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- Eid ul-Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting timing Highlights: India set to celebrate Eid on March 21
THE TIMES OF INDIA | Mar 21, 2026, 00:40:20 IST
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Eid ul-Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting timing Highlights: India set to celebrate Eid on March 21
The most celebrated festival of the Muslim community in the world, Eid ul-Fitr, is finally here. After the holy Ramadan month of fasting from dawn until sunset, the festival is set to bring joy and prosperity to people's lives. As Wednesday, March 18, marks the 29th of Ramadan 1447, the Saudi Supreme Court has called on the community across the kingdom to sight the crescent moon on Shawwal this evening. However, in India, if the moon is sighted on March 19, the Eid celebrations will be on the next day or on the day that follows. Typically, India observes Eid a day after Saudi Arabia due to geographical differences in moon visibility. Eid is known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast" because it is observed on the day after the last day of Ramadan. In the Islamic lunar calendar, it falls on the first three days of Shawwal, the tenth month of Hijri. Ramadan usually extends for 29 to 30 days, and the celebrations culminate with Eid festivities, corresponding to 1 Shawwal 1447 in the Islamic calendar. The moon sighting holds deep religious importance, as the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles and each new month begins only after the crescent is seen.
19:37 (IST) Mar 19
Eid moon NOT sighted in Lucknow
Chairman of the Lucknow Islamic Center, Maulana Khalid Rasheed, has announced that Eid will be on Saturday, March 21.
19:35 (IST) Mar 19
Moon NOT sighted in Hyderabad, Eid on Saturday, March 21
President of the Deccan Muslim Ulema Council Central Rohit Hilal Committee has announced that India will celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 on Saturday, March 21, as the crescent moon has not been sighted today. The holy month of Ramzan will end tomorrow, March 20.
19:34 (IST) Mar 19
What is the history of Eid-ul-Fitr?
Eid-ul-Fitr has its roots in the 7th century, around the time of Prophet Muhammad. Islamic tradition holds that the Prophet introduced this festival after seeing people in Medina celebrate certain days with festivities. He proclaimed Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha as two important Muslim events, which have a basis more in gratitude and devotion than the exercise of mere celebration. The festival is also inextricably tied to the ending of Ramadan, which commemorates the first revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. Consequently, Eid-ul-Fitr is more than a mere cultural occasion; it represents an eminently spiritual juncture that signifies the successful completion of a month of discipline, self-restraint, and worship.
19:33 (IST) Mar 19
Chaand Raat 2026: Official announcement likely by 7:30 pm
Observers have assembled at the top Eidgahs with telescopes and other instruments to see if tonight is the Chand raat. The official announcement will likely be made around 7:30 pm.
19:30 (IST) Mar 19
Moon Sighting in India 2026: How is the date of Eid declared in India?
If the Shawwal crescent moon is sighted today, March 19, Eid ul-Fitr will be celebrated tomorrow on Friday, March 20
On the other hand, if the Shawwal crescent moon is NOT sighted today, March 19, Eid ul-Fitr will be NOT be celebrated tomorrow on Friday, March 20. The Muslims across the country will observe their fasts on Friday – the 30th day of Ramadan – and Eid will be celebrated on Saturday, March 21.
On the other hand, if the Shawwal crescent moon is NOT sighted today, March 19, Eid ul-Fitr will be NOT be celebrated tomorrow on Friday, March 20. The Muslims across the country will observe their fasts on Friday – the 30th day of Ramadan – and Eid will be celebrated on Saturday, March 21.
19:26 (IST) Mar 19
When can we sight the crescent moon in India?
In Delhi, the moon rose at 6:24 AM IST and will set by 6:58 PM IST, with sunset occurring around 6:20 PM IST. Meanwhile, New Delhi follows similar timings, ensuring that the observation window aligns closely. Chandigarh reports moonrise at 6:25 AM IST and moonset at 7:01 PM IST, with sunset at approximately 6:20 PM IST. In Mumbai, the moon rises between 6:41 and 6:42 AM IST, setting by 7:12 PM IST and sunset falling around 6:40 PM IST.
Navi Mumbai shares the same timings as Mumbai, while in Lucknow, the moon rises near 6:00 AM IST with sunset at 6:05 PM IST. In Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru, the moonrise occurs at approximately 6:30 AM IST, with sunset times around 6:20 PM IST for Chennai and 6:25 PM IST for Bengaluru. Kolkata sees moonrise near 6:00 AM IST with the sunset at 5:55 PM IST.
