Ramadan
By Justice Katju
This is the Muslim Holy Month of Ramadan ( called Ramzan in the Indian subcontinent ), which began on 28th February 2025, and will end on 29th or 30th March ( depending on the visibility of the moon )
During this month practising Muslims fast from the time of ‘sehri’ in the early morning, to the time of ‘iftaar’ in the night. In this period they neither eat nor drink anything., and spend a lot of time in prayers.
Although an atheist, for over the past 25–30 years I have observed a one-day roza (fast) during Ramzan, usually on the last Friday, known as Alvida. This gesture is out of respect and solidarity with my Muslim brothers and sisters. Also, each year, I extend an appeal to non-Muslims worldwide to observe one day roza during Ramadan, as an act of expressing solidarity with Muslims, who have been often demonized by the Islamophobia spread by certain vested interests.
Islam and Prophet Mohammed have often been misunderstood. Islam came in the world as a great liberating force, as it spread the great message of equality. It gave social emancipation to the suppressed sections of society ( e.g. dalits in India ), and that is why Islam spread from Spain to Indonesia.
Also, the Prophet’s dictum ” For knowledge, go even to China ” resulted in rationalism and development of science in the Arab world and elsewhere.
The timings for sehri (pre-dawn meal) and iftaar (meal to break the fast) vary in different localities. Individuals planning to observe roza can consult a Muslim friend for the precise times in their area.
My appeal is not a call to forsake one’s religion but a symbolic act demonstrating our solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters.
During a stay in the Bay Area of California a few years ago, I observed a day of roza during Ramzan, culminating in an iftaar at my friend Shaista Ali’s residence in Saratoga, with both Shaista and my friend Santosh Addagulla, as well as a large number of other people of different faiths, joining us.
Furthermore, my appeals extend beyond the Muslim community. Each year, I encourage non-Hindus to observe a day of fasting during Navratri and to partake in the celebrations of Holi and Diwali.
An anecdote of note is the overwhelming response from the students of Rehan School, Korangi Campus, Karachi, Pakistan, who celebrated Diwali by lighting diyas (earthen lamps). This gesture, including the participation of the school’s principal, Altaf Educationwaala, symbolizes a historical event where Muslims celebrated a Hindu festival.
This spirit of interfaith harmony and amity is crucial in combating communal forces seeking to divide us and spread hatred. Let us all emulate this spirit and contribute towards fostering unity and peace among diverse communities.
