Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Each day during this month, Muslims all over the world abstain from eating, drinking and smoking from dawn until the sunsets. Particularly in this month Muslims also refrain from other behavior that could be perceived as sinful, such as swearing, engaging in disagreements, backbiting and procrastination.
Ramadan is not much fascinating in Australia since Australia is not a Muslim country and many people here don't have much idea about Muslim culture, Ramadan in particular. However, the situation is changing day by day with the growing number of Muslims coming to Australia.
There are approximately above 500,000 Muslims in Australia, who have come from over 70 countries all around the world, likewise: from Europe (i.e Albania, Bosania, Turkey), Africa, Asia (including Central Asia, South Asia, South East Asia), Pacific Islands, and North and South America.
The Grand Mufti of Australia, Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed, said it is also a month to connect with non-Muslims. "Islam stresses the importance of promoting cultural and societal pluralism," he said. "As such, it is highly encouraged to invite non-Muslim families to join Muslims in the act of breaking their fast."
Ahmet Polat, executive director of the Affinity Intercultural Foundation, said they will organize about 30 home iftar dinners this month in Australia, in which Muslim families host non-Muslims. "Ramadan is one of the pillars of Islam but the meal brings people together regardless of background," he said. "If people don't believe in God, it doesn't matter. The motto is that, at the end of the day, we are all humankind."
In a nod to the Vivid Festival, Lakemba Mosque will light up in different colours at night as thousands attend the mosque for evening prayer, Sydney Morning Herald reported.
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