Photo Credit: Ahmad Gharabi/AFP
As the crescent moon ushers in the end of Ramadan, Muslim communities worldwide prepare for a jubilant culmination. Eid al-Fitr embodies a deeper significance of faith, unity and the enduring spirit of resilience.
Eid al-Fitr meaning the holiday of breaking the fast marks the end of the month-long dawn to sunset fasting of Ramadan. The holiday falls on the first day of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar. Eid al-Fitr does not always fall on the same day each year, as the start of the lunar Hijiri month varies based on when the new moon is sighted by the local religious authorities. On this day Muslims greet each other with Eid Mubarak which is Arabic for blessed Eid. Sweet dishes and foods are prepared and consumed as it comes after a month of fasting.
Eid al-Fitr begins at sunset on the night of the first sighting of the crescent moon. On the day of Eid, prayers are performed by the congregation in an open area such as a field, community center or mosque. The prayers are followed by the sermon and then a supplication asking for God’s forgiveness, mercy, peace and blessings for all living beings across the world. After prayers, Muslims visit their relatives, friends and acquaintances or hold large communal celebrations in homes or community centers.
Different countries have different traditions and cultures which they observe on the day of Eid. In the United Arab Emirates, men buy new Kandora while women wear special clothes for this occasion along with special perfume and braids. Most majilises (sitting rooms) would offer fruits, dates, tea or coffee to visitors.
Muslims in Tunisia celebrate Eid for three days two of which are national holidays. Special sweets including baklava, marzipan and cookies are made are made or bought to give to friends and relatives on that day.
In Bangladesh, celebrations start from the last quarter of the holy month of Ramadan, and it is celebrated with great pomp and festivities. In the Chaand Raat the Bangladesh television plays the popular Bengali Eid song while children make, and exchange Eid cards and girls decorate their hands with Mehndi. Bengali dishes like biryani, polao, pitha, kabab and payesh are served by the women. Wealthy Muslims distribute Zakat alms to the poor people.
Eid al-Fitr stands as a beautiful culmination of the holy month of Ramadan marking a time of joy and gratitude for Muslims worldwide. As families and communities come
together to celebrate and share meals and exchange gifts, Eid al-Fitr fosters a bond of love and solidarity transcending borders and differences across humanity.
By Christine Amanda
