Hyderabad: Lent and Ramadan are beginning almost simultaneously this year, marking a rare 33-year convergence of two major fasting periods observed by Christians and Muslims.
Religious scholars described the alignment as uncommon. The last time Lent and Ramadan began around the same period was in 1993. Now, after more than three decades, the two sacred observances coincide once again.
Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar. Since the lunar year is about 10 to 11 days shorter than the solar year, Ramadan shifts earlier each year. Consequently, the cycle completes roughly every 33 years. With the sighting of the 1447 Hijri crescent moon in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and other Gulf countries, Muslims across the world begin fasting today.
Lent and Ramadan follow different calendars
In contrast, Lent follows the Gregorian solar calendar. Christians observe Lent beginning on Ash Wednesday. This year, Ash Wednesday fell on February 18. Thereafter, Christians will observe 40 days of fasting, prayer and reflection until Easter.
Because Ramadan depends on the lunar calendar and Lent follows the solar calendar, the two rarely begin together. Therefore, religious observers consider this year’s overlap significant.
During this period, followers of both faiths observe strict fasting, increased prayer and charitable acts. Moreover, community leaders say the coincidence offers an opportunity to promote mutual respect and harmony. They view the shared spiritual season as a reminder of unity amid diversity.