Currently, Muslims around the world are preparing for the annual holy month of Ramadan. This one month long event holds significant importance to the Muslim community. This month Muslims will be fasting, which is a participation of complete abstinence of food, water, and other particular acts. Fasting happens everyday and starts from the break of dawn to sunset.

One of my meals to break my fast

This means Muslims will have a little to eat before the start of each day, and break their fast by having a meal in the evening.

In the UK, the month of Ramadan for this year is expected to begin on the night of April 2nd and end on the 1st of May.

This month holds great importance to the Muslim community. It is held for a multitude of reasons, many of which is to bring Muslims closer to their faith, to learn and practice compassion, patience, and restraint. Moreover, it also allows one to understand the challenges of those who are less fortunate. 

My sister’s outfits for Eid’s Celebration

By the end of the month, the Eid Al Fitr celebration comes in where Muslims celebrate their achievements of the month.

Managing uni work during Ramadan!

I am excited to part-take in participating in this month of fasting. In my view not only is it a religious experience but it is a very strong cultural experience. It is one of my favourite moments to have a sense of home away from home.

Overall it is a time of giving, a time where family and friends comes together and being able to cook for and with one another. As an international student the Ramadan experience is a little different than usual. Being away from my family and being independent while upholding university work can be pose its challenges. But Ramadan is a great outlet to take things slowly with work, to take things easy, and to further build on living as an independent adult.

I wish a wonderful Ramadan to everyone and to members of the Islamic Society BU that will be participating!

Please also see our Faith and Reflection services for more information on activities and events during Ramadan and throughout the year.