Throughout the sacred month of Ramadan, observed in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Muslims across the globe observe a significant spiritual practice. From dawn to dusk, for 30 days, Muslims refrain from consuming food and drink as an obligatory act of faith.
Given that Ramadan follows the lunar-based Islamic calendar, its timing shifts approximately eleven days earlier each year with the solar-based Gregorian calendar. Consequently, Muslims encounter Ramadan across various seasons over their lifetimes.
The fasting period serves as a poignant reminder for Muslims to empathise with the less fortunate and cultivate gratitude. A fundamental tenet of Islam – fasting during Ramadan – is incumbent upon all physically and mentally capable adult Muslims. However, certain individuals, such as prepubescent children, the elderly, those with health constraints, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and travellers, are exempt from this obligation.
Rituals of Ramadan fasting
Observing Ramadan entails refraining from all food and drink, inclusive of water and chewing gum, from dawn until sunset. Before sunrise, Muslims partake in a pre-fast meal known as suhoor, which often mirrors breakfast but may vary across cultures. At sunset, the fast is broken with iftar, typically commencing with dates and fluids such as water or milk, followed by a dinner meal. Muslims are allowed to consume snacks between iftar and suhoor, with a focus on staying hydrated, especially during the summer months (if Ramadan falls in the season).
To sustain energy levels until sunset, Muslims should opt for high-fibre meals during suhoor, incorporate fruits and vegetables to maintain electrolyte balance, and prioritise fluid intake. However, fried foods and sugary treats, which are common during Ramadan in many cultures, should be consumed in moderation.
Celebrating Eid Al Fitr: Traditions and culinary delights
Following Ramadan, Muslims observe Eid ul Fitr, a three-day festival known as the “Festival of Breaking Fasts,” to commemorate the blessings and spiritual rejuvenation experienced during Ramadan. Eid ul Fitr begins with a morning congregational prayer at the mosque, where Muslims gather wearing their finest attire to pray collectively and exchange greetings of “Eid Mubarak,” meaning “A blessed Eid.” Subsequently, families and friends gather to celebrate over meals and cherish quality time together.
Eid ul Fitr is observed worldwide with a wide range of traditional foods, influenced by cultural backgrounds and family customs. Both savoury and sweet dishes hold significance in these celebrations. For instance, North African Muslims may enjoy tajines, slow-cooked stews featuring meat, vegetables, and fruits. In Eastern Europe, Turkey, and Asia, manti, meat-filled dumplings, are favoured, while beef rendang, a coconut milk-infused beef stew, is popular in Indonesia and Malaysia.
Sweets are also quite popular, often served alongside tea or Arabic coffee. Arab heritage embraces pastries such as baklava and maabroomeh, or date-filled cookies known as ma’amoul. South Asian roots bring forth vermicelli-based saviya and mithai, a variety of sweets. Butter cookies, known as ghraybeh in the Middle East or naan khatai in South Asia, are beloved treats. Nougat, Turkish delights, and sweetened rice or semolina porridge are cherished in many regions.
Celebrating with traditions and generosity
Beyond culinary delights, Eid ul Fitr encompasses non-food traditions. Families indulge their children with toys and engage in activities such as bounce houses and face painting to mark the occasion joyfully. Some exchange money or goody bags filled with candies and small gifts. Charity toward the less fortunate is also a hallmark of Eid ul Fitr celebrations.
Garangao, a local tradition for kids
“Garangao,” a beloved tradition in the middle of Ramadan, is joyously observed by children throughout Qatar and the Gulf region. During this special night, children wander their neighbourhoods singing traditional songs, symbolising the occasion, and receive gifts and bags of sweets from their elders.
