New Delhi, Feb. 17 -- The crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia; therefore, Ramadan (also spelled Ramzan, Ramazan or Ramzaan) 1447 will begin tonight. The Ramadan crescent is typically first sighted in Saudi Arabia, as well as in some parts of India such as Kerala and Kashmir, and in several Western countries. It is generally observed a day later in the rest of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and other nations.

The moon sighting before Ramadan is a practice that is a traditional and essential aspect of the Islamic faith, as it determines the commencement of the month of fasting from dawn until sunset, along with acts of charity and worship. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam during which they abstain from eat...