On Thursday, February 19, 2026, Muslims across India marked the beginning of Ramadan, the sacred month of fasting, prayer, and reflection in Islam. As dusk settled over cities from New Delhi to Hyderabad, families and communities gathered to break their first fast together, launching a period of spiritual devotion and communal solidarity that would stretch for 29 or 30 days, depending on the lunar calendar.
According to AFP, the atmosphere around New Delhi’s Jama Masjid was electric as devotees streamed out after breaking their fast on the first day. The sighting of the crescent moon—a moment awaited with anticipation each year—signaled the official start of Ramadan for Indian Muslims. Traditionally, the crescent is first spotted in Gulf countries and Western regions, with India and neighboring countries beginning their observance a day later. This year was no different: Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations commenced fasting on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, after the crescent was seen on Tuesday evening.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar (Hijri) calendar, holds profound meaning for Muslims worldwide. It is a time when the faithful abstain from food and water between sunrise and sunset, honoring Sawm—the fourth pillar of Islam. The fast is not merely a physical act but a spiritual discipline, encouraging self-control, gratitude, and compassion. “Ramadan honors the fourth pillar of Islam, Sawm (fasting), encouraging self-control, gratitude, and compassion,” AFP reported, echoing the sentiments of many who cherish this annual period of reflection and renewal.
Each day during Ramadan follows a rhythm shaped by two key meals: Sehri (or Suhoor) and Iftar. Sehri is the pre-dawn meal, consumed before the Fajr (morning) prayer, which marks the start of the daily fast. As dawn approaches, families rise early to eat nourishing foods and hydrate, knowing that they’ll refrain from all sustenance until sunset. The importance of Sehri is not just practical—it’s also deeply spiritual, as it sets the intention for the day’s fast and is often accompanied by quiet prayers and reflection.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the anticipation for Iftar grows. Iftar, meaning “breaking the fast,” is observed at sunset, following the Maghrib (evening) prayer. According to Times Now, “Iftar is considered a moment of gratitude, community, and nourishment after fasting.” The tradition of breaking the fast with dates and water is widespread, providing a quick source of energy and hydration after hours of abstinence. This practice, rooted in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, is followed by a fuller meal that brings families and friends together in celebration and prayer.
The social and spiritual significance of Iftar cannot be overstated. “Breaking fast in congregation with family, friends or the wider community reinforces bonds and shared faith, often accompanied by prayers and reflection,” Times Now noted, highlighting how these gatherings foster a sense of unity and belonging. In many neighborhoods, communal Iftars are organized, with mosques and community centers opening their doors to all, regardless of economic status. For many, these meals are a lifeline that brings comfort, companionship, and a reminder of shared humanity.
Ramadan’s observance is carefully timed, with Sehri and Iftar schedules varying from city to city and even day to day as the length of daylight changes. On Friday, February 20, 2026, the Sehri and Iftar timings in major Indian cities were as follows, according to AFP and Times Now:
These timings serve as broad references, but local mosque committees and moon-sighting bodies may issue small adjustments based on precise astronomical calculations and local traditions. As Times Now explained, "local mosque committees or moon-sighting bodies may publish small adjustments to these timings," so many families rely on announcements from their neighborhood mosques to ensure accuracy.
The start of Ramadan in India is always tied to the local moon-sighting. This practice, rooted in Islamic tradition, means that the exact date can vary by a day or two depending on weather conditions and visibility. This year, the announcement came late on February 18, with communities across the country preparing for the first fast the following morning. “The month of Ramadan began across India on February 19, 2026, following local moon-sighting announcements,” Times Now confirmed.
Fasting during Ramadan is more than just abstaining from food and drink. It’s a holistic act of worship, encompassing increased prayer, recitation of the Quran, charity, and acts of kindness. Many Muslims use this time to reconnect with their faith, seek forgiveness, and extend help to those in need. The discipline of fasting is seen as a means to purify the soul, cultivate empathy for the less fortunate, and strengthen self-discipline.
For those observing, the benefits of Ramadan are felt both physically and spiritually. The pre-dawn meal, Sehri, is designed to provide lasting energy, while the fast itself is believed to teach patience and resilience. Iftar, meanwhile, is not just about satisfying hunger but about sharing blessings and gratitude. As Times Now described, “Iftar has deep spiritual and social significance, often accompanied by prayers and reflection.”
Across India, the onset of Ramadan brings a distinctive energy to daily life. Markets brim with special foods—samosas, kebabs, sweets, and, of course, dates—while mosques see increased attendance for nightly Taraweeh prayers. The streets come alive at dusk, with vendors selling snacks and drinks to those hurrying home for Iftar. For many, these sights and sounds are as much a part of Ramadan as the fast itself.
Yet, amid the celebration, the core values of Ramadan remain at the forefront: self-restraint, gratitude, and compassion. By refraining from food and water during daylight hours, Muslims are reminded of the struggles faced by the less fortunate and are encouraged to give generously to charity. The month is a time for personal growth, spiritual rejuvenation, and a renewed commitment to community.
As Ramadan 2026 unfolds, millions in India and around the world will continue to observe its rituals, guided by the rhythms of the moon and the enduring teachings of their faith. Each dawn and dusk brings new opportunities for reflection, connection, and gratitude—a reminder of the enduring power of tradition in an ever-changing world.