Eid-al-fitri marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan fasting, and here are four [4] ways Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr.
1. Perform Eid prayers: Also known as Eid salah, Eid prayers are performed by all Muslims around the World on Eid ul Fitr when the fast is broken. This prayer includes two Rakaat units along with six or twelve additional takbeers.
The first rakaat has 7 takbeers while the second rakaat has 5 takbeers. The purpose of these prayers is to show gratitude to almighty Allah for blessing Muslims with the holy month of Ramadan and enabling them to do Ibadah during the sacred month. It also allows Muslims to begin the holy day with dutifulness to Allah and show their obedience to Him. Eid prayers are usually performed in congregation with friends, family and other fellow Muslims.
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| How to celebrate Eid-ul-fitri | Image credit: Getty Images |
2. Pay zakat al-Fitr and do charity: Eid ul Fitr is also considered as a day of charity. In addition to showing gratitude to Allah, Muslims pay Zakat al-Fitr, which is an obligatory payment in charity. Many Muslims around the World volunteer at soup kitchens and food banks, handing out food to those in need. Eid ul Fitr also serves as a day of introspection for Muslims when they reflect on their actions and assess whether they have contributed to the well-being of those less fortunate.
3. Enjoy feasts: It is forbidden for Muslims to fast on Eid ul Fitr. The festival starts with a light breakfast in the morning that traditionally includes dates and some sweets. Then, during lunch, families and friends gather and enjoy various local delicacies like kahk, kunafa and qatayef. The feast is considered incomplete without a large spread of food, including dishes like haleem, biryani, kebabs, nihari and the traditional dessert called sewayin. After performing their Eid prayers, Muslims get together with their friends, relatives and acquaintances. They often hold massive celebrations at homes, community centers or rented halls.
4. Exchange gifts and greetings: Exchanging gifts, greetings, and wishes is a big part of Eid ul Fitr celebrations. Muslims around the world wear new clothes, distribute sweets and exchange greetings with each other by saying “Eid Mubarak”, meaning “have a blessed Eid”. Elders give children money and gifts, which is called Eidi. Friends, neighbors, colleagues, loved ones and even strangers exchange sweet, treats like dates and cookies. Family members also buy presents for one another. Typically, most presents are given to the families’ youngest members. Also, Muslims decorate their homes and workplaces into colorful settings.