The crescent moon of Shawwal was sighted tonight in Kerala, Ladakh, and Jammu and Kashmir, marking Eid al-Fitr 2024. Consequently, these regions will celebrate Eid al-Fitr on April 10. However, the rest of India, along with Bangladesh and other South Asian countries, will continue fasting until April 11, following the traditional 30-day fast observed by Muslims in the Middle East and the West.
When is Eid al-Fitr 2024?
The announcement comes after meticulous observations and reports from various regions. While Kerala, Ladakh, and Jammu and Kashmir will join countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar, and others in celebrating Eid on April 10, other parts of India, including New Delhi and Karnataka, await the crescent sighting for Eid celebrations on April 11.
In Ladakh, the Shawal moon crescent sighting was confirmed, leading to the declaration of Eid al-Fitr on April 10. Similar confirmations were made by the respective authorities in Kerala, adding to the joyous anticipation of the upcoming celebrations.
Will other regions celebrate Eid 2024 on another date?
Meanwhile, in Delhi, Karnataka, Hyderabad, and Lucknow, among other regions, the moon sighting committees reported that the crescent was not visible, indicating that Eid al-Fitr 2024 will be celebrated on April 11 in these areas.
The news of crescent sightings has also reverberated across international borders. In Pakistan, the Shawwal crescent was sighted in Karachi, aligning the country’s Eid celebrations with those in the Middle East and the West. Similar reports have emerged from Malaysia, the Philippines, and Australia, where Muslims are gearing up to mark the end of Ramadan.
As the anticipation builds and , Muslims around the world have started preparations for Eid al-Fitr as they eagerly await the joyous occasion. To them, this event symbolizes the spirit of unity, generosity, and renewal within the community.
Facts About Eid al-Fitr
- End of Ramadan: Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
- Spiritual Renewal: It is a time of spiritual renewal, gratitude, and celebration for Muslims worldwide, symbolizing the completion of a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
- Date Determination: The date of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the Shawwal moon, which marks the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal. It varies depending on the lunar calendar and the sighting of the moon, making it a dynamic and anticipated event each year.
- Prayer and Worship: The day begins with a special prayer known as the Eid prayer, performed in congregations at mosques or open prayer grounds. It is a time for Muslims to come together, express gratitude, and seek blessings for the future.
- Generosity and Charity: Eid al-Fitr is also a time for acts of charity and generosity. Muslims are encouraged to give to those in need, providing food, clothes, and financial assistance to the less fortunate, ensuring that everyone can partake in the joyous celebrations.
- Cultural Traditions: The celebrations of Eid al-Fitr vary from region to region, with each culture adding its unique customs and traditions to the festivities. From special foods and sweets to vibrant clothing and decorations, Eid is a colorful and lively occasion.
- Family and Community: Eid al-Fitr is a time for families and communities to come together, share meals, exchange gifts, and strengthen bonds of friendship and kinship. It is a time of joy, love, and unity within the Muslim community.
- Eid Greetings: Common greetings exchanged during Eid al-Fitr include “Eid Mubarak,” which translates to “Blessed Eid,” and “Eid Sa’id,” meaning “Happy Eid.” These greetings convey wishes for happiness, prosperity, and blessings on this auspicious day.
- Symbol of Hope: Eid al-Fitr serves as a symbol of hope, renewal, and spiritual growth, reminding Muslims of the importance of faith, perseverance, and community in their lives.
- Global Observance: Eid al-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims around the world, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. It is a time when Muslims of diverse backgrounds come together to rejoice in their shared faith and values, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among believers worldwide.
