Controversy Over Lucknow University Mosque Closure and Prayer Ban Sparks Protests Students and academics at Lucknow University have raised concerns over the sudden closure of the campus mosque and the imposition of a ban on prayer activities, sparking widespread protests. The issue has drawn attention to perceived restrictions on religious freedom, with critics arguing that the university’s administration has failed to address the needs of its Muslim community. A press conference held by students and faculty highlighted the abrupt closure of the mosque, which has left students unable to perform daily prayers. Protesters emphasized that the decision during Ramadan, a month of heightened religious observance, has caused significant distress. They pointed out that the university has long allowed prayer activities without incident, and the sudden change has raised questions about the administration’s motives. Dr. Thirimann, a former student union president, urged the university authorities to resolve the matter promptly, suggesting either reopening the mosque or providing an alternative space for prayers within the campus. He also called for an end to discrimination, stressing that the university’s role is to foster diversity and inclusivity rather than impose restrictions. Religious leaders, including Maulana Jawad Nekovi, echoed these sentiments, citing the Indian Constitution’s guarantee of religious freedom. They argued that educational institutions should promote coexistence and not become battlegrounds for ideological disputes. Critics also highlighted broader challenges facing the university, such as inadequate infrastructure and resource shortages, warning that diverting attention to religious conflicts could undermine its academic mission.#ramadan #lucky_nagpur_university #dr_thirimann #maulana_jawad_nekovi #lucknow_university
Eid ul Fitr Moon Sighting Announced for March 20, 2026 The moon for Eid ul Fitr 2026 was officially sighted on March 20, 2026, at 23:55 PM, marking the beginning of the Ramadan fast for Muslims in India. The sighting, confirmed by astronomical observations and local religious authorities, has prompted preparations for the annual celebration. The next day, March 21, will be observed as a day of fasting and spiritual reflection, followed by the Eid ul Fitr prayers and communal feasts. The Indian government has declared March 21 as a public holiday to commemorate the occasion, ensuring that citizens can participate in the festivities without disruption. Schools and educational institutions have been granted two days of leave, with March 21 designated as the holiday for Ramadan and March 22 as a regular holiday. This arrangement aims to provide students and workers with adequate time to observe the religious practices and enjoy the cultural celebrations. The announcement of the moon sighting has also sparked widespread enthusiasm among the Muslim community. Religious leaders have emphasized the importance of unity and devotion during this period, urging followers to uphold the values of charity, humility, and gratitude. The government has extended its support by coordinating with local authorities to ensure smooth celebrations, including the provision of facilities for prayer and community gatherings. In addition to the religious significance, the Eid ul Fitr celebrations are expected to boost local economies, with increased demand for traditional foods, clothing, and festive decorations. Markets and shops across the country are preparing to welcome the holiday season, offering special discounts and promotions to cater to the needs of the community.#chief_minister #government #india #eid_ul_fitr #ramadan

Ramadan Festival Date Confirmed for Nationwide Celebration The Ruhit-El-Hilal Committee has officially announced that the sacred Islamic festival of Ramadan will be celebrated nationwide on March 21, Saturday. The new moon was not visible today, so Muslims will complete their fasting process tomorrow. In addition to Telugu states, the main cities of the country also did not see the new moon today. As a result, the month of Ramadan, which lasts 30 days, will end on Friday. Special Eid prayers will be held in mosques at 10 a.m. on Saturday. The decision to mark March 21 as the start of Ramadan follows the absence of the new moon on the previous day, which is a key factor in determining the beginning of the lunar month. This year, the celebration of Ramadan will span across all major cities in the country, including those in Telugu states, reflecting the widespread observance of the festival. The committee’s announcement underscores the significance of Ramadan as a time of spiritual reflection, communal unity, and religious devotion among Muslims. Eid prayers, a central part of the festival, will be conducted at 10 a.m. on Saturday, marking the conclusion of the fasting period. These prayers are typically held in mosques and open spaces, with communities gathering to express gratitude and seek blessings. The timing of the prayers aligns with the sighting of the new moon, which was not observed on the previous day, leading to the adjustment of the festival’s start date. The observance of Ramadan is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, involving daily fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayer, and acts of charity. The festival’s timing varies each year due to the lunar calendar, and its celebration is a testament to the cultural and religious practices of the Muslim community in India.#ramadan #ruhit_el_hilal_committee #telugu_states #eid_prayers #mosques

