As the Ramzan season begins, the month-long fast observing ceremony, is not only significant for Muslims, but also for youth belonging to other faiths, so you have a bunch of excited teens geared up to go without food. And no one is complaining, as they feel that it will add not just positivity, but also cheer in their lives.
The reasons to fast may be varied from praying for good exam results to having a stable relationship, but one thing that is common is to learn about the rituals of a different religion.
Sonali Singh, a medical student and a civil services aspirant, says she thought of observing fasts for good academic results. “My results are going to be out next month, so I hope this helps,” she says.
Sania Arif, a banker, talks about her roommates who are fasting to strengthen their love bonds. “Girls are keeping a roza for a good partner. They also read namaz with me. It’s good to see the unity and zest in them to follow tradition.”
Another follower, Ekta, a BDS student, says fasts make her feel positive. She adds, “It feels good to dedicate the entire month to an auspicious occasion. For me, all religions are equal and observing roza makes me feel connected to the Almighty. Though I don’t know how to read the namaz, I’m learning it from my friend Faiz. He has taught me kalmas, that I do regularly.”
For a few, it’s a great way to diet and be healthy. “It’s a month-long break from unhealthy munching. It’s a month of catching up with Muslim friends from school, we often go out for dinner together,” says Aishwarya, a college student. And those who’re not observing roza are doing their bit by cutting down on smoking and drinking. Jatin Kaushik, a college student, says, “Though I can’t keep the month-long fasts, I don’t smoke and drink for a month to suspport my Muslim friends.”