The month of Ramadan is a month of self-purification and restraint, bringing mercy and blessings for all. Through fasting, we can realize the sufferings of the poor. However, while Ramadan is a month of joy, it is also a name of challenge for the middle class. On one hand, there is the spirituality and happiness of Ramadan; on the other hand, there are household expenses and financial hardship.
Middle-class people wish to perform their religious duties properly during Ramadan, but financial constraints make it difficult. We see that during this month, the prices of essential commodities skyrocket. In our society, the middle class is a group with limited income who still maintain social dignity. Their self-respect is their greatest asset. Seasonal price hikes in the Ramadan market, limited income, and the obligation to uphold social status create immense psychological pressure. This silent crisis does not appear in surveys, nor do they express it openly.
The wealthy can afford to purchase goods at higher prices, and there are various charitable initiatives and government programs for the poor. But the middle class never extends their hands to others; they must preserve their dignity within their limited income. They are caught in a double bind—low salaries with uncertain expectations on one side, and the pressure to maintain social respectability on the other.
In society, everyone sees the suffering of the poor, but the silent crisis of the middle class remains invisible. During Ramadan, the demand for edible oil, sugar, lentils, dates, chickpeas, chicken, and beef increases sharply, along with their prices. As a result, pressure on household budgets intensifies. Most middle-class families depend on fixed incomes from government or private jobs. The majority of their earnings go toward house rent, gas bills, electricity bills, children’s education, and healthcare. Consequently, they have very limited opportunities for savings. Even purchasing something they desire in a given month can consume their entire salary.
Middle-class fathers make endless sacrifices, satisfying themselves with simple meals so that their children can eat fish or meat. Mothers reduce their own portions to ensure comfort for their families. No one notices these sacrifices, and they never display their hardship. In our society, there is a strong culture of showmanship—competition over who buys the latest updated items first. Trying to keep pace with such social competition pushes the middle class into further financial distress.
In the Ramadan market, even essential items for iftar, such as lemons or eggplants, reach exorbitant prices. There seems to be no one to restrain this runaway market. The helplessness is visible in the faces of middle- and lower-income people. Due to high prices, they cannot afford sufficient fruits and vegetables and are forced to purchase less than their needs, which may lead to malnutrition.
Additionally, Ramadan requires money for religious obligations such as ihram, fitra, and zakat, which can be burdensome for the middle class. Social obligations—hosting relatives for sehri or iftar—also add financial pressure. Increased electricity usage during Ramadan results in higher bills, compounding the hardship.
To address this silent crisis, market transparency is essential. Unreasonable price hikes must be controlled. Monitoring and supervision should be strengthened, and the dominance of middlemen reduced. Especially during Ramadan, syndicates often manipulate prices for excessive profit; firm action must be taken against them. Farmers should be enabled to bring their products directly to the market, and government-subsidized supply programs should be expanded. At the same time, consumers must become more aware.
If traders do not abandon their greed for profit during this sacred month, and if the state fails to break the poisonous grip of syndicates, then the true teachings of Ramadan will remain unfulfilled. The middle class is the driving force of administration, education, banking, healthcare, and the private sector. Their silent crisis, if prolonged, may affect long-term social stability.
The light that glows every evening in middle-class homes is not merely electric light—it is the light of struggle, dreams, and the indomitable will to survive. If that light goes out, the backbone of society will break. Ignoring their silent crisis may increase social dissatisfaction and structural weakness, negatively affecting the country and society.
Therefore, it is hoped that this month of mercy and blessings does not become a cause of sighs for anyone. May Ramadan be a celebration for all. For the middle class, Ramadan is a name of struggle. Despite financial hardship, food shortages, and social pressure, they strive to preserve the sanctity and joy of the month. They spend time together as a family, worship, and support one another. Thus, the Ramadan of the middle class teaches us to find joy even amid struggle.
Above all, may the blessed month of Ramadan bring happiness to everyone
