Ramadan 2025, the holy month observed by millions of Muslims worldwide, began at sunset on February 28 and will run until March 29. This significant period is marked by prayer, reflection, community involvement, and fasting from dawn to dusk.
Rustam Minnikhanov, the President of Tatarstan, extended his heartfelt greetings to the Muslim community via social media platforms, wishing everyone well on the commencement of Ramadan. "Изге Рамазан ае мөбарәк булсын! (May the sacred month of Ramadan be blessed!)" he stated, reflecting the spirit of celebration and gratitude prevalent during this time. He also shared video content highlighting the month as one of worship, grace, and goodness.
Ramadan is characterized by the observance of fasting, or sawm, which Muslims adhere to from dawn until sunset. During this time, they abstain from food, drink, smoking, and intimate relations. The fast begins each day with the pre-dawn meal known as suhoor and is broken with the evening meal called iftar after dusk. These meals are often communal, with families coming together to break their fasts.
Notably, Ramadan is not only about abstaining from food; it is also about enhancing one's spirituality. Muslims engage more intensely with their faith by praying five times daily, reading the Quran, and performing charitable acts. Reflections during this month allow believers to reconnect with Allah and develop inner peace.
Mufti Kamal Hazrat Samigullin, the religious leader of Tatarstan, shared his message on the official website of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Republic of Tatarstan. He pointed out the coinciding of the first day of Ramadan with the onset of spring, symbolizing renewal for both nature and the human spirit. He emphasized, "The essence of fasting lies in purifying the soul and the body, strengthening morals, and overcoming personal weaknesses."
Throughout the month, various communal prayers and reading sessions of the Quran will be organized, including tarawih prayers, iftars, and the Khatm of the Quran. Samigullin also announced the traditional charity marathon dubbed "Ramadan – Month of Good Deeds," which encourages generosity and kindness within the community.
During Ramadan, Muslims are reminded of several behavioral codes to observe. According to local customs, it’s prohibited to eat or drink from dawn till sunset. Engaging in disputes, using harsh language, or fostering negative emotions are also discouraged as believers strive for spirituality over aggression.
While fasting is obligatory for most, certain groups are exempt, including travelers, the sick, and pregnant women, as well as young children. They are encouraged to make up these missed fasts at another time if possible.
A humanitarian aspect of Ramadan takes on greater significance this year. The Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Republic of Tatarstan has organized shipments of food and supplies to military personnel, underlining the spirit of solidarity and support during the holy month. These efforts included deliveries of halal products, medical supplies, and other necessary items to frontline units.
The culmination of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr, concluding the month-long fasting practices. This festival is characterized by communal prayers, festive meals, and acts of sharing and compassion, reinforcing community ties.
With the month of Ramadan underway, leaders like Minnikhanov and Samigullin are calling upon the community to embrace the spirit of the month through reflection, prayer, and enhanced social responsibility. They express hope for the blessings of Ramadan to facilitate personal growth and charitable actions among all faithful.