Ramzan moon sighted, fasting to begin from Thursday

The crescent moon marking the start of the Islamic month of Ramzan was sighted across India on Wednesday evening, with religious authorities confirming that fasting will commence on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The moon sighting committees of Delhi’s Jama Masjid and Fatehpuri Masjid reported clear visibility, signalling the arrival of the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Maulana Mufti Mukarram Ahmed, Shahi Imam of Fatehpuri Masjid, confirmed the sighting in Delhi, while Syed Shaban Bukhari, Naib Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid, also declared the moon sighted.

A statement from Darul Quaza Imarat Shariah, overseeing religious affairs in Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha, said the crescent was observed in parts of Bihar, ensuring a coordinated start to the holy month in multiple regions.

Muslims across India will observe dawn-to-dusk fasting, beginning with Sehri on Thursday morning and concluding with Iftar at sunset. Mosques are expected to see increased attendance for Taraweeh prayers each evening.

Health experts have advised fasting individuals to maintain hydration during non-fasting hours, especially as temperatures rise across many regions.

The moon sighting also aligns with observations in several Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, which reported the crescent on Wednesday. Local sightings remain the official determinant for the start of Ramzan, as per Islamic tradition.