Idd-ul-Fitr

Idd ul Fitr marks the end of Ramdhan, the holy month of fasting Idd is an Arabic word meaning “festivity and Fitr means “breaking the fast” This is a day where Muslims around the world try to show a common goal of unity.

The common Arabic greeting on Idd is Idd Mubarak(blessed Idd). In addition many countries have their own greetings in local language. Muslims are also encouraged on this day to forgive and forget any differences with others or animosities that may have occurred during the year.

As an obligatory act of charity, money is paid to the poor and the needy No person should go hungry

The Idd prayer is performed in congregation . After the prayers, Muslims visit their relatives, friends and acquaintances or hold large communal celebrations in homes, community centers or rented halls.

.Idd gifts, known as Iddi, are given on Idd to children and immediate relatives.

Fasting

Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, improvement and increased devotion and worship. Muslims are expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Islam. The fast begins at dawn and ends at sunset. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the soul by freeing it from harmful impurities. Ramadan also teaches Muslims how to better practice self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate; thus encouraging actions of generosity and compulsory charity.

As a child I remember my mother and grandmother making (Mithias (sweet meats), chevro and ganthis in the last week of ramadan. All the relatives and friends got a plate of mithia. We also got new clothes to wear on Idd.

On the day, after namaz we visited our elders where gift of money was given to every person who walked through the door. Gifts of clothes and jewellery were given to close family members. Sherbat (sweet milk with almonds and takmaria (basil seeds) was offered as you entered the house. We had a family lunch and the children either went shopping with the money they had collected or went to the movies and the elders would stay at home and socialize.

This year the Idd falls on Sunday Aug. 19. We will have Idd Namaz in all Jamat Khanas and lunch will be served in Khana.

I have made Badam (almond) Pak, Coconut Barfi and Kajoo (cashew) Barfi