As Muslims around the world observe fasting during the holy month of Ramadan, the significance of Sehri and Iftar times has never been clearer. On March 22, 2025, the 22nd day of Ramadan, those fasting in diverse regions such as Baku, Azerbaijan, India, and Pakistan will follow specific timings to break their fast. Here's what to expect on this significant day.
In Baku, Azerbaijan, fasting will begin with Imsak (the pre-dawn meal) at 05:14, and Iftar (the meal to break the fast) will take place at 19:09. Worshippers are encouraged to recite a specific dua before Iftar: "O Allah, for You I have fasted and with Your provisions I break my fast. Forgive me my past and future sins." This prayer, common among believers, emphasizes humility and the need for forgiveness.
Turning to India, the 21st Roza will also be observed on the same day, marking an important phase in the Ramadan calendar. In the capital Delhi, Sehri will be at 05:03 AM, while Iftar will occur at 06:36 PM. Other major cities will have their specific timings, too: in Mumbai, Sehri is at 05:27 AM and Iftar at 06:51 PM; in Hyderabad, they will observe Sehri at 05:11 AM with Iftar following at 06:39 PM. Timings vary slightly from city to city, indicating the geographical factors influencing start and end times of the fast.
In Lucknow, the Sehri time will be at 04:50 AM, and Iftar at 06:20 PM. Kolkata and various other regions like Kanpur and Patna similarly have their schedules set, showcasing the diversity within shared traditions. While these regions follow the same overall practice of fasting, the unique timings underscore the importance of local customs and the community's alignment with Islamic teachings during Ramadan.
Meanwhile, in Pakistan, significant variations in Sehri and Iftar timings arise as well. Cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi mark their days with different schedules that reflect their positions on the map. Islamabad and Rawalpindi will start Sehri at 4:47 AM, finishing their fast at 6:21 PM. Lahore follows closely behind with Sehri at 4:44 AM and Iftar at 6:15 PM, while Karachi matches the timing of the evening meal with 6:44 PM.
The preparations for Ramadan include a focus on community, charity, and spiritual reflection. Ramadan is viewed as not just a month of fasting, but also a time for self-discipline and reassessment of personal virtues. Each city showcases unique practices—mosques often host communal prayers, allow donations, and provide meals, emphasizing the community aspect of this sacred month.
With Ramadan officially beginning on March 1, 2025, this holy month stretches over 29 to 30 days depending on the lunar cycle. Notably, fasting each day lasts a little over 13 hours in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where Muslims began their fast at 4:38 AM and broke their fast at 6:05 PM on the preceding day. This pattern is replicated across various regions, with local mosques announcing times that vary as the month progresses.
As Ramadan continues through the month, many Muslims are reminded of the importance of charity. The provision to give Zakat and engage in acts of kindness grows tenfold during this time. It creates a profound sense of empathy for those who are less fortunate, aligning closely with the teachings of Islam to promote generosity and compassion.
In summary, Muslims from Baku to Delhi and Lahore to Karachi will share similar goals during the holy month but will experience different schedules that cater to their respective regions, offering a glimpse into the diverse cultural landscape of Ramadan. With significant communal ties fostered through food, card games, and gatherings during Iftar, Ramadan in 2025 is more than just a religious observance; it’s also a celebration of community, generosity, and spiritual growth among those who honor its teachings.
