Ramadan is a time of fasting, reflection, and devotion.
While Muslims worldwide observe the same core practices, each culture adds its own special touch.
From glowing lanterns in Egypt to bustling bazaars in Malaysia, every country has traditions that make the holy month even more meaningful.
Let’s explore how different cultures celebrate Ramadan and the unique customs that bring communities together.
Egypt: Fanoos Lanterns and the Mesaharaty
In Egypt, Ramadan is incomplete without Fanoos lanterns.
These beautifully decorated lights hang in homes, streets, and mosques, creating a warm and festive glow.
This tradition began during the Fatimid era, when lanterns were used to light the streets at night.
Over time, they became a symbol of Ramadan joy.
Today, families gift them to children as a way to mark the start of the month.
Another well-known tradition is the Mesaharaty.
Before sahur, a man walks through the streets, beating a drum and calling out names to wake people up.
In many areas, children wait eagerly to hear their names, making it an exciting moment before dawn.
Egyptian iftar meals often include khoshaf (a dried fruit and nut drink), mahshi (stuffed vegetables), and konafa (a sweet pastry soaked in syrup).
Families also gather for communal iftar meals in public spaces, ensuring that everyone has food to break their fast.
Turkey: Public Iftars and Ramadan Drummers
In Turkey, iftar is a community event.
Families, neighbours and strangers gather at long tables set up in mosques, parks, and town squares.
Some restaurants even offer free iftar meals, emphasising the spirit of giving during Ramadan.
A beloved tradition in Turkey is the Ramadan drummers (Ramazan Davulcusu).
These men, dressed in traditional Ottoman clothing, march through neighbourhoods playing drums to wake people for sahur.
This practice has continued for over 400 years, and in some areas, families tip the drummers as a token of appreciation.
At the end of Ramadan, Turkish families celebrate Eid al-Fitr, known as Şeker Bayramı (Sugar Feast).
Children receive sweets like baklava and Turkish delight as they visit relatives and neighbours.
Indonesia: Fireworks, Ngabuburit, and Eid Homecomings
Indonesia, home to the world’s largest Muslim population, welcomes Ramadan with lively traditions.
In Semarang, the start of the month is marked by Dugderan, a festival featuring fireworks, parades, and puppet shows.
During Ramadan, Indonesians observe Ngabuburit – a tradition where families spend time before iftar by strolling through parks, shopping at markets, or enjoying street performances.
Many stop by food stalls to buy traditional Ramadan snacks like kolak (sweet coconut dessert) and es buah (fruit ice drink).
As Ramadan ends, Indonesia experiences Mudik, one of the world’s largest annual migrations.
Millions of people travel back to their hometowns to celebrate Eid with family.
Roads, airports, and bus stations become packed with travellers, all eager to reunite with loved ones.
Malaysia: Ramadan Bazaars and Moreh Gatherings
Ramadan in Malaysia is a feast for the senses, especially with its famous Ramadan bazaars.
Every evening, streets fill with vendors selling dishes like murtabak, ayam percik, and roti john. The aroma of grilled satay and fresh kuih fills the air, making it hard to resist a quick purchase.
Another important tradition is moreh, which takes place after tarawih prayers.
Mosques offer light meals such as bubur lambuk (spiced porridge), fried noodles, and traditional kuih.
These gatherings strengthen community bonds and give worshippers a chance to socialise after prayers.
During Eid al-Fitr (Hari Raya Aidilfitri), Malaysian families host ‘open houses’, inviting relatives, friends, and even strangers to enjoy homemade festive meals.
This tradition reflects Malaysia’s strong culture of hospitality and unity.
Morocco: The Nafar’s Call and Harira Soup
In Morocco, the Nafar signals the start of sahur.
This man, dressed in a traditional djellaba, blows a horn through the streets, a practice that has been followed for centuries.
Moroccan iftar meals begin with harira, a tomato-based soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and spices.
Other popular dishes include chebakia, a sesame honey cookie, and mint tea.
Families also gather for Ramadan storytelling sessions, where elders share folktales from Moroccan history.
On Eid, Moroccans wear embroidered kaftans and djellabas, visit family members, and exchange sweets as part of the celebration.
Pakistan: Street Iftars and Chaand Raat Festivities
Ramadan in Pakistan is deeply community-oriented.
Mosques and charity organisations set up free street iftars, ensuring that everyone has food.
Families also send trays of home-cooked food to neighbours as an act of kindness.
One of the most anticipated nights is Chaand Raat (Moon Night), the evening before Eid.
Markets stay open late as people shop for last-minute outfits, buy bangles, and apply henna.
The streets are bustling with excitement, making it a night of joy and festivity.
Eid morning begins with prayers, followed by family gatherings where people enjoy sheer khurma, a rich vermicelli dessert made with milk and nuts.
Senegal: Ndogou and Community Iftars
In Senegal, Ramadan is all about togetherness.
One of the most cherished traditions is Ndogou, where families and neighbours gather for communal iftar meals.
Senegalese iftar spreads typically include dates, coffee, bread, and lakh, a porridge made with millet and baobab fruit.
Many families prepare extra food to share with their neighbours, ensuring that no one breaks their fast alone.
Eid celebrations in Senegal are vibrant and filled with music, festive meals, and colourful traditional clothing.
Bangladesh: Iftar Delights and a Spirit of Charity
Ramadan in Bangladesh is a time of deep spiritual reflection and strong community ties.
The mosques fill with worshippers for extended prayers, including tarawih after the Isha prayer.
Streets and marketplaces come alive with festive decorations, adding to the excitement of the month.
The daily fast is broken with a traditional iftar spread, featuring popular dishes like jilapi (a sweet, deep-fried delicacy), piazu (spiced onion fritters), and beguni (crispy battered eggplant slices).
These foods are not just a source of nourishment but also an essential part of the shared iftar experience with family and friends.
Charity plays a significant role in Bangladeshi Ramadan traditions.
Acts of zakat (almsgiving) and food distribution to those in need increase, reinforcing the spirit of generosity.
Ramadan’s Universal Spirit with Unique Traditions
Despite the differences in customs, Ramadan’s essence remains the same.
It is a time of faith, reflection, self-discipline, and generosity.
From Egypt’s Fanoos lanterns to Malaysia’s bustling bazaars and Turkey’s Ramadan drummers, each country adds its own cultural touch.
These traditions bring people closer together, making the holy month more meaningful and memorable.
Wherever Ramadan is observed, it serves as a reminder of unity, gratitude, and community spirit.
Ramadan Mubarak with love from Motherhood! May Allah’s blessings shine upon you and yours throughout this sacred month.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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