Ramadan Start in Sri Lanka

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds great significance for Muslims worldwide, including the Muslim community in Sri Lanka. It is a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.

Day:

The start of Ramadan in Sri Lanka is determined by the sighting of the new moon, which can vary regionally. The exact date may differ each year due to the lunar calendar being approximately 10-12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar.

History:

Ramadan commemorates the month in which Muslims believe the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad. The history of observing Ramadan in Sri Lanka dates back centuries, with a significant Muslim population partaking in this holy period.

Traditions:

During Ramadan, Muslims in Sri Lanka engage in several religious and cultural traditions:

• Fasting (Sawm): From dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations.

• Suhoor: The pre-dawn meal before starting the fast.

• Iftar: The evening meal to break the fast at sunset, often shared with family and friends. Dates are traditionally eaten first following the Sunnah (practice) of Prophet Muhammad.

• Taraweeh Prayers: Special nightly prayers performed during Ramadan after Isha prayer.

• Reading Quran: Many devote extra time to reading or reciting the Quran throughout the month.

What People Do on This Day:

On the first day of Ramadan:

• People set their intentions (niyyah) for fasting.

• They wake up early for Suhoor and commence their fast at dawn.

• During daylight hours, they practice self-restraint and engage in acts of worship such as extra prayers and reading Quran.

• At sunset, families gather for Iftar to break their fast together.

• After Iftar, many attend mosques for Taraweeh prayers or pray at home.

Community involvement increases during Ramadan as people focus on charity (Zakat and Sadaqah), kindness, and helping those less fortunate.