Pide (Image source: pocketcultures via Flickr).

Ramadan, which is is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, began last night.

According to Wikipedia, fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Ramadan is observed by Muslims during the entire lunar month by the same name; which is spent fasting from dawn to sunset.

This year Ramadan ends on the evening of Saturday, August 18, at which point the month of Shawwal starts, beginning with the “Festival of Breaking Fast” or `Eid ul-Fitr.

Bay Ridge Odyssey would like to wish all of our readers a happy and healthy Ramadan. Ramadan Kareem!