Overview
- India began fasting on February 19 after crescent sightings were confirmed by mosque authorities, including Jama Masjid’s Syed Shaban Bukhari.
- Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia started on February 18, while nations including India and Jordan commenced a day later following local verification.
- News outlets published February 20 timetables showing variations by city—Delhi (Sehri ~5:35 am, Iftar ~6:16 pm), Mumbai (~5:51 am, ~6:40 pm), Hyderabad (~5:26 am, ~6:21 pm)—and noted minor Sunni–Shia differences.
- Guidance pieces reiterated Ramadan’s core practices of dawn‑to‑dusk fasting, increased prayer and charity, and advised moderation and avoidance of prohibited behaviors.
- Leaders issued public greetings—Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted togetherness—and publishers noted Eid al‑Fitr is expected around March 20 pending moon sighting.