One of the most revered religious occasions in the Islamic calendar is Ramadan. Muslims everywhere in the globe observe it. Muslims fast from dawn till sunset during this month and participate in a number of other religious rituals to strengthen their faith and strengthen their ties to Allah. Ramadan is a time of spiritual renewal, introspection, and community, and it is frequently referred to as the most delightful season of the year.
Ramadan is a significant event that is enthusiastically and fervently observed in Pakistan. The people of the nation have a long tradition of practicing Islam, and they have a special place in their hearts for the month of Ramadan. Ramadan is greatly anticipated in Pakistan, and people start preparing for it well in advance.
In Pakistan, the month of Ramadan is observed with a variety of unique rituals and traditions. Following are some of the ways that Pakistan observes Ramadan:
The Month of Giving:
Muslims are urged to be helpful and help those in need during Ramadan, which is referred to as the “month of giving” in Islam. In Pakistan, this custom is highly revered, and throughout the month, individuals from all walks of life take part in a variety of charity endeavors. Organizations like the Edhi Foundation and the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre saw a spike in donations around this period as people give food, cash, and clothing to the impoverished and in need.
Pre-Dawn Meal:
Muslims in Pakistan get up early in the morning to have a meal called sehri before starting the fast. It is customary to consume this meal before morning in order to fuel up for the upcoming long day. Sehri is a time for family to get together and eat before the fast begins, and it typically comprises of traditional Pakistani cuisine like parathas, kebabs, and lassi.
Breaking the Fast:
Muslims in Pakistan break their fast with a meal known as iftar at sunset. Dates are typically the first course of this lunch, which is then followed by a number of Pakistani delicacies such samosas, pakoras, and biryani. It’s customary for folks to extend invitations to other people to their homes for iftar, which is a time for neighbors and friends to gather together and enjoy a meal.
Taraweeh Prayers:
The taraweeh prayer, which is said after the evening prayer during Ramadan, is also practiced by Muslims in Pakistan. Muslims should use this time to strengthen their ties to Allah and to their religion. During Ramadan, many mosques in Pakistan are exquisitely decorated, and vast crowds of people visit them to participate in taraweeh prayers.
Lailatul Qadr:
One of the most sacred nights of the year for Muslims is Lailatul Qadr, sometimes referred to as the Night of Might. It occurs during the final 10 days of Ramadan and is thought to be the night when the Prophet Muhammad received the first verses of the Quran. Muslims in Pakistan spend this night in prayer and reflection in the hopes of meriting Allah’s blessings and grace.
Eid-ul-Fitr:
Muslims in Pakistan observe Eid-ul-Fitr, a three-day festival that signifies the conclusion of Ramadan and the end of the fast. Muslims gather to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with their loved ones and friends. During this time, it’s common for people to exchange gifts and treats. During Eid, Pakistani streets are frequently adorned with lights and vibrant banners, and many families cook special meals to celebrate.
Ramadan is a time of great significance and celebration for Muslims in Pakistan.
