Ramadan is a time of spirituality, reflection and devotion within the Muslim faith. It is practised through fasting and prayer and takes place on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, lasting for an entire month.
In the spirit of Ramadan, the Language and Culture Exchange program hosted an event on 18th February at Impact Café, where I had the opportunity to present the customs and rituals of my culture which I would also like to share with you today. My name is Muram El Sheikh, I am a young Sudanese woman living in Paris since 2025.
In Sudan, the celebration of Ramadan begins long before the holy month itself. Weeks in advance, women gather together to prepare special traditional Ramadan drinks called abre. Preparing these drinks requires a great deal of time, patience, and effort, so the work becomes a beautiful social occasion where women support one another and strengthen their bonds.
During this time, women also prepare fried onions in large quantities. These onions are an essential ingredient in many Ramadan dishes, so preparing them beforehand helps save time and effort during the busy days of fasting.
A typical day in Ramadan in Sudan has its own unique spirit. At iftar time (the meal to break the fast), men often take their meals to the mosque. The iftar usually consists of three main items: a main dish such as asieda, balela, and traditional drinks. Everyone brings what they have, and all the food is shared. No one feels that their contribution is too small, and no one worries that the food will not be enough. There is always enough for everyone.
One of the most beautiful traditions is that some people eat inside the mosque, while others sit along the main roads. At the time of iftar, they stop passing cars and buses and invite travelers to join them. It does not matter how many people are in the vehicle — everyone is warmly welcomed. Hospitality in Sudan during Ramadan is unlimited, and there is always food to share.
The lights and joy of Ramadan come from people gathering together, caring for one another, sharing what they have, simplifying life, clearing their hearts, and forgiving each other. Ramadan in Sudan is not only about fasting — it is about community, compassion, and unity.
Today, however, Ramadan carries a deeper meaning. This is the fourth Ramadan that many people in Sudan are observing during a time of war and hardship. Despite the challenges, families continue to fast, pray, share, and hold on to hope. Their strength and faith are truly inspiring.
In this difficult time of conflict and unrest around the world, Ramadan is an opportunity to pray for mercy, healing and unity for the whole world.