19:24 (IST) Mar 19
Moon Sighting in India: Why is Moon Sighting important in Eid?
The Shawwal crescent moon sighting is of great religious significance. It marks the end of Ramadan fasting and the beginning of festivities. The night before Eid is called Chand Raat, centered around festive shopping, social gatherings, and preparations for the next day. The insistence on seeing the moon with the naked eye goes back to the established, prophetic way that time has been kept for Islamic reasons. It also gives it a communal and spiritual dimension as people await official announcements by religious authorities.
19:16 (IST) Mar 19
PM Modi conveys Eid wishes to King of Jordan Abdullah II
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed Eid wishes to King Abdullah II, the King of Jordan, over the phone.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “We expressed concern at the evolving situation in West Asia and highlighted the need for dialogue and diplomacy for the early restoration of peace, security, and stability in the region. Attacks on energy infrastructure in West Asia are condemnable and can lead to avoidable escalation. India and Jordan stand in support of unhindered transit of goods and energy. Deeply appreciated Jordan’s efforts in facilitating the safe return of Indians stranded in the region.”
19:13 (IST) Mar 19
Chaand Raat 2026: When is Eid in India?
All the members of Markazi Chand Committee Firangi Mahali have gathered at an Eidgarh and are trying to sight the moon. “Once it is sighted, it will be announced whether Eid will be celebrated on the 20th or the 21st. This will be decided by 7.30 pm,” the maulana said.
19:02 (IST) Mar 19
Dubai announces Eid prayers across mosques
According to the reports, Dubai authorities have announced the Eid ul-Fitr timings across over 900 mosques in the city. Eid Al Fitr prayers in Dubai will take place at 6:40 am.
18:58 (IST) Mar 19
When is Eid ul-Fitr in India?
Confirmation of Eid-ul-Fitr in India is expected after the Maghrib prayer.
18:55 (IST) Mar 19
Chaand Raat 2026: Official announcement likely by 7:30 pm
Observers have assembled at the top Eidgahs with telescopes and other instruments to see if tonight is the Chand raat. The official announcement will likely be made around 7:30 pm.
18:55 (IST) Mar 19
Moon Sighting started in Hyderabad
The moon sighting committee in Hyderabad of Telangana – Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of Sadar Majlis-e-Ulama-e-Deccan – has convened its meeting in Hyderabad to decide the start of the Shawwal and the date for Eid ul-Fitr in India.
18:52 (IST) Mar 19
Moon Sighting in India: When can the moon be sighted in India today?
While the Chand Raat is expected on March 19, those living in Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad can look towards the western sky between 6 pm and 7 pm.
18:49 (IST) Mar 19
Kerala Governor extends Eid greetings
Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Thursday greeted the people of the state on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.
In his message, Arlekar said that the festival, which marks the end of Ramadan, reflects the values of discipline and compassion that enrich our society.
"May it strengthen the spirit of unity, peace, and collective progress. Wishing all a Happy Eid," he said.
In his message, Arlekar said that the festival, which marks the end of Ramadan, reflects the values of discipline and compassion that enrich our society.
"May it strengthen the spirit of unity, peace, and collective progress. Wishing all a Happy Eid," he said.
18:46 (IST) Mar 19
Indonesia confirms March 21 as first day of Eid-ul-Fitr
Indonesia has officially announced that Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on March 21, although the crescent moon sighting is yet to be confirmed.
18:46 (IST) Mar 19
India awaits the Shawwal crescent sighting to finalise the Eid date
India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Iran, Oman, Jordan, Syria, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, and Mauritania are all yet to confirm the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon before finalising their Eid‑ul‑Fitr celebration dates.
18:28 (IST) Mar 19
Possible Celebration Dates in India and Around the World
According to the Astronomy Centre, Gulf News reports that Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 is expected to be observed on either March 20 or March 21 in many parts of the world, including India, depending on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. Other countries likely to celebrate on these dates include Turkey, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Iran, parts of Iraq, Oman, Jordan, Syria, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, and Mauritania.
18:10 (IST) Mar 19
Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama demands three day holiday for Eid
Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama has demanded a three-day official holiday for major Muslim festivals, saying the current single-day break for Eid al-Fitr (Cheriya Perunnal) and Eid al-Adha (Valiya Perunnal, Bakrid) is inadequate. In a resolution passed at its annual conference, Samastha said the existing holidays do not allow families to reconnect or fully observe religious rituals. It urged the Kerala government to introduce a three-day holiday for both festivals, similar to the practice followed in Gulf countries.
