DUSHANBE, September 13, Asia-Plus -- This year, Islamic holy month of Ramadan begins in Tajikistan on September 13 and will continue for 30 days until October 12, according to the directorate for religious affairs of the Ministry of Culture (MoC).    

In the Muslim calendar, a holiday begins on the sunset of the previous day, so observing Muslims will celebrate Ramadan on the sunset of September 12.  

The fourth pillar of Islam, which is fasting, is practiced during the month of Ramadan. Ramadan is derived from an Arabic word for intense heat and sun-scorched ground.  It is the ninth month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar, established in the year 638 CE.  It is considered the most venerated, blessed and spiritually-beneficial month of the Islamic year.  Prayers, fasting, charity, and self-accountability are especially stressed at this time; religious observances associated with Ramadan are kept throughout the month.