The holy month of Ramadan is set to begin next week in Jammu and Kashmir and across the country. This is the month when fasting is mandatory for Muslims who are adults and in good health. For those who are undertaking travel or are sick, they can skip the fast but they have to observe it after returning to their homes or recovering from their illnesses. While there are religious obligations associated with the month of Ramazan, various researches conducted by top scientific institutes have also shown that fasting improves the immune system and rejuvenates the human body. Also, the holy month provides a great opportunity to change our behavioural patterns in such a way that we can shun the bad habits, like smoking, forever while adopting new habits like rising early in morning and regular five time prayers. Ramadan is not merely abstaining from food, evil deeds and sexual activities, but it also means getting into a sublime state of mind in order to develop positive attitude towards life. It has been proven by science that fasting strengthens control of impulses and helps develop good behaviour. The purification of soul and body harmonises the inner and outer states of an individual. The perfect observance of fast leads to a feeling of inner peace and tranquillity. However, science apart, the month of Ramazan is also a time for self and spiritual reflection, improvement and increased devotion and worship which can manifest in the form of an expression of solidarity with the poor through charity and hospitality. Apart from helping to cleanse the body and soul through the process of self-purification, venturing into these areas of social significance gives great satisfaction. Allah (swt) has promised great rewards in this month for good deeds. For example, alms given away to poor and destitute in charity will fetch 700 percent blessings. Similarly, offering regular prayers fetches humungous rewards. Unfortunately, most of us take fasting in Ramadan as merely a physical exercise rather than a spiritual experience. We do not strive to achieve what is expected of this great month of significance. May Allah (swt) bless us all to live up to His expectations. May He heal the wounds that have been inflicted on Kashmir in last three decades in general and past three years in particular. May He bless the entire Muslim community so that we come out of our miseries. May the ailing heal soon and may the living live their lives according to the tenets of Hadees and Quran. Ramadan Mubaraq!