It’s that time of the year again. The holy month of Ramzan is here along with its spirit of charity, tolerance and abnegation and a lot more.

Pakistanis known to be the most charitable people distribute about Rs70 billion as charity in this month, according to a rough estimate. This is a huge sum and must have a trickle-down effect. The fact remains that this amount is in sharp contrast to the zakat that the commercial banks are able to collect on the first day of the month. According to the State Bank of Pakistan, the commercial banks deducted an amount of Rs4.05 billion on the first of Ramzan in 2014. This shows a general preference of the people of helping the needy in their individual capacity instead of posing trust in the government.

The religious fervour and economic activity go hand in hand in many other spheres. Some of it comes in the shape of Ramzan packages announced by the provincial governments and various other schemes offered by the private sector for the consumers. As it happens every year, questions are raised on the availability and quality of the products made available under the Ramzan packages.

The media, especially electronic media, is alive to the sentiments of the rozadars during this time, thus, coming up with a host of ramzan-specific shows. Interestingly, cricket by night in the streets and in open spaces is not just sheer enjoyment but a source of income for players, organisers, transporters, hotel owners, and even tea vendors. All these economic and sports activities go perfectly with the requirement and mood of the change in the new office timings that are Ramzan-specific.

With all these comprehensive activities that are all geared around Ramzan, there are those who do not fast for one reason or the other. There is a need to show some tolerance for them too, in the true spirit of this month.