Ramadan Date: August 22, 2009
Ramadan is observed as a public holiday in many Islamic countries.
On August 22, Afghanistan honors and observes Ramadan. Ramadan is special month in which the Muslim believers dedicate their time fully to Allah by offering prayer and sacrifices. It is the ninth month of the Lunar Calendar. The date for the Ramadan will vary each Gregorian year.
History of Ramadan
This day begins when the full moon appears and this sets the beginning of fasting among the Muslims. This fasting lasts for three days. They end the fast at the end of the day after having an Iftar evening meal. The next day morning they resume their fast. It is a custom among the Muslim to visit their friends or family after having the Iftar. The initial meal consists of simple snack-like bread, cheese or fruit. It’s not a complete meal because it is only meant to break the fast after they offer their prayers to their god. After that, they go for an Iftar meal, which consists of hearty stew or spiced vegetable dish.
During the period of Ramadan people are not suppose to lie, insult, back stab, make false oaths, and express anger or greed. They have to offer five prayers daily. In addition to that, the people do one more prayer called the Taraweeh. In Afghanistan, Ramadan is observed very seriously and people do not neglect any customs or tradition related to it. They honor this festival with full devotion, time and energy.
Ramadan Customs and Activities
The day ends with a great celebration. Gifts are exchanged between the families and friends. They have a gathering to enjoy delicacies and meals. At the end, the needy people are given money, gifts, food, and clothing. A grand celebration of feasts takes place after the three days of fasting, where they will be having the proper food. So many delicious food recipes are made. Fasting in Ramadan is very tough, but all the Muslim community follows this fasting along with all the customs.
The tourists who visit an Islamic country during Ramadan must keep a few things in mind:
The day ends when the full moon appears. Then there is a colossal celebration called Eid-ul-fitr, where the whole community comes together to enjoy the feasts along with many other events taking place such as theatrical acts, music, games and parties. All this lasts as long as the moon remains in the sky. This is a day when Afghanistan honors and observes Ramadan. At the end of the Ramadan, even many prisoners are released. This day is honored in the name of God and people believe that if they practice self-control, they will become closer to Allah.
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