In a few days from now, the world would be gearing up for Ramadan. Ramadan is considered to be the most pious month for followers of Islamic faith. According to legends, it was in the holy month of Ramadan (or Ramzan) that the holy Quran was first revealed to Prophet Mohammed. This year Ramadan would start from 23rd April. For the whole month, many Muslims observe ritualistic fasts (or roza), wherein they do not consume even a drop of water. They break their fast in evening, after offering their prayers, and enjoy a hearty meal together with family later.
Dates Of Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr:
This year the month of Ramadan commences on 23rd April 2020, and would conclude on 23rd May 2020. Eid-Al Fitr would be celebrated on 23rd May 2020 (dates may vary as per the lunar movement).
Significance of Ramadan:
The ninth month of the Islamic calendar is known as Ramadan. It is considered to be of great significance because the first verses of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, were revealed to Prophet Muhammad by Allah during this month. Through Allah's angel Gabriel, Mohammad procured the first verses of Holy Quran. According to popular belief, the holy night when the event took place was ‘Laylat al-Qadr'.
All Muslims, who have reached their puberty, barring pregnant women, new mothers, elderly, sick people, and travellers, are supposed to observe the fast. The abstinence is said to be a mark of self-discipline, sacrifice and empathy for the less-fortunate. Everyone who is observing the fast consumes a pre-sunrise meal known as Sehri and post-sunset meal called Iftar. Many people also break their fast with a few dates and water.
(Also Read: Ramadan 2020: 3 Sheer Khurma Recipes You Can Try At Home)
5 famous Iftar delicacies you should try at least once:
- Kebabs: Juicy, succulent and melt-in-mouth, kebabs are an Iftar staple we cannot get enough of. There so many to try as well — from seekh kabab, shami kabab and galouti to shikampuri! The list is endless and drool-worthy.
- Biryani: You saw this coming, didn't you? Biryani is a flavourful rice-based dish intersperses with spices and juicy pieces of meat. Here is a list of some of our most delicious biryani recipes you can try at home.
- Haleem: Haleem is a kind of a rich stew made with meat and choice spices. You can have it both for sehri and Iftar.
- Sheer Khurma: A sweet milk pudding with goodness of vermicelli, few chunky nuts and dry fruits, sheer khurma has fans across the globe and you would be surprised to know how easy is it to make the dessert at home. Click her for the recipe.
- Keema Kaleji: Minced mutton mixed with the goodness of mutton liver, this stellar recipe makes a fantastic pair with a selection of breads like sheermal, baqarkhani or your regular naan. You can have it with rice too!