Ramadan to begin in Kerala on Thursday

Thiruvananthapuram, June 17  Muslim clerics and religious leaders on Wednesday night announced that the holy month of Ramadan in Kerala would begin from Thursday.

Syed Hyderali Shihab Thangal, the supreme leader of the Indian Union Muslim League Pannakad, and other religious leaders made the announcement after the sighting of the moon in Kozhikode late on Wednesday evening.

Muslims in Kerala constitute roughly 24 percent of the 3.3 crore population.

Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, is a time to fast for the sake of god, offer more prayers, ask for forgiveness for the sins of the past and for guidance in the future. Fasting during Ramadan is meant to teach people patience and humility. 

Ramadan ends with Eid-ul-Fitr, after 29-30 days.