Prayagraj: Abiba Hashmi, a 9-year-old Class 5 student of Christ Jyoti Convent School, located at Mandar Mor, observed her first fast (roza) on Tuesday, the 27th day of Ramadan. After completing her fast, she said that fasting helps a person truly understand hunger. It also teaches the strength of patience. Abiba, the only daughter of Qamar Saeed Hashmi, shared that when a person remains hungry and thirsty from morning till evening, they realize for the first time what hunger really means. This realization is not limited to the body; it deeply affects the heart and mind as well. It helps a person understand the struggles of the poor and laborers for whom hunger is a daily reality.

Such awareness awakens compassion and empathy within individuals, strengthening the spirit of charity, including zakat, sadaqah, and helping others. She believes that fasting is an act of patience and devotion. During Ramadan, lying, cheating, or belittling others is considered sinful. One should face reality with honesty and treat everyone with kindness, adopting these values in everyday life.

The fasts observed and prayers offered during the month of Ramadan help cleanse a person of their sins. During this time, people—rich and poor alike—break their fast together without discrimination, promoting unity and brotherhood. Islam emphasizes that one should like for others what they like for themselves. It also teaches to take care of neighbors to such an extent that if they are poor, one should share their own food and resources with them.