MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Ramadan is one of the Islamic calendar’s most spiritual and holy months. Ramadan, in AJK Azad Jammu and Kashmir, is celebrated with all zeal and zest.
As soon as the holy month of Ramadan approaches, the scenic valleys and mountains of Azad Kashmir transform into a spiritual hub, where Muslims congregate to observe a month of fasting, contemplation, and social bonding.
In this blog, we will discover Ramadan’s religious nature and traditions in Azad Kashmir, celebrated with harmony and joy.
The Spiritual Atmosphere
The call to prayer resonates through the valleys at sunrise over the snow-covered peaks, notifying the beginning of another day of fasting. Incense’s lovely smell and the sound of Quranic verses pervade the air.
As men and women come for congregational prayers, searching for pardon and spiritual development, mosques are packed to capacity.
Traditional Iftars and Suhoors
Traditional Iftar and Suhoor meals during Ramadan in AJK are woven into daily routine, the family gathers around the table, sharing stories and laughter, often breaking fasts with a date, a piece of fruit, or even a cake of some traditional cooked dish, like Kashmiri chai (pink tea) and Kebabs.
On the other hand, the third meal of the day, often called Sahoor or Sehri is eaten before sunrise, which is quite special as, in some families, all would rise before dawn to share a breakfast and pray for a successful fast day.
Charity and Philanthropy
Doing charity and donating to needy friends and families is also an important element of the holy month of Ramadan. People who can afford, to help their needy fellows so that everyone can enjoy the blessings of this spiritual month.
People gather money and food essentials to distribute among the needy so everyone has a table full of food after a long day of fasting.
Cultural events and activities
During the holy month of Ramadan, Azad Kashmir celebrates many cultural events that reveal their rich heritage and traditions, including, grant iftari’s arranged at local mosques, Quran recitation competitions, Naat performances, and elaborated Taraweeh prayers.
Conclusion
It is a unique and wonderful experience to have spirituality community bonding and cultural inheritance into one celebration of faith and tradition during the month of Ramadan in Azad Kashmir.
Probably thousands of righteous people will gather throughout Azad Kashmir for the celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr; it signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the return of a new month of joy and merriment.
