Pakistan, Feb. 16 -- Observant Muslims the world over will soon be united in a ritual of daily fasting from dawn to sunset as the Islamic holy month of Ramazan starts. For Muslims, it's a time for increased worship, religious reflection and charity. Socially, it often brings families and friends together in festive gatherings around meals to break their fast.
Ramazan is followed by the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr.
First day of Ramazan expected around Feb. 18-19
Ramazan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar; the month cycles through the seasons.
The start of the month traditionally depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. This year, the first day of Ramazan is expected to be on or around Feb. 18 or 19. The actual start...