There are many different names for Eid ul Fitr, depending whereabouts you live in the world. Muslims in Indonesia know this day as Idul Fitri while, in Bangladesh it is known as Shemai Eid. Muslims in Malaysia refer to Eid ul Fitr as Hari Raya Puasa: it is also known as Hari Legaran. Turkish Muslims know this festival as Ramazan Bayrami. Regardless of the name it is known by, Eid ul Fitr marks the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan. Around the world there are many different Eid customs and traditions, some common to all the Muslims regardless which country they live in: other rituals may be dependent upon individual countries’ interpretation of Eid. Nevertheless, no matter where you are, as a Muslim Eid is a time of feasting, fun and great joy.
First thing in the morning, on the morning of Eid, Muslims the world over will take a bath and have their breakfast. This may be dates and sweets, although each country retains their own favourite foods for breakfast. Each Muslim will have new clothes to mark this special occasion and women will wear colourful dresses designed to increase the beauty of the wearer. The night before, during the evening of Chand Raat, women will prepare and decorate their hands with mehndi, drawn into beautiful floral designs, to enhance their beauty for the following day. When dresses the ladies will adorn their arms with artificial bangles to finish the attractive effect of their outfits. Every Muslim is expected to offer Eid ul Fitr prayers and these often take place in large open air spaces that have been designated for Eid prayers.
These prayers are mandatory and should be offered amongst the congregation, either outside or in the Mosque or Madrassas. Prior to the prayers being offered, those designated to pay Zakat ul Fitr will make their donation. Following on from the previous night when the crescent moon was first sighted, the Takbir will be recited again after morning prayers, after which the Khutba [Sermon] is given. Food offerings, from the previously made donations, will be offered to the poor and needy immediately following the last prayers. Muslims will also pray individually. Eid prayers are offered from sunrise. Once the prayers have finished, it is customary to hug the person sitting on both sides of you. It is Sunnah too. Once the meeting for prayers has finished people mill around, wishing each other ‘happy Eid’ and return home.
Women get busy in the kitchen preparing and serving a lavish meal that includes various favourite recipes and dishes that are specially cooked for Eid such as Badami Gosht, Biryani or Haleem. Various rich and sweet desserts, such as the vermicelli-based Sheer Korma, or the pancake known as Sufi Malpua, are also enjoyed. Once the meal is ready, everybody sits down together to enjoy the many different courses and enjoy spending time together as a family. Gifts are exchanged, especially amongst younger children. The Eid celebrations last over a period of three days during which different celebrations are held and there is a great deal of merry-making.