Ukraine Muslims observe holy Ramadan

Ukrainian Muslims observed the arrival of fasting month of Ramadan, Daria Dieguts reports on PressTV.

The holy month's beginning is based on sighting of the moon which is usually confirmed by religious authorities. In multicultural Ukraine, however, some Muslim communities go ahead with the date announced by their countries of origin and others follow the date of their country of residence. 

The holy days of Ramadan begin and end with prayers. The evening prayer is followed by the fastbreaking iftar. In Ukraine the iftar menu is as multicultural as Ukrainian Muslims. 

Fasting is intended to remind Muslims of self-discipline and self-restraint. During Ramadan, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking and smoking during daylight. They have food twice a day, once before sun rises and once after the sun sets. 

Fasting in Ukraine has its own features, says this mufti. For instance, the daylight length in the country may climb to 18 hours. Ukrainian Muslims also point to the high humidity of the climate which makes people feel the heat. However, most Muslims in Ukraine don't see any problem in this.

This year Ukrainian Muslim communities invited muftis from Saudi Arabia and Egypt to recite readings during Ramadan. The holy month will be also marked by charity and sharing food with the needy.

Watch a video on Iranian TV about Ukrainian Muslims.