Holy Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar when Muslims are meant to fast from dawn to dusk, begins in the country on Friday.

Ramadan is a time of restraint and austerity, and also a time for inner reflection, devotion to the Almighty Allah and self-control.

Lailatul Qadr, the night of divine blessings and benediction, will be observed on July 14.

During the holy month, all government, semi-government and autonomous and semi-autonomous organisations will follow new office timing as announced by the government.

All these offices will remain open from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm with a 15-minute prayer break from 1:15 pm to 1:30 pm during the month.

Meanwhile, President Abdul Hamid, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia greeted the Muslims of the country and elsewhere in the world on the occasion.

In his message, the President termed Ramadan the month of self-purification as it brings a rare opportunity for the Muslims to get close to the Almighty Allah and having his forgiveness.

He hoped that all will realise the sanctity and significance of holy Ramadan and reflect those in their personal and social life and contribute towards building the society.

The Prime Minister, in her message, congratulated the Muslims on the occasion of Ramadan and said it is an opportunity for purifying the souls and getting close to the Almighty Allah through the learning of making sacrifice.

She urged all to establish peace, fraternity and harmony, being imbued with the teaching of Ramadan shunning greed, hatred, indiscipline and friction.

BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia hoped that the holy month will bring the message of peace and happiness to the lives of Muslims.

UNB/RI