Home News Eid-ul-Fitr: A Day of Joy, Togetherness, and Gratitude for Muslims Worldwide

Eid-ul-Fitr: A Day of Joy, Togetherness, and Gratitude for Muslims Worldwide

by Thaabit Kamaar

Eid-ul-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of the Holy month of Ramadan. According to Islamic teaching, it is a day where thankfulness, happiness, and overall good moods are compulsory.

Eid celebrations are a fundamental aspect of the Islamic faith. There are two Eids on the Islamic calendar, and both days are celebrated with great fervour by Muslims worldwide, greeting each other with Eid Mubarak, which means Blessed Eid.

Onlookers releasing colourful balloons after Eid prayers in Cairo, Egypt. [Source: Mohamed Abd El Ghany/ Reuters]

The day serves as a reminder of the Islamic principles and values perpetuating unity, generosity and compassion. Moreover, it is a day of spiritual gratitude shown to the creator for the blessings bestowed upon them during the holy month.

Family takes a selfie inftont of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey. [Source: Erdem Sahine/EPA-EFE]

Eid Celebrated Around the World

Eid celebrations vary from country to county. However, it is always marked by the same themes of enjoyment, hopefulness and jubilance. Globally, people spend the day visiting friends and family and accompanying relatives to pay their respects to the deceased.

Two men greeting each other as per Eid customs of physical embrace in Kabul, Afghanistan.[Source: Samullah Popal/ EPA-EFE]

Muslim congregation offering Eid prayers in Belgrade, Serbia. [Source: Marko Djurica/Serbia]

It is a day when people wear their best clothing, traditional or otherwise. Furthermore, some people spend time with underprivileged communities by preparing food and gifts.

Men sitting as Imam proceeds with Eid address in Adiyaman, Turkey. [Source: Burak Kara/ Getty Images]

Women congregation performing Eid Prayers in Bucharest, Romania. [Source: Andreea Alexandru/AP/REX/Shuttershock]

In Muslim countries, Eid celebrations can last for approximately three days. In contrast, in non-Muslim countries, it is celebrated for only one day. It is a time to appreciate the rich cultural and ethnic diversity of the Muslim community.

As the sun shines on the mosque, Men are performing the morning Eid prayers in Beirut, Lebanon. [Source: AP Photo/ Hassan Ammar]

Muslim women decorating their hands with mendi in Nairobi, Kenya. [Source: Monicah Mwangi/ Reuters]

Eid offers Muslims an opportunity to reflect, show love and affection to their fellow humans, and share their blessings with others. Many Muslims hope to continue the practices far beyond Ramadan. Actions include performing daily prayers, reading the Quran and giving to the less fortunate.

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