Ramazan is expected to start on March 11 in Pakistan as the expected start day in the Arabic world is March 10. The holy month is very special for Muslims around the world when followers of Islam fast during daylight hours.
Ramazan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. People fast in the month from dawn until dusk. During this time, they abstain from drinking, eating, immoral acts and anger. Worshippers also read the Quran and offer prayers. They are encouraged to do charity during the holy month.
The fast lasts anywhere from 12 to 18 hours, depending on the place people in the world.
Muslims believe that Ramazan is the month when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) more than 1,400 years ago.
The month lasts for 29 to 30 days, depending on the moon sighting. It is expected to end on April 9 or 10.
There are some key dates in the holy month which hold importance for the worshippers.
To start with, the first fast day is of very significance as it marks the beginning of the holy month. Since working hours are changed in the month, worshippers manage their time and routine on the first day.
Laylat-al-Qadr or the “Night of Power” is one of the last 10 odd nights of the month. It commemorates one of the most significant events in the history of Islam. It is the night when Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him and his family) received the first revelation from Allah.
Muslims observe the Laylat-al-Qadr on one of the last 10 days of Ramazan. Many worshippers observe it on one of these five days: 21st Ramazan, 23rd Ramazan, 25th Ramazan, 27the Ramazan, and 29th Ramazan. Muslims around the world stay up nights to pray in search of the night of power.
The last Friday of Ramazan is another occasion especially revered by Muslims. Worshippers in large numbers attend mass prayers at mosques.
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Moreover, the last day of Ramazan or Chandrat is also important for Muslims. They prepare for Eidul Fitr. It might fall on April 10.
According to observations, the shortest fasting period will be in the city of “Porto Montt” in Chile where Muslims will fast for 12 hours and 44 minutes.
Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, will see the longest fasting hours at 17 hours and 26 minutes. Muslims residing in Oslo, Norway will be fasting in the middle of the month for a total of 15 hours and 15 minutes, between the times of 3:30 am and 6:45 pm.
In Pakistan, the longest fasting hour will be 12 hours 58 minutes in Gilgit while the shortest will be 12 hours 53 minutes in Karachi.
