The holy month of Ramadan 2025 commenced on March 2, marking a significant period of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims around the globe. This ninth month of the Islamic calendar is revered for its blessings and is believed to be when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad over 1,400 years ago.
During Ramadan, Muslims observe fasting (Roza) from dawn until sunset, refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, and sexual relations. The fast is broken daily at sunset with Iftar, which traditionally begins with the consumption of dates and water before moving on to more substantial meals.
Sehri (the pre-dawn meal) is equally significant, enabling Muslims to prepare for the day of fasting. The actual timings for Sehri and Iftar vary depending on geographical location and local sunrise/sunset times, reflecting the lunar nature of the Islamic calendar.
Throughout Ramadan, Muslims engage deeply with their faith, participating in additional prayers, reading the Quran, and seeking forgiveness. The month is divided conceptually as well, with the first ten days focused on mercy, the second on blessings, and the last ten days on forgiveness.
Specific to India, Ramadan typically begins one day later than it does in Saudi Arabia due to the necessity of moon sighting. For 2025, major cities have established timings for Sehri and Iftar. For example, on the first day of Ramadan, Sehri is observed at 5:26 AM, and Iftar at 6:23 PM.
Here are the Sehri and Iftar timings for the first few days of Ramadan 2025:
Beyond just observance, regional authorities also take measures to support the community during Ramadan. For example, Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, emphasized the importance of uninterrupted electricity during the Sehri and Iftar times. He held meetings with his staff to issue directives aimed at ensuring no disruptions occur during these sacred times.
Abdullah noted, "People rightfully expect their government to take necessary measures to avoid hardships during this holy month." His government pledged efforts to maintain power supplies and address water distribution challenges, seeking to prevent inconveniences during this time of heightened devotion.
Ramadan fosters not only individual piety but also community togetherness. Markets traditionally buzz with activity as families prepare for Iftar gatherings, often purchasing dates, fruits, and well-loved sweets. These special meals bring communities closer together, serving both as moments of joy and expressions of gratitude for such bounties.
This Ramadan, as Muslims around the world partake in fasts ranging from 12 to 16 hours depending on their location, there's growing awareness of how these fasting hours change yearly. Generally, Ramadan commences 10 to 12 days earlier each year due to the lunar calendar's nature. This year, fasting will see varying lengths based on latitude, with Muslims at extreme latitudes enduring longer fasts.
The long and cherished tradition of Ramadan serves as a reminder of self-discipline and the values of compassion and community. The greetings exchanged during this holy month, such as "Ramadan Mubarak" and "Ramadan Kareem," cement the bonds of fellowship among Muslims.
Overall, Ramadan 2025 stands to be observed by millions globally as they engage this season of introspection and devotion, striving to enrich their faith through fasting and prayer.