Ramadan is the ninth and most sacred month of the Islamic calendar, observed by nearly two billion Muslims worldwide. It is a time of reflection, spiritual renewal, and communal unity. In 2026, the holy month is expected to begin on the evening of February 17 or 18 (subject to moon sighting in India and globally), bringing a shift in daily life from the bustling streets of Hyderabad to the quiet mosques of Kerala.
At its core, Ramadan (often called Ramzan in South Asia) is about faith, self-discipline, and strengthening one’s relationship with God (Allah), while nurturing compassion for the less fortunate.
The Islamic Lunar Calendar and the Sighting of the Moon
Ramadan falls in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon. Because the lunar year is shorter than the solar year, Ramadan moves about ten to twelve days earlier each year. The beginning of the month is marked by the sighting of the new crescent moon, a moment awaited with anticipation and reverence by Muslim communities.
Etymology: What Does the Word "Ramadan" Mean?
The word “Ramadan” comes from the Arabic root that relates to intense heat or dryness, reflecting the period of the year in which the month originally fell in the Arabian Peninsula. Over time, the name came to represent the inner burning away of sins and negative habits through worship and self-restraint.
The History of Ramadan: Revelation of the Quran and Laylat al-Qadr
Ramadan holds special importance because it commemorates the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Muslims believe that the first verses of the Quran were revealed in the year 610 CE during a night known as Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Power. This night is regarded as extremely sacred, believed to carry immense spiritual reward and blessings.
Although fasting as a spiritual practice existed in many ancient cultures long before Islam, including among Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians, fasting during Ramadan became a defining religious obligation with the rise of Islam. The command to fast during this month was revealed later, after the early Muslim community was established, and fasting became one of the Five Pillars of Islam, the essential acts of worship that form the foundation of a Muslim’s faith.
The obligation to fast is not just a tradition but a divine commandment recorded in the Holy Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183), it is stated:
"O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous."
This verse highlights that fasting (Sawm or Roza) is a legacy of spiritual discipline passed down through generations to cultivate Taqwa (God-consciousness).
The Pillars of Fasting: Discipline, Mindfulness, and Empathy
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset each day. This includes abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations during daylight hours. However, the fast goes beyond physical restraint. Muslims are also encouraged to avoid negative behavior such as anger, gossip, dishonesty, and selfishness. The purpose of fasting is to develop self-control, mindfulness, and spiritual purity, while increasing empathy for those who experience hunger and poverty daily.
The Rules of Roza: What Breaks the Fast?
Fasting is a delicate act of worship that requires strict adherence to rules.
What Breaks the Fast: Intentional eating, drinking (even water), smoking, and marital relations between dawn (Fajr) and sunset (Maghrib) invalidate the fast.
What Doesn't Break It: Eating or drinking unintentionally (out of forgetfulness), brushing teeth (provided nothing is swallowed), or applying eye drops.
Exemptions: Islam emphasizes mercy. Children, the elderly, the sick, travelers, and pregnant or nursing women are exempt from fasting. They are encouraged to pay Fidya (charity to feed the poor) if they cannot fast.
Suhoor and Iftar: The Daily Rituals of Ramadan
Each day of Ramadan begins with a pre-dawn meal known as suhoor, which provides energy for the day ahead. The fast is broken at sunset with iftar, traditionally starting with dates and water, following the practice of the Prophet Muhammad. These moments often bring families and communities together, reinforcing bonds of togetherness and gratitude.
Islam also emphasizes compassion and balance. Those who are ill, elderly, pregnant, traveling, or otherwise unable to fast are exempted, with guidance to make up the fast later or offer charity when appropriate. This reflects the faith’s focus on mercy and understanding rather than hardship.
Ramadan is also a time of increased prayer and reflection. Muslims engage more deeply with the Quran, often aiming to read or listen to it in full during the month. Many attend special nightly prayers called Taraweeh, which create a strong sense of community and shared devotion. The last ten nights of Ramadan are especially significant as believers seek Laylat al-Qadr through prayer, remembrance, and quiet reflection.
The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr, a joyful celebration that begins with a special prayer and continues with feasting, charity, and visits with family and friends. It is a day of gratitude, generosity, and renewal, celebrating the spiritual effort and growth achieved during the month.
Ultimately, Ramadan is not just about fasting from food and drink. It is a time to cleanse the heart, strengthen faith, and return to daily life with greater patience, humility, and compassion. This deep spiritual purpose is what has made Ramadan a lasting and central pillar of Muslim life for centuries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When will Ramadan 2026 start in India?
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of Wednesday, February 18, subject to the sighting of the moon.
Q: What is the difference between Sehri and Suhoor?
They are the same. Suhoor is the Arabic term, while Sehri is commonly used in India, Pakistan, and Persian-influenced regions for the pre-dawn meal.
Q: What is the significance of the last 10 days of Ramadan?
The last 10 days are the most sacred, as they contain Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Power). Muslims often observe Itikaf (seclusion in the mosque) during this time to dedicate themselves fully to prayer.
Q: Does swallowing saliva break the fast?
No, swallowing your own saliva does not break the fast.