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Turkish miners in the Soma mines in Manisa Province in western Turkey have marked the start of Ramadan by organizing an iftar (fast-breaking) meal 350 metres below ground.

The miners’ iftar was illuminated by light from their helmets.

The Soma mines are Turkey’s most important coal mines and the workers say they will fast for the 16 hours between sunrise and sunset despite their very difficult working conditions. 

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan began on Monday or Tuesday - depending on the country - this week. During Ramadan, practising Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, with the exception of the young, elderly and sick, in addition to pregnant and breastfeeding women and travelling people.

Breaking the fast early without a valid excuse, such as illness, is considered a sin in Islam.

Across the world, Muslims fast each day for the entire month of Ramadan, abstaining from food and drink from dawn to dusk. That means around 15 hours without food, water, cigarettes or caffeine in some countries.

Fasting is aimed at drawing worshippers closer to God through self-control, remembrance and humility. The challenge of fasting for many is also a chance to reset spiritually and physically, kick bad habits and purify the heart.

During the day, Muslims must also abstain from sex, gossip and cursing, and are encouraged to focus on meditative acts like prayer, reading the Quran and charity.