Iftar, Sehri timings for Ramazan 26/27 - Pakistan The following are the timings for today’s Iftar (Ramazan 26) and tomorrow’s Sehri (Ramazan 27) for the federal and provincial capitals of Pakistan: Iftar today is scheduled for 6:17pm, with Sehri tomorrow at 4:52am. Another entry lists Iftar at 6:27pm and Sehri at 4:42am. Further details include Iftar at 6:43pm and Sehri at 5:20am, followed by Iftar at 6:55pm and Sehri at 5:17am. Additional timings are provided for Iftar at 6:11pm and Sehri at 4:51am, Iftar at 6:21pm and Sehri at 4:41am, Iftar at 6:23pm and Se, 4:58am, Iftar at 6:33pm and Sehri at 4:48am, Iftar at 6:42pm and Sehri at 5:20am, Iftar at 7:00pm and Sehri at 5:19am. These timings are provided for the observance of Ramadan, a holy month in the Islamic calendar. The Iftar and Sehri times vary depending on the location and the specific city, as the timings are calculated based on the position of the sun. The timings are intended to help Muslims in Pakistan plan their daily prayers and fasting activities. The article also includes other news items, such as a planner for Ramazan 2026, reports on cultural events, and updates on various sectors. However, the primary focus of the article is the Iftar and Sehri timings for Ramazan 26 and 27.#pakistan #islamic_calendar #ramadan #iftar #sehri
Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 School Holiday Dates: Uncertainty Over March 20 or 21 Closure Schools and colleges in India are expected to observe a holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 on either March 20 or March 21, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon marking the end of Ramadan. The exact date remains unconfirmed, as the festival follows the Islamic lunar calendar, which is determined by the visibility of the crescent moon. Officials and educational institutions are awaiting final confirmation before finalizing holiday schedules. The Eid-ul-Fitr holiday is a public holiday across India, leading to closures in schools, colleges, and government offices. Most institutions are likely to declare March 21 as the holiday, with some regions or calendars possibly marking March 20. The variation in dates stems from the fact that the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, making the festival date shift annually. The crescent moon is expected to be sighted in India on March 20 at 6:45 PM IST, which could set the festival date for March 21. However, if the moon is not visible on that day, the holiday might be postponed to March 20. Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, typically lasts 29 to 30 days, and Eid-ul-Fitr marks its conclusion. This year, the festival is aligned with 1 Shawwal 1447 in the Islamic lunar calendar. The timing of the crescent moon’s sighting will determine whether Eid is celebrated on March 20 or March 21. Parents are advised to check with their respective schools for updated holiday schedules, as final decisions may be made closer to the festival. The uncertainty highlights the reliance of Islamic festivals on astronomical observations, which can vary by location and weather conditions. While March 21 is the most probable date, the possibility of the holiday falling on March 20 remains open.#india #eid_ul_fitr #islamic_calendar #ramadan #crescent_moon
Eid ul Fitr 2026 moon sighted in Saudi Arabia? KSA Supreme Court calls Muslims to spot Shawwal AH 1447 crescent on March 18 As the holy month of Ramadan 2026 nears its end, Muslims globally are preparing for the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, which marks the start of Eid ul Fitr celebrations. Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has officially called on Muslims within the kingdom to observe the sky on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, to spot the new moon. If the crescent is visible, the following day, March 19, will be the first day of Eid ul Fitr, commemorating the conclusion of Ramadan. Observers are urged to report any sightings to local courts to aid in the official announcement. The decision to determine Eid’s date hinges on the visibility of the Shawwal crescent. If the moon is sighted on March 18, Eid will begin on March 19. However, if the crescent is not visible that evening, Ramadan will conclude after 30 days, pushing Eid to March 20. Astronomical predictions suggest the moon may be difficult to spot on March 18, raising the possibility of Eid starting on March 20 in many Arab regions. The final confirmation will depend on verified reports from moon-sighting committees across Saudi Arabia. This tradition of lunar-based calendar calculation holds global significance, as many Muslim communities rely on Saudi Arabia’s declaration to set their Eid dates. Countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait often align their celebrations with the kingdom’s announcement. In contrast, nations in South Asia, such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, typically observe Eid a day later due to differing lunar visibility conditions or local sighting practices. Eid ul Fitr, meaning “festival of breaking the fast,” is a major Islamic celebration marking the end of Ramadan.#saudi_arabia #eid_ul_fitr #shawwal #supreme_court #ramadan

