Many of us start preparing for Eid even before the arrival of Ramazan. From selecting the perfect dresses to matching jewelry, shoes, and bags...
COVER STORY
Many of us start preparing for Eid even before the arrival of Ramazan. From selecting the perfect dresses to matching jewelry, shoes, and bags—everything has to be just right for the big day. Most people try to complete their Eid preparations before Ramazan begins so they can focus entirely on their religious obligations. Preparing for sehri and iftar requires careful planning and effort, and the additional time spent in Quran recitation, taraweeh prayers, and other voluntary acts of worship leaves little room for Eid shopping.
However, Eid is not just about new clothes and delicious food; it is a time of togetherness, celebration, and gratitude. It is when families reunite, strengthening bonds and sharing joy with their loved ones. While friends are an important part of the Eid festivities, on the first day, people like to meet family only. The day begins early, with everyone getting ready and heading to the mosque for the special Eid prayers. The atmosphere is filled with warmth as people greet one another with hugs and heartfelt Eid wishes.
Returning home, the first treat of the day is often the traditional sheer khurma, lovingly prepared by mothers and grandmothers. The morning continues with visits to family elders, seeking blessings, and, of course, eagerly collecting eidi from them. The excitement of receiving crisp currency notes never fades, no matter how old one gets! From children to young adults, everyone looks forward to this cherished tradition.
Eid is a beautiful reminder of love, generosity, and gratitude. It is a celebration of faith and joy, a day when laughter echoes in every home. It is more than just a festival; it is an experience, a feeling of joy, unity and gratitude to Allah for His blessings. No matter where in the world you find yourself, if there is a Muslim community, there is Eid. And though cultures, cuisines, and customs vary, the essence of Eid remains the same: bringing people together in love and festivity. Let's take a journey across different countries to see how Muslims prepare and celebrate this cherished occasion, proving that no matter how different we are, Eid unites us all.
Chaand raat festivities
In our country and India and Bangladesh, the night before Eid, known as chaand raat (Night of the Moon), is a celebration in itself. As soon as the Shawal moon is sighted, marking the end of Ramazan, streets burst into life. Markets stay open till late at night – sometimes almost till fajr - with women rushing to get their last minute shopping for bangles and outfits done and getting their hands decorated with beautiful henna designs. Families gather to enjoy for the big day, exchanging hugs, sweets and excitement. The air is filled with the aroma of sheer khurma, and many other mouthwatering dishes.
It is strange, but some people have a proper iftari-style Eid breakfast—just without the pakoras. Amazing, isn’t it? After indulging in cholay, fruit chaat, and dahi baray throughout Ramazan, we still crave these dishes on Eid as well! But the highlight of Eid morning is definitely sheer khurma.
From Istanbul to Jakarta, London to Cairo, the morning of Eid begins with almost the same routine. People wake up early, bathe, dress in their new Eid clothes—at least all those who can afford to buy new clothes—and set off for the special Eid prayer in their particular mosques.
In Turkey, men and boys wear traditional shalvar and kaftans, while in Nigeria, brightly colored agbadas take center stage. In some Middle Eastern countries, people apply oudh (a fragrant oil) before heading to the mosque, symbolizing purity.
Mosques overflow with namazis, and open spaces transform into vast prayer grounds. The Eid sermon reminds everyone of gratitude, charity and the importance of family. At the end of the prayer, the mosque erupts with warm embraces and greetings of Eid Mubarak! It is a moment of pure joy, where strangers feel like family and differences melt away.
No Eid without food
No Eid is complete without a feast! And each country has its own mouthwatering traditions. In the Middle East, from Saudi Arabia to Lebanon, ma'amoul (date-filled cookies) are a staple, alongside roasted lamb and saffron-infused rice dishes.
In Pakistan, India and Bangladesh Everyone’s favourite, biryani, makes an appearance in almost every household, accompanied by seviyan or sheer and other yummy dishes like haleem, karhai, qorma, etc.
In Morocco and Algeria, m'semmen (layered pancakes with honey) are a breakfast favorite and in Indonesia and Malaysia ketupat (rice cakes wrapped in palm leaves) and rendang (spicy slow-cooked meat) make for a delicious spread.
But beyond the food, what makes Eid special is the way it is shared. In Yemen, people send plates of food to their neighbours, ensuring no one goes hungry. In Sudan, large communal feasts are held, where entire neighbourhoods dine together. In our country, people are very generous and try to make sure that everyone has the means to enjoy a good Eid meal.
Eidi – a tradition we all love
For children, the highlight of Eid is undoubtedly eidi—the tradition of receiving money or gifts from elders. In Pakistan, people make hampers for their household help and those who are less fortunate, and also give eidi along with food. This custom not only brings happiness but also teaches generosity and appreciation.
In the UAE, grandparents slip crisp banknotes into little envelopes, while in Turkey, kids visit neighbours to exchange greetings and receive sweets or small coins.
In Turkey, Eid is known as eker Bayram (sugar feast), and sweets play a big role in the celebrations. Children visit relatives and neighbours, receiving candies and chocolates. Families gather for long, leisurely meals, and people visit their elders. The spirit of togetherness is strong, as people make an extra effort to mend relationships and offer forgiveness.
One of the biggest Eid traditions in Indonesia is Mudik, the mass exodus of people returning to their hometowns to celebrate with family. Cities empty as millions travel across the country, enduring long journeys just to be with their loved ones. The joy of reunion after a year apart is what makes Eid truly special here.
In Nigeria, Eid is a lively affair. Families dress in their best traditional attire and attend large Eid gatherings, where drumming, singing, and dancing take center stage. It is common for people to keep their doors open, welcoming guests and feeding anyone who stops by. The atmosphere is festive and full of energy, with street performances and parades adding to the fun.
The West: celebrating in multicultural societies
In countries like the UK, USA, and Canada, where Muslims form diverse communities, Eid is a blend of traditions from all over the world. Mosques host multi-ethnic Eid prayers, followed by fairs and carnivals featuring food from different countries. Friends from various backgrounds join in the celebrations, making it a beautiful display of unity in diversity.
People who are away from their families often invite friends and community members for an Eid brunch or dinner. They usually plan their Eid gatherings on weekends, especially if Eid falls on a weekday and they do not have a day off.
Despite the variety of traditions, the heart of Eid remains the same—togetherness. It is a day where grudges are forgotten, kindness is multiplied, and love is shared. Whether it’s visiting the sick, donating to the needy, or simply sitting down for a meal with family, Eid reminds us that joy is amplified when it is shared.
As we travel through these Eid traditions, one thing becomes clear: no matter where we are in the world, Eid has a magical way of bringing people closer.
So, no matter where you celebrate, take the time to enjoy and cherish the presence of your family and friends. Remember those who are less fortunate, extend kindness and generosity, and be grateful to Allah for His countless blessings.
Eid Mubarak!
