As the sun rises and sets across India, millions of Muslims are marking the holy month of Ramadan with fasting, prayer, and community. This year, Ramadan 2026 began in India on February 19, following the sighting of the crescent moon, according to NDTV. For many, this spiritual period is a time for self-discipline, gratitude, and reflection, and it’s observed with a sense of unity that stretches from the bustling lanes of Mumbai to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala.
Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, is considered one of the most sacred periods for Muslims worldwide. Fasting from dawn to dusk—abstaining from food, drink, and even water—is a core aspect of the observance and is one of the five pillars of Islam. Each day, the fast begins with Sehri, a pre-dawn meal that fuels the faithful for the day ahead, and ends with Iftar, a joyous evening meal often shared with family and friends. The ritual is not just about abstaining, but also about deepening one’s faith, practicing charity, and strengthening community bonds.
According to NDTV, Ramadan started a day earlier—on February 18—in Saudi Arabia, reflecting the slight variations in moon sighting practices across the Muslim world. In India, the precise timings for Sehri and Iftar are crucial, as even a few minutes can make all the difference. These times are meticulously calculated and vary from city to city, given the country’s vast geography.
On February 26 and 27, 2026, Muslims across India are paying close attention to these timings, ensuring their observance is both accurate and meaningful. For those in Bengaluru, for example, Sehri on both days is at 5:25 a.m., with Iftar at 6:29 p.m., as reported by Jagran. In Chennai, Sehri is at 5:15 a.m. on February 26 and 5:14 a.m. on February 27, with Iftar at 6:18 p.m. on both days. Visakhapatnam’s faithful begin their fast at 5:05 a.m. on February 26 and 5:04 a.m. on February 27, breaking it at 6:03 p.m. each evening.
Other southern cities also follow their own schedules: Malappuram marks Sehri at 5:31 a.m. on February 26 and 5:30 a.m. on February 27, with Iftar at 6:36 p.m. both days. Kozhikode’s times are 5:32 a.m. for Sehri and 6:37 p.m. for Iftar. Kannur observes Sehri at 5:34 a.m. on February 26 and 5:33 a.m. on February 27, with Iftar at 6:39 p.m. Palakkad’s timings are 5:28 a.m. for Sehri and 6:34 p.m. for Iftar, and in Alappuzha, Sehri is at 5:29 a.m. with Iftar at 6:36 p.m. on both days.
Moving north, NDTV provides a snapshot of other major cities’ schedules for February 27: New Delhi’s Sehri is at 5:29 a.m., with Iftar at 6:21 p.m.; Hyderabad observes Sehri at 5:23 a.m. and Iftar at 6:23 p.m.; Mumbai starts at 5:39 a.m. and ends at 6:43 p.m.; Srinagar’s times are 5:38 a.m. for Sehri and 6:26 p.m. for Iftar. Lucknow’s faithful begin their fast at 5:14 a.m. and break it at 6:07 p.m. In Kolkata, the day starts even earlier, with Sehri at 4:44 a.m. and Iftar at 5:40 p.m.
These timings are more than just numbers—they are a daily rhythm that shapes the lives of those observing Ramadan. For many, the day begins in the quiet stillness before dawn, as families gather for Sehri, sharing food and prayers. As the sun sets, the anticipation for Iftar builds, often culminating in the traditional breaking of the fast with dates and water, a practice that dates back to the time of the Prophet Mohammad. “Sehri offers nourishment and strength for the day ahead, while Iftar is the time for joy and starts with dates and water,” NDTV explains.
But Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink. It’s a time for increased prayer, reflection, and acts of charity. The holy Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Mohammad during this month, making it a period of heightened spiritual significance. As noted by NDTV, “During this time, Muslims engage in fasting, prayer, reflection, and charitable acts.” The sense of community is palpable, with mosques often filled for nightly prayers and families opening their homes to neighbors and friends for Iftar gatherings.
The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr, a major festival that brings communities together in celebration. The holy month typically lasts for 29 to 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon. Eid is a time of joy, feasting, and giving, with special emphasis on helping those in need.
Interestingly, there are slight variations in how different communities observe the timings. For example, Jagran notes that those following the Jafaria tradition begin Sehri 10 minutes earlier and break their fast 10 minutes later than the published times. This attention to detail underlines the importance of precision in religious observance, as well as respect for diversity within the broader Muslim community.
For many, the daily fast is a test of discipline and patience, but also a source of spiritual fulfillment. According to NDTV, “Ramadan is a sacred period of fasting, prayer and reflection.” The act of fasting is not merely about physical restraint but is intended to cultivate empathy for the less fortunate and foster a sense of gratitude for life’s blessings.
As the days of Ramadan unfold, Indian cities come alive with a unique energy. Markets bustle in the evenings as people shop for Iftar delicacies—samosas, sweets, fresh fruits, and more. Mosques and community centers organize special prayers and charitable drives, reflecting the spirit of giving that defines the month. For children, it’s a time to learn about their faith and traditions, often joining their elders in the rituals and celebrations.
Despite the challenges of fasting—especially during long, hot days—most find the experience rewarding. The shared struggle and collective joy of breaking the fast create bonds that endure long after Ramadan ends. For many, these moments become cherished memories, passed down through generations.
This Ramadan, as every year, the precise timing of Sehri and Iftar serves as a daily anchor, connecting millions to a tradition that spans centuries. Whether in the heart of a metropolis or a quiet village, the rituals of Ramadan are a testament to the enduring power of faith, community, and hope.