As the holy month of Ramadaan draws to a close, Muslims around the world prepare to celebrate Eid al-Fitr—a joyous occasion marking the culmination of a period of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth.
This sacred time brings families and communities together in gratitude, reinforcing the values of self-discipline, charity, and faith.
Moulana Shaykh Faheem from Islamic Lifestyle Solutions, along with several Muslim youth from the community, shared their insights on the significance of Ramadaan and the meaning of Eid.
Moulana Faheem emphasised that while fasting is the central practice of Ramadaan, the month is about much more than abstaining from food and drink.
He said that fasting is the central practice of Ramadaan, but it is not only about refraining from food and drink.
“Ramadaan is an opportunity for spiritual growth and self-discipline. It is a time to reconnect with God and engage in personal and spiritual transformation. Fasting is prescribed to help you attain self-restraint. It encourages Muslims to control their desires, build gratitude for what they have, and foster empathy for those who experience hunger daily. For young people, this practice can serve as a reminder of the importance of discipline and gratitude in all areas of life,” he explained.
For many youth, Ramadaan presents challenges as they balance their spiritual practices with everyday responsibilities, such as school or work.
“Despite these pressures, the opportunity to grow spiritually remains a central aspect of the month,” he said.
Ramadaan holds special significance for Abdul Razack Mohammed Haniff (8).
“Ramadaan makes me feel blessed because all my sins get washed away when I fast. It’s difficult to wake up for Sehri, and sometimes I get tired at school because I can’t eat or drink. But I love eating samoosas, moons, and pizza. My favourite part of Eid is when the whole family comes together, and I get to play with my cousins. Fasting helps me become a better person by learning from my mistakes,” he said.
Sanjana Noor Gothi, a revert to Islam, shared her experience: “To me, Ramadaan feels like any other day because I practice Islam to the best of my ability daily. Ramadaan helps me maintain higher levels of self-control and feel more at peace knowing that Shaitaan (the devil) is locked up during this time.” She also pointed out that the act of fasting gives her a sense of discipline that she carries beyond the month.
Zahra Sheik Ashrafi, a student, also reflected on the challenges of fasting during Ramadaan. “The long hours without food and water can be tough, especially on busy days, but fasting teaches me patience and gratitude,” she said. Despite the challenges, Ashrafi values the spiritual reflection that comes with Ramadaan. One of her favourite moments during the month is Iftaar, when she shares a meal with her family. “I enjoy spending time with my family at Iftaar. It’s a moment of connection and reflection after a long day of fasting,” she noted.
Charity also plays an important role for young Muslims during Ramadaan. Moulana Faheem highlighted that giving to charity is an essential part of the month. Ashrafi’s family, for example, participates in distributing food and essentials to those in need through their charity, BAPA (Buzme Ashique Panjatan Al-Ashrafi).
She explained, “Being part of this work is one of the most rewarding aspects of Ramadaan.”
Sulaman Mohammed Haniff (54), a businessman, spoke about the challenges and rewards of fasting: “Observing the fast comes with challenges, but I am committed to it. In my family, we observe Ramadaan strictly – no TV and minimal screen time. I wake up for Sehri at 3am, without setting an alarm. After praying, I read the Quran until 6am, then prepare for the day and go to work. Ramadaan helps me practice discipline, patience, and the importance of forgoing material luxuries. My favourite part of Eid is celebrating with family and giving back to the community.”
Moulana Faheem noted that Eid is a time of joy and thanksgiving, a reward for the effort put into the month of fasting. “Eid is a time to share the blessings we’ve received during Ramadaan and to celebrate the spiritual growth achieved,” he said.
The management and staff of the Merebank and Chatsworth Tabloid wishes its readers and advertisers a blessed Eid. May this joyous occasion bring you peace, prosperity, and abundant blessings.
