Islamic Countries Celebrate Start of Ramadan with Lights, Lanterns and Festivities

Islamic countries have adorned themselves with colorful lights, traditional lanterns and special decorations as Ramadan begins. Markets, streets and mosques have assumed a spiritual atmosphere, with people starting the fasting month enthusiastically.

In Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Syria, Lebanon, Iran, Pakistan, Indonesia and other nations, Ramadan brings light, color, joy and special ceremonies. Beyond fasting, the month emphasizes increased worship, aid to the needy and social solidarity.

Hiyam Al-Batawi, an Egyptian citizen, said: "Ramadan in Egypt has a different atmosphere. We celebrate with lanterns, various dried fruits and big parties with friends. These are all the special attractions of Egypt that you can't find anywhere else in the world."

Susan Subra, a Lebanese citizen, said: "Decorations bring joy to children, both young and old. Thank God, it gives us the atmosphere of Ramadan."

Samer Al-Hamawi, a Syrian citizen, said: "All regions of Syria are full of joy and hope during Ramadan. Ramadan is beautiful with its preparations, joy and kind people."

In Pakistan, people have rushed to markets for Ramadan foodstuffs despite price rise concerns. In cities like Karachi, residents blame high inflation. Gulqadam Malek, a Pakistani citizen, said: "Last year, if someone had chickpeas, lentils, oil and other necessities, they would buy 10 kilos, but today they are forced to buy only 5 kilos. That means people have reduced their purchases."

In Gaza Strip, Palestinians craft colorful lanterns from empty soda cans to bring joy to children amid limited resources. They describe it as the first Ramadan after a ceasefire, aiming to restore hope. Mohammed Al-Najar, a Gaza resident, said: "Before the war, we lived the atmosphere of Ramadan, we were happy, decorated, made lanterns and made children happy. Now, because of the war, siege and lack of real lanterns, I used soda cans to make children happy."

Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar and one of Islam's five pillars, requires Muslims worldwide to abstain from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset. It starts with suhoor before sunrise and ends with iftar after sunset.