Ramzan – Hyderabad Embraces Holy Month With Haleem Tradition

Ramzan – As the holy month of Ramzan commenced on Thursday, Hyderabad once again came alive with its distinctive blend of faith and food, drawing residents and visitors alike to its bustling streets. Among the highlights of the season is haleem, the slow-cooked delicacy that has become synonymous with the city’s Ramzan evenings.

Haleem Takes Centre Stage in the City

Prepared with wheat, lentils and tender meat simmered for hours, haleem is more than just a dish in Hyderabad—it is a seasonal ritual. Across neighbourhoods, eateries and temporary food stalls have begun serving fresh batches to customers waiting patiently after sunset.

Visitors from other cities often make special plans to taste the dish during Ramzan. Pawan, a resident of Bengaluru, said he never misses the opportunity. Speaking during his visit, he explained that haleem and biryani are essential parts of his Hyderabad trips during this time of year, praising the consistent quality of the food available across the city.

First-Time Experience for a Visitor

For some, the experience is entirely new. Chetan, also from Bengaluru, travelled to Hyderabad for an official meeting and found himself sampling haleem for the first time. He shared that his close friend Pawan had strongly recommended a well-known outlet, assuring him that it was the right place to understand the city’s Ramzan food culture.

Chetan described the tasting as a memorable part of his short visit, noting that the reputation of Hyderabad’s Ramzan cuisine had long reached Bengaluru. For first-time visitors, he said, trying haleem offers insight into how closely food and tradition are linked in the city during the holy month.

Spiritual Significance of Ramzan

Ramzan is observed by Muslims around the world as a month dedicated to fasting, prayer and reflection. From dawn until sunset, those observing the fast refrain from food and drink. Evenings are marked by the breaking of the fast, known as iftar, when families and communities gather to share meals.

Beyond the culinary aspect, the month is considered a period of heightened spirituality. Special nightly prayers are held at mosques, and many devote more time to reading religious texts and participating in charitable activities. The sense of community is visible not only in places of worship but also in markets that remain open late into the night.

Telangana Government Announces Early Office Timings

In view of the holy month, the Telangana government earlier issued an order allowing Muslim government employees to leave their offices and schools at 4:00 PM during Ramzan. The decision aims to help those observing the fast return home in time to prepare for iftar and attend prayers.

According to Memo No. 677/Poll.B/26 dated February 17, 2026, the provision applies to Muslim government staff, including teachers, contract and outsourcing employees, as well as personnel working in Boards, Corporations and Public Sector units across the state.

Officials stated that the measure is intended to support employees in balancing their professional responsibilities with religious observance. The order is applicable to departments and institutions throughout Telangana.

Month Expected to Continue for 29 to 30 Days

This year, Ramzan began on February 19 and is expected to continue for approximately 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon. As the days progress, Hyderabad’s evenings are set to remain vibrant, with food counters, prayer gatherings and community interactions shaping the city’s atmosphere.

For many, the combination of spiritual devotion and culinary tradition defines Ramzan in Hyderabad. Whether for lifelong residents or first-time visitors, the month offers a shared experience rooted in faith, hospitality and the unmistakable aroma of freshly prepared haleem.