August 8, 2013
The Muslim community residing in the city has started preparing for the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration but it is yet to be decided whether Eid will be celebrated on Friday or Saturday. Today’s sighting of the moon would determine whether the festival will be celebrated on Friday or Saturday. Eid is on Friday, but if moon is not sighted on Thursday, it will be celebrated on Saturday and that too only if the moon is seen on Friday night.
A committee of scholars from Jama Masjid, New Delhi, will decide the date. Eid-ul-Fitr ends the fasting month of ramzan, which could be either 29 or 30 days. Eid is a day of merriment and thanksgiving. Members of the community celebrate by gathering with friends and family, preparing delicacies, wearing new clothes, giving each other gifts and putting up lights and other decorations in their homes.
It is believed that breaking the fast with date or kheer is propitious. Fitr, which means charity, is another important activity during the day. It is compulsory for Muslims, especially those financially sound, to give away charity. Every person has to give a minimum of Rs 32 on behalf of each family member to underprivileged Muslims.
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