Eid 2021 will be different this year as well. Last year due to the coronavirus pandemic, people had to keep it a hush event, and this time around as well, everyone will have to stay back at home and celebrate the festival safely. On a happier note, the month of Ramadan is finally over, and now Muslims are all set to celebrate Eid, which marks the end of the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.

Also Read: Beyond Haleem: 7 Unusual Dishes To Try This Eid

Widespread celebrations will be taking place in the Middle East and in other Muslim communities around the world tomorrow. In India, Eid will be celebrated the day after on May 14, and while we might be stuck in a lockdown, the zest to celebrate Eid is likely to be subdued.

But before you kickstart the prep for Eid-ul-Fitr, here is everything you need to know about the festival.

The Month Of Ramzan

The month of Ramzan is considered to be a very holy month. Muslims have to fast during these days from dawn to dusk. The first meal at dawn is called Sehri, and the evening meal that Muslims eat to break the fast is known as Iftar.

Significance

The holy month of Ramadan ends with Eid. This also marks the completion of a month-long fast from sunrise to sunset. Muslims acknowledge and pray to Allah for the holy Quran. It is said that the holy book was exhibited to Prophet Muhammed on Laylat al-Qadr, one of the odd-numbered nights during the last ten days of Ramadan, and hence the significance. Fasting or Sawm is also one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

Importance

Eid is a very important festival for Muslims. It symbolises the celebration of patience, devotion, endurance and loyalty. The day stands for expressing gratitude to the almighty Allah for all that people have.

History

This festival is known to have been originated by the Islamic prophet Muhammad in Medina after his migration from Mecca. It is said that Muslims were instructed by Allah to continue fasting till the last day of Ramadan.

Date of Celebration

The date of Eid varies every year, as the Islamic lunar calendar is 11 to 12 days shorter than the solar calendar. The day also marks the first day of Shawwal, which is a new month in the Islamic calendar. Different countries celebrate Eid on different days depending on the sighting of the new moon in their country.

Eid traditions

All members of the family wear either new clothes or traditional dresses. Homes are decorated for guests. People go to visit their family and friends throughout the day and often exchanging gifts. “Eddeya” which is a small sum of money is also given to children. Another amazing Eid tradition is to visit the sick, give charity and presents to needy and orphans, and pay respects to those who passed away. Muslims also offer their prayers to Allah (Salat al-Eid), and listen to the Khutba (sermon).

Charity

Zakat al Fitr, which means “charity of breaking the fast”, is also to be paid before the end of Ramadan or Eid prayers. The charity is done with the intention that the less fortunate also enjoy the festivities. This tradition stems from one of the five pillars of Islam called Zakat.

Food

This is the best part about Eid. Families prepare a spread of delicious food for everyone to enjoy. People make dishes like lachcha or sivayyan, made with toasted sweet vermicelli mixed along with milk and dry fruits. Sheer Khurma, Mutton Korma, Biryani, Nihari, Haleem, Sheermal, Phirni, Bhuni Raan, Shahi Tukda are also some of the delicacies that are cooked on the day of Eid.