When is Eid al-Fitr 2026? What to Know About the End of Ramadan Eid al-Fitr, the Islamic holiday marking the end of Ramadan, is expected to begin on the evening of March 19 or March 20, 2026, depending on the sighting of the waxing crescent moon. This date signals the start of the Islamic month of Shawwal and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which is also known as the "festival of breaking the fast." The holiday is observed by nearly 2 billion Muslims worldwide, including approximately 1% of Ohioans, and is tied to the lunar Hijri calendar. Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, concludes with Eid al-Fitr, which follows the sighting of the crescent moon. The exact date varies each year because the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, causing the start of Ramadan and Eid holidays to shift approximately 11 days earlier each year compared to the previous year. For 2026, the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr are anticipated around March 19 or 20, with the first day of Shawwal immediately following the moon’s sighting. Eid al-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month in the Islamic calendar. It is one of two major Islamic festivals, the other being Eid al-Adha. While the holiday is traditionally observed on a single day, many Muslims extend the celebration for up to three days, gathering with family and friends. The festivities include prayers at local mosques, feasts, and the exchange of gifts, particularly for children. A key tradition of Eid al-Fitr is the charitable donation known as Zakat al-Fitr. This obligation requires Muslims with income to give a donation to the poor before the Eid prayers, ensuring that all can participate in the celebrations. The donation is meant to cover the cost of a meal for those in need, reflecting the Islamic emphasis on charity and community support.#shawwal #islamic_calendar #ramadan #eid_al_fitr #eid_al_adha
Shab-e-Qadr 2026: A Night of Prayer, Mercy, and Spiritual Renewal Muslims across the world dedicate the holiest night of Ramadan to prayer, reflection, forgiveness, and seeking divine mercy, believing it to be a night of unparalleled spiritual significance. Known as Shab-e-Qadr, or Laylat al-Qadr, this night is considered the most blessed in the Islamic calendar. It is traditionally observed during the final ten days of Ramadan, a period marked by heightened devotion and spiritual focus. The exact date of Shab-e-Qadr varies each year due to the lunar calendar, but it is commonly associated with the 27th night of Ramadan. In 2026, with Ramadan beginning on February 19, many communities anticipate the sacred night to fall on March 16. However, Islamic teachings emphasize that the night could occur on any of the odd-numbered nights within the final ten days—specifically the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th. Because its precise timing is not fixed, many Muslims intensify their worship throughout these nights to ensure they do not miss the opportunity. The significance of Shab-e-Qadr is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. It is believed that the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad on this night, delivered by the angel Jibreel in the Cave of Hira near Makkah in 610 CE. This event is commemorated in Surah Al-Qadr, a chapter of the Quran that describes the night as spiritually superior to a thousand months. The night is said to be a time of abundant divine mercy, with angels descending to earth and a profound sense of peace lingering until dawn. For believers, this transforms the night into a rare moment for seeking forgiveness, renewing faith, and praying for guidance. Devotees observe Shab-e-Qadr with intense devotion, engaging in extended prayer, Quran recitation, and heartfelt supplications.#ramadan #prophet_muhammad #shab_e_qadr #jibreel #cave_of_hira

UAE's Astronomy Centre Predicts Eid Al Fitr Date The International Astronomy Centre (IAC) in the UAE has determined that the crescent moon will not be visible on March 18, making it impossible to mark the start of Eid Al Fitr on that date. According to the centre, the moon will set before sunrise, and the conjunction will occur after sunset, rendering the sighting unfeasible. This means the holy month of Ramadan will last 30 days, and Eid Al Fitr is expected to begin on March 20 in the UAE and other regions. The IAC explained that the crescent’s visibility depends on specific astronomical conditions. For the UAE, the crescent will be visible on March 19, but the exact timing remains under observation. In other parts of the world, the visibility varies: the crescent is not possible to spot from