06 May 2019, 9:00 AM
The Maldives welcomed the holy month of Ramadan on Monday after pre-fasting preparations involving the refurbishing of homes, last minute shopping for new kitchenware, and meals called maahefun with relatives, friends and work colleagues.
Following most other Muslim countries, the Islamic ministry declared May 6 as the first day of Ramadan because the new moon was not sighted on Saturday. The sighting of the new moon marks the beginning of the Muslim lunar month, which lasts between 29 and 30 days. As the moon was not visible on Saturday (the 29th of Shaban), Sunday was the 30th of the month.
During Ramadan, all adult and able-bodied Muslims are enjoined to fast from dawn to dusk, abstain from bodily pleasures, and to focus on self-reflection, prayer and charity.
In the Maldives, the pace of life slows dramatically during the month.
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