Understanding the Holy Month of Fasting

Ramzan lasts a month, depending on the sighting of the new moon. It began on March 1 this year. In India, fasting will continue until March 30 or 31, 2025, based on the new moon sighting, which marks the beginning of Eid-ul-Fitr.

- RENUKA NARAYANAN

AMZAN Karim, dear readers.

I thought non-Muslims might like to know more about this important Muslim event, so I want to share some points about Ramzan. The Arabs say Ramadan, but we South Asians have called it Ramzan for centuries, so I will use our word. Ramzan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar, and it is believed that the Quran was revealed during this month. During this month, Muslims observe a strict fast from dawn to sunset.

The pre-dawn meal is called suhoor in Arabic and sehri in Persian. India says sehri. It's said that to provide energy throughout the day, filling, protein-rich foods, complex carbohydrates like whole-wheat and brown rice, healthy fats, and hydrating fruits and vegetables are eaten. Popular items include eggs, dairy products like yoghurt and cheese, lean meats like chicken and fish, legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas, a variety of nuts, and cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelon, and oranges, depending on season.

Some foods are better avoided. Salty foods like processed meats, pickles, and salty snacks can cause dehydration. Sugary foods like pastries, cakes, and sweet cereals usually lead to an energy crash later in the day, especially if fasting. Caffeinated drinks like tea, coffee, and soda can cause dehydration and disturb sleep. Fried foods like pakodas, samosas, and puris can cause bloating and indigestion.