The holy month of Ramzan begins from Monday, and Muslims who will observe fasts for next 30 days feel it is the most important time of the year for them because this ritual makes them more humble and humane. For a true Muslim, it is very important to realise the value of fasting, and the lesson that fasting teaches through strict self-control. We speak to a mix of professional and youngsters about their take on observing fasts during modern times.
Shehnaz Khan, a media professional, says, “I feel fasting is relevant in today’s time because it is one of the important pillars of Islam and a command from Allah. On the social side, fasting gives us a chance to live a humble life, it makes us realise what hunger pangs are, what the poorest of the poor go through when there is no food. When we are thirsty, we understand the relevance of water and how precious it is. Fasting makes us compassionate and patient.”
Similarly, for Afsana Afsar, a 22-year-old student, fasting during this holy period is a spiritual experience. She says, “When we fast for 30 days non-stop, we actually train our body and get into a routine. It is like cleansing of our system and mind. We realise the importance of basic things like food and water, and thank God for all his benevolence. Also it’s a time when lots of privileged people donate and the money goes in charity, so it’s a time to give back to the society as well.”
Due to hectic work schedules, some Muslims youth admit that it is difficult to observe fasts for entire 30 days, but they more or less manage to juggle work with their belief.
Khalid Nabi, an advertising professional, thinks fasting inculcates self-discipline in an individual. He says, “During Ramzan any God fearing Muslim strictly follows the right path given in our holy book. We abstain from abusing, lying or even thinking of anything evil, so it teaches us to strictly control our minds. I try to observe fasts for all 30 days but if that doesn’t happen due to work or other reasons, I try to follow it as much as I can.”