Ramadan ushers in a month of fasting, worship and charity for Muslims, in photos

Muslims worldwide will begin daily fasting from dawn to sunset as Ramadan starts, marking a period of worship, reflection and charity. The holy month, the ninth in the Islamic lunar calendar, brings families together for meals to break the fast. Ramadan begins Wednesday or Thursday, varying by country due to differing moon sighting practices.

This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors.