The glow of the laptop screen reflected in Sania’s glasses as she scrolled through the comments on her favorite Ramadan support group. It was almost Maghrib, and the anticipation of breaking her fast had settled into a familiar rhythm. The chat was buzzing with messages from women across the world—some sharing their Iftar menus, others offering words of encouragement to those struggling with long fasts.
Only an hour left, ladies! Stay strong! May Allah accept our fasts!”
Sania smiled as she typed out a quick reply:
“Ameen! What’s everyone having for iftar?”
Within seconds, responses flooded in.
“Pakoras and chaat, as always!”
“Chicken biryani, can’t wait!”
“Just some dates and water, keeping it light today.”
Even though she was physically alone in her small apartment in Toronto, she didn’t feel isolated. The online Ramadan community had become her virtual family, offering companionship and support in ways she had never expected.
Finding Connection in a Digital Age
Ramadan had always been a communal experience for Sania back home in Lahore. She missed the bustling markets, the call to prayer echoing through the streets, and the warmth of Iftar gatherings with family. But in this new reality—miles away from home—the digital world had become a lifeline.
Her roommates, Amna and Noreen, were also part of different online fasting groups. They often shared funny or insightful posts from Muslim content creators who discussed everything from pre-dawn meal prep to navigating fasting while working long hours.
“Look at this one,” Amna said one evening, holding up her phone. “It’s a meme about how we all start Ramadan with the intention to eat healthy and end up devouring three plates of samosas every night.”
Sania laughed. “Too relatable.”
Noreen, ever the practical one, added, “Honestly, these groups help a lot. There was a post yesterday about how to manage energy levels during fasting. Some great tips on hydration and sleep.”
Support Beyond Borders
One of the most comforting aspects of online fasting communities was the instant access to shared experiences. Whether it was dealing with hunger pangs, struggling with motivation, or seeking spiritual reminders, there was always someone who understood.
Sania had recently joined a WhatsApp group called Ramadan Reflections, where women from different time zones shared their experiences. Some were fasting alone, like her, while others were surrounded by family but still craved a space to discuss their personal Ramadan journeys.
One evening, a woman from London shared how she was missing her late grandmother’s Sehri preparations.
“She used to make the softest parathas and wake us up with so much love. It’s not the same without her.”
Sania felt a lump in her throat. She knew that feeling all too well.
“I completely understand,” she replied. “My mom makes the best halwa for Sehri. Even though I try to recreate it, it never tastes the same.”
Within minutes, others chimed in, sharing their own stories. It was moments like these that made her realize she wasn’t alone in her nostalgia.
Digital Da’wah and Learning Opportunities
Aside from emotional support, the digital world had also enriched Sania’s Ramadan in new ways. She followed Islamic scholars on YouTube, listened to Tafseer sessions on Spotify, and joined virtual Taraweeh prayer livestreams from different mosques.
“Did you listen to that talk by Mufti Menk last night?” Amna asked one day while preparing Iftar.
“The one about patience in Ramadan?” Sania nodded. “Yes! It really made me reflect on how fasting isn’t just about food but also about our character.”
Social media had also introduced her to various charity initiatives. She had donated to an online fundraiser providing meals for displaced families, something she might not have been aware of otherwise.
“I love how easy it is to contribute to Sadaqah now,” Noreen said. “One click, and you can help someone across the world.”
A New Kind of Togetherness
As the days of Ramadan passed, Sania realized that while nothing could truly replace the warmth of her family’s Ramadan traditions, the digital world had given her something valuable—a sense of belonging.
On the night of the 27th Roza, she and her online group decided to make Dua together. At the same time, across different cities and countries, they all raised their hands and whispered prayers into the stillness of the night.
And in that moment, Sania felt it—the deep, unbreakable connection of faith that transcended borders, time zones, and physical spaces.
The digital world had not just helped her navigate Ramadan away from home. It had helped her feel at home.
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