Kathmandu [Nepal], March 21 (ANI): Hundreds of followers of Islam gathered Saturday morning at the Jame Mosque in Kathmandu to mark Eid-Al-Fitr, ending a month-long fast of Ramadan. After offering special prayers, attendees exchanged blessings and shared traditional sweet dishes.
“We underwent thirty days long Roza, on the day of Eid, we gather for the mass Namaz,” Rihan, one of the attendees, told ANI. Eid celebrates the end of fasting, self-restraint, and devotionally performed prayers, symbolising spiritual purification and elevation.
“After the Namaz, we meet with friends and relatives, hug each other and exchange wishes. We also feast on the sweets at home,” Rihan added. Sohail, another attendee, said, “After the Namaz of Eid, we exchange greetings with each other. After this, we have various delicacies and sweets prepared at home. Today, it’s ‘Mithi Eid’ that’s why sweets are preferred more.”
The festival teaches restraint, patience, and self-control. Iftar and collective prayers strengthen unity and coexistence within communities. The tradition of charity and assistance fosters compassion toward the helpless and poor. Saying “Chand Mubarak” or “Eid Mubarak” on sighting the Eid moon expresses mutual harmony and brotherhood.
Eid-ul-Fitr is not only a religious festival but also a symbol of social harmony and cultural solidarity. Wearing new clothes, offering prayers, and embracing each other to exchange greetings reinforce social bonds. The custom of preparing and sharing special dishes keeps collective happiness alive, while charity promotes a just and compassionate society.
The festival emphasises fraternity, reconciliation, and collectivism. Religion’s fundamental purpose is humanity: it discourages discrimination and encourages sacrifice, purity, non-violence, public welfare, and good deeds. Faith provides people patience and courage during adversity, and harmony, good conduct, and coordination are pillars for a civilised society.
The government declared a public holiday for Saturday, the Home Ministry stated. Eid-Al-Fitr—Arabic for “the feast of the breaking of the fast”—marks the return to regular eating after a month of fasting. Muslims typically have a small breakfast before morning prayers, then visit friends and relatives for a lavish feast; gifts, especially clothes, are commonly exchanged.
The annual celebration traces to the Prophet Mohammed in 624 CE following a victory in battle. Beyond festivity, Eid reinforces charity, kindness, social solidarity, and spiritual devotion, with many giving Zakat or providing meals, clothing, and support to those less fortunate.
Eid-ul-Fitr deepens community bonds and promotes love, charity, and coexistence. (ANI)
(This content is sourced from a syndicated feed and is published as received. The Tribune assumes no responsibility or liability for its accuracy, completeness, or content.)