18:00 (IST) Mar 19
How is Eid Ul-Fitr celebrated in India?
Eid-ul-Fitr starts with a special prayer called Salat al-Eid performed in congregation at mosques or open grounds. Before the prayer, Muslims are obligated to give what is known as Zakat al-Fitr (Zakah) so that poorer members of society can celebrate the festival. These donations create an opportunity for all walks of life to celebrate Eid, regardless of their financial status. The day may start by rising early to don new clothes, wear perfumes, and attend prayers. It is also a tradition to greet each other with “Eid Mubarak,” which means “Blessed Eid.”
17:50 (IST) Mar 19
What is the meaning of Eid Ul-Fitr?
Eid means festival or celebration and Fitr refers to breaking the fast. Collectively, Eid-ul-Fitr means the “Festival of Breaking the Fast.”
17:47 (IST) Mar 19
Eid Ul- Fitr fireworks cancelled at Global Village
Given the current situation in the Middle East, Dubai Global Village has cancelled its annual Eid Fireworks in 2026. Global Village is a popular cultural attraction in the UAE and is visited by thousands of merrymakers every year. This year, the cancellation of its traditional Eid Al Fitr fireworks comes as a precautionary measure amid escalating regional issues. The update also mentioned that the Global Village will remain closed until further notice.
17:45 (IST) Mar 19
What is the history of Eid-ul-Fitr?
Eid-ul-Fitr has its roots in the 7th century around the time of Prophet Muhammad. Islamic tradition holds that the Prophet introduced this festival after seeing people in Medina celebrate certain days with festivities. He proclaimed Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha as two important Muslim events, which have a basis more in gratitude and devotion than the exercise of mere celebration. The festival is also inextricably tied to the ending of Ramadan, which commemorates the first revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. Consequently, Eid-ul-Fitr is more than a mere cultural occasion; it represents an eminently spiritual juncture that signifies the successful completion of a month of discipline, self-restraint, and worship.
17:40 (IST) Mar 19
Why is Moon Sighting important in Eid?
The Shawwal crescent moon sighting is of great religious significance. It marks the end of Ramadan fasting and the beginning of festivities. The night before Eid is called Chand Raat, centered around festive shopping, social gatherings, and preparations for the next day. The insistence on seeing the moon with the naked eye goes back to the established, prophetic way that time has been kept for Islamic reasons. It also gives it a communal and spiritual dimension as people await official announcements by religious authorities.
17:38 (IST) Mar 19
Eid Ul-Fitr Celebrations : Abu Dhabi warns against fireworks and reckless driving
17:30 (IST) Mar 19
Eid-ul-Fitr, often referred to as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” marks the joyous conclusion of Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting, reflection, and devotion. It is a time filled with gratitude, generosity, and togetherness. Families gather, homes are adorned, delicious feasts are prepared, and hearts are united in celebration. It is a perfect occasion to express love, appreciation, and good wishes to those who matter most. Whether near or far, sending heartfelt Eid Mubarak messages is a beautiful way to strengthen bonds and spread happiness. If you’re looking for the perfect words to share, here’s a thoughtfully curated list of 50 heartfelt Eid Mubarak wishes, messages, and quotes for Eid-ul-Fitr 2025.
17:26 (IST) Mar 19
When can we sight crescent moon in India?
In Delhi, the moon rose at 6:24 AM IST and will set by 6:58 PM IST, with sunset occurring around 6:20 PM IST. Meanwhile, New Delhi follows similar timings, ensuring that the observation window aligns closely. Chandigarh reports moonrise at 6:25 AM IST and moonset at 7:01 PM IST, with sunset at approximately 6:20 PM IST. In Mumbai, the moon rises between 6:41 and 6:42 AM IST, setting by 7:12 PM IST and sunset falling around 6:40 PM IST.
Navi Mumbai shares the same timings as Mumbai, while in Lucknow, the moon rises near 6:00 AM IST with sunset at 6:05 PM IST. In Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru, the moonrise occurs at approximately 6:30 AM IST, with sunset times around 6:20 PM IST for Chennai and 6:25 PM IST for Bengaluru. Kolkata sees moonrise near 6:00 AM IST with the sunset at 5:55 PM IST.
