The last week of Ramazan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims, is a time for reflection, prayer, and community. It is also a time for feasting, with families and friends coming together to break their fasts and enjoy delicious foods that are unique to the season. South India is home to a vibrant Muslim community with a rich culinary tradition that is showcased during this time of year.
In South India, the last week of Ramazan is marked by the tradition of Iftar, the meal that breaks the fast. Muslims gather together to share a meal after the sunset prayer, which is called Maghrib. The meal typically begins with dates and water or juice, as Prophet Muhammad is said to have broken his fast with dates and water. This is followed by a range of savory and sweet dishes, many of which are specific to the region.
One of the most popular dishes during Ramazan in South India is samosas. These fried pastry triangles are filled with spiced vegetables or meat and are often served with mint chutney or tamarind sauce. Another savory dish that is commonly served is Biryani, which is flavored with spices, meat, and vegetables. Biryani is often accompanied by raita, that helps to cool the palate.
For those with a sweet tooth, there are plenty of treats to indulge in during the last week of Ramazan. One such treat is phirni, a dessert made with ground rice, milk, sugar, and cardamom. Another popular sweet dish is sheermal, a type of sweet bread that is flavored with saffron and sometimes topped with poppy seeds.
“While food is an important part of the last week of Ramazan in South India, it is not the only aspect of the celebrations. The community comes together to pray, reflect on the meaning of the holy month, and share in the joy of breaking the fast,” says Mitesh Lohiya, director, sales and marketing, Gold Drop.
Many mosques offer Taraweeh prayers, which are performed every night during Ramazan and are said to bring great rewards to those who participate.
In addition to the religious aspect of Ramazan, the last week is also a time for socializing and spending time with loved ones. Many families invite friends and neighbors over for Iftar, and it is not uncommon to see large gatherings of people enjoying the festivities together.
Overall, the last week of Ramazan in South India is a time of joy, celebration, and community. The rich culinary traditions of the region are on full display during this time, with a range of savory and sweet dishes to delight the taste buds.
But it is not just about the food – the last week of Ramazan is a time to come together with loved ones, to pray, and to reflect on the meaning of the holy month.
