Eid-Ul-Fitr 2023: Shawwal Moon Sighted In India, Check Eid Date, Timing, History, Significance And All About Eid Ul-Fitr

Eid Ul-Fitr, also known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is one of the most important religious celebrations in the Islamic calendar. It marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting and spiritual reflection, and the beginning of Shawwal, the tenth month of the lunar-based Islamic calendar. Eid Ul-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims around the world with great joy and enthusiasm, and it is a time for family gatherings, feasting, and giving charity. Here check out the date of Eid Ul-Fitr 2023, history, significance, celebration and more:

When is Eid Ul-Fitr 2023? | Eid Ul-Fitr 2023 Date

When Is Eid Ul-Fitr 2023? Eid Ul-Fitr History, Significance, All You Need To Know About Holy Festival Of Eid Ul-Fitr | Photo: Pixabay

Eid Ul-Fitr is a most important and major Islamic holiday that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the month of fasting. In 2023, Eid Ul-Fitr is celebrated today in many countries around the world including Saudi Arabia as Shawwal Moon was Sighted on Thursday, 20 April 203. The date of Eid is first announced in Saudi Arabia. When the sighting of the moon has been verified, Eid a holy festival will be declared on television, radio stations, and at mosques.

When will Eid ul-Fitr be celebrated in India?

The holy month of Ramadan is coming to an end and Muslims worldwide have started preparing for Eid al-Fitr/Eid Ul-Fitr. In 2023 the First day of Shawwal/Eid ul Fitr will be celebrated on Saturday, April 22, 2023, in India as the moon has been sighted in the country today. However, please note that the exact date of Eid ul Fitr may vary based on the sighting of the moon, and it is always best to confirm with local authorities or your local mosque.

Eid-ul-Fitr 2023: Moon sighting dates, and timings in Kerala and Kashmir

In Kerala Eid ul-Fitr 2023 will be celebrating a day before the rest of the country due to the moon sighting adheres to the traditional Islamic calendar and actual sighting of the moon. Kerala is the only Indian state whose Eid-ul-Fitr date is decided by the sighting of the moon in Saudi Arabia. The state government declares a holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr based on the committee's decision. According to the official website, this year, the festival will be celebrated in Kerala on April 21st. Meanwhile, in Kashmir, the date of the holy festival Eid Ul-Fitr is determined by the grand mufti of the state, they have the authority to announce the beginning of Eid based on moon sighting timings. As per the official website, in Kashmir, Eid-ul-Fitr 2023 will be celebrated on April 22nd this year.

How many days are left in Eid Ul-Fitr 2023?

Muslims around the world will be eagerly anticipating the arrival of Eid ul Fitr, which is a time for celebration, feasting, and spending time with family and friends. During this time, people exchange gifts, wear new clothes, and offer prayers at the mosque. Eid ul Fitr is a time of joy and gratitude, marking the end of a month of spiritual purification and self-discipline.

Eid-ul-Fitr which marks the culmination of the fasting month of Ramzan or Ramadan will be celebrated in India on Saturday, 22 April 2023, as the moon has been sighted on Friday, 21 April 2023, in many parts of the country including, Bihar, Lucknow, Hyderabad.

Fatehpuri Masjid Imam Mufti Mukarram Ahmad told PTI that the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of the mosque contacted many places and was informed that the moon was sighted at several places. Eid will be celebrated in the country on Saturday, he said.

Apart from India, many other countries including, Australia, Mareeba (Queensland), and New Zealand will be celebrating the Eid Ul-Fitr on Saturday, 22 April 2023 as the Shawwal crescent moon has been sighted on Friday, 21 April 2023.

Saudi Arabia celebrated Eid Ul-Fitr today

Saudi Arabia is celebrating the holy festival of Eid Ul-Fitr on Friday, 21 April 2023 as the Shawwal crescent moon was sighted Thursday. The Saudi Supreme Court confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon.

Apart from Saudi Arabia, many other countries including Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, UAE, and Yemen celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr today.

Not just Saudi Arabia other Islamic countries also celebrating the Eid Ul-Fitr today. These countries are Yemen, UAE, Tunisia, Syria, Sudan, Palestine, Qatar, Lebanon, Kuwait, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, Bahrain, and Algeria.

As Shawwal moon has been sighted in Mareeba (Queensland), Australia, Bangladesh to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr on Saturday, April 22.

Eid Ul-Fitr or Eid al-Fitr History

Eid Ul-Fitr is a significant Islamic festival that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, which is the month of fasting observed by Muslims around the world. The celebration of Eid Ul-Fitr in 2023 is expected to take place on or around 21 April 2023, depending on the sighting of the moon.

