Ramadaan a money-spinner

SIR – Recently the spirit of Ramadaan has taken a different turn in many parts of the world including South Africa, where the financial potential of the blessed month has caught the attention of the business community.

Although the commercialisation of Ramadaan is most noticeable in Muslim countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Jordan, where for many it has become a month of huge festivities and spectaculars, I notice that Ramadaan is also evolving in South Africa.

Though to a lesser degree, the blessed month of consciousness, self-discipline, simplicity and spiritual rejuvenation has also been affected by commercialism and partying in the Muslim-South African community. Commercialism is slowly stripping the blessed month of its spirituality.

Businesses, especially res- taurants, have caught on to the potential profit to be made out of the fasting Muslims who become electrified after sunset.

Some restaurants are even opening during the early part of the morning to provide meals to start the fast.

Yet we are taught by our scholars that the times before dawn and at the time of breaking the fast are very valuable times for supplication and prayers.

Activities like braai parties, sporting activities at night and large feasts in restaurants are inconsistent with the essence of Ramadaan.

To me, the commercialisation of Ramadaan is disheartening and frightening.

I fear that due to the onslaught of materialism, consumerism and commercialism, we may be slowly eradicating the true essence of Ramadaan and religion as a whole.