Ramadan 2023: Start and end date, fasting rules, rituals, greetings and more

The holy month of Ramadan is to begin on the 24th of March 2023 and is set to end on the 21st of April 2023 in India. Ramadan dates vary from country to country as they depend on the moon sighting. 

The holy month is observed all over the world, across numerous countries such as Saudi Arabia, Egypty, UAE, Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, and Indonesia among many others.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic holy calendar. During this time, Muslims worldwide fast, pray, reflect on their actions, and let go of all worldly pleasures. It is believed that during the holy month, some verses of the Quran were first revealed to Prophet Muhammad. 

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With celebrations and fervors, Muslims also give to charity as a sign of being closer to Allah through kindness and generosity. During this month, Muslims greet each other by saying “Ramadan Mubarak,” which means having a blessed Ramadan.

The fasting ritual entails abstaining from any food or drinks from before the first light of dawn till the sun sets. Once the sun sets, the fast is usually broken by milk and dates (suhur). This is followed by a proper meal after the evening prayers (iftar). 

Mosques also become very active as Muslims offer charity and iftars for the poor and needy. 

The last ten days of Ramadan are considered the most sacred. This was when the Quran was revealed on the night called Laylat al-Qadr to Prophet Muhammad. 

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Not all Muslims are required to carry out the fast. Small children, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and terminally ill people are excluded from the fast and required to continue with regular meals.