Tuesday 25 / March / 2025
Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and deep connection with faith, family, and community. It is observed by millions of Muslims across the globe, and while the core principles of fasting, prayer, and charity remain the same, the cultural traditions surrounding Ramadan vary widely from country to country. Each region brings its own unique customs, flavors, and communal practices, making Ramadan not just a religious observance but a celebration of diverse cultural heritage.
The Essence of Ramadan: A Universal Practice with Local Flavours
Fasting from dawn to sunset is the defining aspect of Ramadan, practiced universally by Muslims worldwide. The fast, known as Sawm, is observed as an act of devotion and self-restraint, fostering empathy for those less fortunate. However, while the essence of Ramadan remains consistent, the way people break their fast and come together in prayer and celebration reflects the rich cultural diversity of the Islamic world.
Middle East: Iftar Feasts and Spiritual Gatherings
In many Middle Eastern countries, the call to Maghrib prayer at sunset marks the eagerly awaited moment to break the fast, starting with dates and water—a tradition believed to have been followed by the Prophet Muhammad. Families and communities gather for lavish iftar spreads featuring regional specialties. In the Gulf countries, dishes like harees (a slow-cooked wheat and meat dish) and tharid (a bread and meat stew) are staples of the Ramadan table. In Egypt, fanoos (colorful lanterns) illuminate the streets, adding a festive atmosphere as people celebrate together.
Night prayers, known as Tarawih, hold special significance, with mosques filled with worshippers reciting extended portions of the Quran. In countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Ramadan tents are set up, offering free meals to the less fortunate, reinforcing the month’s spirit of generosity and hospitality.
South Asia: A Fusion of Faith and Festivity
In South Asian countries such as Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, Ramadan is a blend of devotion and festivity. Streets come alive with food vendors selling traditional iftar delights like samosas, pakoras, dahi vada, and roohafza, a cooling rose-flavored drink. Sehri, the pre-dawn meal, is equally significant, often consisting of hearty dishes like parathas, nihari, and chai to sustain energy throughout the long fasting hours.
Communal prayers are an integral part of the Ramadan experience, with mosques filled with worshippers, and charity is emphasized through Zakat and Sadaqah (voluntary charity). Special night markets cater to families preparing for Eid, offering festive clothing, decorations, and traditional sweets like sheer khurma, a vermicelli-based dessert enjoyed on Eid morning.
Southeast Asia: Community and Harmony
In countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei, Ramadan is marked by a strong sense of community and togetherness. The month begins with Padusan in Indonesia, a pre-Ramadan purification ritual where people bathe in natural springs to cleanse themselves before the holy month.
Iftar meals, known as Buka Puasa, are often shared in mosques and community centers, featuring dishes like nasi lemak, rendang, and bubur lambuk, a traditional rice porridge distributed freely during Ramadan. The unique tradition of ngabuburit in Indonesia, where people gather in parks or streets to wait for iftar while engaging in religious discussions or entertainment, showcases the social spirit of the month.
Malaysia’s Ramadan bazaars are a highlight, where stalls sell a variety of dishes, from satay to kuih (traditional sweets), offering a culinary celebration alongside the spiritual aspect of the month.
Africa: A Blend of Tradition and Devotion
In North and West Africa, Ramadan is deeply woven into the cultural fabric, with special dishes and communal prayers being central to the experience. In Morocco, the iftar table features harira, a hearty tomato and lentil soup, along with chebakia, a sesame-coated pastry fried and drizzled with honey. Families come together for long evening meals, followed by prayers and gatherings.
In Nigeria and Senegal, communal iftars are common, where people share meals with neighbours and strangers alike. Special Ramadan drinks, such as kunu (a millet-based drink) in Nigeria and bissap (hibiscus tea) in Senegal, are enjoyed to break the fast. The night prayers, often held in open courtyards or large mosques, bring people together in spiritual unity.
Europe and North America: Strengthening Faith in Multicultural Societies
For Muslims living in non-Muslim-majority countries, Ramadan is both a personal and communal experience. In cities like London, New York, and Toronto, mosques and Islamic centers play a vital role in bringing the community together for iftar meals, Tarawih prayers, and charity drives. Many organisations arrange interfaith iftars, where people from different backgrounds come together to share a meal and foster mutual understanding.
Despite fasting in longer daylight hours in some parts of Europe, Muslims find strength in their community, balancing work, school, and religious commitments. In many Western countries, Ramadan has also become a time to educate others about Islamic traditions, promoting inclusivity and cultural exchange.
The Spirit of Ramadan: A Unifying Force
Regardless of location, Ramadan remains a month of profound spiritual growth, self-reflection, and unity. While each culture brings its own unique flavors and traditions, the essence of the holy month—faith, family, charity, and community—binds all Muslims together.
Through shared meals, acts of kindness, and increased devotion, Ramadan serves as a reminder of the power of togetherness. As the crescent moon signals the beginning of Eid, marking the end of Ramadan, the sense of spiritual fulfillment and communal bonds remain, reinforcing the values of compassion, gratitude, and generosity that define this sacred month.
About the author:
Besides being a dynamic entrepreneur, Bhavna is an HR Expert, Writer, Intuitive Energy Healer, Reiki Master, Miracle Coach, Motivational Speaker, and a life fighter. She is the Founder & CEO of SYNERGGIE in Oman, a leading Company that specialises in Event Management and Consulting.
