Ahlul Bayt News Agency, It occurs after the sighting of the new crescent moon which signals the end of the month of Ramadan.
It is a joyous occassion for all Muslims, particularly children. It is a time when Muslims give thanks for the blessings they have received from Allah, celebrate the victory of the forces of good over evil, and forgive their neighbours for old grudges and ill feelings.
It is also a time for spreading peace, sharing with others and giving thanks for completing another period of fasting for the month of Ramadan.
Millions of Muslims flock to Mosques early morning on Eid al-Fitr day to offer Eid prayers. Most of the Mosques and Eidgah maidan are overcrowded.
In Delhi Muslims offered special Eid prayer on historical Jama Masjid, Masjid Fatehpuri and Masjid Shiyaan at old Delhi.
After Namaz, Zakat, Fitrah (special charity) in the form of money, food, or products, given to the needy or to Islamic organizations, Mosques and Madarssas.
Eid al-Fitr celebrations are marked by fervent preparations within Muslim communities. Families decorate their homes, Eid cards and gifts are bought to distribute to friends and family, sweets and other delicacies are prepared, and new clothing is bought or made to celebrate the occasion.
People often visit bazaars and shopping malls, with their families and children, for last minute Eid al-Fitr shopping. Women, especially young girls, often paint each others' hands with traditional 'henna' and wear colourful bangles.
Special celebratory dish, 'sivayyan', a dish of fine, toasted sweet vermicelli noodles with milk and dried fruit is cooked and offered to the visitors.
Peoples from other communities, also extend their Eid wishes to all their fellow Muslim members.
Brothers pay a visit to their married sisters and take along sivai and other eatables along with some clothes, bangles and money.
The dhobi (washerman), the postman, the plumber, the electrician take turns to appear doorstep and wish 'Eid Mubarak' and flash that all too familiar grin. No one really minds though, as their 'eidi' has also become a ritual of sorts.
President, Prime Minister and other political leaders and community elders in their Eid greetings urged the people to uphold the cherished ideals of love, compassion, brotherhood and social harmony.
Eid is a joyous occasion. It celebrates discipline and kindness and strives to establish a semblance of equality in crazy chaotic cosmos.
The spirit of generosity and charity associated with this festival promotes the feeling of brotherhood among people and help usher in a humane society.
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