HASAN HADI/ Dehradun
The holy month of Ramzan began on Thursday and the Muslims in Dehradun observed their first fast. With the start of the festival, the markets in Doon wore a lively look. The sale of dates, sewai and other special food items associated with the auspicious occasion has surged up.
Speaking about the significance of Ramzan, the Shahar Qazi, Hashim Ahmad said that the festival signifies purification of the heart. “Allah, the Almighty, gives the followers an opportunity to pray and adopt taqwa (piety). This is the time for people to cleanse themselves of sins,” he said.
Explaining further, he said that as the body gathers impurities throughout the year and needs cleansing, fasting helps the body recover and purify itself.
Maulana Mirza Raza Shah Qumi said that Allah has made five pillars obligatory in Islam and fasting during Ramzan is one of them. “This is a month to seek blessing and be blessed,” he noted.
During this month, Muslims observe fasts throughout the day and break them at sunset with Iftar. “During Ramzan, Allah wants his followers to engage more in prayers and abstain from wrongdoing,” Qumi said.
He also said that fasting is the sine qua non of Ramzan festival. “If someone’s diet has become unhealthy he or she can improve it during this month. Besides, fasting teaches patience. Moreover, people wear new clothes in this month and it means embarking on a new life rooted in piety and devoutness under the benign guidance of the Almighty,” he said.
“After Iftar and prayers, a short sermon (khutba) is delivered, focusing on worship and prayers for about five minutes. The festival culminates in the celebration of Eid which means happiness for one and all, irrespective of their social and economic status,” he added.
