Ramzan 2019: Date, time table and significance of fasting

Ramzan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar when Muslims abstain from food and water from sunrise to sunset and join mass prayers at mosques. This annual observance is regarded as one of the five pillars of Islam. The objective of the fast is to remind people of the suffering of the less fortunate and to bring the followers closer to God. The end of the holy month of Ramadan is marked with a grand celebration which is known as Eid ul-Fitr (or Eid al-Fitr), the Feast of Fast-Breaking.

When is Ramadan 2019 starting?

The first day of Ramadan is expected to begin from May 7 depending upon the moon sighting. It will last for one complete moon cycle, which is usually 29 or 30 days. Muslims eat a pre-fast meal early morning which is called "Sehri" and observe fast throughout the day by not having anything.

Ramadan significance:

The sacred month of Ramadan, is considered the most significant month as per the traditional Islamic calendar. This is a month which is spent by the Muslim community throughout the world in great contemplation of the Almighty and self, while offering prayers, fasting and feasting.

During the month of Ramadan, five daily prayers are mandatory. The names of five daily prayers are Fajr (dawn), Dhuhr (noon), Asr (afternoon), Maghrib (evening), and Isha (night).

Zakat or charity is obligatory in Islam but people prefer to donate it during Ramadan. Fasting is obligatory for adult Muslims, except those who are chronically ill, pregnant, menstruating.