Ramadan's Grand Opening
The sacred month of Ramadan, also known as Ramzan, officially commenced in India on Thursday, February 19, 2026, following the confirmed sighting of the new
moon. This announcement, mirroring practices in Saudi Arabia where the moon was observed a day prior, signals the start of a month dedicated to fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims across the nation. The first day's fast, or roza, begins after the pre-dawn meal, Sehri, and concludes with the sunset breaking of fast, Iftar. This spiritual journey will continue until March 19, culminating in the joyous celebration of Eid Al-Fitr. The commencement was widely announced, with local religious bodies like Delhi's Jama Masjid and Hyderabad's Ruet-e-Hilal Committee playing crucial roles in informing their communities. The observance is intrinsically tied to the Islamic lunar calendar, making moon sightings the definitive marker for its start and end. This alignment ensures a unified approach to this significant religious period.
Daily Fasting Essentials
During Ramadan 2026, the daily fasting period, encompassing abstaining from food and drink, will generally span between 12.5 to 14 hours for most devotees in India. These timings are not uniform across the country, varying slightly due to local sunrise and sunset schedules. For instance, on the first day, Sehri concluded around 5:36 AM IST, with sunset, marking the Iftar, expected at 6:15 PM IST. While Delhi observed Sehri ending at 5:37 AM and Iftar at 6:15 PM, Hyderabad's Iftar commenced at 6:20 PM, and Bengaluru's at 6:26 PM. These variations underscore the localized nature of observing the fast, even within the same lunar month. The duration of daylight hours directly influences the length of the fast each day, with minor shifts occurring throughout the month as the sun's position changes.
Beyond Hunger and Thirst
Ramadan transcends mere abstinence from food and drink; it is a profound period for spiritual introspection, increased prayer, and acts of charity. This holy month is a vital opportunity for Muslims to deepen their connection with their faith, strengthen community bonds, and cultivate a sense of shared responsibility. The daily cycle of Sehri before dawn and Iftar at sunset serves as a constant reminder of spiritual discipline and gratitude. It's a time for heightened devotion, seeking forgiveness, and practicing compassion towards others. Many individuals dedicate this month to personal growth, focusing on self-improvement and reinforcing their commitment to Islamic principles. The communal aspect of breaking fast together and engaging in nightly prayers fosters a powerful sense of unity and solidarity among believers.
Global Fasting Contrasts
While India observes fasting durations of approximately 12.5 to 14 hours, daily fasting hours vary significantly worldwide due to differing time zones and daylight periods. For example, Muslims in the United Kingdom face longer fasts, estimated between 14 to 16 hours. In many Gulf countries and parts of West Asia, the fasting period is typically shorter, ranging from 12 to 13 hours, which is less than that experienced in northern latitudes but comparable to some South Asian regions. Further afield, in countries like Chile and New Zealand located in the Southern Hemisphere, fasting durations can extend to around 14 to 15 hours, contingent on local daylight availability. These global variations highlight the diverse environmental factors influencing the practice of Ramadan across different latitudes.
