Ramadan Observances Begin Across Tatarstan with Community Support and Spiritual Reflection
The holy month of Ramadan begins today at sunset, ushering in 30 days of fasting and prayer for Muslims around the world, culminating with the celebration of Uraza-Bayram on March 30. This year, Ramadan carries added significance as it aligns with the arrival of spring, promoting renewal and introspection among Tatarstan’s Muslim communities.
Ilfar Hazrat Khasanov, the First Deputy Mufti of Tatarstan, highlighted the transformative essence of Ramadan. "This is not just about abstaining from food or exchanging gifts; it’s about drawing closer to the Almighty through prayers, collective iftars, and the reading of the Quran during taraweeh prayers," he expressed. From March 1 to 29, the faithful will observe the uraza, which involves refraining from food and drink during daylight hours, starting from the pre-dawn meal and ending after sunset.
Importantly, provisions exist for those who are elderly, ill, or otherwise incapable of fasting. Rustam Nurgaliev, a member of the Council of Ulemas at the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Tatarstan (DUM RT), stated, "These individuals can forego fasting but are encouraged to provide fidya—a monetary assistance to those in need. For 2025, the fidya amounts to 400 rubles for each missed day of fasting." This highlights the Islamic principles of compassion and community support.
Another key aspect of Ramadan is the giving of zakat, or obligatory charity. The zakat amount depends on one's wealth, with the 'gold' nisab for 2025 set at 720,000 rubles. Those whose savings exceed this threshold are required to contribute 2.5% of their wealth, along with fitr-sadaqa, which is 1,100 rubles due at the end of the fasting period. For those at the 'silver' nisab (57,000 rubles), the fitr-sadaqa is set at 200 rubles, making it accessible for many and ensuring charitable giving is integral to Ramadan practices.
The Zakyt Charitable Foundation under DUM RT is actively aiding those in need throughout the month. Last year, the foundation collected around 1.7 million rubles for fitr-sadaqa and over 850,000 rubles for fidya. They distributed about 600 food packs weighing nearly four tons, with plans this year to increase the weight of each pack to 4.5 tons and include additional items like butter, canned fish, coffee, cookies, and sweets, with at least 500 sets prepared for distribution.
Celebrations surrounding Ramadan also include events such as the "Nurlu Ramazan" competition, which commenced on February 20. This engaging initiative invites individuals and organizations to decorate their homes, yards, or public spaces for the holiday. Decoration must remain visible until March 30, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the community.
Mufti of Tatarstan, Kamill Hazrat Samigullin, extended his warm wishes to the community, stating, "Ramadan this year begins symbolically on the first day of spring, as we collectively commence our paths of both physical and metaphorical rejuvenation and cleansing. This is the essence of fasting: to purify our morals and our bodies, and to embrace new lives free from sin and dispute." He emphasized the importance of Quran readings during this sacred month.
Similarly, President Rustam Minnikhanov congratulated the residents of Tatarstan via his Telegram channel, emphasizing the spiritually enriching nature of Ramadan. He shared heartfelt messages, affirming collective support for the Muslim community as they enter this notable time.
Sessions of iftar, or the evening meal marking the end of the daily fast, will be organized at 47 mosques in Kazan starting March 1. Each evening, worshippers will gather at these mosques to break their fast together, fostering community spirit. Some locations will also distribute iftar boxes for those who need them, making the experience inclusive and supportive.
Meanwhile, organizations are also mobilizing resources to support local Muslim college students. Efforts are underway to collect funds to provide free meals during Ramadan for students at the local Muslim college. Each iftar is estimated to cost 20,000 rubles, with financial support being strongly encouraged from the community to facilitate this benevolent initiative.
The practical and charitable activities surrounding Ramadan highlight the community-oriented values prevalent among Muslims in Tatarstan. With individuals and organizations rallying to provide support and share blessings, Ramadan stands as not only a period of fasting but also as one of communal kindness and solidarity, reinforcing bonds with the Almighty and with each other.