I am from India belonging to a small city near Hyderabad, which is famous for its biryani and eating delicacies, especially its patented haleem, which is relished in Ramadan. Ramadan is welcomed by us and all Muslims around the world with utmost fervour and gratitude. We give alms to the poor in the form of charity, share our moments of joy and happiness to our beloved ones by offering them the delicacies and so forth. People give Zakat, which is a form of internal taxation in Islam during Ramadan for the needy and deserving.
This year, Ramadan had been a very special one for me indeed as I have been blessed with a baby boy, which is a great gift from the Almighty in this special part of the year. This has brought a sense of overwhelming joy and happiness in our family. Indeed we are thankful to God.
Eid Al Fitr is much anticipated, like a day full of surprises. We prepare for this day by purchasing new clothes and accessories and also by giving such things to the needy beforehand so that they’re not left behind in any way. We go for prayers and greet our near and dear ones. The part after this is interesting. When we were children, we used to wait for this part, when elders and friends come to meet for exchanging pleasantries. They give some gifts or money to the children called Eidya. Children, too, enjoy the moment by having a free hand to buy whatever they like after accumulating the Eidya from different sources.
Overall this is the most awaited festival for not only Muslims, but for people from across religions and dialects as many people enjoy celebrating Eid with us. Hence, it’s a global festival and a global month of festivities.
- The reader is a doctor based in Al Ain.
