What is Ramadan all about?
Ramadan is regarded as the holiest month of the year for Muslims as it was the month in which the Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) on the night of Laylat Al Qadr, one of the last ten nights of Ramadan.
The observance of Ramadan is considered to be one of the five pillars of Islam. It is a special time when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset for approximately 30 days.
How to wish someone on this special day?
You can greet people by saying “Ramadan Kareem”. The word 'Kareem' means 'generous'. So the phrase means 'Have a generous and happy Ramadan'.
The dates:
When is Ramadan? On or around Tuesday 15 May to Thursday 14 June 2018
When is Eid al - Fitr? On or around Thursday 14 June to Sunday 17 June 2018
When is Eid al - Adha? On or around Tuesday 21 August to Friday 24 August 2018
Why do people fast?
The purpose of keeping a fast is to cleanse the soul by freeing it from impurities. It is also a time for Muslims to practice self - discipline, sacrifice, and empathy for those less fortunate. It encourages generosity and charity. Dates are traditionally the first food to be eaten each evening. The fast - breaking meal is called Iftar.