the eastern hemisphere, while western Asia, central and northern Africa, and parts of North America may see it with varying degrees of difficulty. The centre emphasized that these factors must be analyzed together, as no single metric alone guarantees a sighting. The IAC noted that the crescent’s age will be 15 hours and 33 minutes, with an angular distance of 7.6 degrees from the sun. However, these values alone are not sufficient for confirmation, as they are interconnected. The centre also highlighted that the crescent will persist for 29 minutes above the horizon, a critical factor in determining visibility. In the UAE, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has already announced Eid Al Fitr holidays for both the private and public sectors. Private-sector employees will have a holiday from March 19 to March 21, with an extension to March 22 if Ramadan lasts 30 days. Federal government workers will enjoy a holiday from March 19 to March 22, with work resuming on March 23.#uae #ramadan #eid_al_fitr #international_astronomy_centre #ministry_of_human_resources_and_emiratisation

Eid Al-Fitr 2026: Date And Classic Recipes For The Festival Muslims around the world are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Fitr as the holy month of Ramadan comes to an end. The festival, known as Meethi Eid due to its sweet traditions, is marked by prayers, charity, and the preparation of festive dishes. Homes are filled with the aroma of special foods, and the date of the celebration depends on the sighting of the Shawwal moon. On the morning of Eid, Muslims gather for special prayers and give Zakat al-Fitr, a charitable contribution, to ensure everyone can participate in the festivities. After the prayers, people greet each other warmly, exchange "Eid Mubarak" wishes, and share joy with friends and family. The celebration is a time for togetherness and gratitude. The exact date of Eid is determined by the sighting of the Shawwal crescent, which is confirmed after the last evening of Ramadan. If the moon is sighted on 19 March, Eid will be observed on 20 March. If the moon is not visible, the festival will be held on 21 March instead. While the final date remains pending, many regions are likely to celebrate on 20 March. The Eid feast is a highlight of the celebration, featuring traditional dishes that bring families together. Classic recipes include Sheer Khurma, a rich dessert made by simmering milk with roasted vermicelli, dates, sugar, and dry fruits like almonds, pistachios, and cashews, flavored with cardamom. Another popular dish is a fragrant rice dish made with marinated chicken, basmati rice, aromatic spices, saffron, and crispy fried onions, layered and slow-cooked for depth of flavor. Soft, melt-in-the-mouth kebabs made from finely minced meat, blended with spices and herbs, and shallow-fried until tender and aromatic are also a staple.#ramadan #eid_al_fitr #shawwal_moon #sheer_khurma #mughlai_dessert
Today’s Sehri and Iftar Timings in Major Indian Cities Ramadan observances continue across India on Monday, March 9, with distinct schedules for the pre-dawn meal (Sehri) and sunset meal (Iftar) in different cities. In Kolkata, the earliest timings are observed, with Sehri at 4:37 AM and Iftar at 5:45 PM. In contrast, Mumbai and Ahmedabad have later timings, reflecting variations based on local sunrise and sunset patterns. These schedules are sourced from UrduPoint, which provides updated timings for each region. The differences in timings are influenced by the geographical location and the natural light cycles of each city. For instance, cities in the eastern part of India, such as Kolkata, experience earlier sunrise and sunset compared to western cities like Mumbai. This variation ensures that Muslims across the country can adhere to their religious practices while respecting local environmental conditions. The Ramadan schedule is determined by tracking the position of the sun and moon, which varies by region. In cities with longer days during this period, the Sehri time is earlier, allowing for a longer fasting period. Conversely, in cities with shorter days, the Iftar time is later, accommodating the sunset. This adjustment ensures that the fast aligns with the natural cycles of each area. The timings are widely used by communities to plan their daily routines, from prayer schedules to social gatherings. Many mosques and Islamic organizations also rely on these timings to coordinate activities during the holy month. The information is regularly updated to reflect any changes in the sun’s position, ensuring accuracy for all observers. Overall, the Ramadan timings highlight the adaptability of Islamic practices to local conditions while maintaining the core principles of the faith.#kolkata #mumbai #ahmedabad #ramadan #urdu_point

