This year, Muslims around the world will observe Ramadan, with the holy month anticipated to last 29 days, leading up to the celebratory holiday of Uraza-Bairam (Id al-Fitr) on March 30, 2025. According to reports from various regional religious committees, including the Council of Ulema in Tajikistan, the confirmation of the holiday date will come on March 27 after a meeting where final decisions will be made.
In Tajikistan, Ramadan commenced on March 1 this year, and local authorities have already set the amounts for charitable donations during this sacred month. For Ramadan 2025, the sum of sadaqah fitr (a form of charity) has been set at 8 somoni, while the amount for zakat is 900 somoni, applicable for those possessing surplus funds of at least 36,000 somoni. Furthermore, fidya, which applies to those unable to fast, is established at 480 somoni for a full 30 days of Ramadan. This is a slight increase from previous years, where the same contributions were slightly lower.
In addition to observing Ramadan, the scheduling of prayer services for Uraza-Bairam has been established in various regions including Ufa, Russia, where mosques will commence their ceremonies at eight in the morning on March 30. Worshipers will gather in 23 mosques across the capital of Bashkiria to partake in collective prayers and sermons, with live broadcasts on local television and other media.
Traffic restrictions will be in effect on the day, making it essential for citizens to plan ahead. Streets including Tukayev and Komarov will experience significant limitations during the services, specifically from early morning until the afternoon.
In Ingushetia, preparations for the holiday are in full swing. Mahmud-Ali Kalimatov, the Head of Ingushetia, chaired a special meeting focused on organizing local utilities to ensure a smooth celebration. He underscored the importance of providing uninterrupted supplies of electricity, water, and gas during the festivities, indicating, “People cannot be without these essential services.” Agricultural fairs are also being arranged to offer residents access to food at reduced prices, with the last major market scheduled for March 27 in Magas, the capital.
The significance of Uraza-Bairam is paramount within the Islamic faith, marking the end of fasting observed throughout Ramadan. Observant Muslims engage in charitable acts and communal prayers, demonstrating the spirit of unity and faith. The preparations underscore a communal effort toward ensuring a joyful and efficient celebration.
In Tatarstan, the anticipation of Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Destiny, builds during the final ten days of Ramadan. This night is believed to be immensely significant in the Muslim tradition, where prayers are intensified. Imam Ildar Bayazitov from the Yardem Mosque noted that this night can represent the reward of worship equivalent to over 80 years.
As the festivities draw near, it is essential for parents to ensure their children’s safety, especially during communal gatherings. Authorities in various regions remind families to supervise their children closely to prevent accidents or mishaps during the celebrations.
The overall excitement surrounding Uraza-Bairam is reflective of the spiritual dedication experienced across the Muslim community. From charity to careful preparations, each element represents the values of compassion, faith, and gratitude, all coming together in celebration. As the date approaches, community leaders encourage all Muslims to embrace the essence of Ramadan and participate in the activities planned for the holiday, ensuring that the spirit of unity is felt by all.
This year's Uraza-Bairam promises not just to be a celebration of faith, but also a time of reflection on the importance of community, charity, and the shared experiences that knit together the fabric of society.
