Kathmandu, March 12
The holy month of Ramadan, one of the great festivals of the Muslim community, begins today. This festival is observed for a month and the people from the Muslim community fast throughout the day.
The fast or roja starts after sunrise, i.e. after the morning prayers and ends with the evening prayer—the time of the fasting changes with the daily sunrise and sunset schedule.
According to the Urdu calendar, Ramadan falls in the ninth month of Hijri Sambat or year. It is believed that the Quran, the greatest religious text of the Muslims, came to being during Ramadan.
This month’s features are giving charity, serving the poor and needy, and zakat or obligatory donation.
Fasting during the festival that combines dedication, penance and sacrifice is not mandatory for minors, sick people and pregnant women.
