Brendan O'Connor “Eid has become so commercialised – the price of dates is ridiculous”
Mar 14, 2026
Dr. Amanullah de Sondy, head of the Study of Religions at University College Cork, reflects on Ramadan and Eid. He describes how fasting slows life, builds gratitude and alters routines. He talks about family rhythms, rules around who fasts and communal iftar traditions. He criticises Eid’s growing commercialisation and the rising costs around celebrations.
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Ramadan Creates Intentional Slowness
- Ramadan intentionally slows daily life to create space for reflection and gratitude.
- Amanullah de Sondy describes fasting, prayer and charity combining to alter pace and priorities even when the world rushes on.
Fasting Changes With Age And Family Circumstance
- Amanullah's experience of Ramadan changed as he aged and moved away from family in Glasgow to Cork.
- He recalls seven family members fasting together, his father deceased and his mother no longer fasting due to illness, showing personal rhythm shifts over time.
Fasting Slows Cognitive Tempo
- Fasting alters cognitive tempo and daily habits, making Amanullah noticeably slower in responses and activities.
- He cites slower email replies and reduced gym activity as concrete examples of the altered state during Ramadan.