From suhur to iftar: Mosques, good Samaritans arrange for ration kits as Ramzan begins today
Times of India | 19 February 2026
Kolkata: The Masjid-e-Nakhoda Markazi Rooyat-e-Halal Committee declared that the first day of Ramzan would be observed on Thursday after the crescent moon was sighted on Wednesday evening,
As Muslims across the world begin fasting from dawn to dusk, philanthropic activities have also begun across Kolkata. Thousands of ration kits are being distributed to the less privileged for iftar and suhur.
"The moon was sighted by the members of the committee on Wednesday evening. Thursday will mark the first day of Ramzan," said Naser Ebrahim, trustee of Nakhoda Mosque.
In several parts of the city, families, community groups and mosque committees have come together to arrange essential food supplies. The kits typically include dates, sugar, flour, rice, pulses and seasonal vegetables, staples that help families prepare the pre-dawn meal (suhur) and break their fast at sunset (iftar).
Around the iconic Nakhoda Mosque in Zakaria Street, families were purchasing and packing ration kits in large quantities. Similar efforts were underway in other areas across Kolkata. "Ramzan is a time of reflection, sacrifice and compassion. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that no household goes without food during this sacred month," said Mohammad Bilal Khan, imam of a mosque in New Market area. He added that apart from individual families, community based initiatives have significantly increased this year. Many families have chosen to mark the beginning of Ramzan by sponsoring ration kits in the name of their loved ones. Some are pooling contributions to reach out to more families, while others are directly visiting economically weaker neighbourhoods to distribute supplies. "We have prepared nearly 300 kits this week," said Abdul Rahman, a resident of central Kolkata who has been organising distributions with friends and relatives. "Each kit is designed to sustain a family for at least a few days, " he added. Ramzan is also defined by acts of charity such as Zakat, a portion of one's assets given to those in need, and Fitra, a contribution that helps make Eid inclusive for all.