Srinagar, March 1, 2025 – Muslims in Jammu and Kashmir will begin fasting for the holy month of Ramadan on Sunday, March 2, following the announcement by Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam that the crescent moon was not sighted on Friday evening, February 28.
The decision marks the official start of Ramadan 1446 AH in the region, as confirmed late last night after consultations with the moon-sighting committee.
Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam addressed the press in Srinagar, stating, “No credible reports of the Ramadan moon sighting were received from any district or area of Jammu and Kashmir. As per Sharia, the month of Sha’ban will complete 30 days, and Ramadan will commence on Sunday.”
The committee, which includes prominent cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, had urged residents to look for the crescent moon on Friday and report sightings, but none met the required standards for confirmation.
Residents are now preparing for the first day of fasting, which will begin with the pre-dawn meal (Sehri) on Saturday night. Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, charity, and community, holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide.
This year’s process underscores efforts to streamline moon-sighting decisions in J&K, following past disputes that led to the formation of a unified committee earlier in February. The Grand Mufti expressed hope for a blessed month, urging the faithful to embrace Ramadan’s spirit of compassion and unity.
As J&K joins other parts of India and the world in observing Ramadan, local authorities have ensured arrangements for prayers and markets to support the community through the month ahead.