A somber Ramadan in Egypt

The start of Ramadan is a time of joy for Muslims, launching a month of night feasts and parties.

But in Cairo this week, many say they are in no mood to celebrate. But it is different this year.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) CAIRO RESIDENT YASMINE ABDEL RAHMAN SAYING:

''This year and the year before and the year before it - are all the same - we do not feel it's Ramadan for three years now, there is no joy, there is no Ramadan like the old days.''

Many are weary of the two and half years since the first uprising in Egypt

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) UNIDENTIFIED CAIRO RESIDENT SAYING:

''People are afraid -- they are afraid to leave home. Everyday, people dying. If my children and I go out, I can't guarantee what could happen in the street. People are staying at home out of fear - but we hope it will be okay.''

As Egypt veers into bloodshed and anxiety following the military overthrow of elected President Mohamed Mursi, this year Ramadan may offer a religious r