The Celebration of Eid across cultures and countries

Eid ul-Fitr, one of the most significant festivals in Islam, marks the end of Ramzan, the holy month of fasting. In 2024, Eid 2024 date is expected to be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10th, though the exact date may vary depending on the sighting of the moon, which marks the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal. This date is subject to change based on the lunar calendar and regional sighting traditions.

Eid ul-Fitr is a joyous occasion marked by various traditions and customs observed by Muslims worldwide. The day typically begins with special prayers known as Salat al-Eid, performed in congregation at mosques or open prayer grounds. These prayers are offered in thanksgiving to Allah for the strength and guidance during the month of Ramadan. After the prayers, Muslims greet each other with embraces and well wishes, saying "Eid Mubarak," meaning "Blessed Eid." Eid ul-Fitr in 2024 is anticipated to be celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm by Muslims around the world. Some renowned countries are Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Turkey, India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Iran, UAE, New Zealand, USA and so on

Anarkali Kurtas,  lehengas, Shararas, Suits and Sarees Eid happens to fall in hot Summers and always look for the outfits that looks elegant yet airy and light weight

Eid is the time of the year that brings in new collection launches by several designers across India ,Pakistan and bangladesh. A time for celebration, sweets and yummy offers. 

Eid Festivities in New Zealand : 

New Zealand Eid Day embodies a spirit of unity and joy, drawing together the Muslim community across the country. In 2023, vibrant Eid celebrations took place in Auckland, Christchurch, Hamilton, and Aotearoa, Wellington.

 Image courtesy: RNZ / Angus Dreaver

Eid, meaning "feast," holds profound significance for nearly 2 billion Muslims worldwide, observed biannually. Eid Al-Adha, also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice, marks the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, a sacred journey for Muslims worldwide.

The day commences with morning prayers, followed by an array of festivities at the Eid carnival. Children revel in activities like bouncy castles, cotton candy stands, Quran quizzes, and face painting. Meanwhile, adults can indulge in food stalls, henna art, and ethnic clothing counters.

The largest gathering occurred in Auckland, with over 5000 attendees joining the festivities organized by the New Zealand Eid Day Trust. It's heartening to witness such strong community spirit.

The Muslim community extends a warm invitation to engage with people of all backgrounds, fostering understanding of Islamic customs, traditions, and culture. Together, let's celebrate diversity and stand against hate.

Eid serves as a poignant reminder to spread messages of love and humanity, emphasizing unity in the face of adversity. Let's ensure that compassion prevails over bigotry and division.

It's noteworthy that the United Nations recognizes 15 March as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, underscoring the global commitment to promoting tolerance and respect for all.

https://youtu.be/m6aCx47clNE

Eid Celebrations in USA : 

1. Islam is booming in the United States, experiencing rapid growth as the number of mosques across the country approaches 3,000, according to the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding. Leading the pack are states like New York with 343 mosques, followed by California with 304, and Texas with 224.
2. Muslim Americans eagerly anticipate Eid not only for cherished family recipes but also for the chance to flaunt new attire. Designers such as Melanie Elturk, Lena Aljahim, and Ainara Medina unveil exclusive Eid collections, featuring eco-friendly hijabs crafted from recycled plastic bottles and sustainable bamboo.
3. Bridging the gap created by painful memories of 9/11, American schools are now increasingly recognizing and embracing cultural diversity. Growing numbers of school districts nationwide are accommodating Muslim students by observing Eid, marking a positive shift towards acceptance and inclusivity.
4. In 2023, the White House made history by hosting its inaugural Eid al-Adha celebration, highlighting the significant contributions of millions of Muslims to American society. Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff led the event, emphasizing the invaluable role of American Muslims in fostering diversity, inclusion, and religious freedom.
5. Chand Raat, a vibrant South Asian Muslim tradition known as the "night of the moon," epitomizes the fusion of religion and culture. This lively celebration occurs on the final night of Ramadan, marked by the sighting of the new moon. Each year, Jackson Heights becomes a hub of festivity as South Asians gather to celebrate Eid, adorned in colorful salwar kameez and intricate gold jewelry while fireworks illuminate the night sky.

