The holy month of Ramadan for the year 2026 has commenced in India as the moon was sighted, which signifies the beginning of fasting. Following an official statement by Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahali, the President of the Markazi Chand Committee, the first fast will be observed on February 19. The commencement of Ramadan also marks the beginning of Tarawih prayers, which will start on the evening of February 18, the day the moon was sighted.

Ramadan's dates change every year according to the Islamic lunar calendar, which is based on the phases of the moon. The sighting of the moon determines when the fasts begin, as the fast starts the day after the moon has been seen. This calendrical difference means that Ramadan can occur in different seasons over the years, influencing the timing and experience of fasting for adherents.

Tarawih prayers, which are performed every night after the Isha prayer during Ramadan, are considered a significant Sunnah, though they are not obligatory. During this month, mosques around the world see increased attendance as men and women come together to perform these prayers, emphasizing community and spirituality during this highly revered month in Islamic tradition.