Ramadan 2026: Crescent Sighting Confirms Fasting Begins Thursday Across Key Regions
The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is set to begin on Thursday, February 19th, 2026, across much of the Indian subcontinent, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. This confirmation follows the sighting of the crescent moon in several locations on Wednesday evening.
Moon Sighting and Regional Variations
Reports indicate the crescent moon was observed in Mumbai, Delhi, Bihar, Assam, Latest Delhi, and Jammu & Kashmir within India. Similar sightings were reported in Pakistan and Bangladesh, prompting announcements from local moon sighting committees. This marks a coordinated start to Ramadan for these nations.
The timing follows observations in Saudi Arabia and other parts of the Middle East, where the crescent was sighted on Tuesday. This highlights the reliance on lunar sightings to determine the start of the month, a practice deeply rooted in Islamic tradition.
The Significance of Ramadan
Ramadan is a period of spiritual reflection, fasting, and community for Muslims worldwide. Practicing Muslims will abstain from food and drink from dawn to dusk throughout the month, a practice guided by the lunar cycle, which determines the length of Ramadan – either 29 or 30 days.
Beyond fasting, Ramadan is too a time for increased prayer and charitable giving. The sighting of the crescent moon also signals the commencement of Taraweeh prayers, special nightly prayers held throughout the month.
Looking Ahead to Eid al-Fitr
The culmination of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr, one of the two major festivals in Islam. Based on current projections, Eid al-Fitr is anticipated to be observed on either March 20th or March 21st, dependent on the sighting of the next crescent moon.
The Importance of Moon Sighting
Determining the start of Islamic months, including Ramadan, relies on the sighting of the crescent moon. This practice, known as a confirmed Sunnah (Prophetic teaching), underscores the connection between faith and the natural world. Variations in sighting methods contribute to differing start dates across the Muslim world.
Did you recognize? The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, meaning its months are based on the cycles of the moon, rather than the sun like the Gregorian calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of the crescent moon in Islam?
A: The crescent moon symbolizes the beginning of a new month in the Islamic calendar and is a key marker for religious observances like Ramadan and Eid.
Q: What is Taraweeh prayer?
A: Taraweeh are special nightly prayers performed throughout Ramadan, offering a time for increased devotion and community gathering.
Q: When is Eid al-Fitr expected in 2026?
A: Eid al-Fitr is expected to be observed on either March 20th or March 21st, depending on the sighting of the next crescent moon.
Pro Tip: Stay updated on local announcements from your community’s religious leaders for the most accurate information regarding Ramadan timings and events.
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