The history of Eid Ul-Fitr dates back to the time of Prophet Muhammad, who founded Islam in the 7th century. According to Islamic tradition, the Prophet received the first revelation of the Quran during the month of Ramadan, which is why the month is considered sacred. The end of Ramadan is marked by the celebration of Eid Ul-Fitr, which means "festival of breaking the fast" also signified the end of fasting from dawn to dusk throughout Ramadan and the opening of the Shawwal month.

The festival of Eid Ul-Fitr is a time of joy and celebration, with Muslims gathering with family and friends to exchange gifts, share food, and pray together. On the day of Eid Ul-Fitr, Muslims attend morning prayers at the mosque or in an open area, wearing new clothes and reciting special prayers. The day is marked by feasting, with traditional foods such as sweets, dates, and biryani served in abundance.

The celebration of Eid Ul-Fitr is also a time of giving, with Muslims encouraged to donate to charity which is among the most noble deeds in Islam and help those in need. The festival is an important reminder of the values of community, compassion, and gratitude, and serves as a time for reflection and spiritual renewal.

Eid Ul-Fitr is a time of great significance for Muslims around the world, marking the end of a month of spiritual devotion and self-reflection, and the beginning of a new chapter of faith and commitment to the values of Islam.

Eid Ul-Fitr or Eid ul-Fitr Significance

When Is Eid Ul-Fitr 2023? Eid Ul-Fitr History, Significance, All You Need To Know About Holy Festival Of Eid Ul-Fitr | Photo: Pixabay

Eid Ul-Fitr is an important religious festival celebrated by Muslims around the world. It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, which is a time of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. The significance of Eid Ul-Fitr is multifaceted and has deep cultural, social, and spiritual roots.

From a spiritual perspective, Eid Ul-Fitr is a time of joy and celebration, as Muslims have successfully completed the month-long fast and fulfilled their religious obligations. It is a time to express gratitude to Allah for the blessings received during Ramadan and to seek forgiveness for any sins committed.

From a social perspective, Eid Ul-Fitr is a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate the end of the month-long fast. People gather for communal prayers, exchange gifts and greetings, and share meals and sweets. It is a time to strengthen family and community bonds and to show compassion and generosity to those in need.

From a cultural perspective, Eid Ul-Fitr is an important occasion that has been celebrated for centuries. It has its own unique traditions and customs, such as wearing new clothes, decorating homes with lights and ornaments, and preparing special dishes. These customs vary from region to region but are all part of the rich cultural heritage of Islam.

Eid Ul-Fitr is a time of spiritual, social, and cultural significance that brings joy, unity, and peace to the Muslim community. It reminds people of the importance of faith, family, and community, and reinforces the values of compassion, generosity, and gratitude.

What is Shawwal?

When Is Eid Ul-Fitr 2023? Eid Ul-Fitr History, Significance, All You Need To Know About Holy Festival Of Eid Ul-Fitr | Photo: Unsplash

Shawwal is the tenth month of the Islamic calendar and follows the holy month of Ramadan. It is a significant month for Muslims around the world, as it marks the end of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid Ul-Fitr also signified the end of fasting from dawn to dusk throughout Ramadan and the opening of the Shawwal month, which is one of the two major festivals in Islam.

Eid Ul-Fitr, which is also known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal. It is a time for Muslims to gather with family and friends, exchange gifts, and share meals together. It is also a time to give to charity and to forgiveness.

During Shawwal, Muslims also perform voluntary fasts known as the "Six Days of Shawwal". These fasts are not obligatory, but they are recommended as a way to earn extra reward from Allah. Muslims who have completed Ramadan and Eid Ul-Fitr often continue their spiritual practice during Shawwal.

Shawwal is a month of joy and celebration for Muslims around the world. It is a time to reflect on the blessings of Ramadan, to spend time with loved ones, and to continue their devotion to Allah through voluntary acts of worship.

What is Zakat al-fitr? Know why it is important during Eid?

Zakat al-fitr, also known as Sadaqat al-fitr or Fitrah, is a type of charitable giving in Islam that is obligatory for all Muslims who have the means to do so. It is a form of charity that is given at the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, and before Eid al-Fitr, the festival that marks the end of Ramadan.

The word "Zakat" is derived from the Arabic root word "zaka," which means "to purify" or "to make something grow." Zakat al-fitr is a small amount of money that is given to the poor and needy, and it is intended to purify the fasting person from any shortcomings or mistakes that they may have made during Ramadan, as well as to help those in need.

Zakat al-fitr is usually given in the form of food, although it can also be given in the form of money. The amount of Zakat al-fitr is usually calculated based on the cost of one measure of the staple food of the region, such as rice or wheat. In many countries, the recommended amount of Zakat al-fitr is equivalent to the cost of one meal.

