Lucknow: Mosques across the city are preparing for Tarawih (night prayers) as the crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan 2026 is likely to be sighted on Wednesday evening. If confirmed, the first Roza (fast) will be observed on Thursday, February 19.
Religious scholars and members of the Markazi Chand Committee will take a final decision after sunset, following confirmation of the moon sighting. Both Sunni and Shia committees are expected to make a formal announcement later in the evening.
Maulana Khalid Rasheed, president of the Markazi Chand Committee, said the moon is likely to be sighted on Wednesday and that most parts of India may begin fasting from Thursday. He also urged people to extend help to the needy and engage in charity during the holy month. At Jama Masjid Aishbagh Eidgah, separate arrangements have been made for men and women offering Tarawih prayers.
The Markazi Shia Chand Committee has also appealed to the community to look for the crescent and report confirmed sightings. Maulana Saif Abbas Naqvi, president of the Shia panel, requested members to promptly inform the committee if the moon becomes visible.
Thousands of devotees are expected to attend Tarawih prayers at major mosques in Lucknow. Special facilities have been arranged inside prayer halls to accommodate women worshippers, ensuring smooth participation during the holy month.
Ahead of Ramzan, clerics held meetings with district administration officials, police authorities and municipal teams to coordinate security, sanitation and logistical arrangements. Authorities have assured full support to ensure peaceful observance of prayers throughout the month.