Navi Mumbai shares the same timings as Mumbai, while in Lucknow, the moon rises near 6:00 AM IST with sunset at 6:05 PM IST. In Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru, the moonrise occurs at approximately 6:30 AM IST, with sunset times around 6:20 PM IST for Chennai and 6:25 PM IST for Bengaluru. Kolkata sees moonrise near 6:00 AM IST with the sunset at 5:55 PM IST.
17:15 (IST) Mar 19
India awaits crescent moon sighting today
In India, Ramadan began on February 18, making Thursday, March 19, the 29th day of fasting. The sighting of the crescent moon will determine the exact date of Eid. If the moon is visible on Thursday evening, Eid will be celebrated on Friday, March 20. If not, fasting will continue for one more day, and Eid will be observed on Saturday, March 21.
17:00 (IST) Mar 19
Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed’s Eid-ul-Fitr message emphasizes unity and compassion
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed extended Eid greetings on X. In his message, he highlighted the importance of brotherhood, charity, and national dialogue, urging citizens to carry the spirit of Ramadan into their daily lives. He also emphasized compassion, unity, and forgiveness as essential for fostering a stronger, more cohesive society.
16:45 (IST) Mar 19
Eid Al-Fitr prayers will be conducted in mosques only, says GAIAE UAE
The UAE has announced that Eid Al-Fitr prayers will be held exclusively in mosques this year, as part of measures aimed at protecting public safety. The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat said that prayers will not take place in open grounds or outdoor spaces. The move has been coordinated with the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai and the Department of Islamic Affairs in Sharjah.
16:29 (IST) Mar 19
Eid Al Fitr 2026 in the UAE is shaping up to be a citywide shopping and lifestyle festival, with major discounts across malls, restaurants, fashion outlets, and family attractions. From free entry experiences and free parking to up to 90% off across top brands, this year’s offers are broader, longer, and more accessible than usual, making it one of the best times to spend smartly in Dubai and across the UAE.
16:27 (IST) Mar 19
Moon Sighting Eid 2026: US President extends Eid greetings
US President Donald Trump extended Eid greetings to Muslims celebrating the festival. “The First Lady and I send our warmest wishes to all Americans observing Eid al-Fitr,” he said, adding that the occasion highlights the nation’s commitment to religious freedom.
16:26 (IST) Mar 19
Bahrain declares Eid-ul-Fitr on March 20
Bahrain has announced that Eid-ul-Fitr will be observed on Friday, March 20, after the crescent moon marking the start of Shawwal was not sighted on Wednesday evening. The announcement aligns with the decision taken in Saudi Arabia, where authorities also confirmed that the Shawwal moon was not visible, indicating that the holy month of Ramadan will complete 30 days this year.
16:25 (IST) Mar 19
Eid-ul-Fitr date announced in Turkey and Singapore
In Turkey, Eid-Ul-Fitr will be celebrated on March 20. In Singapore, March 20 will mark the end of Ramzan and Eid will be celebrated on March 21.
16:25 (IST) Mar 19
Eid Mubarak Trends
'Eid mubarak' keyword surges on Google Search Trends. Search interest around Eid, including “eid mubarak 2026” and “eid mubarak wishes”, shows strong upward movement on Google Trends as the festival is around the corner.
16:10 (IST) Mar 19
Dubai readies 900 mosques for Eid al-Fitr prayers at 6:40 AM
Eid al-Fitr prayers in Dubai are set for 6:40 AM, with authorities confirming thorough preparations across more than 900 mosques. The arrangements have been coordinated with the Dubai Resilience Centre to ensure a safe and smooth observance for worshippers.
16:00 (IST) Mar 19
India Awaits Moon Sighting Today
In India, the start of Ramadan was on February 18, and Thursday, March 19, marks the 29th day of fasting. The sighting of the crescent moon will determine the exact date of Eid in the country. If the moon is seen on Thursday evening, Eid will be celebrated on Friday, March 20. However, if it is not visible, fasting will continue for another day, and Eid will be observed on Saturday, March 21.
15:30 (IST) Mar 19
Qatar Announces 7-Day Eid Holiday For Public Sector
Qatar has declared a seven-day public holiday for Eid Al Fitr, giving government employees an extended break to mark the festival. According to the Amiri Diwan, all ministries, government departments, and public institutions will remain closed from March 17 (Monday) to March 23 (Sunday).
