Ramzan 2018: As Muslims set to begin fasting, here is all you need to know about the holy month.

By: Wasim Ahmed Kalas
      Managing Director
      WWCP International Pvt. Ltd.
     Chandigarh - India

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Ramzan in 2018 began from May 16, Wednesday evening and shall end on June 14, Thursday. The annual observance of fast begins and ends according to the lunar Islamic Calendar. 

Ramzan is the ninth month of the Muslim year, during which strict fasting is observed from dawn to dusk. Ramzan is derived from Arabic root ‘ramida’ or ‘ar-ramad’, which means scorching heat or dryness.

During this holy month it is obligatory for the adult Muslims, except for the ones suffering from illness, travelling, pregnant, breast feeding or diabetic. Muslims engage in prayers, observance of fasts and charity during this month of Ramzan. 

Hilal, an Arabic word that means "crescent", in particular the crescent Moon. The observance of Ramzan begins after viewing the ‘Hilal’. Hilal is usually visible after a new Moon, determining the beginning of the holy month. 

Ramzan is also the time of the year when the Muslims practise increased self discipline. From fasting to abstaining from eating and drinking during the day, Muslims strictly adhere to these during this holy month. Muslims are also encouraged to read the entire Qur'an throughout this month. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramzan and the beginning of the next lunar month.  

The fast in from dawn to dusk with a pre-dawn meal known as ‘Sehri’ and the meal after the fast is called iftar.  

Ramzan is the month seen as the time for spiritual reflection for the Muslims. A time for improvement and increased devotion and worship. They are expected to put more efforts and spread the teachings of Islam.