Muslims in Kerala on Monday began month-long fasting and prayers with the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan of the Islamic calendar.
The faithful congregated in mosques across the state for morning prayers marking the beginning of the spiritual season of fasting, prayers and charity.
The community leaders had last evening declared the start of Ramadan in Kerala on sighting of the new moon at Kappad beach near Kozhikode.
Muslims account for nearly 25% of Kerala's total population of 3.38 crore, mostly concentrated in the northern district in the Malabar region.
Religious scholars and community leaders, including Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) state president Panakkad Syid Hyderali Shihab Thangal, called upon the believers to "dedicate themselves to unflinching faith to the almighty."
Islamic NGOs and community outfits launched Ramadan relief and charity activities throughout the state to help the poor and needy in the society.