The crescent moon was sighted in parts of India on Wednesday evening, signaling the start of the Islamic holy month of Ramzan from Thursday.
The crescent moon was sighted in Mumbai, Delhi, Bihar, Assam as well as the Union territories of New Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir.
Alson with India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka were among the major Indian subcontinent countries where attempts were made by the local moon sighting committees to spot the Ramzan crescent.
With the crescent of Ramadan already seen in Saudi Arabia and other parts of Middle East on Tuesday, it was expected that the moon will be visible in India and neighbouring countries today.
During the holy month, it is obligatory upon practicising Muslims to fast from dawn to dusk. The month lasts for 29 or 30 days, depending on the lunar cycle.
The sighting of Ramzan crescent will also mark the start of Taraweeh prayers from tonight. The special prayers, held throughout the month, are attended by practicising Muslims.
The month of Ramzan will culminate into the observance of Eid al-Fitr, which is one of the two major festivals in Islam. Depending on the sighting of moon, Eid will be observed either on March 20 or March 21.
