EID-UL-FITR, also called Feast of Breaking the Fast, and the Lesser Eid, is an important religious event celebrated by Muslims worldwide that marks the end of Ramzan, the Islamic holy month of fasting (sawm). The religious Eid is a single day during which Muslims are not permitted to fast. The holiday celebrates the conclusion of the 29 or 30 days of dawn-to-sunset fasting during the entire month of Ramzan. The day of Eid, therefore, falls on the first day of the month of Shawal. This is a day when Muslims around the world show a common goal of unity. The date for the start of any lunar Hijri month varies based on the sighting of new moon by local religious authorities, so the exact day of celebration varies by locality. However, in most countries, it is generally celebrated on the same day as Saudi Arabia.
Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the fasting month of Ramzan. This has to do with the religious aspects of the fast, which expresses many of the basic values of the Muslim community; e.g., empathy for the poor, charity, worship, steadfastness, patience etc. Fasting is also believed by some scholars to extol fundamental distinctions, lauding the power of the spiritual realm, while acknowledging the subordination of the physical realm. It also teaches a Muslim to stay away from worldly desires and to focus entirely on the Lord and thank Him for His blessings. It is a rejuvenation of the religion and it creates a stronger bond between the Muslim and his Lord. After the end of Ramzan, is a big celebration of Eid.
Eid-ul-Fitr is observed over a three-day public holiday in Bangladesh. Educational institutions usually remain closed for a week during this time. Bangladeshis observe the holiday by performing the obligatory Eid prayers on the morning of Eid, giving Zakat ul Fitr, and visiting friends and relatives. Popular customs also include ladies decorating one’s hands with henna, dressing up in new clothes and having a good meal with family and friends.
We hope that the festival will be celebrated with due regard to its importance – as a celebration of the holy month of Ramzan. We express our fervent wishes that people from all walks of life can enjoy the holiday and observe the festival without any extravagance or indulgence. In this regard, we wish our valued readers, patrons and well-wishers a happy and fulfilling Eid. May Allah shower His blessings on us all. Eid Mubarak.