15:27 (IST) Mar 19
Eid 2026: No open-air Eid-ul-Fitr prayers
Eid prayers will be held exclusively inside mosques this year, with outdoor prayer grounds suspended nationwide. The announcement, made by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, comes at a time of heightened regional sensitivity and reflects a broader shift in how public religious gatherings are being managed across the Gulf.
15:20 (IST) Mar 19
Eid ul Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting Date And Time
City-wise timings for moon sighting across India
Delhi: Moonrise – Moonset – 6:58 PM
New Delhi: Moonset – 6:58 PM
Chandigarh: Moonset – 7:01 PM
Mumbai: Moonset – 7:12 PM
Navi Mumbai: Moonset – 7:12 PM
Lucknow: Moonset – 6:20 PM
Hyderabad: Moonset – 6:50 PM
Chennai: Moonset – 6:50 PM
Bengaluru: Moonrise – ~6:30 AM | Sunset – 6:25 PM | Moonset – ~6:50 PM
Kolkata: Moonrise – ~6:00 AM | Sunset – 5:55 PM | Moonset – ~6:30 PM
14:50 (IST) Mar 19
How is this Eid-ul-Fitr different from Eid ul-Adha?
The muslim community celebrates two Eids – one is Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of the month-long fasting in Ramadan. The other one is about two months after Eid-ul-Fitr and is called Eid-ul-Adha, which commemorates the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim.
14:30 (IST) Mar 19
Eid ul-Fitr 2026: Pakistan and Afghanistan pause fighting to celebrate Eid
Pakistan and Afghanistan have decided to temporarily halt their clash on the occasion of Eid after deadly airstrikes in Afghanistan this week sparked global alarm and calls for a ceasefire.
14:07 (IST) Mar 19
Bahrain declares Eid-ul-Fitr on March 20
Bahrain has announced that Eid-ul-Fitr will be observed on Friday, March 20, after the crescent moon marking the start of Shawwal was not sighted on Wednesday evening.
The announcement aligns with the decision taken in Saudi Arabia, where authorities also confirmed that the Shawwal moon was not visible, indicating that the holy month of Ramadan will complete 30 days this year.
13:45 (IST) Mar 19
Eid-ul-Fitr 2026: Will schools in India be closed on March 20 or 21?
Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of the fasting month, is expected to be observed on either March 20 or March 21, 2026. The final date depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, which is what officially signals the end of Ramadan. In most cases, schools or educational institutions plan for a holiday in advance. This year, too, many schools are indicating March 21 as the likely holiday. But there is also room for a shift to March 20 if the moon is sighted earlier.
13:10 (IST) Mar 19
Moon Sighting Eid 2026: US President extends Eid greetings
US President Donald Trump extended Eid greetings to Muslims celebrating the festival. “The First Lady and I send our warmest wishes to all Americans observing Eid al-Fitr,” he said, adding that the occasion highlights the nation’s commitment to religious freedom.
12:35 (IST) Mar 19
Eid 2026 moon sighting in India: Will Chand Raat fall on March 19?
The community across India is preparing for the Eid 2026 moon sighting in India, with Chand Raat likely to be observed on the evening of March 19. Since the new moon occurs early morning around 6:30–7 AM IST, the thin crescent may become visible briefly after sunset. People in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad will look toward the western sky between 6 PM and 7 PM. If the Eid-ul-Fitr crescent moon is sighted, Eid will be celebrated on March 20; otherwise, it may shift to the next day.
12:22 (IST) Mar 19
Why Eid 2026 dates differ in India and Saudi Arabia?
One of the main reasons behind the difference in the Eid moon sighting between India and Saudi Arabia is geography. Saudi Arabia lies to the west of India, which means the sun sets later there in relation to the moon’s position.
This gives the crescent moon more time to move away from the sun and become visible. In simple terms, the moon appears slightly higher and brighter in Saudi skies compared to India at sunset. That extra visibility window can make all the difference.
This gives the crescent moon more time to move away from the sun and become visible. In simple terms, the moon appears slightly higher and brighter in Saudi skies compared to India at sunset. That extra visibility window can make all the difference.
12:03 (IST) Mar 19
Eid 2026: Abu Dhabi approves AED 4.21 billion housing support
A new housing package worth AED4.21 billion has been approved in Abu Dhabi, bringing support to 2,652 Emirati citizens just ahead of Eid Al Fitr 2026, in a move aimed at strengthening family stability and improving living standards across the emirate.
