Arakan News Agency | Sumaya SIDDIQUE AHMED
Ramadan in the Rohingya Community
Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. For the Rohingya, it is no different. The Rohingya community from Myanmar’s Rakhine State holds Ramadan in deep spiritual and cultural significance, even amid the challenges of displacement and persecution. This article aims to promote awareness and understanding of how the Rohingya Muslims observe Ramadan, highlighting their unique cultural practices and the challenges they endure.
The Historical and Cultural Background of the Rohingya
The Rohingya are a predominantly Muslim ethnic group whose historical roots in the Arakan region (now Rakhine State, Myanmar) date back to at least the 8th century. Islam is believed to have been introduced to Arakan through Arab traders, missionaries, and Sufi scholars who traveled along the Bay of Bengal. Over time, the local Muslim population grew, integrating Islamic traditions with the region’s cultural fabric. The Rohingya coexisted with Buddhist, Hindu, and other Muslim communities in the independent Arakan Kingdom. Over the years, the Rohingya Muslims became a distinct ethnic group in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Facing decades of persecution, many have sought refuge in Bangladesh and other countries, where they live in refugee camps or marginalized communities. Despite their hardships, the Rohingya people hold steadfast to their religious and cultural traditions, making Ramadan an integral part of their identity and resilience.
Religious Practices of Rohingya Muslims During Ramadan
After sighting the new moon, the village head announces the beginning of Ramadan to the people. In response, Rohingya Muslims gather for Taraweeh prayers at night after Isha, strengthening their spiritual connection through communal worship. Many devote extra time to Quran recitation, seeking blessings and guidance during this sacred month. Despite their poverty, they remain committed to the principles of Zakat (mandatory almsgiving) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity), sharing food, clothing, and any available resources with those in need, embodying the spirit of generosity and compassion.
Ramadan is both a time of joy and reflection. A Rohingya mother, Amina Hatoon, shares, “Despite living in a refugee camp, we strive to uphold our traditions. My children observe fasting, and we pray together, reminding us that our faith remains unshaken, no matter where we are.”
Zahid Hussain says, “Ramadan is a month of kindness and sharing. It is a time when we help each other in any way we can. We care for our family, friends, and those in need. We give charity and offer Zakat as much as possible because we understand what it means to be in need.During Ramadan, we look after our neighbors, seek forgiveness, and forgive others with open hearts. We begin and break our fast together, standing side by side in Taraweeh and Eid prayers, united in faith and gratitude.For me, Ramadan is about togetherness—a time when we remember that we are never alone, and our hearts come together as one.”
Pre-Ramadan Preparations and Traditions
The night before Ramadan is a special time for the Rohingya community, filled with preparation, traditions, and a deep sense of togetherness.Homes are thoroughly cleaned, symbolizing a fresh start for Ramadan. Fathers and elders visit the market for grocery shopping, ensuring that essential ingredients and special foods are prepared for Suhoor and Iftar. Meanwhile, young girls celebrate by applying henna to their hands, adorning them with intricate patterns as a symbol of joy and festivity. Parents take this special time to encourage their children in their first practice of prayer and fasting, guiding them with patience and love. After Taraweeh prayers, After Taraweeh prayers, both adults and children gather to recite the Quran, embracing the spiritual essence of Ramadan.
Traditional Foods During Ramadan
Food plays a central role in Ramadan observances. During Suhoor, the Rohingya community enjoys a heavy meal to sustain them throughout the day. They typically eat white rice with beef or fish curry, providing them with the energy needed for fasting. After the main meal, they have rice with milk, accompanied by mangoes and bananas, adding a naturally sweet and refreshing touch to their pre-dawn meal.
For Iftar, they eat chawna (black chickpeas), fiyazu (lentil fritters), and muri (puffed rice) mixed with tomatoes, cucumber, onions, potatoes, lemons, coriander, and green chilies—a traditional and nutritious combination. As dessert, they indulge in semai (vermicelli pudding) and fresh fruits, bringing sweetness and satisfaction after a long day of fasting. Families and neighbors come together to share meals, exchange prayers, and support one another.
Eid Preparations and Celebrations
As Ramadan comes to an end, excitement for Eid celebrations begins to build. In the days leading up to Eid, children eagerly shop for new clothes—boys wear longyi (traditional dress pants in Arakan), while girls dress in a new blouse and thahorn (a long skirt wrap similar to those worn by women in the West).
Families prepare special dishes such as ruri fira (rice flour flatbread), traditionally enjoyed with beef curry on Eid days . The morning of Eid begins with special prayers held at mosques or in open fields, where the Rohingya community gathers in unity and gratitude. After the prayers, elders give Eidi (money or gifts) to children, and families prepare samayi (a sweet dish made with vermicelli and milk) as part of the festive meal.Girls apply henna to their hands and wear thanaka on their faces, embracing their cultural heritage. Meanwhile, elderly women gather to recite Howla—a traditional Rohingya poem in verse. Accompanied by simple musical instruments, their voices fill the night with rhythm and meaning, passing down wisdom through generations.
Eid is a time of joy, generosity, and forgiveness. Families visit one another, exchange greetings, and share meals. Even in refugee camps, the spirit of Eid remains strong, as people strive to uphold their traditions despite their challenging circumstances.
Ramadan in the Rohingya community is not just a religious observance but a testament to their resilience, unity, and unwavering faith. Despite the hardships they face, they continue to honor their traditions and support one another through fasting, prayer, charity, and communal gatherings. By sharing their Ramadan diaries, we gain insight into their struggles and strength, fostering a greater understanding of their culture and identity.
