April 05, 2024 Issue

Srinagar, Kashmir: A Kashmiri Muslim elder recites the Quran at Dastgeer Sahib, a Sufi shrine in Indian-controlled Kashmir, on March 12, the first day of Ramadan in the region. The ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Ramadan is a time of deep spiritual reflection and observance commemorating the Quran’s revelation to the Prophet Muhammad. Throughout this holy month, many practicing Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, beginning with a pre-dawn meal known as “suhoor” and breaking their fast after sunset with “iftar,” typically a substantial meal shared with family and community members. Nearly two billion Muslims celebrate Ramadan worldwide. The month concludes with the celebratory Eid al-Fitr.