'Ramzan' on in full swing, markets full of delicacies

Guwahati May 7,2019

It is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar when Muslims abstain from food and water from sunrise to sunset. Ramzan is observed by the Muslims community worldwide as a month of fasting to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad, according to Islamic belief.

Due to high demand, the markets are flooded with special items like Sevain, dates, sweets, and fresh fruits.

These traditional sweets are not that cheap either as sevain costs around Rs 180-200/kg and delectable dates cost around Rs 100/kg. The buzzing Ramzan markets in Fancy Bazar locality of Guwahati are full of ingredients used to make the sumptuous delicacy 'biryani, which is traditionally associated with Muslim culture.

The number of customers who purchase these items is increasing every year, a local shopkeeper told Inside Northeast.

At sunset, families hasten for the fast-breaking meal known as 'iftar'. Dates are usually the first food to break the fast as according to legend, Muhammad broke fast with three dates.

Following that, Muslims generally adjourn for the Maghrib prayer, the fourth of the five daily prayers after which the main meal is served.

The grand old festival 'Eid-ul-Fitr' marks the end of Ramzan. As one of the five pillars of Islam, Muslims will fast from sunrise to sunset for 30 days.