Ramadan 2024: Ramzan likely to begin from March 12; here’s everything you need yo know

Here is everything you need to know about Ramadan 2024.

Ramadan 2024: Date and History

As per the Lunar Islamic calendar, Ramadan in 2024 is expected to begin on the evening of March 11, 2024 (Monday), following the moon sighting, and conclude on the evening of Tuesday, April 9 (Tuesday), marking the end of the fasting period with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr on the next day. However, these dates are tentative, based on astronomical calculations. The exact beginning of Ramadan is traditionally confirmed with the sighting of the moon.

Ramadan commemorates the month in which the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, offering guidance, clear proof of the guidance, and the criterion for right and wrong. It is considered one of the ‘five pillars of Islam,’ the essential practices that shape a Muslim’s faith and actions, thereby laying the foundation of Muslim life.

Ramadan 2024: Significance and Celebrations

As it holds immense importance in the Islamic faith, symbolising a period of purification, self-discipline, and spiritual growth for Muslims worldwide, Ramadan is not only one of the holiest months for Muslims around the world, but it also serves as a time for introspection, prayer, and communal unity among believers. 

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, as it’s believed that the fast is meant to bring the faithful closer to God, remind them of the suffering of those less fortunate, and teach self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice, and empathy for the less fortunate, thus encouraging actions of generosity and compulsory charity (‘zakat’).

Its significance stems from the belief that it was during this month that the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by Allah, making it a time of heightened spiritual reflection and devotion.

The pre-dawn meal before the fast begins is called ‘suhoor,’ and the meal to break the fast after sunset is called ‘iftar.’ Families and communities often come together to break their fasts with iftar meals, which typically start with the eating of dates and water before moving on to larger meals.

The night prayers, known as ‘tarawih’, are performed in mosques throughout the month, and Muslims are encouraged to read the Quran.

The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a festive holiday called Eid al-Fitr, where Muslims gather for a special prayer service, give charity to the poor, and enjoy meals with family and friends.