The crescent moon for Ramzan 2026 (1447 AH) has been sighted in multiple regions across India this evening, Wednesday, February 18. Official confirmations have come from major religious bodies, including the Markazi Chand Committee in Lucknow and the Shahi Imams of both Jama Masjid and Fatehpuri Mosque in Delhi. Sightings were also reported from cities such as Mumbai, Hyderabad, Patna, and states including Assam and Bihar. Consequently, the first day of fasting (Roza) will officially begin across India tomorrow, Thursday, February 19, following the start of Tarawih prayers tonight. This blog now concludes. Wishing everyone a blessed Ramzan 2026!
Ramzan Chand 2026 India Final Update: Moon Sighting Confirmed, First Roza on February 19
Muslims in India are watching the skies today, February 18, 2026, for the Ramzan crescent (Ramzan Ka Chand). While Saudi Arabia began fasting today, South Asia awaits local sightings to decide if the holy month starts February 19. Catch live news updates on 'Ramzan Ka Chand' and moon sighting in India here.
Mumbai, February 18: Millions of Muslims in India are monitoring the skies this Wednesday evening, February 18, 2026, for the sighting of the Ramzan crescent moon (Ramzan Ka Chand). This night is also called "Chand Raat" in India. If the moon is spotted tonight, the first day of fasting in India will commence on Thursday, February 19. While Saudi Arabia and several Gulf nations officially began the holy month today, South Asian countries traditionally observe the sighting a day later. Catch live news updates on Ramzan Chand (Ramzan Ka Chand) and moon sighting in India to know the state date.
Local religious authorities, including India’s Central Hilal Committees, are scheduled to meet after Maghrib (sunset) prayers. In major Indian cities, the moon is expected to be visible between 6:15 PM and 6:45 PM IST. Ramzan Chand Mubarak Wishes, Messages and Ramzan Mubarak Images To Welcome the Holy Month.
- New Delhi: 6:18 PM – 6:42 PM
- Mumbai: 6:45 PM – 7:10 PM
- Lucknow: 6:07 PM – 6:30 PM
- Bengaluru: 6:35 PM – 7:00 PM
If no credible sighting is reported tonight, the month of Shaban will complete 30 days, pushing the start of Ramzan to Friday, February 20.
Ramzan Preparations
The start of Ramzan often differs by 24 hours between the Middle East and South Asia due to the geographical west-to-east moon visibility curve. While the UAE and Saudi Arabia are already observing their first fast, mosques in Delhi, Lahore, and Dhaka are only now preparing for Tarawih (special night prayers) that would begin tonight if the moon is confirmed.
Markets in the region have seen a massive surge in activity as families prepare for Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal). Authorities in various cities have also stepped up security and sanitation measures around prominent mosques to accommodate the large crowds expected for evening prayers. Ramadan 2026 Guide: Full List of What Breaks Your Fast and What Doesn't.
Spiritual Significance of Ramzan
Ramzan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, dedicated to fasting, reflection, and charity. Beyond abstaining from food and water from dawn to sunset, the month emphasizes the "inner fast" from negative thoughts and actions. The month will culminate in the festival of Eid-ul-Fitr, expected around March 19 or 20, depending on the next lunar cycle.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 18, 2026 05:36 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).