Jonathan and Zahrah commemorate the month in their own unique way and discussed their experiences during a special podcast style chat in Studio 1.
Discussing topics such as what Ramadan means to them, as well as sharing stories and traditions around Iftar and Eid, the pair aim to educate and inform their colleagues and peers around the importance of the religious holiday.
Talking about why she wanted to share her story, Zahrah said: “It was important to partake in the Ramadan piece to showcase how impactful Ramadan is for Muslims across the world and delve into more than the fasting side people see!”
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar calendar.
It is celebrated as the month that the Qur’an (Holy book) was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in 610 AD.
This is known in Arabic as “Laylat Al Qadar” (Night of power).
During this time, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset for 29/30 days.
In the UK, people will fast from sunrise to sunset (approximately 15 hours) with no food or water.
Muslims fast to strengthen their faith, gain closeness to Allah (God), appreciation, and build self-discipline.
Ramadan starts 10 days early every year.
Following Ramadan, there is an Eid celebration to mark the end of a period of reflection, refocus and mindfulness – both of self and of others.
There are two Eids. Eid-Ul-Fitr which starts soon as Ramadan finishes and Ei-Ul-Adha which starts soon as the Hajj Pilgrimage completes.
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