Islam is the second-largest religion in the world, with over 1.8 billion followers worldwide. In Pakistan, Islam is the dominant religion, with more than 96% of the population identifying as Muslims. The history of Islam in Pakistan is a long and complex one that dates back to the 7th century when the religion was first introduced to the Indian subcontinent. However, it was not until the arrival of Muhammad bin Qasim, an Arab general, in the 8th century that Islam began to take hold in the region. Muhammad bin Qasim conquered the region that is now Sindh and established Muslim rule in the area.
Over the centuries, Islam became firmly established in the region that is now Pakistan. During the Mughal Empire, which ruled much of India from the 16th to the 19th century, Islam was the dominant religion in the region. The Mughal rulers were Muslims and they patronised Islamic scholars, poets, and artists, leading to a flowering of Islamic culture in the region. The Mughal period also saw the construction of many beautiful mosques and other Islamic monuments, some of which still stand today.
In 1947, Pakistan was created as a separate Muslim state. The majority of the population of Pakistan is Muslim.
Ramadhan is an important month in the Islamic calendar, and it is widely observed in Pakistan. During Ramadhan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food and drink. The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called iftar. Iftar is a time of celebration and socialising, and many families and communities come together to share the meal.
In Pakistan, there are many customs and traditions associated with Ramadhan. One of the most popular traditions is the preparation and consumption of special Ramadhan foods.
These foods are often rich and filling, as Muslims need to sustain themselves through the long hours of fasting. Some popular Ramadhan foods in Pakistan include samosas, pakoras, and fruit chaat.
Another important tradition associated with Ramadhan in Pakistan is taraweeh, a special nightly prayer that is performed during the month.
Taraweeh is typically held in mosques, and it involves reciting portions of the holy Quran. The recitation is spread out over the course of the month, so that by the end of Ramadhan, the entire holy Quran has been recited.
CHARITY
Charity is also an important aspect of Ramadhan in Pakistan. Many people give generously to the poor and needy during the month, in keeping with the spirit of generosity and compassion that Ramadhan embodies. Zakat, a form of obligatory charity, is also collected and distributed during Ramadhan. Muslims in Pakistan recite the Quran more frequently during Ramadhan, and some may complete the entire Quran during the month.
It is common for people to host Iftars for their friends, family, and neighbours during Ramadhan. In addition, mosques and other organisations often hold community Iftars for those who are less fortunate. Pakistani cuisine offers a variety of special dishes that are traditionally eaten during Ramadhan, including samosas, pakoras, and dates.
As a time festivity, many night markets and bazaars open up during the month. These markets offer a variety of food, clothing, and other items.
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