The holy month of Ramadan, also known as Ramzan, is set to begin in India on Sunday, March 2, 2025, as the crescent moon has not yet been sighted. This announcement was made by Jama Masjid authorities and Lucknow's Shahi Imam.
In contrast, Saudi Arabia will begin observing Ramadan a day earlier, on Saturday, March 1, as the moon was sighted on Friday, February 28. Ramadan marks the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed with fasting, prayers, and devotion for 29 to 30 days.
Ramadan in Saudi Arabia
The moon sighting in Saudi Arabia typically occurs a day before it is observed in India. As expected, the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadan 1446 AH (2025) was sighted in Saudi Arabia on Friday, February 28. Consequently, the first fast in the Kingdom is set for Saturday, March 1, while Taraweeh prayers commence on Friday night after Isha prayers.
Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, signifying a period of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increased devotion. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from food, drink, smoking, and negative thoughts while dedicating themselves to prayer, charity, and self-purification.
Moon Sighting Updates from Around the World
Saudi Arabia
The crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia, confirming that Ramadan 1446 will begin on March 1, 2025. Muslims in the country will commence fasting, and Taraweeh prayers will be held nightly throughout the month.
Indonesia
Indonesia has also confirmed the sighting of the Ramadan moon, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s schedule. Muslims will begin fasting on Saturday, March 1, with Taraweeh prayers starting the night before.
Philippines
In contrast, the crescent moon was not sighted in the Philippines. As a result, Ramadan fasting will begin on Sunday, March 2, 2025.
New Zealand
The Islamic community in New Zealand has confirmed the sighting of the new moon, officially marking the beginning of Ramadan. Muslims in the country have started fasting and prayers in observance of this sacred month.
Malaysia
Malaysia has announced that Ramadan will begin on Sunday, March 2, as the moon was not visible earlier.
Ramadan 2025 in South Asia
Muslims in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and other South Asian countries usually sight the crescent moon a day later than Saudi Arabia, depending on local observations.
The crescent moon is not sighted in India, Pakistan, and other parts of South Asia on Friday, February 28, 2025. As a result, Ramadan fasting in these regions begins on Sunday, March 2, 2025. Taraweeh prayers take place on the night of Saturday, March 1, 2025.
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