Shutdown dampens Ramzan celebrations but families stay connected through video calls

According to Farhana Naz, working from home means that there is lesser physical toll or exertion, which usually would have been the case during this time.

‘‘Our family has a tradition of breaking the fast by buying vada and bhajji from the shop near our house. Since that shop has closed, we have not been able to follow it. Also, the mosque usually gives us kanji to break the fast, which my mother now prepares at home,’’ she said.

Apart from their regular prayers, many members from the community also partake in a special prayer called Tarawih Namaz in a mosque. As all mosques are closed, imams are taking to online chantings that members can follow.

Prior to the shutdown, some members would gather with their extended family to break the fast with their iftar spread. This has donned a new role during the shutdown.

"Breaking the fast with my extended family is a tradition we have followed since I was a child. Now, we use WhatsApp video call to call members and break the fast together. While it is not the same as meeting, we also do not want to risk any spread of the disease," said Nazira, a practising Muslim.

Experts recommend hydration in the mornings and evenings to ensure the best health during this time.

‘‘Avoid dehydrating things like tea, coffee, and soft drinks. Lentils are rich in protein, which is more filling and will satiate you through the day. It is also easy to buy and store in bulk. When eating meat, try to have lean meat like chicken without the skin and fish," said Dr V Mohan, chairman, Dr Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre.