EDIT: I had written this article in 2020 but had no idea that even in 2021 we will be fighting this crisis. Again at the same time of the year seems the cycle has repeated. The cases have increased a lot than the last year. Hence we need to be more cautious and celebrate the festival accordingly. 

Who would have imagined that the year 2020 will be so traumatic and jeopardize mankind? The condition has drastically affected us and the only way to eradicate this virus is by self-distancing.

Lockdown is already implemented in most countries and as a responsible citizen; it is our duty to follow the rules so that we can be free again, but till then, stay safe and stay at home.

The holy month of Ramadan is here and for the first time in history, this year it will be disparate.  We will not be able to enjoy the festival street markets, which were always filled with sumptuous kebabs, enticing shops, and vibrant surroundings.

Indeed, we will miss doing many special things; still, we can celebrate it in true essence and achieve the ultimate purpose of Ramadan: self-reflection and God-consciousness.

Less cooking time

Since the lockdown, people around the globe are seen showcasing their hidden talents and one of them is cooking delectable food. I have also tried many new dishes which came out very well and we enjoyed having it at iftar and dinner.

Hence, prepare your favourite meal for the iftar and suhoor for the family like you always did. In fact, this Ramadan you won’t have to worry about cooking for iftar parties, and instead, you will get more time for yourself to connect spiritually.

Furthermore, no unnecessary wastage of food due to parties.  Make sure to eat healthy food, so that it keeps you energetic during fasting. Also, be a responsible Muslim and don’t collect & save the grocery items on one go, think about others too.

*Avoid Iftar parties

More Reading time

Ramadan is also known as the Quran month and you will find Muslims reading it during this holy month. I know there are many who try to read and complete on time, but due to a hectic daily routine, they couldn’t manage well.

This year as we are self-isolating and saving a lot of time for travelling to work, we will be getting more time to read and can manage other home duties accordingly.

*Manage your reading time efficiently.

Pray at home

Yes, people will miss going to the mosques for prayers, but don’t let this distress you. Pray at home for yourself and for the world to protect us from this virus.

Let the spirit of Ramadan be at home by praying regularly and spiritually.

*Avoid congregational prayers in your area and society.

Charity begins at home

The situation has impacted economic devastatingly and daily wagers are the ones suffering the most. Therefore, make sure to pay charity and help the needy ones around you. Start from your home- maid, driver, watchmen, and whoever you know is in need.

This is the best time to reflect our soul and work for humanity by distributing ration which can be given by maintaining social distancing or else simply pay the NGOs/organization by donating online.

*Pay Zakat or any charity digitally and avoid cash transactions.

Wear your best available attire

I know, we all will miss woefully shopping for the festival, but we need to understand that fighting against crisis is the most significant.

Hence, wear your best available attire.  If you have a sewing machine, get inspired by ideas and you can do some surprising work on your dresses. Anyhow, you can’t let shopping ruin the true essence of Ramadan.

*Avoid shopping from the stores. Instead shop online.

Always be grateful

Lastly, be grateful that we are witnessing this Ramadan because no contentment is better than this. Yes, it will be difficult, but maybe this is how it was supposed to be.  Our mother earth also needed this time for healing.

I appreciate and realize now how the small things gave happiness- going to malls and cinema halls, eating street foods, meeting friends, and much more.  Really, it’s the small things in life which give real happiness.

Let’s pivot on the good things in life and also the way we think.  Make this world a happy place by smiling, helping, and forgiving each other.

I hope this Ramadan brings happiness in our lives and together we eradicate the virus from the face of the earth.  How are you planning to celebrate? Kindly share your thoughts.

#RamdanAtHome Ramadan Mubarak!

*PC: Pixabay