Eid-ul-Fitr or Kuda Eid in local language perhaps, is one of the interesting festivals in Maldives. At the end of Ramadan Muslims around the world observe this joyous three-day celebration.
Eid ul-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, the month which follows Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. This year Eid ul Fitr falls on May 24, 2020. It is a time to give away charity to those in need and to celebrate with family and friends. Before the day of Eid, during the last few days of Ramadan, each Muslim family gives a determined amount as a donation to the poor. This donation is in terms of food such as rice or equivalent of that in local currency to ensure that those in need can have a holiday meal and participate in the celebration. This donation is known as fitr zakaath in the local language. On the day of Eid, Muslims gather early in the morning in mosques to perform the Eid prayer. This consists of a sermon followed by a short congregational prayer.
After the Eid prayer, people start visiting family members and friends, give gifts (especially to children), and make phone calls to distant relatives to give well-wishes for the holiday. These activities traditionally continue for three days. In most Muslim nations such as the Maldives, the entire 3-day period is an official government and school holidays. The people of the Maldives wear new clothes, special meals are cooked at homes and also many traditional games are enjoyed by the children as well as the Maldivian people during the festival in the islands of the Maldives.
Eid ul Fitr 2020, is different as we are still under lockdown due to Corona Virus Pandermic ( COVID-19) people of Malé are advised to stay at home for their safety, due to social distancing policy prayers would take place from our homes. However, we still celebrate this special day staying connected with our loved ones, friends and family members on this special occasion via phone, social media networking such as Viber, WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram is one the popular platforms to see the highlights of Eid ul Fitr 2020 celebrations.
For those who are celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr 2020, we wish you a very blessed Eid fllled with joy and happiness.
