The crescent moon (Hilal) marking the start of Ramadan 1447 AH (also known as Ramzan) has been sighted in several parts of India on the evening of February 18, 2026, leading to the holy month beginning tomorrow, Thursday, February 19, with the first day of fasting (Roza). Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Reliable reports and announcements from religious bodies confirm sightings in key regions:
- Delhi — The crescent was sighted and officially confirmed following a meeting at Jama Masjid involving Shahi Imam Maulana Syed Ahmed Bukhari and other ulama. Taraweeh prayers commenced tonight, and the first Roza will be observed tomorrow.
- Bihar — Local moon-sighting committees, including those in Patna and surrounding areas, reported successful sightings, aligning with announcements from eastern India.
- Assam — Confirmed sightings were reported, contributing to the nationwide consensus for February 19 as the start.
- Jammu & Kashmir (including Srinagar) — Multiple credible sources, including local weather and community updates, confirmed the crescent was sighted in Srinagar and other parts of the region. Religious authorities have declared Thursday, February 19, as the first day of Ramadan 1447 AH.
- Other states such as Uttar Pradesh (e.g., Lucknow) and Rajasthan (e.g., Jaipur) also reported positive sightings through local committees.
This follows astronomical expectations, with the moon becoming visible across northern and eastern India between approximately 6:15 PM and 6:45 PM IST after sunset on February 18. While Saudi Arabia and some Gulf countries began Ramadan a day earlier (on February 18) after sighting on February 17, India and many South Asian nations followed local Ruet-e-Hilal traditions, resulting in a one-day difference.
Key Timings for February 19, 2026 (First Roza in India)
- Sehri (pre-dawn meal): Around 5:30–5:45 AM IST (varies by city; e.g., ~5:36 AM in Delhi).
- Iftar (breaking fast): Around 6:15 PM IST (e.g., ~6:15 PM in many northern cities).
Muslims across India are urged to confirm final details with local mosques or committees, as announcements often come after Maghrib prayers. Cloudy conditions in some areas may have delayed confirmations, but widespread sightings have solidified the date.
Ramadan Mubarak to all! May this blessed month bring peace, mercy, and spiritual renewal to the ummah. Stay tuned for official Sehri-Iftar timetables from your local masjid or authority.
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