Ramadan Begins: Fasting Observed Across India and Saudi Arabia

NEW DELHI, India – Muslims across the world began observing Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, on March 2, 2025, with India joining a day later than Saudi Arabia. This year marks an important spiritual period as communities engage in fasting from dawn until sunset, emphasizing self-discipline and empathy.

The start of Ramadan was confirmed following announcements from Jama Masjid in Delhi and the Shahi Imam of Lucknow. Saudi Arabia, a day ahead, sighted the crescent moon on March 1, hence beginning their fasting on the same day. Ramadan is recognized as the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, lasting either 29 or 30 days, depending on lunar sightings.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended heartfelt wishes to the nation on the commencement of Ramadan. In his message shared on the social media platform X, he stated, “As the blessed month of Ramzan begins, may it bring peace and harmony in our society.”

Officials across various states, including Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, have been proactive in ensuring essential services like electricity and water during fasting hours. Abdullah instructed officials to maintain heightened service levels, particularly during Iftar, the evening meal to break the fast. “It is the responsibility of the government to provide facilities to the people,” Abdullah emphasized.

Fasting, which involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn until dusk, serves as a tool for spiritual reflection for millions of Muslims. Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, prominent leaders of the Indian National Congress, also shared their blessings for Ramadan. “Ramzan Mubarak! May this sacred month fill your life with happiness,” Rahul Gandhi conveyed through a post on X.

The fasting period in India will vary by location. In New Delhi, the fast is set to begin at 5:26 AM with Sehri (pre-dawn meal) and conclude at 6:23 PM with Iftar (meal to break the fast). These timings may differ in other cities across the nation.

Preparations for Ramadan saw significant activity, with families shopping for dates, a traditional food for breaking fast. As Kiran Rijiju, the Union Minister for Minority Affairs, noted, this month is a time for furthering communal harmony and goodwill.

Ramadan culminates in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which is expected to fall on either March 30 or 31, contingent on the timing of the crescent moon sighting.