In India, the sighting of the Ramadan moon is a highly anticipated event. Families gather on rooftops or near open horizons to catch a glimpse of the new crescent. The official announcement is usually made by the local Moon Sighting Committee (Ruet-e-Hilal Committee).
Once the moon is confirmed, the atmosphere in India transforms. Mosques announce the beginning of Ramadan, and people prepare for the first Tarawih prayer. Greeting messages of "Ramadan Mubarak" are exchanged, and preparations for Suhoor (Sehri) begin immediately.