Ramadan has officially begun as of March 1, 2025, across Azerbaijan and Turkey, marking the start of the holy month marked by fasting, prayer, and community gatherings. Baku's residents and those of Istanbul are preparing not only for personal reflection but also for acts of charity and communal meals known as iftar.
According to BAKU.WS, Azerbaijan’s initial observance of Ramadan commenced this year on March 1. Throughout the month, significant nights called "Ahya" will fall on the 18th, 20th, 22nd, and 26th of March, when believers engage in various forms of worship and charitable acts. The Caucasus Muslims Board has advised individuals to perform good deeds, including setting iftar tables, helping the needy, and engaging with scripture.
One of the notable recent announcements was the recommended amount for zakat al-fitr, which should be around 10-15 manat per person, as per the Fatwa issued by the Caucasus Muslims Board. Family heads are tasked with providing this donation on behalf of their dependents before the holiday, Eid al-Fitr, which is expected to be celebrated on March 30 this year. Officials have declared March 30 and 31 as national holidays, allowing families to partake in the celebrations without work obligations.
Across the region, varying schedules for prayers and fasting were established. Believers eagerly await the end of their daily fast, called iftar, to break their fast with family and friends. For example, on March 23, following the 23rd day of Ramadan, the iftar time for Baku was set at 19:10, shortly after the iftar prayer at 05:13.
This year, Turkey also embraced Ramadan with enthusiasm. Turkish cities will begin the holy month with special tarawih prayers on the evening of February 28, leading to the first suhoor (pre-dawn meal) early March 1. Notably, Iğdır will call the first adhan at 05:08, indicating the fast's commencement, and the first iftar is scheduled for 18:02. Çanakkale will have its iftar time slightly later at 19:12.
During this Ramadan period, Turkish officials have highlighted the importance of charity work, urging individuals to extend their hands to those less fortunate, thereby embodying the month's spirit of generosity—an emphasis on communal ties uniting both nations during this holy season.
With Ramadan affecting daily routines, local Muslims are encouraged to double-check specific prayer times through local Islamic calendars or mosques, as precise timings may vary by area. It’s recommended families take this opportunity to gather, share meals, and solidify connections with the community, as the month fosters togetherness.
For many, iftar features traditional meals, where households prepare to celebrate the sun setting and partake in the carefully planned meals. Restaurants across urban centers of both Azerbaijan and Turkey have readied themselves to accommodate the flood of customers wishing to enjoy iftar together, featuring special menus suited for the occasion.
Throughout this time, anticipation builds, not just for the meals but for the communal prayers and gatherings reinforcing the bonds of family and friendship.
This Ramadan season is especially poignant as it highlights the significance of connection—spiritually, socially, and culturally. Whether participating from the comfort of own homes or gathering at community centers or establishments, the shared meals of iftar embody the core sentiments of the month. Not only does Ramadan encourage personal reflection, it promotes widespread generosity and cooperation among Muslims, emphasizing the need to address the needs of the community as one.
Looking forward to the upcoming Eid al-Fitr, both Turkey and Azerbaijan will likely celebrate with various cultural events and gatherings, reminiscent of the shared celebrations held last year. This month, aside from fasting, serves to strengthen relationships among families and friends, extending love and support to those less fortunate.
Following the traditions set forth through generations, this Ramadan is poised to inspire acts of kindness and reflect on faith, inviting everyone to participate fully and genuinely. The spirit of this holy month resonates deeply across communities, showcasing the heart of what Ramadan truly embodies—unity, charity, and devotion.