Ramadan 2024 Moon Sighting: Anticipated Crescent Moon Visibility in India and Saudi Arabia
The commencement of the holy month of Ramadan is marked by the sighting of the crescent moon. The precise timing of this celestial event varies based on geographical location and local moon sighting customs. Ramadan 2024 initiation is determined by the Islamic calendar, a lunar-based system spanning 29-30 days.
Throughout Ramadan 2024, Muslims observe fasting from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical necessities. The daily fast concludes with the iftar meal, typically initiated with the consumption of dates followed by a more substantial meal.
When is the Expected Ramadan 2024 Moon Sighting in India?
The anticipated crescent moon sighting is slated for March 10 in Middle Eastern nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Consequently, Asian countries, including India and Pakistan, can anticipate the moon sighting on March 11, with Ramadan fasting commencing on March 12.
It is noteworthy that Islam follows the lunar, or Hijri, calendar, distinct from the widely adopted solar or Georgian calendar globally. The Hijri calendar, featuring 354 days and aligned with the lunar cycle phases, results in Ramadan occurring about ten or eleven days earlier each year in relation to the solar calendar.
In 2023, the crescent moon was sighted in India on March 24, marking the onset of Ramadan 2023.
Commencement of Fasting in Saudi Arabia:
The Supreme Court in Saudi Arabia has issued directives urging the Kingdom's populace to witness the crescent moon of Ramadan 2024 on the evening of Sunday, March 10, 2024. Muslims are encouraged to use binoculars for moon sighting, and if visible on Sunday evening, fasting will commence on Monday, March 11 in Saudi Arabia.
