The New Nation - Internet Edition

Humaira Jalil

Eid ul Fitr - a Muslim festival of thanksgiving and jubilation signifies the successful completion of the month of Ramadan and marks the completion of an act of duty and devotion.

Every year Muslims celebrate Eid ul Fitr on the first of Shawwal. The day starts with the Eid prayers. Men assemble in large open areas to offer this prayer. After this people meet and greet each other and forget past animosity. They visit relatives and friends and enjoy the day with them. On this occasion special mouth-watering food items like sweet dishes (vermicelli, puddings, kheer), savouries (chatpoti, dahiboras, chats, kebabs, fries) and main courses including polao, kormas, roasts, curries etc are prepared. Men, women and youngsters all dress in new clothes on Eid day. Women and young girls apply on their palms decorative, colourful designs with mehdi.

Although, on this auspicious occasion one expects to see happiness and joy everywhere one goes this is not always the case. In a country like Bangladesh many families don't have food to eat let alone new clothes to wear on even the Eid day. Like true Muslims it is indeed our duty to make sure that they too are included in this festivity. Let us endeavour to share the happiness and joys of Eid ul Fitr with everyone.