Muslims to celebrate Eid Al-Fitr July 28
While dates can vary, this year most Muslims will begin celebrating Eid on July 28, to mark the end of the month of Ramadan and the start of a feast that lasts up to three days in some countries. This event involves many Muslims waking up early and praying either at an outdoor prayer ground or a mosque. Eid, meaning festival in Arabic, has different names around the world. In South Asia, it's often called Choti Eid, meaning small Eid, in comparison to the larger Eid Al-Adha. In Turkey, it's referred to as Ramazan Bayrami, meaning Ramadan holiday. The first day of the holiday is generally regarded as the most important, with all members of the family waking up early, and the men going to their neighbourhood mosques for the special Bayram prayer.
Whether they are in a predominantly Muslim country or living around the world, Muslims look back to the religious and cultural customs of their anscestors when celebrating Eid. Some of the basics, such as giving charity and attending Eid prayers, are common among all nationalities, while many practices are unique.
If a Muslim has not given zakat al-fitr during Ramadan, he or she can give this on Eid-al-Fitr. Zakat al-fitr is a form of charity consisting of a quantity of food, such as barley, dates, raisins or wheat flour, or its monetary equivalent given to the poor. Many Muslims may also prepare festive meals to share, wear new clothes, visit relatives and give presents or candy to children.
The religious Eid is a single day during which Muslims are not permitted to fast.
Common greetings during this holiday are the Arabic greeting 'Eid Mubārak ("Blessed Eid") or 'Eid Sa'īd ("Happy Eid"). In addition, many countries have their own greetings in the local language - in Turkey, for example, a typical saying might be Bayramınız kutlu olsun or "May your Bayram - Eid - be blessed." Muslims are also encouraged on this day to forgive and forget any differences with others or animosities that may have occurred during the year. (Agencies)
