Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year for Muslims. It is believed that "when it commences, the gates of heaven are opened and the gates of hell are shut while the devils are chained." The month plays a very significant role in the lives of Muslim devout as they believe that it is the months of Ramadan when the first verse of the Quran was revealed. The month is celebrated with great pomp and show irrespective of the country it is being celebrated in. Ramadan 2022 in Turkey is believed to be the most happening experience and you must delve into its piousness if you are visiting the country soon. This year Ramadan 2022 in Turkey will begin on 2nd April and will last till 2nd May.
Ramadan 2022 in Turkey: Heartwarming Traditions and Practices Followed by Locals
Turkey is a vibrant country that entices people for its cultural richness and traditions. A country that celebrates festivals with thorough enlightenment and extravaganza leaves no leave unturned when it comes to celebrating Ramadan 2022 in Turkey traditionally. Here are a few age-old ottoman traditions that are still followed in Turkey, adding to the charm of the holy month.
1. Hacivat and Karagöz
Ramadan in Turkey is celebrated with full enthusiasm, where people visit their neighbors and family to wish for the holy month and bless them with prosperity. People also stroll out to enjoy theatrical performances and Hacivat and Karagöz, which are shadow puppet shows, popular amongst the local Turks.
2. Shared Iftars For One and All
Yet another age-old tradition is the shared Iftars, especially for the less fortunate ones. Since the month is all about evoking love, compassion and kindness amongst people, shared Iftars are organized where anyone and everyone can join. People eat from the same tables and in-fact from the same plates during a shared iftar. No matter where you belong to, you will always be welcome in the after fast feast in Turkey.
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3. Distribution of Gold and Silver
It is a part of shared Iftar, people who host shared iftars in Turkey, not only serve the food to all those who have joined in, but also distribute pouches of silver or gold coins to the comparatively less fortunate. This tradition is referred to as diş kirası. This suggests how open-heartedly people believe in spreading happiness amongst all.
4. Paying Off Strangers’ Debt
Well here is yet another unique tradition that you would be hearing for the first time apparently. It is very common that a very well-to-do person would visit the local bazaar and secretly pay off the debts of any stranger from the record book of the shopkeeper. And the stranger would never know who paid off his dues. This is the beauty of Ramadan, Turkey has a very similar yet a unique way of celebration.
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5. Firing a cannonball during Ramadan
The tradition of firing cannonballs was started by the Ottomans in Turkey during 1821 from Anatolian Fortress. Apart from these places there are several other tourist places in Turkey to capture unique experiences. The significance of the fireball is to inform the people about the start of Iftar so that they can break their fast. This traditional canon fire is launched at a very grand catching everyone's attention at ones
6. Dusk Drummers at Dawn
with an abundance of positivity and cheer, a group of drummers traditionally wander in the streets of Turkey to wake people up and mark the beginning of Suhoor. Suhoor is the first meal which is taken before the sun rises and after that the fast begins and people can eat directly during Iftar, and nothing in between.
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7. Distribution of Pişi and Sherbets
Since it's the holy month when people spread happiness and optimism, neighbors share and distribute succulent fried bread called pisi along with delicious ottoman drinks during Iftar as a goodwill gesture towards others. If all these traditional have really convinces you to live Ramadan 2022 in turkey this year, then you must immediately plan a trip.
How is Ramadan 2022 Celebrated in Turkey
Like every other religion, Islam too has certain rituals and protocols that need to be followed during the holy month of Ramzan. From waking up early to going back to bed, there are multiple things that are executed from the first day of Ramadan till the last that a Rozadaar has to properly follow. Here are few most significant things that
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First meal 'Suhur'
During Ramadan the devout Muslims wake up before dawn and eat their first meal also called Suhur or sehri. Since it is the only meal consumed till sunset, it has to be rich in protein. People are required to drink as much water as they can till dawn so the body remains hydrated throughout the day. As dawn breaks and fast begins and then people abstain from consuming anything.
Fasting from Dawn till Dusk
The literal meaning of fasting is not letting anything pass through the lips. Licking an envelope or biting a nail too, are prohibited from dawn till dusk. It's all about understanding patience and resistance. Take the opportunity, live this divine experience and start travelling to Turkey during Ramadan as the holy month is about to begin.
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Iftar and Common Feastings
Ramadan is about celebrating everything from dawn till dusk and beyond. As soon as the dust falls, the ceremonial feast begins. Known as iftar this meal brings a wave of joy and they get to relish on freshly baked bread, soup, vegetables, dates etc. A more elaborate dinner is held later.
