Eid al-Fitr
Observances: Zakat al-Fitr charity, Eid prayers
Celebrations: Eid prayers, charity, social gatherings, festive meals, gift-giving
Date: Sat, 23 May, 2020 – Sun, 24 May, 2020
Significance: Marks the end of Ramadan fasting
Type of holiday: Lebaran, Religious holiday, Islamic holiday
One of the most prominent festivals of the Islamic community, Eid ul-Fitr or Eid al-Fitr is celebrated widely all over the globe. On this day, the holy month of Ramadan i.e., a month-long-period of fasting comes to an end for the Muslim community. The festival falls on the first day of the tenth month of the Islamic calendar i.e., Shawwal which is observed when the moon of that day is sighted.
Best Places to Observe Eid ul-Fitr Celebrations across India
- Lucknow
- Delhi
- Agra
- Hyderabad
- Mumbai
- Bangalore
- Srinagar
Also known as ‘Meethi Eid’, it is celebrated by distributing home-made sweet, ‘Seviyan’, prepared with vermicelli dipped in sweetened milk and dry-fruits. In 2020, Eid ul-Fitr will be observed from the evening of 23rd May till the sunset of 24th May. (Dates may vary depending on the position of the moon).
Eid ul-Fitr or ‘Sweet Eid’ was originated by Prophet Muhammad and is being celebrated by the Muslim community for many centuries. The day is observed as the first day of the month of Shawwal which comes right after the conclusion of Ramadan i.e., the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The fast of Ramadan (Ramazan) expresses the basic values of the Islamic community including empathy for the poor, charity, worship, steadfastness and patience; it comes to an end on ‘Meethi Eid’.
According to the Islamic calendar, Eid ul-Fitr begins when the first ray of light from the crescent moon of the first day of Shawwal falls on the ground. And if the moon is not sighted due to weather conditions issues then Eid is observed on the following day.
What Do People Do?
Many Muslims attend communal prayers and listen to a khutba or sermon on the first day of the month of Shawwal. These prayers are held outside or in large venues, such as sports arenas, in some places. Many Muslims may travel far to participate in these activities. Some communities organize different festivities, such as communal meals or events for children, on this day.
If a Muslim has not given zakat al-fitr during Ramadan, he or she can give this on Eid-al-Fitr. Zakat al-fitr is a form of charity consisting of a quantity of food, such as barley, dates, raisins or wheat flour, or its monetary equivalent given to the poor. Many Muslims may also prepare festive meals to share, wear new clothes, visit relatives and give presents or candy to children. Cards can also be sent, often featuring the words “Eid Mubbarak” (blessed Eid).
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