Winter Ramazan sets new calendar trend in Lahore

Expected to continue until 2031, briefly touching spring in initial years

LAHORE:

After a 26-year hiatus, Ramazan graces Lahore in the winter season, marking a unique shift in the calendar.

Experts project this winter Ramazan trend to persist from 2024 onwards, transitioning briefly into spring for the initial two years before settling back into winter until 2031.

Subsequently, a transition to autumn Ramazan is anticipated for the following eight years until 2039.

Eidul Fitr is slated for April 10, with philanthropists citywide gearing up to facilitate extensive arrangements for both Iftar and Suhoor throughout the holy month.

Ramazan's winter arrival this year after a lengthy interval has prompted a flurry of activity among fasting individuals, especially in the bustling markets as they prepare for Iftar.

In addition to home-based Iftar gatherings, philanthropists have established dastarkhuwans across the city to provide meals.

Essential arrangements for breaking the fast have been made at prominent locations such as Darbar Data Sahib, Darbar Mian Mir, and Darbar Shah Jamal, as well as various sites along Mall Road, Ferozepur Road, Allama Iqbal Town, Baghbanpura, Shalimar, and other interior areas.

Similar provisions have been arranged for Suhoor at mosques, madrasahs and shrines, ensuring fasting individuals are adequately catered to throughout Ramadan until its conclusion.

Citizens remarked that fasting individuals diligently perform their daily tasks with tranquility and peace of mind in winter. Unlike the summer season, where fasting can be more challenging due to longer daylight hours, more people observe fasts during the winter months. This allows them to dedicate additional time to worship alongside their regular activities.

Muhammad Junaid and Ghulam Ali underscored the significance of worship, which holds importance in every season.

They emphasised that the arrival of Ramazan in the winter is particularly crucial for instilling the habit of fasting, especially among children. The winter season provides a conducive environment for fasting, particularly for individuals who may struggle to fast during the summer due to health reasons.

Maulana Ghulam Aashiq Naqshbandi and Khurram Qadri echo this sentiment, emphasising that the arrival of Ramazan in the winter is a blessing from Allah.

They highlight the importance of Ramadan and the spiritual rewards of worship during this month, which surpass those of ordinary days.

During the winter, fasting individuals engage in worship more fervently, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of homes and mosques.

Additionally, during the winter, people prepare delightful meals for Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (evening meal), enhancing the joyous spirit of the season.

Other scholars and individuals with daily routines stress that Ramazan, as a month of blessings, is akin to receiving a divine gift. Therefore, all believers should express gratitude to Allah for the arrival of this blessed month and the favourable conditions it brings, especially during the winter season.