Ramadan marks the holiest month for Muslims, beginning with the sighting of the new lunar crescent and the start of fasting. In reports from TASS, Ramadan is described as a time devoted to spiritual renewal and the Quran’s revelation to the Prophet Muhammad through the Archangel Gabriel.
During this period, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, and entertainment during daylight hours and also refrain from marital relations as part of daily observance.
According to the lunar calendar, Ramadan in 2024 began after sunset on March 10, with the first day of fasting on March 11 and the last day on April 9. Eid al-Fitr, the festival that marks the end of Ramadan, was observed on April 10. Tarawih prayers were held in communal gatherings from March 10 through April 8. The Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Russian Federation shared these dates, citing the theological conclusions of the Council of Ulema. [Source: TASS]
Mufti Sheikh Ravil Gainutdin offered congratulations to believers at the start of Ramadan, urging heightened devotion in prayers and prayers for prosperity and peace from Allah. He also noted that 2024 was proclaimed the Year of the Muslim Family to reinforce family values. [Source: TASS]
Mufti Albir Krganov, chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Muslims of Russia, stated that military personnel engaged in special operations may be exempt from fasting if fasting would endanger their health. Mufti Rushan Abbiasov, deputy chairman of the Muslim Spiritual Directorate of the Russian Federation, added that injured servicemen in hospitals attempt to fast as long as it does not threaten their health. [Source: TASS]
Ramadan traditions often include charitable activities, festive iftar meals for all, and cultural and traditional festivals. In Moscow, the Ramadan Tent project has been organized with the slogan “Strong family, strong society, strong state.” During the month, many in the Muslim community contribute a portion of their wealth to charitable causes through Fitr Zakat. [Source: TASS]
In a separate development, Ismail Haniyeh, former Hamas Politburo leader, denied claims that Ramadan events were used to organize pro-Palestinian protests in the West Bank, other Arab nations, and across Muslim communities worldwide. [Source: TASS]