According to tradition, the Ramadan table should have several dishes like Chebbakia, Harira (soup), Baghrir, Rghaif (Moroccan pancakes), and other essentials for Ramadan. A worker is busy making thin sheets of dough used in dishes like Bastilla while a vendor prepares mint and aromatic herbs for Moroccan tea. Sesame, seeds, and ingredients for Sellou (Moroccan confection) are also in high demand. Jaouad El Attar, a spices and herbs seller says, “When Ramadan approaches, we provide goods like sesame, various seeds, dates, and herbs that customers need.”
At a bakery, staff are making more cookies and pastries than usual. Some are preparing seafood-filled Bastilla and boxes are filled with Chebbakia. Baker Rachida Meftah says, “When Ramadan approaches, we prepare Chebbakia, Sellou, Bastilla with chicken and seafood, Briouats, Mahinchat and honeyed sweets in higher quantities.” But people with medical conditions need to be cautious during fasting.
In Salé, Naima Motog visits doctor Faiçal Serrou to monitor her diabetes. The doctor advises her whether she can fast safely during Ramadan, checking her blood pressure and sugar levels. “When a diabetic person fasts, their blood sugar levels can rise significantly, which can cause consciousness disorders, digestive issues, and dehydration. This can lead to a coma or death in some cases, explains Serrou. The doctor also warns about the risk of low blood sugar levels during fasting.
After the examination, the doctor writes a prescription and advises her to avoid any complications during fasting. Motag says, “Before I got used to visiting the doctor, I used to faint during Ramadan. Now, I visit the doctor to avoid any issues or potential heart attacks.” Back in the market, sellers are busy with last-minute purchases of prayer supplies like rugs and Qurans. Mosques are preparing for large numbers of worshipers during the holy month of Ramadan.
Mosques are cleaned and decorated, and prayer areas are prepared for worshipers during Tarawih prayers. The first call to prayer on the first day of Ramadan marks the beginning of the holy month.
