KATHMANDU: Ramadan Festival, observed by the Muslim community as the month of fasting, has begun today.

The festival is marked to observe the revelation-month of the Quran, the great holy book of the Muslims.

During the month, the ritual of fasting from dawn till sunset, locally known as 'Roja', is mandatory for all adults except those suffering from illness.

The first 10 days of Ramadan are called Barakkat -- days of good times, the next ten days known as Rahamat represent days of love and care, while the last ten days are for Magafirat, forgiveness from Allah.

Those observing Roja are required to keep their body pure and recite the Quran five times a day regularly. The beginning and end of Ramadan are determined by the lunar Islamic calendar, hijri. As per the calendar, the festival begins at the end of eighth month when the full moon is seen.

On the beginning day of Ramadan, Province 2 Chief Minister Lal Babu Raut has passed his greetings, wishing joy, peace and prosperity to all Nepalis.

Likewise, US Ambassador to Nepal, Alaina B Teplitz has also tweeted saying, "It is a time when communities come together through shared meals, dialogue, and worship. I want to wish happiness and blessings to everyone observing."

#Ramadan begins: it is a time when communities come together through shared meals, dialogue, and worship. I want to wish happiness and blessings to everyone observing. @USEmbassyNepal #RamadanMubarak #Nepal pic.twitter.com/TN4cy7ttpI

— Alaina B. Teplitz (@USAmbNepal) May 17, 2018