Ramadan, Eid, and Ashura in Afghan Culture

Ramadan is considered one of the holiest months of the year for Muslims. In Afghanistan, it is a time of deep spiritual rejuvenation, selfcontrol, and compassion. Afghans commemorate the revelation of the Qur’an and fast from food and drink during daylight hours to draw closer to God while developing empathy for the less fortunate.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which is based on a 12-month lunar year of approximately 354 days. Since the lunar year is shorter than the solar year, Ramadan moves 11 days earlier each year. It begins and ends with the sighting of the new crescent moon.

Fasting lasts from pre-dawn to sunset, typically 11 to 16 hours depending on the time of year, for 29–30 days. Besides food and drink, married individuals also abstain from sexual relations during daylight hours. Those unable to fast—such as pregnant or nursing women, the sick, elderly, and children—are exempt. Afghans use this time for self-reflection and moral growth by avoiding negative actions like gossiping, lying, or arguing Ramadan is also highly social, with families and friends gathering to break their fasts and pray together.

The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr, meaning “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” one of the major Islamic holidays. In 2025, Eid will begin on the evening of Sunday, March 30. Celebrations traditionally last for three days. The day begins with communal prayers and a sermon at dawn. Afghans then gather for festive meals, share sweets, and exchange gifts, especially with children A favorite Afghan sweet is Goash-e-Feel (“elephant’s ears”), a large crispy pastry Across Afghanistan, Eid is described as belonging to the children, with many families planning special festivities for them.

Ashura, observed on the tenth day of the Islamic month of Muharram, holds great significance in Afghan culture, particularly for Shia Muslims. It commemorates the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD—a symbol of the struggle against injustice. Rituals include processions, chestbeating, fasting, and communal prayer. Due to past sectarian violence, Ashura in cities like Kabul is marked by heightened security Despite challenges, Afghans continue to honor these deeply rooted religious and cultural traditions with resilience and unity.

Kyle Ater - UMSL Student