, 09:58:46 AM IST

Meet the non-Muslim family who has been fasting during Ramadan

Filipino expat Dr Jeramie Umali, who has been living in the UAE for the past four years, is one such resident who fasts for almost all the 30 days during Ramadan. She was unaware of local tradition when he shifted to UAE, but she soon started appreciating its essence and began practicing it, according to a report by Khaleej Times. 

23 Mar 2023, 09:51:33 AM IST

Worshippers flooded mosques for Ramadan in Indonesia

In Indonesia, home to the world's largest Muslim population, worshippers flooded mosques for evening prayers after authorities declared that several Islamic astronomy observer teams had sighted the crescent moon in different regions. Muslim authorities in Saudi Arabia and several other Middle Eastern countries have also announced that Ramadan will begin Wednesday night.

23 Mar 2023, 09:43:30 AM IST

Holy month of Ramadan begins for Muslims across the world

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan began at sundown on Wednesday, as the faithful prepared for a month of dawn-to-dusk fasting intended to bring them closer to God and to remind them of the suffering of those less fortunate.

For the next 30 days, Muslims will refrain from eating or drinking anything — even the tiniest sip of water — from sunrise to sunset. Many will strictly observe prayers, read the Quran and donate to charity as they seek to draw closer to God. Family and friends will gather for joyful nightly feasts.

Muslim women attend mass prayers known as 'Tarawih' during the first evening of the holy fasting month of Ramadan at the Great Mosque of Istiqlal in Jakarta, Indonesia, March 22, 2023. REUTERS/Willy Kurniawan
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Muslim women attend mass prayers known as 'Tarawih' during the first evening of the holy fasting month of Ramadan at the Great Mosque of Istiqlal in Jakarta, Indonesia, March 22, 2023. REUTERS/Willy Kurniawan (REUTERS)