Eid Celebrations in India:

Delhi

Image Courtesy: PTI

Delhi, the proud capital city of India, draws a multitude of visitors during its festivals. Each festivity in Delhi is marked by a vibrant display of fervor and enthusiasm. During eid in india, people gather at the illustrious Jama Masjid, one of India's renowned mosques, to offer prayers. The streets of Old Delhi are adorned throughout the month of Ramadan, and the popular Gali Kebabiyan near Jama Masjid serves its famous Ramzan special, Haleem. Old Delhi transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle during Eid-ul-Fitr celebration, offering an abundance of delectable food stalls and dazzling decorations, inviting visitors to indulge in mouth-watering delicacies and witness the vibrant celebrations of the Islamic faith. Ramzan special Haleem is also served at the popular Gali Kebabiyan at Jama Masjid.

Srinagar

Image Courtesy: PTI

In Srinagar, the entire city embraces Eid-ul-Fitr with exuberance and grandeur. Prayers are offered at Aasar-E-Shareef Hazratbal, while locals and tourists flock to various markets to purchase new clothes and culinary delights. Busy hubs like Lal Chowk, Regal Chowk, and Goni Market buzz with activity throughout Ramadan and on Eid day, drawing crowds from all walks of life. Additionally, Eidgah becomes a focal point as thousands gather to offer prayers in this historic location.

Mutton Yakhni is mostly prepared on the occasion of eid festival

A lip-smacking and aromatic dish from Kashmir goes by the name Tabak Maaz; composed of ribs of lamb/mutton.

Rista. Its soup is gravy and red in color, just like Rogan Josh. Rista is spongy in nature. If you like non-vegetarian, give it a try and add to your appetite!

One of the aspects that has changed in Kashmir is the traditional clothes.

For women, there was the “tilla” embroidery, handmade designs of stunning intricacy woven on garments such as the “pheran,” a loose overcoat worn by Kashmiris.

Some of the places to shop for eid are : 

1. Lal Chowk
2. Polo View Market
3. Badshah Chowk
4. Residency Road
5. Kashmir Government Arts Emporium
6. Zaina Kadal Market
7. Dastgir Sahib Market
8. Nishat Market

People from many villages come and place orders a month in advance to pick for eid celebrations. There are a lot of offers and collection availability as well at the time of eid. New designs from small boutiques are launched and displayed at varied price points . 

Lucknow

Chowk

Chowk is renowned for its vibrant shopping scene during Eid festival, drawing crowds with its bustling market stalls and shops. Visitors flock to Chowk to indulge in the traditional shopping experience, browsing through a plethora of offerings including clothing, jewelry, footwear, and accessories. Of particular interest are the traditional Lucknowi treasures like intricately embroidered chikankari outfits, elegantly crafted kurta sets, and beautifully adorned dupattas. The bazaar is highly esteemed for its exquisite zardozi craftsmanship and authentic attar (perfumes), making it a favorite destination for discerning shoppers.

Aminabad

Aminabad, another cherished market in Lucknow, is a must-visit during Eid festivities. Known for its lively ambiance and traditional shopping delights, Aminabad boasts a diverse array of products spanning clothing, accessories, home goods, and electronics. The market shines with its renowned Chikan embroidery craftsmanship, inviting tourists to explore a plethora of shops and boutiques offering finely crafted Chikan creations.

Kolkata

Known as the 'City of Joy,' Kolkata pulsates with enthusiasm during Eid, adorning its Muslim-dominated areas with vibrant decorations. Families and friends gather to celebrate Eid, often visiting famous eateries to savor delectable cuisine together.

Most of the markets in the south, central kolkata extend their hours to midnight during eid every year .Markets on Zakaria Street and Chitpore Road will also remain open until midnight. 

Hyderabad

Image Courtesy: Ease My Trip

Hyderabad, the city of nizams, captivates visitors with its unique offerings during Ramadan. Charminar serves as a focal point for prayers and shopping, while Mecca Masjid and other locales attract worshippers. The aroma of Haleem wafts through the streets, enticing food enthusiasts and adding to the festive atmosphere.Some of the famous places are Madannapet, Mir Alam Tank, Masab Tank, Golcondaidgah and Secunderbad.

Charminar road turns into a paradise for the shopaholics during this festival. Rest Assured you are greeted with a welcoming smile to the shops, food stalls , Do visit with your family and indulge in the culture of hyderabad during eid. Many malls and luxury spots also offer special discounts and events around this time but if you are looking to explore culture , charminar is the place to be. 

