New Delhi

As Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court announced the sighting of the Crescent moon on Sunday night ushering in the holy month of Ramzan from Monday, Indian Muslims are bracing to start their fasting a day later from Monday, March 11.

More than 2 billion Muslims worldwide are likely to embark on the sacred journey of Ramazan, a holy month that goes far beyond abstaining from food and drink and is considered a time for individual self-reflection, devotion, generosity, and sacrifice, uniting the global Muslim community in a shared commitment to spiritual growth.

At the core of Ramadan lies the spiritual commitment to fasting, a practice observed by Muslims as a means of developing self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and spiritual awareness.

Muslims believe that Ramadan is the month in which the first verses of the Holy Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad more than 1,400 years ago.

Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, along with the Muslim declaration of faith, daily prayers, charity, and performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca if physically and financially capable.

In many Muslim-majority countries, working hours are reduced, and most restaurants are closed during fasting hours

Roza, as fasting is called is one of the fundamentals of Islam and all healthy Muslims who have hit puberty are required to observe it.

The exceptions are permitted for the elderly, sick, travellers, and pregnant or nursing women.

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Muslims are required to work as normal and follow their routine. Muslims must read their sacred book – the Quran.

During each day doing some special prayers and going to mosques is important.