Ramadan, also known as Ramzan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed majorly by Muslim community worldwide. Individuals observe fast to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad according to Islamic belief. This annual observance is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam and the celebration lasts for 29 to 30 days based on the visual sightings of the crescent moon. Ramadan 2018 will begin in the evening of May 15 and will continue till June 14. However, the dates may vary in different parts of the world. The word Ramadan comes from the Arabic root ramida or ar-ramad, which means scorching heat or dryness.

It is said that, fasting during Ramadan 2018 is compulsory for adult muslims, except those who are suffering from an illness, travelling, are elderly, pregnant, diabetic, chronically ill or menstruating. The final 10 nights of Ramadan include intense prayer and are followed by a three-day holiday called Eid al-Fitr which means ‘festival of breaking the fast’, marks the end of Ramadan.

Ramadan 2018 Dates: The dates for the holy observance change annually as they are determined by the sighting of a new moon. This annual time is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Eid al-Fitr is expected to fall from June 14 to June 17, 2018. Again, Eid-al-Adha will fall from August 21 to August 24, 2018.

Ramadan 2018 Significance: Ramadan, which shifts according to the movement of the moon, is observed around the world by millions of Muslims. Individuals abstain from food and drink between sunrise and sunset for 30 days. It is believed that eating Sehri during this time is a blessing. Sehri or Suhoor is a meal that muslims eat before the prayer and is considered significant. Since it is a pre-dawn meal, devotees may not feel hungry at that time, but it is important to fill your tummy so that your body is active enough for the day.

Ramadan 2018 Celebrations: A common greeting among individuals is Ramadan Mubarak, which means ‘have a blessed Ramadan’. Ramadan 2018 is a month where Muslims try to practice increased self-discipline. They engage themselves in day long fast, chants prayer from Quran, the holy book of Islam and charity as well during Ramadan. People buy new clothes, invites close bonds and spends as much time together.

Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, improvement and increased devotion and worship. In different parts of the world, various lights are strung up in public squares and across city streets, welcoming the month of Ramadan 2018. Not just Muslims, but individuals from all the communities and from every corner gathers to observe this holy month. So, as you gear up for the most awaited celebration, here is wishing you all a Happy Ramadan 2018!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 15, 2018 12:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).