Eid al-Fitr is a celebration that takes place at the end of the Holy month of Ramadan, at the start of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. This year, it falls on May 1st or 2nd, depending on what part of the world you live in.
Eid means “the festival of breaking the fast” and commemorates the end of a month-long fast throughout Ramadan for Muslims around the world. The festival is a very important time in Islam and allows families, loved ones, and communities to come together and celebrate after a month of abstinence and dedication to Allah and attempt to attain Taqwa (Piousness).
Eid marks the end of Ramadan, the month in which the Holy Qur’an was first revealed to Prophet Mohammad. Throughout Ramadan, Muslims around the world undertake a fast from sunrise to sunset and spend a lot of time in self-reflection while studying the Qur’an and connecting with Allah on a spiritual level. After a full month of sacrifice and dedication, Eid al-Fitr is a time to come together with family and loved ones to enjoy everyday blessings.
To celebrate a full month of fasting, Eid al-Fitr brings together family, friends, and communities for feasts. However, before the festivities can begin, there are a few rituals that are followed by Muslims. The day begins by performing a ghusl (which purifies the whole body) and performing the Fajr prayer before gathering with family and friends in the mosque for the Eid prayer and to listen to the Khutbah (sermon). Muslims typically wear the finest clothes they own or new clothes they have bought for the occasion and greet their family, friends and community with hugs and 'Eid Mubarak”. Zakat al-Fitr is a charity donation which must be made before Eid prayers begin, as this is distributed amongst the neediest to ensure they can also take part in festivities.
It’s also traditional to exchange gifts during the Eid celebration, particularly between young children and close family members. Females also engage in 'Chand Raat' festivities in India and Pakistan, where they buy bangles and apply henna/mehendi on their hands. Overall, Eid is a joyous festival bringing lots of fun and love for those celebrating.
Crazy Creatives wish you a very Happy, Blessed, and Safe Eid.
Eid Mubarak from us all to you and your loved ones.
Kumkum Bhagya
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