New Delhi: Eid marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and celebrates the first day of the month of Shawwal. Eid is celebrated after a month-long praying and fasting in the month of Ramadan as it is believed that the first revelation of the Holy Quran was received during this holy month. During this month, Muslims observe a fast during the day and end it with a family feast called Iftaar in the evening.
The festivities occur in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and the annual ceremony is considered as one of the five pillars of Islam. Eid begins after the crescent moon is sighted. This year, Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on May 25th.
History of Eid-ul-Fitr
Eid-ul-Fitr was started by Prophet Muhammad as it believed he received the revelation of the Holy Quran during the month of Ramadan. It marks the end of fasting from dawn to dusk during Ramadan and the beginning of the month of Shawwal. It is celebrated to pay respect to Allah for providing strength and endurance during the month-long fasting rituals.
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Significance of Eid-ul-Fitr
Eid ul-Fitr falls on the first day of the month of shawwal, which is the only day in that month when Muslims do not need to fast. A unique salat (Islamic prayer) comprising of two rakats (units) is offered in an open field. It is performed in a congregation (Jama’at) and has six takbirs, which is essentially the act of raising the hands to the ears while saying “Allahu Akbar” which means “God is the greatest”.
How is Eid celebrated?
Muslims wake up early in the morning and chant Salat-il-Fajr (daily prayers). It is followed by breakfast, their first daytime meal in a month. The festival sees the exchange of gifts among friends and family members. Though the festival is marked by visits of family and friends, this year Eid will be celebrated keeping social distancing norms in place amid Coronavirus lockdown.
