First time rozedars elated as Ramzan enters 13th day

INDORE: Ten-year-old Sana Sheikh is the youngest to observe roza (fast) in her family in the ongoing holy month of Ramzan. She performs all the rituals that have to be practiced by a rozedar while observing fast. Unlike her elder brothers and sisters, this little girl turns to the senior members of her family to guide her through the rituals for she is the first timer to endure the penance.
"I received many gifts from my family members and other relatives, apart from new clothes. I get absolutely special treatment and it is really good to be special," said the elated Sana as she entered the 12-day of her roza.
Although it's the gifts that had this ten-year-old so excited about the fasts, she also understands the importance of fasting and plans to observe it with all its seriousness. "My mother and other elders keep guiding me on the right ways to follow the rules of Ramzan. I am not finding the fasts to be too difficult," she added.
It is not just Sana in her family to observe these fasts for the first time. Her elder brother, 13-year-old Saad Sheikh, is also fasting for the first time and is just as excited as his younger sister. "I am really happy that I am observing these fasts. Initially it was a bit difficult to fast through the day, but with the help of my elders now it has become a lot easier. I am into my 12th Roza on Monday," said Saad.
Uzair Parvez a city-based designer has his eight-year old nephew observing fasts for the first time. "It's for the first time Abban is fasting. He is very young and hence, the fasts do get a bit difficult for him, but he also gets accustomed with the rituals as soon as he sees the preparation for Iftaar meal."
Roza Iftaar is the time of the day when fast observers break their fast after (Azaan) the evening prayers. This meal normally comprises rich diet including fried snacks, sweets, dry fruits and non-vegetarian delicacies.
While Abban seemed to be observing the fasting efficiently. "I get really tired by the evening, but when I see the colourful meals being cooked for Iftaar I really look forward to it. My favourite among the Iftaar menu is the Samosas and sweets."
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