Ramadan Mubarak !!!

The holy month of Ramzan not only comes with a message of peace and brotherhood, but it also helps us understand the beliefs of our fellow citizens. When we understand the sentiment and motive behind an act, we are less likely to judge and it develops a feeling of mutual respect and admiration for one another.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is believed to be the month when the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Muslims all over the world are expected to fast during this month as a part of spiritual reflection. Fasting was made mandatory during Ramadan in the month of Sha'ban (eighth month of the Islamic calendar), in the second year after Muslims migrated from Mecca to Medina. For the Adults fasting since then is compulsory except for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, for those who are travelling, or are chronically ill. "The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the Quran; a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the criterion (of right and wrong). And whosoever of you is present, let him fast the month, and whosoever of you is sick or on a journey, a number of other days. Allah desires for you ease; He desires not hardship for you; and that you should complete the period, and that you should magnify Allah for having guided you, and that perhaps you may be thankful." , states Chapter 2, Verse 185 of Quran.

There is a discipline in actions and thoughts that comes with fasting in Ramzaan. Muslims are expected to refrain from sins and any bad behavior including cursing during the month. The whole day one shall not drink, eat, smoke, or involve in any sexual experience during the month.

Sehri or Suhur is the pre- dawn meal before the first of the five Islamic payers of a day. Iftar is the meal taken to break the fast at sunset on the time as per the Islamic calender. At night extra Islamic prayers called Tarawih are performed by muslims. It is not compulsory but common practice and is believed to be a salaat performed by Prophet Muhammad. Many encourage recitation of the Quran by means of Tarawih during the month.

Hindu Temples hosted iftari for Muslims during Ramzan-

Zakat (Charity) is one of the five pillars of Islam and is even more important during Ramzaan. It is a fixed percentage of the savings that are supposed to be donated to the poor. Sadqah is a voluntary charity in giving above or beyond what is needed from the obligation of Zakat. It is believed that Allah blesses one for his good deeds during the month handsomely. Sawab (spiritual rewards) are multiplied during the month of fasting.

Evidently, the month is all about being a good human being and the best version of oneself. It is done to understand the value of life for it is to serve the Almighty and be kind and forgiving to His other children. "As we enter Ramadan, if we are upset with anyone, let us forgive one another for His (Allah's) sake. Let us not keep hearts full of grudges.", said Mufti Ismail Menk.

Muslims offering prayers during Ramzan-

In a place like India which is a wonderful amalgamation of cultures, beauty of it spreads with compassion for one another and participation in various important festivals celebrated. When we realize that something is emotionally driven, the best way to handle is to drench yourself with the understanding of those emotions. Even if one may agree to disagree, he will surely be compelled to develop a certain level of respect for other existing faiths.