When : August 2013

‘A festival to rejoice…a festival to share the spirit of love, peace and brotherhood’

One of Islam's most important festivals, Eid ul Fitr is the culmination of the month-long period of fasting and austerity known as Ramzan or Ramadan. It is believed that the Holy Quran was revealed during the month of Ramzan, and in commemoration of that sacred revelation, Eid is celebrated on the day following the sighting of the new moon.

Eid Traditions

Muslims devote the entire month of Ramzan in offering communal prayers to the Almighty, by visiting mosques and reciting ‘dua’ as many times as possible.

The fasting is observed strictly and right from sunrise to sunset, food and water are not taken, even saliva, is not swallowed!

Eid Celebrations

Eid ul Fitr is considered to be a thanksgiving day when Muslims, all across the world, thank Allah for his blessings and get drawn into celebrations. On the day of Eid, namaz at mosques is followed by the giving of fitr (alms).

Family gatherings, fireworks and much feasting round off the festivities. People wear new clothes, houses are decorated, friends and relatives visit each other to exchange greetings. The highlight of banquet tables is the sweet milk-and-vermicelli pudding known as 'seviyan'- because of which many people refer to Eid ul Fitr as 'meethi' or 'sweet' Eid.

Children receive money, gifts, sweets and clothes from elders on this occasion. In predominantly Muslim neighborhoods, special Eid fairs appear where trinkets, clothing and a whole lot of other bric-a-brac are available. Please Note: The date may fluctuate, according to the sighting of the moon.