Ramzan 2026 in India: Moon Sighting, Fasting Start Date, Sehri and Iftar Times

With Ramzan (Ramadan) 2026 approaching soon, Muslims across India are preparing for the holy month of fasting and prayer. The important lunar calculations indicate that the Ramzan moon (crescent) will be sighted on the evening of Sunday, February 22, 2026, which means the first day of fasting (Roza) is expected to begin on Monday, February 23, 2026.

Moon Sighting and Start of Fasting

Ramzan begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon, which marks the start of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Religious authorities and moon sighting committees in various states will officially announce the sighting based on local observations. If the moon is not sighted on February 22, then the first Roza will begin on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

Sehri and Iftar Timings

During Ramzan, Muslims observe fasts from dawn to sunset. Sehri (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (breaking of the fast at sunset) times vary from city to city depending on sunrise and sunset timings.

• Sehri ends shortly before Fajr (dawn) prayer.
• Iftar begins at the time of Maghrib (sunset) prayer.

Ramzan is a time of deep spiritual reflection, increased charity (Zakat and Sadaqah), and community prayers, including Taraweeh in the evenings after Isha prayer.

Significance of the Holy Month

Ramzan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Fasting during this month — abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours — is obligatory for all adult Muslims, except those who are exempt due to health reasons, travel, or other valid reasons as per Islamic law.

In addition to fasting, Muslims engage in reading the Quran, performing extra prayers, and seeking forgiveness. The end of Ramzan is marked by the festival of Eid-ul-Fitr, celebrated with communal prayers, feasting, and charity.

As the holy month draws near, mosques, community organisations, and families are making preparations, including special Ramzan schedules for prayers and community iftars.