Srinagar, March 2 (NationPress) The sacred month of Ramzan commenced in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, aligning with the rest of India, as millions of devoted Muslims arose before dawn to partake in a 'Sehri' meal, heralded by announcements from mosques, shrines, and drum beaters.

During this month, Muslims observe a monthlong fast while engaging in prayer, penitence, and charity to invoke Allah's blessings during the holy month of Ramadan.

A dedicated Muslim maintains a fast throughout the day, breaking it only after sunset. Mosques and shrines become bustling centers during this period, where sermons on piety, purity, tolerance, and brotherhood are shared by preachers.

“A true Muslim should not harm any fellow human. Instead, he/she should assist the needy, feed the hungry, and safeguard the orphan,” -- this profound message is imparted by the Prophet of Islam to his followers during Ramzan.

On Saturday evening, markets in the region were bustling with shoppers purchasing dates, sherbets, raisins, and basil seeds, which are commonly utilized by the faithful during Ramadan. Makeshift roadside shops sprung up across Srinagar and other towns and cities in the Valley. The prices of dates, raisins, basil seeds, and other items fluctuated based on quality. A kilogram of dates ranged in price from Rs 200 to Rs 4,000, allowing buyers to select according to their budget.

While children are not obligated to fast, many choose to observe the first day of fasting as a joyful endeavor to compete with adults during this sacred month.

Numerous charitable organizations have emerged in the Valley to assist the needy, including orphans and the elderly, and Kashmiri Muslims are seen generously donating to these causes. Crowdfunding for patients requiring kidney transplants, liver transplants, and heart surgeries has also been accomplished within days of families making appeals. Notably, this generosity is not limited to fellow Muslims.

A patient in need whose family makes sincere crowdfunding requests for aid is often generously supported, irrespective of their religious background.

However, some unscrupulous individuals have been using loudspeaker-equipped vehicles to make urgent requests for monetary contributions to assist purported patients. Police and religious leaders have warned the public to be cautious and not contribute without verifying the authenticity of those making such appeals.

In one instance, a family seeking assistance after a fire in Gotlibagh village, Ganderbal district was exploited by a self-proclaimed social worker who collected substantial funds on behalf of these fire victims.

During the days of Ramzan, daily life in the Valley typically commences later, as residents prefer to sleep longer after the pre-dawn meal and morning prayers. The holy month concludes after either 29 or 30 days, depending on lunar phases, as Muslims worldwide adhere to the lunar calendar.

The holy festival of Eid is celebrated upon the conclusion of the fasting month as an expression of gratitude and joy following a month filled with fasting, prayers, and penitence.