The Ramadan crescent moon remained unseen on Friday, delaying the start of the holy month. Announcing the update, the Imam of Delhi's historic Jama Masjid declared that the first roza (fast) will be observed on Sunday (March 2). As per Islamic tradition, Ramadan officially begins with the sighting of the crescent moon. Since the moon was not visible on Friday, the holy month will commence Saturday evening with the sighting of the moon, marking the start of fasting from Sunday.
Crescent moon likely to appear on Saturday
Meanwhile, Lucknow's Maulana Khalid Rasheed Firangi Mahali said, "Today, on 28 February, moon was not seen in Lucknow or anywhere else in the country. The first 'roza' will be observed on 2 March 2025..."
Muslims worldwide are preparing to welcome the holiest month of the Islamic calendar which begins with the sighting of the crescent moon. The moon is expected to be visible on Saturday evening, marking the beginning of the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and the commencement of fasting for 29 to 30 days.
Ramadan holds deep religious significance for Muslims, being the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. During this period, observant Muslims fast from dawn to sunset and engage in prayer, self-discipline, and charity.
Fasting from dawn to dusk
Throughout Ramadan, believers begin their day with Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and refrain from eating or drinking until Iftar (breaking of the fast at sunset). Beyond physical discipline, the month is a time for spiritual reflection, increased prayers (namaz), and acts of generosity. The holy month concludes with Eid-ul-Fitr, a joyous celebration that follows the sighting of the new moon.
Importance of Roza and Namaaz
During Ramadan, along with five times prayers, Roza is also considered to be obligatory. Imam Qari Noorullah said that the reward of worship done in this month is many times more. That is why people of the Muslim community keep Roza and worship Allah throughout the month. In this holy month, the doors of heaven are opened and the doors of hell are closed.
Three Ashras of Ramadan
The month of Ramadan is divided into three parts. The first 10 days are called 'Rahmat', which symbolizes Allah's mercy and kindness. The second 10 days are 'Barkat', which symbolises prosperity and blessings. The last 10 days are 'Maghfirat', which is considered to be the time of forgiveness of sins and repentance.
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