Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims. It is one of the most important observances for the Muslim community. Fasting counts for most essential practice in Ramadan. The fast starts from dawn and is indicated by the Al Fajr prayer (morning prayer). It ends at dusk and is marked by the Al Maghrib prayer (prayer at sunset). This daily fasting routine carries on every day for the entire month.
In the morning, after reciting the necessary prayers, a pre-dawn feast known as 'Sehri’ is consumed to keep up the body charged, generally, a glass of water and dry fruits and dates are consumed, while in the evening a wholesome meal known as 'iftar' is shared among the family members. The month of Ramadan is considered the holiest month in Islamic beliefs, people fast all day to remember the sufferings of poor and those less fortunate.
Special evening prayers called taraweeh are held during which portions from the Quran are recited. During the end of Ramadan, intense prayers take place during the Laylatul Qadr or the Night of Power, which is believed to be the holiest night of the year.The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid-ul-Fitr. Shawwal is the starting of the next month, and translated it means, ‘festival of breaking of the fast.’Eid is celebrated by Muslims with a lot of enthusiasm and fevour.Food items such as biryani and kebabs are cooked and deserts like sevaiyan cooked in milk, nuts and spices are prepared.