New Delhi: The crescent moon declaring the onset of Islamic month of Ramadan has been sighted in various cities of the country. With the sighting of the moon, Muslims across the country will start the Taraweeh prayers from evening of Saturday and dawn-to-dusk fast from April 3, said Fatehpuri Masjid Imam Mufti Mukarram Ahmad reports news agency PTI.
"As the holy month begins, we pray for the welfare of all the people in the country. We pray for peace and development in the country," said the mufti, quoted the news agency.
Muslim body Imarat-e-shariyah-Hind, in a statement said that
a meeting of Ruyat-e-Hilal Committee was held today at 1, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg and it was verified that moon was been sighted in several parts of the country.
Maulana Asaduddin Qasmi Convenor of Ruyat-e-Hilal Committee, Imarat-e-Sharaiyah-Hind, has therefore, declared that 1st Ramzan falls on Sunday, it added.
The crescent was spotted in Uttar Pradesh’s capital, Lucknow on Saturday.
“We have spotted Ramdan 'Chand' (moon) in Lucknow, tomorrow we will observe the first 'Roza'. I extend my wishes to everyone,” said Lucknow Eidgah Imam Maulana Khalid Rasheed Firangi Mahali.
Muslims in Chennai also sighted the moon on April 2 starting the Taraweeh prayers on the same day and fasting from the next day.
Grand mufti of Jammu and Kashmir, Nasir-ul-Islam also announced the onset of holy month of Ramadan from from April 3, on Saturday as the moon has been sighted in the Union Territory, reports Hindustan Times.
The holy month started a day before in the West and middle eastern nations. US President Joe Biden had extended his greetings on the occasion.
"Jill and I extend our best wishes to Muslim communities here in the United States and around the world on the beginning of Ramadan. From the People’s House to your own homes, we wish you and your loved ones a blessed and prosperous month. Ramadan Kareem!" Biden had tweeted.
Canadian President Justin Trudeau also wished everyone a "blessed and peaceful month."
"To Muslim Canadians across the country: As you mark the start of Ramadan, and as you fast, pray, and reflect with your loved ones, I want to wish you a blessed and peaceful month. Ramadan Mubarak!" he tweeted.
Ramadan is the ninth month of Islamic lunar calender when Muslims around the world practice fasting, recite the holy Quran and do a lots of charity. Elderly people, people with disability or any illness, travelers, breastfeeding and menstruating women, and children have exemption from fasting during this month.
(With inputs from ANI and PTI)