Is the practice of fasting in Islam historically connected to fasting in earlier religions, and how does Islam view the fasting of Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism and Buddhism?

Summary

Fasting has a history of practice among followers of the revealed religions before the Prophet and is also observed in many other religions. However, its meaning, purpose, physical practice and ritual history differ according to each belief. In Islam, Ramadan fasting is obligatory on every Muslim who meets the conditions and is one of the pillars of Islam. The fatwa states that Hindu fasting goes beyond the limits of Islamic creed because it involves shirk, and Muslims must abandon the ritual worship of other religions.

Written in our own words from the original fatwa — check the source before acting on it.