Thiruvananthapuram, 19 Feb (H.S.):The holy month of Ramzan commenced in Kerala on Thursday, ushering in a period of intense spiritual reflection, prayer and charity for the Muslim community. With the crescent moon not sighted on the previous evening, the month of Sha’ban was completed with 30 days, marking the formal beginning of fasting from today.
Believers across the State entered the sacred month with a renewed commitment to self-discipline, sacrifice, patience and brotherhood — the core values that define Ramzan. For the next 30 days, mosques and homes will resonate with Quran recitations, special prayers and acts of generosity, transforming daily life into a deeply spiritual experience.
Islamic scholars note that Ramzan is traditionally divided into three ten-day phases: the first ten days are dedicated to seeking divine mercy, the second to forgiveness, and the final ten to salvation and deliverance from hellfire. Devotees observe fasts from dawn to dusk, abstaining from food and drink while focusing on prayer, reflection and service to others.
Special night prayers known as Taraweeh began in mosques across Kerala on Wednesday night, drawing large congregations of worshippers. Religious leaders emphasized the importance of compassion, charity and communal harmony during the month. Several mosques and community groups have also planned interfaith iftar gatherings, sharing the message of unity and mutual respect.
This year’s Ramzan arrives amid intense summer heat, making the daily fast particularly challenging. Despite the soaring temperatures, the faithful expressed determination to observe the fast with devotion and resilience.
Meanwhile, markets across the State have turned vibrant with increased activity as families prepare for iftar meals and the month-long observances. Dates, fruits, beverages and traditional snacks are in high demand, giving a seasonal boost to local traders.
In Oman, Ramzan also began on Thursday, while most other Gulf nations commenced fasting a day earlier following the sighting of the crescent moon.
As the sacred month unfolds, the spirit of prayer, generosity and solidarity is expected to define the days ahead, reinforcing values of empathy and community bonding across Kerala.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
