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Deccan Herald » Festivals >> Ramadan
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RAMADAN
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 EIdul-Fitr, also known as `Ramadan' is one of the two festivals
of Islam. Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar year. During this month the
Muslims observe a fast, giving up all kinds of food and drinks during day time,
and spend the major part of the night in devotion and prayer. Purification of
the body and soul is the main aim of this observance. When the crescent appears
on the western horizon heralding the end of the month of fasting, it marks the
beginning of the Idul-Fitr festival.
Because this festival is connected with the
month of Ramadan, it came to be known as `Ramadan'. The Idul-Fitr festival
starts with the commencement of the first day of the month of `Shawwl'. The
first item of the celebration is distribution of food materials to the poor and
the deserving. Any person who holds food in excess of the day's need must
necessarily make his contribution in accordance with the scales prescribed by
Islam. Muslims all over the world celebrate this festival with gratitude to God.
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 Significance
: Fasting
also known as Sawm (meaning to refrain), is the fouth pillar of Islam. The month
of Ramadan begins with the sighting of the new moon (Hilal). It is determined by
astrological calculations and physical sightings of the crescent of the moon.
The time of the start of Ramadan varies across the world as the rising of the
moon occurs at different times.It’s a special time for Muslims, a time for
spiritual and physical discipline, time for making extra effort to spread love,
peace and reconciliation.It's during this month Allah chose to call Muhammad (pbuh)
to be a Prophet and sent down the first revelations of the holy Quran, a
guidance unto men, a declaration of direction and a means of Salvation.
The fast ends for Iftaar - the meal taken at sunset. The end of Ramadan is
marked by the festival which is called Eid-ul-Fitr. Many households will put up
decorations for this time. Muslims attend for Eid prayers, wear new clothes,
give gifts and have special meals to celebrate and mark the end of this joyous
time.
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