Ramadan in Pakistan: A Unique Blend of Religious Enthusiasm, Self-Restraint, and Family Harmony

Ramadan in Pakistan: A Unique Blend of Religious Enthusiasm, Self-Restraint, and Family Harmony

Islamabad, March 6: Ramadan began in Pakistan on Sunday, marking the start of fasting nationwide, after the pre-dawn meal (Sehri) and the first Taraweeh prayers.

Pakistan, a Muslim-majority country with over 90% of its population adhering to Islam, celebrates Ramadan, the ninth and most sacred month in the Islamic calendar. This year, Ramadan began on Sunday, one day later than in most parts of the world.

One of the special features of Ramadan is the Taraweeh prayers, a commitment to nightly prayers. On Saturday night, thousands of Muslims gathered in mosques across Pakistan to offer the Taraweeh prayers.

Nadeem Aftab, a resident of Karachi, shared, "Today is the first day of Taraweeh prayers, and we must keep up this practice with enthusiasm throughout the month and invite others to participate in the prayer."

Additionally, many people were at markets for their first Sehri meals. Javed Ali Baloch, a shopper, said, "I came to buy 'Feni' for Sehri, which is only available during Ramadan, and people like to eat it."

To mark the occasion, the Pakistan government has announced a relief package worth 20 billion rupees ($71.4 million) to assist 4 million families nationwide. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif launched the package on Saturday. The government announced that each family would receive 5,000 rupees.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, and it stirs religious emotions in the Muslim world.