Eid Al Fitr 2026 Likely to Fall on March 20 in UAE, Say Sharjah Astronomers Millions of residents across the United Arab Emirates are awaiting official confirmation of the Eid Al Fitr 2026 date, a major religious and public holiday marking the end of Ramadan. The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology, through its Sharjah Astronomical Observatory, has released an early prediction indicating that the festival is expected to begin on March 20. According to the academy, Ramadan 1447 AH will complete 30 days, making Friday the first day of Shawwal and the start of Eid Al Fitr in the UAE. The moon sighting timeline for the holy month of Ramadan is critical in determining the exact date. On March 18, the 29th day of Ramadan, the crescent moon will not be visible as the moon will set before sunset in the western skies. Astronomers explained that the country will observe Ramadan on that evening, meaning March 19 will mark the completion of the holy month. The observatory noted that the new moon will occur over Sharjah at 4:24 am UAE time on March 19, 2026. By sunset, the crescent moon will be approximately 14 hours and 6 minutes old, with an angular separation from the sun of 6.5 degrees, an altitude of six degrees above the western horizon, and a visibility window of around 29 minutes after sunset. However, the viewing conditions for the moon in the UAE are described as "critical" or unfavorable. The observatory stated that spotting the crescent locally would be extremely difficult, even with the aid of telescopes. Advanced techniques such as image stacking may be required to capture the crescent, and naked-eye observation is unlikely to succeed.#shawwal #eid_al_fitr #sharjah_academy #sharjah_astronomical_observatory #ramadan

Hyderabad Police Prohibit Throwing Colours on Unwilling Persons During Holi Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar issued a directive on Monday emphasizing strict enforcement against individuals who throw coloured substances at unwilling people during Holi celebrations. The notification explicitly bans the act of spraying coloured water or other coloured materials on public roads, public places, pedestrians, or vehicles, as well as smearing unwilling individuals with colour. The commissioner urged citizens to observe the festival in a peaceful manner, stressing that any actions causing inconvenience to others would face severe consequences. He highlighted the need for vigilance during the ongoing month of Ramadan, instructing police to avoid disturbing Muslim prayers. Officers were directed to collaborate with Peace Committees and increase security in sensitive areas to ensure harmony. Visible Policing was prioritized to prevent any untoward incidents, with Blue Colts and patrolling staff required to maintain constant vigilance across the city. The commissioner clarified that forcibly applying colours to unwilling individuals would not be tolerated, reiterating warnings against throwing colours into public spaces or onto vehicles. Special emphasis was placed on monitoring indecent behavior towards women, with SHE Teams deployed to address such incidents. Citizens were advised to use natural colours instead of chemical ones and were reminded that DJs are not permitted during celebrations. To curb disturbances, the police warned that vehicles carrying youths roaming in groups on roads would be seized. Additionally, liquor shops, toddy compounds, bars, and restaurants within Hyderabad Commissionerate limits were restricted from operating between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Tuesday.#holi #ramadan #hyderabad_police #v_c_sajjanar #she_teams
Ramadan: Sehri and Iftar Timings for March 1 in Delhi, Lucknow, Hyderabad and Other Cities Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, began in India on February 19, marking a time of prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal for Muslims across the country. The start of the month is traditionally determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, with the observance usually first noted in Gulf nations and western regions before spreading to India and neighboring countries a day later. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, adhering to two key meals: Sehri and Iftar. Sehri, the pre-dawn meal consumed before the Fajr prayer, signifies the beginning of the daily fast. Iftar, the evening meal to break the fast at sunset, follows the Maghrib prayer. The timing of these meals varies depending on the city due to differences in daylight hours. For instance, in Kolkata, Sehri is approximately 30–35 minutes earlier than in New Delhi. For March 1, the Sehri and Iftar timings across major Indian cities are as follows: New Delhi observes Sehri at 5:27 a.m. and Iftar at 6:22 p.m. Hyderabad’s Sehri is at 5:21 a.m., with Iftar at 6:24 p.m. Mumbai’s timings are 5:38 a.m. for Sehri and 6:44 p.m. for Iftar. Bengaluru’s Sehri is at 5:24 a.m., followed by Iftar at 6:30 p.m. Lucknow’s Sehri begins at 5:12 a.m., with Iftar at 6:08 p.m. Chennai’s Sehri is at 5:13 a.m., and Iftar at 6:18 p.m. In Kolkata, Sehri is at 4:43 a.m., with Iftar at 5:41 p.m. Celebrations of Ramadan differ across regions. In India, the month is marked by vibrant evening markets, large communal iftar gatherings featuring traditional dishes like kebabs, biryani, and dates. Mosques host special Taraweeh prayers, and acts of charity, including food distribution, are central to the observance.#mumbai #lucknow #hyderabad #ramadan #new_delhi