A month ago, we extended our heartfelt wishes to our viewers for a blessed Ramadan, a month known as the month of fasting during which Muslims from dawn until sunset abstain from food, drink and other physical needs as a demonstration of self-discipline, devotion, and empathy for those less fortunate. Following this period of spiritual reflection comes the joyous celebration of Eid-al-Fitr, which many Muslims worldwide are celebrating today with great zeal.
As with Ramadan, the specific date of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the Islamic lunar calendar, which relies on the physical sighting of the crescent moon. On Tuesday, the moon was sighted in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt, Bahrain, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan, and the Philippines, meaning that these countries will observe Eid today. India will celebrate the festival on Thursday, except for the southwestern state of Kerala, where the moon was sighted on Tuesday.
The Arabic word “Eid” literally means “feast”. There are two major Eids in the Islamic calendar – Eid al-Fitr, celebrated in the Islamic month of Shawwal following Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha, commemorated later during the twelfth and final month of “Dhu al-Hijjah.”
Eid al-Fitr is a three-day-long festival and is commonly referred to as the “Lesser” or “Smaller Eid” when compared to Eid al-Adha, which is four-days-long and is known as the “Greater Eid.”
Celebrations vary greatly depending on cultural and geographical factors. Typically, the first day of the festival commences with special congregational prayers early in the morning, followed by warm exchanges of “Eid Mubarak,” meaning “Blessed Eid.” Afterwards, it is common for families to gather for huge feasts featuring a variety of desserts and other culinary delights. Such dishes also greatly vary from culture to culture. In the Indian subcontinent (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh), a sweet dish known as “Kheer,” a special type of rice pudding, graces many tables.
Additionally, in many cultures, there exists a cherished tradition known as “Eidi,” wherein younger members, especially children, receive gifts and cash prizes from their elders, symbolizing love and generosity.
In many countries, people also decorate their homes with lanterns, twinkling lights or flowers.
While Ramadan emphasizes abstention, Eid-al-Fitr represents a joyful departure from this restraint. Yet, for the faithful, it holds deeper significance, symbolizing a vital aspect of their faith.
On behalf of all of us at TVP World, we extend warm wishes for a joyous Eid al-Fitr. Eid Mubarak!
The Arabic word “Eid” literally means “feast”. There are two major Eids in the Islamic calendar – Eid al-Fitr, celebrated in the Islamic month of Shawwal following Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha, commemorated later during the twelfth and final month of “Dhu al-Hijjah.”
Eid al-Fitr is a three-day-long festival and is commonly referred to as the “Lesser” or “Smaller Eid” when compared to Eid al-Adha, which is four-days-long and is known as the “Greater Eid.”
Celebrations vary greatly depending on cultural and geographical factors. Typically, the first day of the festival commences with special congregational prayers early in the morning, followed by warm exchanges of “Eid Mubarak,” meaning “Blessed Eid.” Afterwards, it is common for families to gather for huge feasts featuring a variety of desserts and other culinary delights. Such dishes also greatly vary from culture to culture. In the Indian subcontinent (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh), a sweet dish known as “Kheer,” a special type of rice pudding, graces many tables.
Additionally, in many cultures, there exists a cherished tradition known as “Eidi,” wherein younger members, especially children, receive gifts and cash prizes from their elders, symbolizing love and generosity.
In many countries, people also decorate their homes with lanterns, twinkling lights or flowers.
While Ramadan emphasizes abstention, Eid-al-Fitr represents a joyful departure from this restraint. Yet, for the faithful, it holds deeper significance, symbolizing a vital aspect of their faith.
On behalf of all of us at TVP World, we extend warm wishes for a joyous Eid al-Fitr. Eid Mubarak!
Source: TVP World
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