11:53 (IST) Mar 19
When will India celebrate Eid?
India usually celebrates Eid a day after the festivities kickstart in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. However, the festival depends on moon sightings — India will know today when to celebrate Eid.
11:52 (IST) Mar 19
Singapore announces Eid
Singapore has announced that Saturday, March 21, will be Eid Al Fitr in the country, due to the impossibility of sighting the crescent on Thursday.
66 More Updates
Eid ul-Fitr, one of the most cherished and widely celebrated festivals in the Muslim world, marks the end of the sacred month of Ramadan—a period devoted to fasting, prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth. After abstaining from food and drink from dawn until sunset for nearly a month, Muslims eagerly await the arrival of Eid, which symbolizes gratitude, renewal, and communal harmony.
As Wednesday, March 18, corresponds to the 29th day of Ramadan in the year 1447 of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar, the anticipation for Eid has reached its peak. The determination of Eid depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, which signals the beginning of Shawwal, the tenth month in the Islamic lunar calendar. In Saudi Arabia, the Supreme Court has called upon citizens to observe the sky on the evening of March 18 in hopes of sighting the Shawwal crescent. If the moon is seen, Eid will be celebrated the following day.
However, in countries like India, the celebration may differ slightly due to geographical and atmospheric variations affecting moon visibility. Typically, India observes Eid a day after Saudi Arabia, as the crescent moon may not be visible there at the same time. If the moon is sighted in India on March 19, Eid will be celebrated on March 20; otherwise, it will be observed a day later. This variation highlights the localized nature of moon sighting in Islamic tradition.
Eid ul-Fitr, often referred to as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is observed on the first day of Shawwal and may extend for up to three days of festivities. The festival begins with a special congregational prayer held in mosques or open grounds, followed by acts of charity, known as Zakat al-Fitr, which ensure that even the less fortunate can partake in the celebrations.
The essence of Eid lies in togetherness, compassion, and gratitude. Families gather to share meals, exchange greetings, and strengthen bonds. Traditional dishes, sweets, and new clothes add to the festive spirit. Importantly, Eid also serves as a reminder of the values cultivated during Ramadan—self-discipline, empathy, and devotion.
The significance of moon sighting underscores the deep connection between faith and natural cycles in Islam. Each new month begins only after the crescent is physically sighted, reinforcing a sense of unity and shared experience among Muslims worldwide. Ultimately, Eid ul-Fitr is not just a celebration, but a culmination of spiritual effort and a joyful return to everyday life with renewed faith and purpose.
As Wednesday, March 18, corresponds to the 29th day of Ramadan in the year 1447 of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar, the anticipation for Eid has reached its peak. The determination of Eid depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, which signals the beginning of Shawwal, the tenth month in the Islamic lunar calendar. In Saudi Arabia, the Supreme Court has called upon citizens to observe the sky on the evening of March 18 in hopes of sighting the Shawwal crescent. If the moon is seen, Eid will be celebrated the following day.
However, in countries like India, the celebration may differ slightly due to geographical and atmospheric variations affecting moon visibility. Typically, India observes Eid a day after Saudi Arabia, as the crescent moon may not be visible there at the same time. If the moon is sighted in India on March 19, Eid will be celebrated on March 20; otherwise, it will be observed a day later. This variation highlights the localized nature of moon sighting in Islamic tradition.
Eid ul-Fitr, often referred to as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is observed on the first day of Shawwal and may extend for up to three days of festivities. The festival begins with a special congregational prayer held in mosques or open grounds, followed by acts of charity, known as Zakat al-Fitr, which ensure that even the less fortunate can partake in the celebrations.
The essence of Eid lies in togetherness, compassion, and gratitude. Families gather to share meals, exchange greetings, and strengthen bonds. Traditional dishes, sweets, and new clothes add to the festive spirit. Importantly, Eid also serves as a reminder of the values cultivated during Ramadan—self-discipline, empathy, and devotion.
The significance of moon sighting underscores the deep connection between faith and natural cycles in Islam. Each new month begins only after the crescent is physically sighted, reinforcing a sense of unity and shared experience among Muslims worldwide. Ultimately, Eid ul-Fitr is not just a celebration, but a culmination of spiritual effort and a joyful return to everyday life with renewed faith and purpose.
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