The holy month of Ramadan begins after the moon is sighted in Mecca or Saudi Arabia. In 2026, the moon is expected to be sighted on February 19, and the month of Ramadan will begin on February 20.
Ramadan 2026: February 19 or 20, when will the first fast of the month of Ramadan be observed?
For Muslims, Ramadan is the holiest and most blessed month of the 12 calendar months, a time of patience, fasting, reflection, and celebration. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims, especially those from the Muslim community, observe fasting.
Fasting is mandatory for every Muslim in Islam. However, fasting isn't just about fasting; it's a month of controlling desires, giving up bad habits, testing patience, and worshipping Allah. Muslims eagerly await the month of Ramadan. But before that, everyone's eyes are fixed on the Ramadan moon. This is called the moon night. The month of Ramadan begins with the sighting of the moon, and fasting begins the next morning.
Ramadan 2026 Moon Night (When is the Moon Night) -
The process of fasting begins only after the Ramadan moon is sighted. According to the Muslim Aid website, the moon is expected to be sighted on February 19, 2026. The moon is first sighted in Mecca or its neighboring countries, and the date of Ramadan is determined accordingly. If the moon is not sighted in India, Ramadan begins in India the day after the moon is sighted in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, or its neighboring countries. Upon sighting the moon, everyone greets each other by saying "Chandraat Mubarak" or "Ramadan Mubarak." The month of Ramadan lasts 29-30 days, followed by Eid al-Fitr.
When will the first fast of Ramadan be observed?
As soon as the moon is sighted, the fast is announced. After the moon is sighted, Muslims begin fasting the next morning. This year, the first fast of Ramadan is expected to be observed on February 20th. However, this is an approximate date. The exact date will be announced only after the moon is sighted.