Mumbai

In Mumbai, the bustling metropolis, Eid is celebrated with grandeur and excitement. Azad Maidan hosts prayers, while mosques like Minara Masjid dazzle with decorations. Food enthusiasts flock to Mohammed Ali Road to savor a variety of culinary delights, and Haji Ali Dargah welcomes visitors seeking spiritual solace amidst the festivities.

Eid is a window used by many bollywood films to release, people opt to visit at the theaters while many restaurants and clothing brands offer great discounts and new collections during this time. 

Find some legacy ethnic stores in Dadar, Khar west. Vaishali market is known for Eid shopping if you are going affordable and looking for ready made suits. Get a glimpse of chikankari outfits if that is your cup of tea at the linking road market. And ofcourse the Mangaldas market , with a lot of unbranded fabrics, stitched/ unstitched outfits can be purchased on good discounted rates . 

Eid Celebrations in United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Image Courtesy: Khaleej Times

In the UAE, Eid celebrations are grand and infused with local culture. The streets and homes are illuminated with lights, and traditional meals are prepared. They buy new clothes and visit each other houses to exchange gifts and sweets. Public celebrations often include fireworks, concerts, and various family-oriented activities. Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity, is given before the Eid ul-Fitr prayer. For Eid al-Adha, the act of Qurbani (sacrificial slaughtering of livestock) is observed, and the meat is distributed among family, friends, and the needy.

Eid Celebrations in Saudi Arabia

Image Coutesy: Arab News

In Saudi Arabia Eid celebrations start with the sighting of the new moon. This is a time of deep religious significance and community. Prayer gatherings are held in mosques and open spaces across the Kingdom. Following the prayers, people visit relatives starting with the elders to offer greetings, and children often receive money or gifts.  Saudis engage in a host of cultural activities that exemplify their heritage during Eid celebrations, such as the art of falconry, cheering at camel races, and performing traditional dances.. Traditional dishes like kabsa (spiced rice with meat) are savored. During Eid al-Adha, sacrificial rituals are conducted, signifying Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.

Eid Celebrations in Turkey

Image Courtesy: Economic Times

In Turkey, Eid is known as Şeker Bayramı (Sugar Feast) for Eid al-Fitr and Kurban Bayramı (Sacrifice Feast) for Eid al-Adha. Eid starts with a special morning prayer, and people dress in their finest clothes. Children go door-to-door, kissing hands of the elderly and receiving sweets and small amounts of money in return. Families gather for meals, often starting with breakfast, and traditional foods like baklava and halva are enjoyed. Livestock sacrifice and meat distribution among the less fortunate are common practices during Kurban Bayramı.

Eid Celebrations in Egypt

Image Courtesy: Arab News

In Egypt, Eid is a time for social gatherings, and joyous celebrations. Mosques are filled for the Eid prayers, and people often gather in parks and on the Nile cruises for picnics afterwards. During Eid al-Adha, many Egyptians who can afford it perform the Qurbani and share meat with the poor. Fattah, a dish made with rice, bread, garlic, and meat, is a traditional meal consumed during the festivities.

Eid Celebrations in Indonesia

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Indonesia, with the largest Muslim population in the world, In Indonesia, the festival of Eid is known as Hari Raya Idul Fitri. Festivities commence with the takbir, an announcement calling the faithful to prayer, and the communal Eid prayer is typically conducted in expansive open areas. Eid with great fervor. Known as Lebaran, Eid in Indonesia involves a mass exodus from cities as people return to their home villages in a tradition called mudik. Prayers are held in mosques and open fields, and people seek forgiveness from elders, called sungkem. Special dishes such as ketupat (rice cakes wrapped in coconut leaves) and opor ayam (chicken in coconut milk) are prepared.

Eid Celebrations in Pakistan

Image Courtesy: thestatesman

Eid in Pakistan is a cultural spectacle. The night before Eid, called Chand Raat (Night of the Moon), is filled with people shopping for clothes and bangles and applying henna on their hands. Eid prayers are held in mosques and open areas, followed by a three-day celebration. Sheer khurma (vermicelli pudding with milk) is a staple sweet for Eid ul-Fitr, while Barbeque parties are common during Eid al-Adha to enjoy the meat from Qurbani, the sacrificial offering.

These diverse customs and traditions reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the Islamic world, as people come together in a spirit of joy, reflection, and charity during the cherished time of Eid.