In a few days, the holy month of Ramadan will come to an end, devotees will witness the crescent moon, and celebrate Eid al-Fitr (Eid ul-Fitr) or Meethi Eid. The auspicious occasion is celebrated by followers of Islam across the world, and it falls on the first day of the 10 Shawwal. Families come together, visit relatives and friends, and share greetings.
video Credit: Vishakha's Kitchen
After fasting for an entire month, devotees offer prayers to Allah. Households have a festive vibe as children play around and kitchens are filled with the aroma of popular delicacies like seviyan, kebabas, biryani, etc. It is said in India that the sevai (vermicelli) kheer on Meethi Eid is one of the best variations of the sweet dish to relish.
Eid al-Fittr 2024 Date And Time
The date of celebrations of Eid al-Fitr depends on the sighting of the moon in various parts of the world. In all possibilities, people will be celebrating Eid on April 11, 2024. However, an interesting fact to note is that Kerala celebrates the festival a day before the rest of the devotees in the country.
Many devotees also wait for the crescent moon sighting in Saudi Arabia to celebrate Eid because Mecca and Madinah, Islamic pilgrimage centres, are situated there. In Kashmir, Eid al-Fitr is celebrated on the date declared by the grand mufti of the state.
Eid al-Fitr History And Significance
The celebration of Eid al-Fitr is believed to be initiated by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Madinah (formerly referred to as Medina), Saudi Arabia. The celebrations begin in the night after devotees witness the crescent moon. It is called the Chaand Raat. If people cannot sight the moon after the 29th day of Ramadan, due to weather, they celebrate Eid the following day.
On the day of Eid al-Fitr, devotees don’t fast. It is forbidden, and it is mandatory for them to recite specific prayers. One of the most noble aspects of celebrating Eid is that devotees are obligated to help poor and needy people.
Eid al-Fitr Popular Recipes
It is not just in India but no matter where you are, festive celebrations translate into a feast comprising appetisers, savouries, sweets, beverages, and whatnot. In India, the celebratory feast includes all the rich and creamy dishes made with aromatic spices, succulent meat, and quality plant-based items. A few popular dishes that are a part of celebratory feasts include,
Mutton Kaleji
Kaleji refers to the liver goat or lamb. It is packed with nutrients and is considered one of the richest items on the spread. The meat pieces are stir-fried first and added to a flavourful gravy later.
Seekh Kebab
Seekh kebab is a meat-based delectable in which pieces melt in your mouth the moment you take a bite. Whether you are in India or anywhere else across the world, it is one of the most popular delicacies you will find on the Eid spread. Often served with chutney and mint leaves, this appetiser is a must-have.
Zarda Pulao
Zarda translates to yellow. This dish boasts of sweet notes and is prepared using long rice grains. The rice is cooked in aromatic spices and ghee. It is later topped with dried fruits and nuts that add richness to the recipe.
Sheer Kurma (Seviyan Kheer)
Seviyan kheer or sheer kurma is a sweet delight famous in India. The strands of vermicelli are cooked in boiling milk. It is topped with dried fruits, saffron strands, cardamom powder, rose petals, and dates. Devotees are supposed to begin their day with a spoonful of this rich and creamy delicacy.
Biryani
Biryani is among the biggest parts of the Eid celebration of which mutton and chicken variants are the most popular. Long-grain basmati rice layered with meat cooked in aromatic spices and fried onions imbibe the true essence of festivities.