Eid Moon was sighted on Friday in India and Muslims prepare to celebrate Eid ul Fitr on Saturday, a joyful and triumphant day when the faithful claim the ultimate prize: their return to a state of purity. Fasting is observed in the ninth month of the year, and Eid is celebrated on the first day of the tenth month of the year, according to the Islamic calendar.
The date of Eid is determined by the sighting of the moon. The day when the moon is visible is known as Chand Mubarak. The date of Eid is first announced in Saudi Arabia.
On the day of Eid-ul-Fitr, Muslims prepare mouth-watering delicacies after fulfilling one of Islam’s five pillars, and feasts are held and shared with family, friends, neighbors, and just about anyone in need of sustenance; it is believed that no soul shall remain unfed on the day of Eid.
As we get ready for the festivities, here are the dates, calendar, and guide to celebrating Eid ul Fitr in India in 2023.
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Eid ul Fitr 2023: Date In India
The sighting of the crescent moon determines the date of Eid ul Fitr (a day after the new moon). As a result, the process of determining the date of Eid ul Fitr can only be done at night. If the crescent moon is not seen, Ramadan will be extended for another day.
With the moon sighted, Eid ul Fitr will be celebrated on Saturday, April 22, 2023, in India.
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Eid ul Fitr Celebrations Across The Country
The Eid ul Fitr celebrations in India are similar to those around the world, albeit with some minor differences. While the religious rituals are similar, the food and treats are distinctively Indian. Muslims traditionally celebrate the Night of the Moon, or Chaand Raat, the night before Eid ul Fitr. Traditionally, it is a night when Muslim families go shopping for Eid ul Fitr. On the night, new clothes, traditional snacks, and other festive-related items are purchased.
The Zakat al Fitr (obligatory donation) must be completed prior to the morning Eid prayer, as prescribed by their faith. Those who can afford to do so must donate money or goods such as rice, barley, dates, and other similar provisions. This mandatory donation must be distributed to the poor prior to the celebrations in order for all souls to have a joyous holiday.
Following that is the Eid prayer in the morning. Muslims gather to pray in mosques. The Eid prayer expresses gratitude to the Almighty for granting the will and resolves believers to complete the arduous Ramadan fast successfully.
Following the Eid prayer, families greet their neighbours and friends with “Eid Mubarak” and exchange gifts or congratulate one another on completing Ramadan.