Eid-ul-Fitr or Eid-al-Fitr is declared as the gazetted holiday all over the India which is celebrated on the end of Ramadan month of fasting indicating first day of Islamic month of Shawwal. ‘Fitr’ means to break (fast). Eid-ul-Fitr 2018 will be celebrated by the Muslim community on the evening of June 14 to June 15. Chand Raat or Chand ki Raat (The night of the moon) occurs on the eve of Eid and is a prelude to the celebrations of Eid as well. Muslims celebrate Chand Raat by wishing everyone Chand Mubarak and the shopping and eating mark the start of the celebration of Eid.

History & Significance    

Since the sighting of the moon is very significant to the Islamic religion, Chand Raat holds importance in the celebrations. It marks the first day of the month of Shawwal by the sighting of the first lunar crescent of this month. It is seen as a reward for one’s patience and anticipation during the month of Ramadan. Therefore, Chand Raat at Eid-ul-Fitr is more widely recognised and celebrated than at Eid-al-Adha.

Celebrations

Muslims go out especially for Eid shopping to the nearest market, bazaar or shopping malls with their family. Women purchase mehendi, colourful bangles, clothes and accessories. Eid special delicacies are also prepared, sweets like seviyan in different variants are consumed, and popular dishes include mutton biryani, kebabs, tikkas and more.

In India, Eid is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. All over the country fairs are held by the community. People also go to the popular places such as Jama Masjid in New Delhi, Aishbagh Idgah in Lucknow, Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad and Red Road in Kolkata to celebrate Eid with lots of joy and excitement.

On this day the celebrants greet each other with ‘Chand Raat Mubarak’ i.e., have a blessed night of the new moon. Chand Raat festivities from Pakistan, UAE and other Middle-Eastern countries will be telecasted live. We, at Latestly, wish everyone Chand Raat Mubarak and Eid Mubarak to all our fellow Muslims.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 14, 2018 02:20 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).