Pakistanis offered special Taraweeh prayers late last night and consumed pre-dawn suhoor meals across the nation, marking the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan from today, Sunday, March 2, 2025. Ramadan, the ninth and the holiest month of the Islamic calendar, is observed with great reverence as Muslims worldwide engage in fasting, prayer, and reflection.
The sighting of the new moon dictates the exact start date of Ramadan, and this year, Pakistan welcomes this sacred month one day after many other parts of the world. The act of fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and symbolizes self-discipline, devotion, and unity among the Muslim community.
A significant aspect of Ramadan is the Taraweeh prayer, which is a non-obligatory night prayer performed throughout the month. Thousands gathered at well-lit mosques on the evening of March 1 to observe the first night of Taraweeh. “Today is the first day of Taraweeh,” said Nadeem Aftab, a resident of Karachi, expressing enthusiasm about the prayers. “We have to keep up this prayer the whole month with enthusiasm and should also invite others to this prayer every day.”
Alongside the prayers, preparations for the first suhoor meal were also underway. Pre-dawn meals are popularly consumed to prepare for the day of fasting. Customers were seen flocking to vendors selling traditional morning delicacies. Javed Ali Baloch, among many others at the shop, was purchasing “pheni,” or fried vermicelli, popular during Ramadan. “I am here to buy pheni, which is only available during Ramadan for suhoor, and people love to eat it,” Baloch explained. “I buy it for my family.”
With over 90% of Pakistan's population practicing Islam, Ramadan holds deep cultural significance across the nation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has recognized the challenges families may face during this month filled with fasting and increased expenses. On the eve of Ramadan, he announced a relief package worth Rs20 billion (approximately $71.4 million) aimed at assisting 4 million families nationwide. “The government has decided to provide Rs5,000 (around $17.87) each to around four million families across the country to support them during the month of Ramadan,” officials stated, showcasing the administration's commitment to ease financial burdens during this sacred time.
The atmosphere during Ramadan is often charged with spirituality and community spirit, as families come together to share meals and prayers. The increased focus on community and charity can often be seen at mosques where not only worship but also social service and support are emphasized.
Pakistanis, with their diverse culinary traditions, also transform their tables during Ramadan to include various traditional dishes, such as samosas, dates, and sweets, symbolizing the festive spirit of the month. The local markets are vibrant places where vendors sell seasonal delicacies, and families come together to choose their favorites to break their fast.
During Ramadan, the sense of brotherhood and unity often strengthens as communities engage in acts of charity and kindness, reflecting the true spirit of the month. Muslims around the world identify with this sacred time, fostering connections and embodying the values of empathy and sharing.
Overall, the commencement of Ramadan is more than just fasting; it is about community, reflection, and sharing the blessings bestowed upon individuals with those less fortunate. The government’s initiative, coupled with the overwhelming participation of the populace, sets the tone for what should be another spiritually enriching month for millions across Pakistan.
With Ramadan now officially underway, the nation looks forward to the coming days filled with prayers, reflection, and communal gatherings, uplifting the spirit of the community and embodying the values of compassion and generosity as they celebrate this holy month.