Muslims around the world are gearing up for the holy month of Ramadan, with various countries announcing their start dates based on the sighting of the crescent moon. Indonesia declared Friday, February 28, as the last day of Sha'ban, with Saturday, March 1, set to mark the first day of Ramadan. Meanwhile, Malaysia announced its commencement for Sunday, March 2.
Australia officially confirmed on February 28, 2025, as the last day of Sha'ban, and the Grand Mufti of Australia, Dr. Ibrahim Abu Mohamad, made the announcement stating Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1. He explained the decision was based on lunar observations, emphasizing, "Through fasting, worship, and nightly gatherings, Ramadan fosters unity and reinforces the bonds connecting Muslim communities."
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wished all Australian Muslims, saying, "Ramadan Mubarak to all Australians of the Muslim faith. Ramadan is time of strength through discipline and renewal through faith."
According to the Mufti of Australia, the crescent moon must be visible after sunset on Friday to confirm the commencement of Ramadan. For cities like Sydney, sunset occurred at 7:32 PM (AEDT), with the new moon expected to be sighted shortly thereafter.
Shifting the focus to India, workers are braced for potential Ramadan festivities as local moon sighting efforts are set to take place. Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahali from the Markazi Chand Committee is responsible for moon sighting declarations across the country. He has indicated the crescent moon is anticipated to be sighted on February 28. If visible, taraweeh prayers will commence the same evening, with the first day of fasting placed for Saturday, March 1. Conversely, if the moon is not sighted, Ramadan will begin on March 2.
Throughout the observance of Ramadan, Muslims fast daily from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs for 30 days, creating opportunities for reflection, community, and charity. Scholars and community leaders across India are striving to standardize Ramadan observances, with regional variations often leading to differing start dates.
Interestingly, 2025 presents an unusual scenario as many Muslim-majority countries like Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and India may potentially align their observance of Ramadan due to having commenced the month of Shaban on the same date. This alignment suggests for the first time, Muslims may collectively witness the crescent moon on February 28, 2025, establishing the same day for the start of Ramadan.
Moon sighting traditions differ across various communities, whether they adhere to global, regional, or local methodologies. Global sightability uses predicted sightings anywhere for unified commencement, as followed by Turkey’s mosques and its diaspora, starting Ramadan on March 1; regional sighting relies on reports from neighboring countries, potentially leading to different start dates across communities.
One of the key customs observed during Ramadan is the sensory celebration marked by food, faith renewal, and culturally adapted practices. Cities across India anticipate unique culinary highlights during Ramadan. For example, Old Delhi's Jama Masjid is surrounded by vibrant markets offering delectable kebabs and sweet treats, whereas Mumbai's Mohammad Ali Road thrives off Iftar feasts.
The Islamic Centre of India plans to activate their Ramadan Helpline to assist individuals with guidance on fasts, prayers, and community engagement, reflecting the dedication to community support during this holy month. Maulana Khalid Rasheed stated, “We established this for the religious guidance of Muslims,” ensuring help is accessible. The helpline will operate daily from 2 PM to 4 PM throughout Ramadan, responding to queries related to fasting and prayer practices.
Meanwhile, there are also physical health aspects to observe during Ramadan. Nutritionists are advocating healthy fasting practices, particularly around pre-dawn meals (Sehri) and evening Iftar breaks. Important dietary tips include consuming nutrient-dense foods and ensuring proper hydration between fasting hours.
Ramadan isn't purely about abstaining from food and drink, as it symbolizes deep reflection, worship, and community. Various local governments, including Telangana, have announced policies to support Muslim employees during Ramadan, allowing for shorter working hours to accommodate fasting.
The crescent moon will be observed around sunset, with local authorities expected to confirm its visibility at significant gathering points like mosques. Citizens, guided by regional scholars, will be on alert to confirm the moon sighting, which will mark either the beginning of Ramadan or another day of observance.
Interestingly, the Islamic calendar operates solely on lunar cycles, meaning Ramadan shifts annually within the Gregorian calendar due to its reliance on moon sightings. Consequently, its dates alter each year, reinforcing unique cultural observances across the globe.
These upcoming moon sighting efforts not only establish the beginning of Ramadan but also invite shared communal joy and solidarity among Muslims worldwide. Regardless of the dynamics surrounding moon sighting, one core principle remains: bringing together the Muslim community via shared practice, piety, and exchanges during this spiritually significant period.
With the crescent moon expected to be observed soon, Muslims globally continue to prepare for what they hope will be another month of self-reflection, discipline, and unity as they engage with the rituals of Ramadan.