As the first light of dawn crept across the Indian subcontinent on February 21, 2026, millions of Muslims awoke before sunrise, preparing for the first full day of fasting in the holy month of Ramadan. In kitchens from Delhi to Mumbai, sleepy families gathered for Sehri—the pre-dawn meal that marks the beginning of each day’s fast. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time of spiritual devotion, self-restraint, and communal solidarity. For Indian Muslims, it’s also a period marked by careful attention to the clock, as both Sehri and Iftar (the evening fast-breaking meal) are dictated by precise timings that shift with geography and the changing length of days.
According to a comprehensive guide published by India TV, fasting began at dawn on February 21, with Sehri generally ending before 5:40 AM across most of India. As the sun set later that day, families and communities broke their fast at Iftar, with times varying widely depending on location. For example, Delhi’s Iftar was at 6:17 PM, while Mumbai—further west and thus experiencing a later sunset—waited until 6:40 PM. Hyderabad, nestled in the south, observed Iftar at 6:21 PM, and Kolkata in the east broke fast between 6:15 and 6:20 PM. These differences, as outlined by India TV, are the result of India’s vast geography, with longitude and local sunset patterns creating unique schedules for each region.
But what exactly is Ramadan, and why do these timings matter so much? Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink—it’s a month-long journey of spiritual growth, prayer, and community engagement. Observers refrain from eating, drinking, and other physical needs from pre-dawn until sunset, using the time to reflect, offer charity, and deepen their connection with God. The daily fast is broken at Iftar, traditionally with dates and water, followed by a light meal shared with family or neighbors. As India TV notes, “Fasting during Ramadan stands as a fundamental element of Islamic practice, which demonstrates self-control and compassion for others while leading practitioners to experience spiritual development.”
Sehri, or Suhoor, is the meal that sets the tone for the day. It’s quieter and more personal than Iftar, often eaten in the hush before Fajr (dawn) prayer. On February 22, 2026, for instance, Sehri times were as follows: Lucknow’s window closed at 5:19 AM, Delhi’s at 5:34 AM, Hyderabad’s at 5:25 AM, and Mumbai’s at 5:50 AM, according to India TV. Mumbai, with its later sunrise, allowed a more relaxed Sehri routine compared to the northern cities. The meal itself is simple but intentional—focused on hydration and slow-releasing foods to sustain energy throughout the day. As described by India TV, “Sehri…is meant to sustain energy levels through the day-long fast. Meals often focus on hydration and slow-releasing foods. Simple but intentional. Less about variety, more about nourishment and readiness for the hours ahead.”
For observers, following the correct Sehri and Iftar times is not just a matter of tradition; it’s a religious obligation. These times are calculated based on the local position of the sun, and even a few minutes’ difference can affect the validity of the fast. That’s why many rely on mosque announcements, official Ramadan calendars, or trusted news sources to ensure accuracy. According to a report by News18, on February 20, 2026, Sehri times in major Indian cities were: Delhi at 5:35 AM, Lucknow at 5:19 AM, Mumbai at 5:52 AM, Hyderabad at 5:28 AM, Kolkata at 4:51 AM, Bengaluru at 5:29 AM, and Chennai at 5:19 AM. Iftar times on the same day ranged from 6:13 PM in Lucknow to 6:40 PM in Mumbai and 5:35 PM in Kolkata. These small but significant variations reflect the importance of local context in religious observance.
As Ramadan 2026 progresses, the daily rhythm of Sehri and Iftar shapes the lives of those observing. The holy month is expected to conclude on March 20, 2026, culminating in the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr—though the exact date will depend on the sighting of the crescent moon. On the anticipated final day, Sehri will be observed around 5:06 AM, with Iftar projected at approximately 6:33 PM, as reported by News18. Until then, each day brings its own set of challenges and rewards. The early mornings—when alarms ring before sunrise and kitchens glow with soft lamplight—are a testament to discipline and devotion. The evenings, filled with the aroma of cooking and the sound of communal prayers (Taraweeh), are moments of gratitude and togetherness.
Ramadan’s spiritual aspects go beyond the physical act of fasting. It’s a time for Muslims to demonstrate self-control and compassion, to gather at mosques for nightly prayers, and to share Iftar dinners with relatives and neighbors. As India TV emphasizes, “People from the community gather at local mosques to conduct their nightly prayers, which they call Taraweeh, while they enjoy Iftar dinners with both their relatives and their neighbors.” The sense of community is palpable, whether in bustling city neighborhoods or quiet rural towns. Even as the precise timing of Sehri and Iftar shifts from east to west, the underlying spirit remains constant—a shared commitment to faith and fellowship.
Yet, the process of determining these timings is not without its challenges. The information provided by various sources often comes with a disclaimer: “Iftar timings are approximate and may vary slightly by locality; verify with local mosque or official Ramadan calendar.” This caution is echoed by India TV, which notes that their guidance is based on religious beliefs and popular traditions, not scientific evidence. Still, for those observing, the pursuit of accuracy is part of the ritual itself—an act of attentiveness that mirrors the mindfulness at the heart of Ramadan.
As the days of Ramadan unfold in 2026, Indian Muslims continue to navigate the delicate balance between tradition and adaptation. Technology has made it easier than ever to access up-to-date Sehri and Iftar times, but the core practices—rising before dawn, breaking fast at sunset, gathering in prayer—remain unchanged. The holy month offers not just a test of endurance, but an opportunity for spiritual renewal and community connection. Whether in the quiet solitude of Sehri or the joyful gatherings at Iftar, the rhythms of Ramadan provide a powerful reminder of faith’s enduring place in daily life.
With each passing day, as the crescent moon waxes and wanes, the faithful across India mark their progress—not just by the clock, but by the deepening of their devotion and the strengthening of their bonds with family, friends, and neighbors. Ramadan 2026, with its unique challenges and blessings, stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith, discipline, and community in the world’s largest democracy.