The importance of Zakat al-fitr during Eid al-Fitr lies in its significance as a means of purifying oneself and helping others. Islam places great emphasis on the concept of charity, and Zakat al-fitr is one of the many forms of charity that Muslims are encouraged to give throughout the year.

In addition to its spiritual benefits, Zakat al-fitr also has social and economic benefits. By giving Zakat al-fitr, Muslims help to alleviate the suffering of the poor and needy, and promote social justice and equality. It also helps to strengthen the bonds of community and solidarity among Muslims, as everyone is encouraged to give according to their means, regardless of their social status or wealth.

Moreover, Zakat al-fitr serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of gratitude and humility. By giving away a small portion of their wealth, Muslims recognize that all blessings come from Allah and that they are merely stewards of their wealth.

Ramadan 2023 Start And End Dates

The holy month of Ramadan 2023 is likely to begin on March 23, this depends on the sighting of the crescent moon and will last for four weeks and ends with Eid-ul-Fitr. Eid -ul-Fitr in India will be celebrated on Friday, April 21 or Saturday, April 22 depending on the sighting of the Moon.

About the Holy month of Ramadan

According to Islamic culture, the origins of Ramadan can be traced back to the seventh century, when the Prophet Muhammad received the first verses of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, during the month of Ramadan. According to Islamic tradition, the revelation of the Quran to Muhammad began on the 27th night of Ramadan, a night that is known as Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Power. Muslims believe that Laylat al-Qadr is the holiest night of the year and that praying on this night is more valuable than praying for a thousand months.

The practice of fasting during Ramadan is based on the Quranic injunction to "fast for a fixed number of days". Muslims are required to abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours throughout the month of Ramadan. The fast is broken at sunset with a meal known as iftar, which typically consists of dates, water, and a light meal. After the meal, Muslims perform the Maghrib prayer, the fourth of the five daily prayers in Islam.

Ramadan is also a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and charitable giving. Muslims are encouraged to read the entire Quran during the month, and many mosques offer daily prayers and study groups. In addition, Muslims are expected to give to charity during Ramadan, with many mosques and charitable organizations organising food drives and other initiatives to help those in need.

Here are some ways to celebrate Eid Ul-Fitr:

Attend Eid prayers

Muslims worldwide usually begin the day by attending Eid prayers, which are held in mosques, community centres, or open fields. It is a time for communal prayer and gratitude for the blessings received during Ramadan.

Exchange gifts

Giving gifts is a common tradition during Eid Ul-Fitr. It is a way of expressing love and gratitude towards family and friends. Children, in particular, look forward to receiving new clothes, toys, or sweets.

Prepare Eid feasts

Muslims prepare special meals and desserts for Eid Ul-Fitr. The dishes vary from region to region, but they are usually rich and delicious. It is also customary to invite friends and family over for a feast.

Give charity

Giving charity is an important aspect of Islam, and it is especially emphasised during Eid Ul-Fitr. Muslims are encouraged to donate to the poor and needy to ensure that everyone can participate in the festivities.

Visit family and friends

Eid Ul-Fitr is a time for socialising and strengthening family ties. Muslims visit their relatives and friends, exchange greetings, and share food and gifts.

Wear new clothes

It is a tradition to wear new clothes on Eid Ul-Fitr. Muslims dress up in their best outfits, and it is a time for fashion and glamour.

Decorate homes and streets

Muslims decorate their homes and streets with colourful lights, banners, and balloons. It is a way of creating a festive atmosphere and spreading joy and happiness.

Eid Ul-Fitr is a time for celebration, joy, and gratitude. Muslims worldwide come together to mark the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal. The celebrations are characterised by communal prayer, feasting, gift-giving, and charity. By following these traditions, Muslims can experience the true spirit of Eid Ul-Fitr and strengthen their faith and community ties.

Eid Ul-Fitr 2023: Traditional foods and snacks are cooked and shared with friends on Eid Ul-Fitr

Eid Ul-Fitr is an important Islamic holiday that marks the end of the month-long fasting period of Ramadan. It is a time of celebration and feasting, and traditional foods and snacks play an important role in the festivities. Here are some examples of traditional Eid Ul-Fitr foods and snacks that are commonly cooked and shared with friends and family:

1. Sheer Khurma:

This is a delicious dessert made with vermicelli, milk, sugar, and dates. It is usually flavored with cardamom and saffron and is a popular Eid Ul-Fitr dish in many parts of the world.

2. Samosas:

These are savory snacks that are popular in many cultures and are often served during Eid Ul-Fitr. Samosas are typically filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and onions, and are fried until golden brown.

