Ramzan brings a special calm and devotion to Kashmir. Throughout the day and night, the holy month’s charm is palpable, drawing people together for Iftar (fast-breaking time), Sehri (pre-dawn meals), and Namaz (prayers). As one experiences this unique atmosphere, one is reminded of simpler times when our elderly loved ones observed Ramzan with great simplicity and deep spirituality. They kept things simple, focusing on spiritual growth, and saw holy Ramzan as a chance to cultivate self-control, humility, and compassion. Their simple and soulful lives are a beautiful reminder of what truly matters during this blessed month.

These days, the holy month of Ramzan in Kashmir looks different. It has changed. People are busy buying and sharing fancy lots of food on social media, showcasing their Iftar and Sehri spreads. But it wasn’t always like this in our grandparents’ time. Our elders lived Ramzan with simplicity and depth, focusing on spiritual growth and self-reflection. They prioritized purifying their souls, worshiping, and reconnecting with themselves. Food was secondary; their top priority was humility and inner peace. They found strength in simplicity, shielding themselves from life’s chaos. For them, true happiness came from uncomplicated moments, not complexity. In the quiet reverence of Ramzan, they found a sense of peace that’s hard to find in today’s fast-paced world.

Our elders were role models of simplicity, especially during Sehri time. They showed us that true wealth isn’t about material things, but about having a rich soul. They spent their time praying, reciting the noble Qur’an, and following the Prophet’s (pbuh) teachings. They ate simple food and didn’t show off. In contrast, we often spend Ramzan focused on food and social media, sharing pictures of our meals. Honestly, Ramzan is about simplicity, self-control, compassion, and purification of soul. And yes, our elders had understood this–they made simplicity a part of their hearts, and it brought them peace and a deeper connection with Allah.

It is in pertinent to mention here that our elders treasured Ramzan as a special time to focus on spiritual growth and self-reflection. They prioritized prayer and gratitude over filling their plates, eating modestly during Sehri and avoiding excess food. For them, the holy month was about connecting with Allah and cultivating mindfulness, not just about food. According to noted broadcaster, writer and former ADG Doordarshan & Sec. Cultural Academy, Dr Rafeeq Masoodi, “Our seniors valued Ramzan as a time for spiritual renewal, focusing on prayer and gratitude rather than food. They ate simply and mindfully, prioritizing their connection with Allah.”

I often cherish the memories of spending time with my grandmother, Zoon Ded in holy month. During Ramzan, she would eat sparingly at Sehri and spend most of her time in prayer, knowing it was a rare opportunity to connect with Allah. Her joy during this month was contagious. She would often say, “Panun Paan Aezu Khush Kismat Zanan Agar Mah-e-Mubarak Labue” (Consider yourself lucky if you get to observe Ramzan)–a reminder to treasure this blessed time.

Come; let’s focus on what truly matters during this sacred month–not just food, but our connection with Allah and each other.

Manzoor Akash, educator & author, is a regular voice in GK’s Senior Citizens’ Lounge

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