Eid-Ul-Fitr

Muslims celebrate Eid by saying prayers, giving money to the poor, sending Eid greetings and feasting with their families. As mentioned in earlier posts in this blog, since this festival was brought to Trinidad and Tobago by the Indian indentured laborers from India in 1845. As such, in the celebration of Eid a lot of the East Indian culture is present. As such Muslim girls enjoy adorning their arms with intricate henna tattoo designs, exchanging gifts or wearing festive clothing and jewelry. Below displays the different clothing worn by the ladies during this time.

Sourcce: Discover TT (2015)

The festival of Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of Fast breaking, marks the end of Ramadan.

"As Muslims mark the end of the month, they are reminded that Ramadan is a time to reflect spiritually, build communally, and aid those in need," President Obama said. "While Eid marks the end of Ramadan, it marks a new beginning for each individual – a reason to celebrate and express gratitude on this holiday." (Time World, 2015)

Ramadan is one of the five pillars of the Islamic faith and is sacred to Muslims as it was during this month that the Qur'an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

Eid al-Fitr begins each year with the sighting of the new moon, indicating the end of a month of fasting and reflection. To start the holiday, many gather in large, open-air locations or in local mosques on the first morning for special prayers, the Salat al-Eid. People celebrate after the more reflective month of Ramadan.

Therefore, as the date of Eid depends on the sighting of the moon, there may be variations in the exact date that is celebrated around the world. The announcing of the exact date of Eid may not happen until close to the start of Ramadan. 

How do you celebrate this event with your family and friends? Share your experience with us here at Trinibago Festivities!