3. Kebabs:

Kebabs are skewered pieces of meat that are grilled or barbecued, and they are a popular Eid Ul-Fitr dish in many Muslim-majority countries. They can be made with chicken, lamb, or even vegetables.

4. Biryani:

Biryani is a rice dish that is popular in many parts of South Asia, especially in India, and is often served during Eid Ul-Fitr. It is usually made with basmati rice, spices, and meat (usually chicken or lamb), and can be quite flavorful.

5. Ma'amoul:

Ma'amoul are small cookies that are popular in many Middle Eastern countries and are often served during Eid Ul-Fitr. They are made with semolina flour, butter, and sugar, and are filled with dates or nuts.

These are just a few examples of the many traditional foods and snacks that are cooked and shared with friends on Eid Ul-Fitr. The exact dishes that are served can vary depending on the region and cultural traditions.

Eid Ul-Fitr 2023 wishes to send your loved ones in advance

1. May this upcoming Eid bring you and your loved ones endless joy and happiness.

2. May your heart and home be filled with peace, love, and blessings during this festive occasion.

3. Wishing you a blessed Eid Ul-Fitr in advance, filled with memorable moments with your family and friends.

4. May Allah's blessings be with you and your family on this joyous occasion of Eid.

5. May this upcoming Eid Ul-Fitr bring you closer to your loved ones and strengthen your bond with them.

6. May your days be filled with love, joy, and happiness during this auspicious time of the year.

7. Wishing you and your family a safe and peaceful Eid Ul-Fitr in advance.

8. May Allah grant you all your wishes and bless you with good health, wealth, and success in life.

9. Sending you warm wishes on this upcoming Eid Ul-Fitr, may it be a time of reflection, forgiveness, and gratitude for all your blessings.

10. May the spirit of Eid bring you closer to Allah and fill your heart with love and happiness that lasts beyond this festive occasion.

Laylatul Qadr 2023 Date | Shab-e-Qadr Date

As the holy month of Ramadan is coming to an end. And, to mark the end of the holy period, Muslims in India as well worlwide will observe Shab-e-Qadr (Laylat ul-Qadr). This year, Laylat al-Qadr is expected to celebrate on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. Shab-e-Qadr is deemed one of the holiest nights.

The Holy month of Ramadan is associated with spirituality. Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and offer alms as compassion to the less fortunate and also return to the basics. This spirituality reaches unprecedented heights on Laylat Al-Qadr, which falls during the Ramadan's final 10 days.

Laylat al-Qadr (Laylat-ul-Qadr) or Shab-e-Qadr is an Islamic observance that is rendered in English as the Night of Decree, Night of Destiny, Night of Power, and Night of Value, Night Of blessings.

While Qadr night can fall on any of the odd-number nights of the last ashra in Ramadan, most people believe that it is most likely to be on the 27th night and some believe that the 23rd night is possibly Laylatul Qadr.

According to Islamic tradition, Laylat al-Qadr or Shab-e-Qadr as the night when the Holy Quran was first sent down from Heaven to the earth and also the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Islamic prophet Muhammad, founder of the world religion of Islam.

Laylat al-Qadr is an Arabic term that translates to "The Night of Power" or "The Night of Decree". It is considered one of the most important and sacred nights in Islam.

Laylat Al-Qadr (Shab-e-Qadr)'s Significance in Islam

Muslims around the world observe Laylat al-Qadr by performing special prayers and engaging in acts of worship and charity. Many believe that any good deeds performed on this night are multiplied in reward and that prayers and supplications made on this night are more likely to be accepted by Allah. It is considered a time of intense spiritual reflection and devotion.

Shab-e-Qadr is celebrated widely by Muslim communities on distinct dates. In Islamic tradition, The occasion falls on an odd-numbered night in the last ten days of Ramadan, the month of fasting and prayers. To be precise, it is usually celebrated on the 27th of Ramazan. Shab-e-Qadr is considered a public holiday in several countries.

As per the Islam and the holy Quran, it is written that praying on the nights of Shab-e-Qadr is way better than a thousand months. Hence, the Muslim community across the globe, observes these nights with great religious zeal. During these auspicious nights, Muslims stay awake the whole night as they pray, recite the Quran, and seek forgiveness for their sins.

Special Dua For Laylatul Qadr 2023 | Shab-e-Qadr Dua

The last 10 odd nights of Ramadan are highly rewarding when the holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Hence, it is important one knows the right dua for these nights. Muslims believe that during these nights whatever they wish for is granted through their prayers.

Laylatul Qadr dua: "Allahumma Innaka Aafuwon Tuhibu AlAaffwa FAafu Aanni"

Meaning: Oh Allah! You are highly forgiving, and you love to forgive people, so please forgive me.

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