Eid-ul-Fitr Festival marks the end of Ramadan, a period of fasting. Muslims in Sri Lanka will celebrate ‘Eid ul Fitr’ either today, or tomorrow June 26, depending on the sighting of the moon. It is a happy occasion when Muslims mark the accomplishment of fasting and thank the Almighty Allah for giving them the self control to succeed. Eid ul Fitr is the day of thanksgiving to Allah, for giving his servants the opportunity to fast and the worship in the month of Ramadan.
Islam has bestowed two festivals for its followers, namely: Eid ul Fitr – the Ramadan festival and Eid ul Azha – the Haj Festival. Both are to be celebrated after some sacrifices, for them they are valued more.
The Festival begin at the first sighting of the new moon. Muslims after attending special morning prayers will visit friends and families. During the visits many people wear the best of clothes and special foods will be served to the guests. Exchanging greetings of “ Thakabal Allahu Minna Wa Minka” (O Allah accept us and others), thus forgetting past differences and the much needed unity and brotherhood is established.
When the believers proceed for their Eid prayers, Almighty Allah says to the angels: “ What indeed is the reward of that employee who had rendered his services? The Malaaikah reply; O our Lord and Master, it is only right that he shall receive his reward in full for his services. “ Allah then proclaims, “ I call you to witness, O my Malaaikah, that for their having fasted for me during the month of Ramadan and for their having stood before me in prayers by night, I have granted to them as reward my pleasure and forgiveness.”
Ramadan Festival is held after a month long fasting. This festival generates immense satisfaction among the children and adults purely due to completion of fasting on the command of Almighty Allah.
Soon after the Eid prayers, the Muslims go to the burial grounds to invoke the mercy of Allah and his forgiveness for the dead. While visiting the grave one should say “ Peace be upon you, O people of the grave . May Allah pardon you and pardon us. You are forerunners and we are in your foot steps.” The visit to the graves acts as a reminder of what to expect next.
May Almighty Allah accept our religious observances performed during the holy month of Ramadan and rewards us in this world as well as in the hereafter.
Let our fervent prayer on this Holy day of Ramadan be for Peace, Harmony, Tolerance, Understanding and Brotherhood.
I wish all Muslims a very happy Eid Mubarak.
