Eid ul-Fitr, Eid al-Fitr, Id-ul-Fitr, or Id al-Fitr (Arabic: عيد الفطر ‘Īdu l-Fiṭr), often abbreviated to Eid is a two-day Muslim holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting (sawm).Eid-ul-Fitr, popularly known as the “Festival of Breaking of the Fast”, occurs as soon as the new moon is sighted at the end of the month of fasting, namely Ramadan. This festival celebrates the end of Ramzan, the Muslim month of fasting. It is an occasion of feasting and rejoicing.
Eid is an Arabic word meaning “festivity,” while Fiṭr means “original nature,” implying the restoration of one’s best human composition. The holiday celebrates the conclusion of the thirty days of dawn-to-sunset fasting during the entire month of Ramadan.
When is Eid Ul Fitr 2011?
Eid Ul Fitr 2011 will probably be observed on August 30. However, the exact date of this holiday will depend on when the crescent moon will be sighted after the new moon. This may vary on the location from where the moon is observed.
How is the Eid Ul Fitr celebrated?
On this special day, the Muslims indulge in traditional activities aside from celebrating with their dear ones. Read on to know about Eid Ul Fitr celebrations in different parts of the world.
United States: Eid Ul Fitr is not declared as a federal holiday in the United States. On this day, the Muslims get up early to offer prayers at the mosque or on their outdoor space. They get new clothes for this occasion and decorate their homes with special lighting. The Muslims also offer money to the poor on the Eid Ul Fitr.
The Eid Ul Fitr is the day when the Muslims in United States take delight in preparing recipes and sharing a special meal with their friends and family. They also thank God for all the good things they’ve received in their lives.
India: The Eid Ul Ftr is considered as a national holiday in India. People gather at the Jama Masjid mosque in New Delhi to offer their prayers to God. On this special day, the Muslims try out different recipes including sweet delicacies. Most of them indulge in Eid Ul Fitr celebrations by preparing a special dish – the ‘Siwaiyaan’. This recipe is actually made of toasted sweet vermicelli noodles, dried fruits, and milk. This is the day when the Muslims send Eid Ul Fitr cards to their loved ones and convey their best wishes on this festive occasion.
United Arab Emirates (UAE): The people of UAE indulge in Eid Ul Fitr celebrations with great enthusiasm. They usually wear white dresses with a long traditional ‘Thoub’ and ‘Ogal’. The ‘Ogal’ is a scarf having check patterns; it is attached with a black turban. Wearing these white dresses, the people offer prayers at the mosque. They also offer gifts to their loved ones on this special day. On the Eid Ul Fitr, festive fairs are held throughout the United Arab Emirates. The women paint their hands with henna and prepare sweets to gift to their dear ones on this day.