Looking back: Happy Eid!

India has a diverse population and long history, meaning that many groups within India have century-old traditions and celebrations. A few weeks prior, we spotlighted the celebration of Holi, a Hindu festival celebrated across South Asian nations and diasporas globally. This week, we’ll spotlight the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a Muslim holiday at the end of the holy month of Ramadan!

What is Ramadan?

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims around the world focus on their spiritual lives; this tradition is based on the Prophet Muhammad’s first revelations of the Quran arriving during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims have suhur, an early morning meal before daybreak, and iftar, a late evening meal after dusk, fasting through the day. 

What is Eid?

Eid is a festival celebrating breaking the fast. Eid is celebrated by Muslims around the world, with a range of different traditions varying by sect and region. While Eid al-Fitr is the Arabic name for the celebration, Eid is called many other names in different regions. 

The first day of Eid is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon at the end of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, marking the start of the 10th month, called Shawwal. This year, the first day of Eid was on Wednesday, April 10th. Eid celebrations are typically 1-3 days long, depending on the country.

How is Eid celebrated?

Eid is celebrated with a morning prayer service, and meals with friends and family. Celebrations typically include donations to charity. While other traditions vary by region, many Muslims celebrate Eid by giving gifts, and wearing new clothes. Many will also visit their hometowns. Elders often give young children money in a custom called Eidiyah, or Eidi. Muslims in India celebrate by eating sheer khurma, mutton biryani, and other traditional recipes!