RAMADAN IS HERE!! Muslims in India to Begin Fasting on March 2

The start of Ramadan every year has been determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, as per the lunar Islamic calendar. This annual process dictates when Muslims worldwide begin fasting and observing Taraweeh prayers.

In India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines, the moon was slated to be sighted on February 28. However, as the crescent was not visible after sunset—marking the 29th day of Sha’ban—these countries will begin fasting on March 2, with Taraweeh prayers commencing on the evening of March 1.

Meanwhile, Muslims in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the UK, the US, Australia, and several other nations successfully sighted the crescent on February 28, confirming the start of Ramadan on March 1, 2025.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. Observant Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, negative thoughts, and marital relations from dawn to sunset. It is a period of deep spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and heightened devotion, with increased prayers and Quran recitation. Many mosques provide additional services, including extended nightly Taraweeh prayers.

Unlike the fixed Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar shifts approximately ten days earlier each year. Traditionally, scholars observe the sky on the 29th day of Sha’ban—if the crescent moon is sighted, Ramadan begins the next day; if not, the month of Sha’ban completes 30 days before fasting commences.

In 2025, an unusual global synchronization was expected, with many countries anticipating moon sighting on the same evening—February 28. However, regional differences in spotting the crescent prevented this rare alignment.

Despite varying start dates, Ramadan unites Muslims worldwide in spiritual reflection, fasting, and prayer, reinforcing shared values and devotion during the holiest month of the Islamic calendar.