Non-Muslim Indian Expat in UAE Fast for 18 Hours Daily During Ramadan for 32 Years

Indian Expat in UAE Observes Ramadan Fasting as a Gesture of Solidarity

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Vidhyadharan Ereuthinad (right) ends fast with a friend in Umm Al Quwain.

Vidhyadharan Ereuthinad, a 69-year-old non-Muslim Indian expat living in the UAE, has been fasting for over 18 hours a day during the holy month of Ramadan for the past 32 years. Despite not being a Muslim, Ereuthinad observes Ramadan’s fasting traditions as a sign of respect and solidarity with the Muslim community.

Key Highlights:

32 Years of Fasting: Vidhyadharan, a Keralite from Thiruvananthapuram, has fasted each Ramadan since 1992, following the 30-day tradition, regardless of the moon sighting.
18-Hour Fast: His fast extends beyond 18 hours daily, without a pre-dawn meal (suhoor). Ereuthinad breaks his fast with dates, fruits, and a vegetarian meal.
Ramadan and Social Work: Besides fasting, he actively participates in charity initiatives such as iftar distributions and is involved in repatriation services for Indian expats across the northern UAE.

Ramadan Fasting Routine:

Iftar Meal: Dates, fruits, and a simple vegetarian meal
No Suhoor: Ereuthinad does not have a pre-dawn meal, fasting over 18 hours.
Evening Schedule: He has a light dinner and sleeps by 11 pm, waking up by 6 am or 7 am.

A Lifetime of Service:
Since moving to the UAE in 1982, Vidhyadharan has dedicated himself to social work, focusing on repatriating bodies to the Indian subcontinent. He runs a travel agency in Umm Al Quwain and continues his efforts, even during Ramadan.

Ereuthinad’s commitment to fasting is more than just a tradition—it’s a symbol of discipline, spiritual growth, and unity. “If people could learn to support and understand one another, regardless of their faith, everything would be better,” he says.

Why It Matters:
His example highlights the importance of cultural and religious solidarity, transcending boundaries and bringing communities together in shared values.

Vidhyadharan’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of respect and unity across faiths, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

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