Every year, the Muslim community eagerly anticipates the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, a period dedicated to fasting (sawm), prayer, and spiritual reflection. The precise beginning of Ramadan is traditionally determined through a combination of astronomical calculations and the classical practice of moon sighting (hilal).
In Bangladesh, Ramadan this year is expected to commence on either Thursday, 19 February, or Friday, 20 February. Typically, when Ramadan begins in Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries, neighbouring South Asian countries—including Bangladesh—observe the month starting the following day. Should the month last the full thirty days, Eid al-Fitr is anticipated on Saturday, 21 March.
The determination of Ramadan’s start relies heavily on local moon-sighting traditions. On the 29th night of Sha‘ban, the preceding month, regional moon-sighting committees observe the sky after sunset. If the new crescent moon is sighted, the next day is declared the first day of Ramadan. If not, Sha‘ban completes thirty days, and Ramadan begins the day after.
Astronomical calculations indicate that the new moon will mathematically occur on Tuesday, 17 February, but the actual visible hilal is likely to be observable on Wednesday, 18 February. Accordingly, fasting in Bangladesh may begin on Thursday, 19 February, though in areas where the moon is sighted earlier, Ramadan could start on Wednesday, 18 February. The final determination is influenced by local weather conditions and geographical factors. Based on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent, Ramadan will conclude after 30 days, around 19 or 20 March.
The Bangladesh Moon-Sighting Committee officially announces the start of Ramadan each year. Once declared, Muslims across the country commence daily fasting, attend prayers, and engage more intensely in acts of worship and reflection.
Probable Ramadan Schedule in Bangladesh
| Date | Activity in Bangladesh | Notes / Observations |
|---|---|---|
| 18 February | Possible moon sighting | Preliminary calculations based on Saudi Arabia timings |
| 19 February | Main probable first day of Ramadan | Determined by moon-sighting committees and astronomical data |
| 20 February | Alternative first day | Applied in regions where the moon is sighted earlier |
| 21 March | Probable Eid al-Fitr | Estimated according to Shawwal crescent sighting |
By combining traditional moon sighting with modern astronomical calculations, Bangladesh ensures both adherence to centuries-old religious practices and accurate planning for the holy month and Eid celebrations nationwide.