The holy month of Ramadan has officially begun in Pakistan, with the first Taraweeh(evening prayers) held after Isha prayers.
Nearly 1.9 billion Muslims around the world began observing Ramadan this weekend, the holy month marked by dawn-to-dusk fasting and prayers. Ramadan is sacred to Muslims as tradition holds that the holy Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) during this month.
Ramadan is a time that encourages spiritual elevation, self-purification (Tazkiyah), and self-reflection, while promoting mutual brotherhood and unity. During this blessed month, millions across the country will observe fasting, seeking spiritual closeness to Allah through charity, acts of worship, and good deeds.
The number of people attending mosques has seen a significant increase, as Muslims begin offering Taraweeh prayers starting tonight. Additionally, mosques have been beautifully decorated to mark the arrival of the holy month.
In the markets, there is a visible rush of people shopping for dates, fruits, and other essential items for Ramadan.
President, PM Greet Nation on Ramadan's Arrival
Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have extended their heartfelt greetings to the nation on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan.
In his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt greetings to Muslims in Pakistan and around the world at the start of Ramadan.
“As the blessed month of Ramadan begins, I extend my heartfelt greetings to Muslims in Pakistan and around the world. This sacred month is a time of reflection, self-discipline, and spiritual renewal, reminding us of the values of compassion, patience, and unity,” he said.
He further emphasized, “Ramadan provides us with an opportunity to strengthen our faith, seek forgiveness, and show kindness to those in need. Fasting is not just about abstaining from food and drink, it is about humbling the ego and restraining greed. It is an act of submission, reminding us that while we are weak, Allah SWT is the Almighty.”
The Prime Minister also reminded the nation, “It is a month of immense blessings, reminding us to be grateful for Allah’s mercy and to embrace the true spirit of empathy and generosity while recognizing our responsibility to care for the less fortunate.”
“I pray to Almighty Allah to accept our fasts, prayers, and good deeds and to bless Pakistan with progress and prosperity. May this Ramadan be a source of immense blessings and guidance for us all,” he added.
Similarly, President Asif Ali Zardari conveyed his greetings and urged the nation to engage in charity and almsgiving during the holy month.
He emphasized, “We must go beyond our means to support the poor. These principles play a vital role in building a strong, progressive, and compassionate society. By doing so, we will fulfill the true objectives of Ramadan and attain its rewards.”
President Zardari also extended congratulations to the nation and the Muslim Ummah, noting, “Ramadan is a month of mercy, forgiveness, and salvation. It teaches us self-purification, patience, perseverance, compassion, equality, and unity. This holy month provides an excellent opportunity to attain piety, sincerity, and closeness to Allah Almighty.”
He urged the public to rise above personal interests and support the less fortunate, stating, “Let us fulfill the needs of the poor and destitute and promote the spirit of sacrifice and generosity in society.”
The President concluded his message by praying to Allah Almighty to grant everyone the ability to benefit from the blessings of Ramadan, embody patience and piety, and contribute to the welfare of the Muslim Ummah. He also prayed that this month would bring peace, stability, development, and prosperity to Pakistan.
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