Ramadan Lantern – What Is the Kurta Pajama That Distinguishes Muslims in India, and Why Do They Break Their Fast with Salt?

Ramadan in India is not only a religious month for the Muslim minority, which numbers around 180 million people, but also a unique social season. Muslims form the second-largest religious group in the country, where the majority follows Hinduism. Indian law guarantees Muslims the freedom to practice their religion, and the social aspect of Ramadan is prominent, with Hindus joining their Muslim friends in celebrations and exchanging gifts during the holy month.

Ramadan celebrations in India begin weeks in advance. Women dedicate time to thoroughly cleaning their homes and household items, while men focus on organizing and renovating mosques. Homes are stocked with essential Ramadan food supplies such as flour, rice, and spices that define their cuisine. One of the most unusual food traditions in India is breaking the fast with salt instead of the usual water and dates, as is common in most Muslim countries. The origin of this practice is unclear, but Indian Muslims continue to follow it, believing it has great health benefits, especially after a long day of fasting.

Muslim men in India can be recognized by their traditional attire, particularly the white cap and the “Kurta Pajama,” which they wear throughout the holy month. Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree) is also celebrated in a distinct way compared to other countries. Muslims in India treat it like a festive occasion, similar to Eid, by purchasing new clothes for the night, engaging in prayers and worship, and distributing sweets among one another.

Indian Muslims typically break their fast in two stages. The first stage consists of salt or dates, yogurt, some vegetables, and light drinks. Some prefer to take this meal to the mosque to share with fellow worshippers. The second meal, eaten after the Taraweeh prayers, includes meat, rice, and bread, along with popular Indian dishes such as Biryani, Qorma, Kebab, Kofta, and Tandoori. One dish that holds special significance during Ramadan is “Haleem,” a slow-cooked mixture of meat and wheat grains, prepared for at least eight hours.

A key tradition among Indian Muslims is distributing sweets, Ramadan drinks, and coconut pieces to worshippers after Taraweeh prayers, in addition to dates, rock sugar, and the famous Ramadan beverage “Somiya,” which resembles the Egyptian dish of vermicelli in milk.