New Delhi, May 30: Eid or Eid al-Fitr, one of the two biggest festivals of people of Islamic faith, is celebrated on the first day of the month of Shawwal. The date for Eid celebration in India and other parts of the world is determined by the sighting of a crescent moon. Also known as Eid-ul-Fitr, the festival marks the end of the Islamic holy month of fasting – Ramadan or Ramzan.

As part of Eid celebrations, Muslims offer a special prayer in open areas like fields, community centres, etc. or at mosques. Social gatherings are organised and traditional sweet dishes are distributed. Many believe the festival originated by Prophet Mohammed after his migrated from Mecca to Medina. Celebrations begin with the first sighting of the crescent moon shortly after sunset on 29th or 30th of Ramzan. Eid Moon Sighting 2019: 'How to Sight The Eid Moon' And Other Questions Related to Hilal Crescent.

Eid 2019 Date in India: Under the Islamic lunar calendar, a new month begins upon the sighting of a crescent moon on the 29th day of the ongoing month. If the moon is not sighted, the month completes 30 days and a new month begins the next day. In India, except in Kerala and some districts of Karnataka, June 4 is the 29th of Ramzan. If the moon is sighted on June 4, Eid will be celebrated on June 5. Bakra Eid: Significance And Religious History of Eid-ul-Adha.

If the moon remains invisible, Ramzan month will complete 30 days on June 5 and Eid will be celebrated on June 5. The lunar cycle in Kerala and some districts of Karnataka is running a day ahead of the Indian subcontinent. Therefore, they will attempt to sight the moon on June 3 (29th of Ramzan). If the moon is sighted, Eid will be celebrated on June 4. If not, the festival would be observed on June 5.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 30, 2019 11:42 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).