Thousands of Muslims across the Indian subcontinent are eagerly awaiting an official declaration from the Hilal (Moon Sighting) Committees as the month of Shaban comes to a close. Though astronomical data sets forth a solid map for the coming month, it is an Islamic tradition of seeing, actually seeing, the moon that will ultimately decide when the holy month starts.
First Roza: February 19 or February 20?
The "New Moon" is set to occur on February 17, 2026. However, because the crescent will be too thin and too close to the sun to be visible that evening, most experts agree that fasting is unlikely to begin on the 18th.
- Scenario 1 (February 19): If the moon is seen on the evening of Wednesday, February 18, the first day of Ramadan (Roza) will be Thursday, February 19.
- Scenario 2 (February 20): If Wednesday does not bring the moon to be visible due to weather or position, Shaban will complete 30 days, and the first Roza will be on Friday, February 20.
Predicted Sehri & Iftar Timetable (India)
The feasting lengths in India this year are said to be between 12 to 13 hours. Following is a rough timetable for the first day and some tips for the Solar Time in these major cities:
| City | Date (Expected) | Sehri (End) | Iftar (Start) |
| Delhi | Feb 19 | 05:36 AM | 06:15 PM |
| Mumbai | Feb 19 | 05:52 AM | 06:40 PM |
| Bengaluru | Feb 19 | 05:30 AM | 06:26 PM |
| Hyderabad | Feb 19 | 05:28 AM | 06:22 PM |
| Kolkata | Feb 19 | 04:58 AM | 05:35 PM |
NOTE: Times can vary by 1–2 minutes daily. Use your mosque’s online calendar for your local calendar information.
Significance of the "Winter Ramadan"
2026 is another year of the “Winter Ramadan” in the Northern Hemisphere. The colder and shorter days than peak summer months will give a physical relief to those fasting and increase a focus on spiritual worship, Qur'an re-reading and Taraweeh (nightly prayers).
Preparation Tips for the Great Month
- Hydration: Start drinking water earlier to ready your body for the dawn-to-dusk fast.
- Sleep schedule: Over time, start changing your sleep-wake rhythm to meet the early morning Sehri (Suhoor) meal.
Live updates on the moon sighting from Delhi’s Jama Masjid and Mumbai’s Hilal Committee are currently available.
