Millions of Muslims around the world broke their fast as the sun went down on Thursday evening, marking the first day of Ramadan, a holy month in the Islamic calendar.
During Ramadan, Muslims fasting begin after a pre-dawn meal known as suhoor and end with iftar -- a fast-breaking meal -- at sunset.
Ramadan is believed to be a time of intense spirituality as Muslims believe that the gates of heaven are open, and Allah's blessings and mercy are abundant.