The sacred month of Ramadan for 2025 is set to begin on February 28, marking a substantial time for reflection, fasting, and prayer for Muslims around the world. This year, various organizations, particularly the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Republic of Tatarstan, have taken significant steps to prepare for the observance by providing thorough guidance on the practices surrounding Ramadan.
Ramadan is more than just abstaining from food and drink; it is a time for Muslim communities to strengthen their bonds with Allah through prayer and acts of compassion. During the month, Muslims will fast from dawn until sunset, taking the time to reflect on their spirituality and increase their charitable giving. The conclusion of Ramadan will be celebrated with Eid al-Fitr on March 30, 2025, which marks the end of fasting.
According to local religious authorities, the beginning of Ramadan will be confirmed based on the appearance of the new moon, emphasizing its alignment with the lunar calendar. "Ramadan is not just fasting but also the opportunity for personal growth, soul purification, and strengthening faith," expressed Ildar Hazrat Khasanov, Deputy Mufti of the Republic of Tatarstan.
Within the framework of Ramadan, guidelines will be set for fasting, which involves abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations during daylight hours. Muslim scholars have reiterated the importance of maintaining patience and humility during this time. Specific exemptions apply to children, pregnant and nursing women, travelers, and those who are ill, who are required to provide fidyah—monetary compensation for missed fasting days, set at 400 rubles per day.
The rich traditions of Ramadan include nightly prayers known as Taraweeh. These prayers, additional to the five obligatory daily prayers, serve as communal gatherings during which participants can reflect upon and recite the Quran. Many aspire to complete the reading of the entire Quran throughout the month. Hazrat Khasanov assured the public, "We will perform Taraweeh prayers across all mosques in Tatarstan," which has been met with enthusiasm from the local community.
Supporting those less fortunate is another cornerstone of Ramadan observance. Individuals are encouraged to donate zakat (charitable giving) as part of their religious duty, with this year’s total zakat amount set at 720,000 rubles. This figure marks a significant increase of 45% from the previous year, showcasing the community’s commitment to helping those in need. Bulat Mardanov, General Director of the Zakyat Charity Fund, stated, "This year, we aim to assist 80 individuals with financial support compared to 70 last year," reflecting their commitment to ramping up assistance.
Ramadan 2025 is also notable for several community initiatives aimed at bolstering the spirit of giving and compassion. Throughout Tatarstan, numerous iftar events (the evening meal to break the fast) will be organized, with some mosques hosting them daily. The use of public spaces for celebrations is highly encouraged, with community contests such as "Nurlı Ramazan" recognizing the best-decorated public places. Prizes for such contests can include significant rewards like a pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca, emphasizing the involvement of the entire community.
On March 19, the 13th annual republican iftar will be held at the Kazan Expo exhibition center, with detailed plans to be shared soon. This event exemplifies the collective spirit prevalent during Ramadan, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to celebrate their faith.
Fasting is intended to cultivate not only self-discipline but also empathy for the less fortunate. Aggressive behavior, arguments, and foul language are strictly discouraged during Ramadan, setting the tone for a peaceful and reflective month. Spiritual leaders remind followers of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who emphasized the purification of the soul and the strengthening of communal ties during this significant period.
Muslims are encouraged to use this holy month not only for personal improvement but for enhancing connections with family, friends, and the community at large. The Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Republic of Tatarstan has also made resources available for residents, enabling access to information on Ramadan's observance, including important dates, practices, and charitable opportunities.
Overall, Ramadan remains not just about fasting and prayer, but about nurturing one's soul, fostering community spirit, and reaffirming faith. The month will serve as both a challenge and an opportunity for believers to engage deeply with their spirituality and ethics, marking it as a significant period of the Islamic calendar.