Id-ul-Fitr means the 'festival of breaking the fast'. The fast of
Ramadan is broken with special prayers and festivities. 'Fitr' is
derived from the word 'fatar' meaning 'breaking'. Another connotation
suggests that it is derived from fitrah or 'alms'. Certain Sunni Muslims
believe that fitr comes from fitrat meaning 'nature' and Id-ul-Fitr is
the celebration of god's magnanimity in providing nature to man.
Celebrated on the first day of the new moon in Shawwal, it marks the end
of Ramadan. As a part of the celebration everybody wakes up in the
morning and takes a bath, wears new or clean clothes, applies perfume,
eats dates or some other sweet before walking to the mosque for Id
prayers. Men wear white clothes because white symbolizes purity and
austerity. On this day, according to the Quran, Allah has intended a
dole for every Muslim who is free and is in possession of alms worthy
capital. This Id-ul-Fitr alms are given to the poor on Id-ul-Fitr.
Do Rakat Namaz, the Id-special prayer is performed in the morning in
the mosque. Charitable gift, called Sadaqah Fitr, is a dole to break the
fast. It is to be given to a needy person as thanksgiving. Even one who
has not kept the rojas is expected to give alms. The amount to be gifted
depends on one's essential needs and free from all encumbrances of debt.
Even women in veil attend the prayers in special chambers. The 30-day
fast is broken on Id-ul-Fitr with sumptuous feasts which people embrace
each other three times, as is laid down in the Quran. The festival
originated when after proclaiming Ramadan as the period of fasting and
austerity, Prophet Muhammad announced a day for celebrations to reaffirm
the feeling of Id-ul-Fitr brotherhood. Women prepare sweets at home.
Vermicelli cooked in sweetened milk, is popular. People then go for Id
get together and socializing. Some people visit cemeteries and stay
there for many hours, often even camping out overnight. This is perhaps
to honor their ancestors and to be with their spirits. To a devout
Muslim, Id is a time to forget all past grievances. It is the time to
enjoy and creates an atmosphere of love and brotherhood. Id is a
festival, which talks of love, care and share. There should be no
barriers between the rich and the poor.
