Mangalore: The Ramzan, a fasting month in 1432 of the Islamic calendar, has begun with Muslim across coastal Karnataka, Kerala spotting a lean crescent moon with eagle eye, in the midst of rain bearing dark clouds on Sunday evening at Kasargod. The holy month has also begun in the middle-east countries and south/coastal western India together.
The Quazis and religious scholars have declared that Monday August 1, will start Ramzan starting month, when devout Muslims remember Allah and keep fasting for inner purification from sunrise to sunset (6 am to 7pm). The first Ramadan meals were taken before dawn on Monday at homes, by women and men observing fast all through the first Ramzan day.
People greeted each other at mosque after Thakbeer was pronounced by muezzins from the minarets of Jumma Masjids. The Mangalore and Udupi Qazis issued Ramzan messages to the followers.
In Bhatkal, moon was not sighted by Muslims till Monday, so it could begin on Tuesday. Ramzan fasting cleanses the mind and soul. Muslims undertake ardent prayers and go in for charitable acts and listen to religious discourses. Fasting keeps their health as non-vegetarians by habit and reforms their bodies. Their minds feel the hardships of less fortunate people in the neighborhood.
During Ramzan the Angel Gabriel (Jibril) came everyday, it is said to see Mount Hira prophet Mohammed who was unlettered and in prayers and recited Koran (Quran) to him, each night.
Fasting is prescribed in all religions as a means to improve and maintain physical health free of diseases. Scientifically this is proved by occasional fasting every week.
It is compulsory to give away wealth in charity, during Ramzan month to the
needy and the poor people. A special feast is prepared after sunset for the entire family and guests, known as “Iftar”. It starts with eating dates and drinking water, just as the Prophet did.