Understanding Ramadan

Ramadan is a special month in the Islamic calendar. Muslims around the world fast from dawn until sunset, when they break the fast with a meal called iftar.

This year, Ramadan starts around 15 or 16 May and ends on 14 or 15 June (depending on the new moon). The end of Ramadan is marked with the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr.

Ramadan isn’t just about fasting. Muslims endeavor to improve their behaviour by, for example, give-up smoking, refraining from lying, swearing and gossiping. Many engage in charitable activities, becoming more empathic towards those who are less fortunate thus encouraging actions of generosity.

More here