Non-Muslims who fast during Ramadan say it’s a spiritually enriching experience

They say fasting contributes to personal growth, interfaith understanding, and community cohesion

Godwin Isaac K

DOHA: The holy month of Ramadan is a period of devotion and spiritual rejuvenation not only for Muslims in Qatar, but for many non-Muslims, too, who are ‘religiously’ observing fast during the holy month like their Muslim friends.

Speaking to News Trail, non-Muslims who have been regularly fasting during Ramadan spoke of a meaningful and enriching experience, contributing to personal growth, interfaith understanding, and community cohesion. They say fasting reflects a spirit of inclusivity, empathy, and respect for diverse religious practices.

Sunil Perumbavoor, who has been fasting during Ramadan for the past 14 years, said that with a majority of his friends belonging to the Muslim Community, it was natural for him to start fasting to express his respect and a feeling of solidarity with his friends and understand their culture empathetically.

“I am getting a chance to attend several spiritual speeches during Ramadan, which encourage self-assessment, and spiritual growth. Ramadan fasting cultivates self-discipline and self-control. As the fast is broken with friends, families and compatriots, I feel it fosters a sense of unity, solidarity, and mutual support.  Moreover, I could control my cholesterol below the border level. I wish to observe fasting as long as my health permits,” he said.

Hema Unnikrishnan, who has been fasting during Ramadan for eight years, states the act of forgiveness and kindness made her to take the decision to fast.

“Fasting has helped me to grow spiritually and mentally as I feel that I have grown closer to God. I love charity work and the entire nation does charity work throughout the month and I am happy to be part of it even though I am a non-Muslim,” Hema said.

“Fasting teaches forgiveness and trust and my family has been so supportive and as long as my health permits, I will continue doing this every year,” she added.

Arya Pradeep, who has been fasting for the past two years, said it helped her to control her temptations for food and she feels so much healthier and energetic.

“The most compelling reason for me to participate in Ramadan was the health benefits it provides. I was keen when my colleagues explained to me about it. I am a big foodie and there are certain foods that I cannot resist. But thanks to the Ramadan fasting I was able to control my temptations and cravings,” Arya said.

“In the initial days, I was a bit hungry but then I started enjoying the fast. My family was very supportive and my colleagues guided me and supported me even though they were surprised that I am going to fast just like them being a non-Muslim,” she said.

“I would love to continue fasting every year as it has created a positive energy inside me and gave me a strong morale and this is something I won’t stop as health comes first and it has been very beneficial for me health-wise,” she said.

“I have been fasting during Ramadan for six years and as a Christian, it’s normal for me,” said a Nigerian national, who didn’t want to be identified. “Fasting gives me peace, and a special feeling. I just like doing it,” he said.