Muslims around Regina gather for Ramadan

Across the province, Christians observe seven weeks of Lent, and Muslims begin Ramadan, both emphasizing prayer, fasting, and giving. Damian Smith has more.

Muslims around Regina are gathering across the city for Dhuhr, on the first few days of Ramadan.

Aasif Bulbulia, who is the youth engagement officer at the Darul Falah Islamic Centre, spent the day at the University of Regina feeling fulfilled by his religion.

“Islam is made up of five pillars, prayer, fasting, bearing witness to the oneness of God, the performance of the pilgrimage, and the paying of zakat.” he said. “We pray before sunrise, just after the sun has reached its highest point, before sunset, after sunset and at night.”

A yearly celebration, Ramadan is pushed back 10 to 11 days every year. In February, Muslims have around a 12-hour window where they’re not supposed to eat or drink. Changes have to be made to their everyday lifestyle, to continue to teach discipline and empathy.

For Bulbulia, he said a good number of Muslims resort to food such as dates to feel satiated.

“During this month of Ramadan, we must ensure that we have something that is known as Suhur in the morning,” he said. “It’s basically breakfast before the time for Fitr sits in.”

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As daylight lasts a little longer each day, Muslims get used to the schedule, as they believe it will bring more spiritual growth. Some prepare at their own pace.

For Ahmed Caron, a convert of 14 years, he spends the days leading up to the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.

“I watch my diet and the amount I eat, then I slowly wing it off getting ready for Ramadan, I go from eating two or three times a day to eating barely anything. It hits you.”

As the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, the month reflects on prayers and focusing on community.

Caron is a member of the Islamic Society of Regina, led by President Shahid Khawaja. Khawaja started the society in 2009, when he moved from Toronto.

“Spiritually, it brings you closer to the creator, close to Allah. It’s a time and a chance to connect with the family, and stay away from bad stuff,” he said.

“It’s a constant reminder for you throughout the day that maybe you should watch what you do,” Caron said. “You should watch what you see, you should watch how you treat other people.”

The last day of Ramadan is in mid-March, which is immediately followed by the celebration of Eid Al Fitr.