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Fatwa CenterRelying on Calculations To Determine The Beginning of Ramadan
Question
Dear i have been in india for two months. so i do not know that much about that country. when i asked about Ramadan, i have been told it is on the 12th of Sep, it is alreadt determined, so my question is: do i have to follow that?
Answer
All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad 
is His slave and Messenger.
What should religiously be taken into account in determining the beginning of the month of Ramadan is two things: sighting the moon of Ramadan or completing the month of Sha'baan 30 days. However, astronomic calculations are not an acceptable means in determining the beginning of the month. Therefore, if the people of this country are not keen to sight the moon and rely on astronomic calculations in determining the beginning of the month, then you should not follow what they say. For more benefit, please refer to Fatwa 86669.
If there is a group of Muslims who are keen to sight the moon, then fast with them, and if you can sight the moon yourself, then do so. However, if you do not see it, and no other Muslim person sees it, then you should complete Sha'baan 30 days.
Allaah Knows best.
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