Ramadan begins around 50 villages in Chandpur

Residents of nearly 50 villages in Chandpur began observing Ramadan on Wednesday (February 18) after the moon was sighted in Saudi Arabia, local religious leaders confirmed.

Followers of Sadra Darbar Sharif in Hajiganj upazila started observing the fast after offering Tarawih prayers on Tuesday night. The matter was confirmed by Pirzada Dr Baki Billah Mishkat Chowdhury of Sadra Darbar Sharif.

Devotees of Satkania Mirzakhil Darbar Sharif in Matlab North upazila also began fasting following Tarawih prayers and Sehri, said its Pir, Imam-ul-Arefin Dr Maulana Syed Mohammad Maqsudur Rahman.

Residents of several villages in Hajiganj, Faridganj, Matlab North, Kachua and Shahrasti upazilas are observing the first day of Ramadan in line with the Saudi moon sighting.

Leaders of Sadra Darbar Sharif said they traditionally follow moon sighting reports from Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries.

The practice of observing Ramadan and the two Eids based on Saudi announcements was introduced in 1932 by the late Pir Maulana Ishaq and has continued since.