Explore the delightful customs observed by over 1.5 billion Muslims during the holiest month of the Islamic Calendar.

Ramadan (also known as Ramazan, Ramzan, Ramadhan, or Ramathan) is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad according to Islamic belief. This annual observance is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The month lasts 29–30 days based on the visual sightings of the crescent moon, according to numerous biographical accounts compiled in the hadiths. Ramadan is considered to be a time for gratitude, helping the less fortunate and to reconnect with Allah.

With Islam being such a widespread and ancient religion, it has blended itself with many of the local aspects from region to region. This has given birth to several traditions celebrating Ramadan along with the unique flavours of each country.

1. Spreading the joy.

As the period of Ramadan begins, people greet each other by saying ‘Ramadan Mubarak’ on the first day.

The Ramadan days begin and end with prayers. Muslims also make it a point to visit the mosque during the Ramadan month. Muslims give up water, food, intoxicating substances or sexual activities during the daylight hours only to have food twice a day; when the sun rises and when the sun sets. The meal before sunrise is called Suhoor and the meal after sunset is called Iftar.

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