Crescent Moon Sighting and Eid Date
The crescent moon appeared in Lucknow, India, on Sunday, March 30, marking the end of the month-long Ramadan 2025. As a result, India will celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr on Monday, March 31. Meanwhile, in Saudi Arabia, the moon was sighted earlier, ending the 29-day Ramadan, and the country celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr on Sunday, March 30.
Ramadan and Its Lunar Significance
In India, Ramadan began on Sunday, March 2, following the sighting of the new crescent moon on Saturday, March 1. However, in Saudi Arabia, Ramadan commenced a day earlier on March 1. The sighting of the moon plays a crucial role in Islamic traditions, as it determines the start and end of each lunar month. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, begins with the appearance of the new crescent moon, while Eid-ul-Fitr is also declared based on the moon sighting. In India, Muslims observe Eid-ul-Fitr on the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal.
Eid Prayers and Religious Practices
On this auspicious day, Muslims gather for communal prayers at mosques and open prayer grounds, where they listen to religious sermons. An essential practice of Eid is zakat al-fitr, a form of charity that must be given before the Eid prayer. Those who have not already contributed during Ramadan offer zakat al-fitr, which consists of staple food items like barley, dates, raisins, or wheat flour, or its monetary equivalent. This act of charity ensures that even the underprivileged can participate in the festive celebrations.
Festivities and Traditions
Eid-ul-Fitr is a time of joy, unity, and togetherness. Islamic communities organize communal meals where families and friends gather to celebrate. Many Muslims in India wear new clothes, visit their relatives, exchange Eid cards, and give children gifts of sweets and small toys. Traditional sweets such as seviyan (vermicelli pudding) and other delicacies add to the festive spirit.
Public Holiday and Travel Considerations
Government offices, post offices, and banks remain closed on Eid, while Islamic stores and businesses may either shut down for the day or operate with reduced hours. Those planning to use public transportation should check schedules in advance, as services may be affected due to the holiday.
Large Gatherings and Traffic Impact
Cities across India witness large prayer gatherings, parades, and cultural events, particularly in Muslim-majority areas and near prominent mosques. These celebrations may lead to increased traffic congestion and minor delays in affected regions.
The Spirit of Eid-ul-Fitr
Eid-ul-Fitr is more than just a festival; it is a time for gratitude, compassion, and communal harmony. The celebration serves as a reminder of faith, generosity, and cultural unity, bringing people together in joyous spirit and reinforcing the values of Islam.