Prayers and Recitals
During the holiest month of Ramazan, Muslims completely involve themselves into prayers. There are many places in Istanbul and Turkey, where you can recite your prayers in group. Prayers are the integral part for the followers of Islam, and during Ramdan, there are ten prayers, that are recited to feel more connected to Allah. Out of the 10, no two prayers are same, and have absolutely different duas.
Ramazan Bayramı or Eid al fitr
Also known as Ramadan feast is a 3 days festival. Eid al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the holiday celebrates the conclusion of the 29 or 30 days of dawn-to-sunset fasting during the entire month. The date of Eid al Fitr 2022 depends on the sighting of the moon.
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Traditional Ramadan Dishes in Turkey
It is a little paradoxical that the month known for fasting is also celebrated for feasts and succulent dishes. There are certain transition Turkish dishes served in Ramadan, after the sunset feasts. Here is a list of the most loved delicacies that you will not stop craving once you have tasted them.
- Turkish Soups: Traditional Turkish soup is served as the first course during the meals in many Anatolian homes. During the holy month of Ramadan, the fast is always broken with soup, fresh bread and olives.
- Kavurma: Better known as Kurban Bayramı it is a traditional Turkish home cooked dish. Made generally with sacrificial meat. It is a traditional dish that is made on Eid al Adha right after the sacrifice. It is a simple dish, basically the meat of the animal that’s cooked in its own juices along with some salt.
- Revani: A classic dessert that has been present in Turkish cuisine since the Ottoman period. It is a cake, that has been adapted by many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. It is called basbousa in Arabic and shamali.
Now that you have come across all the traditions followed by the Turks during Ramadan, we hope you are all convinces to take the firsthand experience of Ramadan 2022 in Turkey. If yes, then what are you waiting for? Delve in the tranquility and soulful divinity of Islam and feel blessed to be part of such lively entertainment. Take your family on a trip to this cultural melting pot and get them acquainted with the core essence of Turkey, Ramadan and Eid. Plan a budget friendly trip by grabbing a travel package to Turkey exclusively designed for you.
The old vibe and charming beauty, Turkey is blessed with comfort and stunning vista. There are a range of things to enjoy for the ideal holiday experience included in the Turkey tour packages. The blend of old and modern, tourists will get an insight into the culture and traditions that will make you feel refreshed among the surreal beauty.
Ramadan in Turkey - FAQs
Ramadan 2022 in Turkey is believed to be the most happening experience and you must delve into its piousness if you are visiting the country soon. This year Ramadan 2022 in Turkey will begin on 2nd April and will last till 2nd May.
During Ramadan the devout Muslims wake up before dawn and eat their first meal also called Suhur or sehri. Since it is the only meal consumed till sunset, it has to be rich in protein. People are required to drink as much water as they can till dawn so the body remains hydrated throughout the day.
Also known as Ramadan feast is a 3 days festival. Eid al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the holiday celebrates the conclusion of the 29 or 30 days of dawn-to-sunset fasting during the entire month. The date of Eid al Fitr 2022 depends on the sighting of the moon.
The tradition of firing cannonballs was started by the Ottomans in Turkey during 1821 from Anatolian Fortress. Apart from these places there are several other tourist places in Turkey to capture unique experiences. The significance of the fireball is to inform the people about the start of Iftar so that they can break their fast.
It is a little paradoxical that the month known for fasting is also celebrated for feasts and succulent dishes. There are certain transition Turkish dishes served in Ramadan, after the sunset feasts. Turkish Soups, Kavurma and Revani are few of the most loved dishes.
Better known as Kurban Bayramı it is a traditional Turkish home cooked dish. Made generally with sacrificial meat. It is a traditional dish that is made on Eid al Adha right after the sacrifice. It is a simple dish, basically the meat of the animal that’s cooked in its own juices along with some salt.
with an abundance of positivity and affection, a group of drummers traditionally wander in the streets of Turkey to wake people up and mark the beginning of Suhoor. Suhoor is the first meal which is taken before the sun rises and after that the fast begins and people can eat directly during iftar, and nothing in between.
Ramadan in Turkey is celebrated with full enthusiasm, where people visit their neighbors and family to wish for the holy month and bless them with prosperity. People also stroll out to enjoy theatrical performances and Hacivat and Karagöz, which are shadow puppet shows, popular amongst the local Turks.
