Eid al-Fitr: A celebration of gratitude, unity and charity

The significance of Eid

Eid al-Fitr, also known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is one of the most significant and joyous holidays observed by Muslims worldwide. It marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. Ramadan is a time when Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, abstaining from food, and other physical needs to grow closer to Allah (God), purify their hearts, and develop self-control.

Eid al-Fitr, which follows the conclusion of this month-long fast, is a celebration of the strength and devotion demonstrated during Ramadan.

Traditions and practices of Eid

Eid al-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan in the Islamic lunar calendar. The exact date of Eid varies each year depending on the sighting of the moon, and it is therefore celebrated on different dates across the globe. The holiday usually spans one to three days, during which Muslims come together with family, friends, and neighbours to celebrate the successful completion of Ramadan.

On the morning of Eid, Muslims perform a special prayer called "Salat al-Eid." This prayer, typically offered in congregation at mosques, open fields, or community centres, is an important part of the celebration. It consists of two units (rak'ahs) and is usually followed by a sermon. The prayer serves as a reminder of the unity of the Muslim community and the need for gratitude and humility. Before attending the prayer, Muslims are encouraged to give "Zakat al-Fitr," a form of charity that is meant to purify their fast and help those in need.

The spirit of giving and charity

A core element of Eid al-Fitr is giving charity. Zakat al-Fitr is an act of charity given by Muslims before the Eid prayer. It is intended to ensure that the poor and those in need can also participate in the festivities of Eid. The amount given is typically a small portion of food or money, based on the individual's ability, and it plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and solidarity among Muslims. It also helps ensure that everyone can enjoy the Eid celebrations, regardless of their financial situation.

Eid al-Fitr also emphasises the importance of forgiveness, peace, and unity. Muslims are encouraged to reconcile with others, resolve disputes, and forgive any grudges they may have carried during Ramadan. It is a time for Muslims to reaffirm their commitment to faith and to each other, reinforcing the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood in the Muslim Ummah (community).

Unity and social celebrations

In many places, such as Bangladesh and Pakistan, Eid al-Fitr is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervour. The streets are often adorned with lights, and markets are bustling with activity as people shop for clothes, gifts, and festive food. The sense of joy and togetherness is palpable, and it is common to see people visiting each other’s homes, exchanging warm greetings like "Eid Mubarak" (Blessed Eid), and offering prayers for the well-being of family, friends, and the entire Muslim community. The holiday also brings an air of festivity and rejuvenation, as it marks the end of a month of spiritual discipline and self-control.

The day is also marked by social gatherings, feasts, and the exchange of gifts. Families and friends come together to share delicious meals that often feature traditional foods that vary depending on cultural and regional preferences. In many countries, sweets such as vermicelli pudding, rice pudding, mishti, baklava, and various pastries are enjoyed during the celebration. The preparations for Eid begin several days before, with homes being cleaned, decorated, and new clothes bought to mark the occasion. Wearing new or special clothes for Eid is a way to celebrate the significance of the day and show gratitude for the blessings received during Ramadan.

Empathy, compassion, and community support

While Eid al-Fitr is a time of joy and celebration, it is also a reminder of the values of empathy, generosity, and community support that define Ramadan. Throughout the holy month, Muslims experience hunger and restraint, allowing them to empathise with the less fortunate and understand the struggles of those who go without. This spirit of compassion and giving continues on Eid, as communities ensure that no one is left behind in the festivities.

In many places, particularly in Pakistan and other South Asian countries, special efforts are made to support the needy and underprivileged. Families and charitable organisations distribute rations, clothing, and monetary aid, while food buffets are arranged in mosques and public areas to provide meals for those who might otherwise go without. By giving back to the community, Muslims honour the true essence of Eid—a celebration rooted in kindness, unity, and social responsibility.

Celebrating family and tradition

Eid al-Fitr also fosters familial bonding and is a time for families to come together. In countries like Pakistan, new, fancy clothes are often accessorised with mehendi (henna) designs and adorned with jewellery such as bangles, earrings, and bindis, adding to the festive spirit of Eid. While women typically wear special traditional outfits like shalwar kameez, men also partake in this tradition by selecting their finest and most well-kept traditional attire, such as the kurta shalwar.

A typical Eid al-Fitr day begins with men heading to congregational prayer, then returning home to enjoy a special breakfast, often shared with guests or immediate family. Meanwhile, women get ready and proudly display their blooming henna designs, applied the night before on Chaand Raat – a festive evening much of the Eid day preparations take place.

Another cherished tradition during Eid is the giving of Eidi-money given to elders to children in the family as a token of appreciation for their efforts during Ramadan. This tradition strengthens family ties and allows children to feel appreciated for their commitment to fasting.