Ramadan commences

A month-long observance by Muslims worldwide, and known as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Ramadan occurs during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is a time of spiritual reflection, renewal, self-discipline and worship. During Ramadan, observant Muslims abstain from food and drink from sunrise until sunset. At sunset, the fast is broken with a meal known as iftar, and the evening is spent in prayer and worship. Ramadan is a time for community and family, to gather for feasts and other social events. Ramadan concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festivity marked with prayers, gifts and feasting.