Ramadan Mubarak from Rapport London

April marks the holy month of Ramadan - the ninth month of the Islamic calendar - where Muslims fast from dawn till dusk throughout this sacred month.

The exact dates of Ramadan change every year; this is because Islam uses a calendar based on the moon cycles - Ramadan begins and ends with the appearance of the crescent moon. This year, in the UK, Ramadan will begin in the evening of Saturday 2 April and will end on Sunday 1 May.

Fasting allows Muslims to devote themselves to their faith. It is thought to teach self-discipline and reminds them of the suffering of the poor. Patience is also highlighted and speaking to each other with kindness and respect is encouraged. The journey teaches an understanding of the challenges of humility and self discipline - many will read the whole of the Qur'an at least once during Ramadan, and will attend special services in Mosques during which the Qur'an is also read.

Eid al-Fitr also known as, the 'festival of breaking the fast' is a joyous occasion that marks the end of Ramadan, where families and friends come together and rejoice with food, drink and gifts. As restrictions have eased since this time last year, this will be an even more momentous occasion for everyone celebrating, who can come together to share these holy traditions in person this year.

So we would like to wish you a Happy Ramadan from everyone here at Rapport.
Ramadan Mubarak!