Ramadan, the holiest month on the Islamic calendar, holds tremendous significance for Muslims around the globe. This year, Ramadan commenced on March 3, 2025, marked by fasting from dawn until sunset, culminating each day with the evening Iftar meal post-Maghrib prayer.
Fasting during Ramadan is more than simply abstaining from food and drink; it is coupled with reflecting on one’s faith and drawing nearer to God. The fast begins with the pre-dawn meal known as sehri, and ends when the sun sets, at which point families and friends gather to break their fast at Iftar. During this time, prayers and meals are carefully aligned according to Islamic guidelines.
The timings of sehri and iftar vary by geographical location, leading to slight differences across cities. For example, on March 4, 2025, residents of major cities across Pakistan will follow specific timings as they observe their fasts:
- Islamabad/Rawalpindi: Sehri at 5:12 AM, Iftar at 6:07 PM
- Lahore: Sehri at 5:06 AM, Iftar at 6:03 PM
- Karachi: Sehri at 5:37 AM, Iftar at 6:35 PM
- Peshawar: Sehri at 5:17 AM, Iftar at 6:12 PM
- Quetta: Sehri at 5:36 AM, Iftar at 6:33 PM
- Faisalabad: Sehri at 5:11 AM, Iftar at 6:08 PM
- Multan: Sehri at 5:18 AM, Iftar at 6:15 PM
- Bahawalpur: Sehri at 5:34 AM, Iftar at 6:32 PM
- Gujranwala: Sehri at 5:07 AM, Iftar at 6:03 PM
- Hyderabad: Sehri at 5:31 AM, Iftar at 6:30 PM
- Sukkur: Sehri at 5:29 AM, Iftar at 6:27 PM
During Ramadan, many are encouraged to give back to their communities, fostering the spirit of generosity and caring. A notable event occurred on the first day of Ramadan when President Masoud Pezeshkian hosted orphan children for Iftar. He provided them with not just food but also warmth and kindness, emphasizing the importance of community support during this holy month. "On Sunday, the first day of the holy month of Ramadan, President Masoud Pezeshkian hosted a group of orphan children for breaking fast (Iftar)," reported President.ir.
This event demonstrates the deep-rooted values of compassion and community service inherent during Ramadan, where sharing meals and gathering with loved ones enhances the social fabric of society.
Ramadan is not only about personal sacrifice but also about communal ties and bolstering bonds within society. Across the globe, Muslims observe this month with the prospect of improving their spirituality and giving back to their communities, showcasing acts of kindness such as hosting Iftar meals for those less fortunate.
With the current timings set for sehri and Iftar, Muslims are encouraged to follow local mosque announcements or Islamic authorities for the most accurate schedules to maintain their fasts appropriately. Whether through private reflection or communal gatherings, Ramadan serves to unite Muslims worldwide as they engage together in devotion, discipline, and charity.
To stay abreast of the full Ramadan calendar and events, one can access specific schedules which detail the timings for different regions, ensuring everyone participates effectively within their local communities.