3 unique traditions of Eid-ul-Fitr from around the world
We all know that Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of the 10th month (Shawwal) of the Islamic calendar every year, right after the month-long Ramadan (period of fasting observed between the break of dawn and sunset) is over. That is why it is known as ‘the festival of breaking fast’. This day is supposed to coincide with the sighting of the crescent or new Moon (Moon of Shawwal). This year, Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated in India on 22nd April as declared by the moon-sighting committee (Markazi Ruyath-e-Hilal) of Karnataka.
Although Eid-ul-Fitr is a one-day festival, the Islamic community across the globe often extends the celebrations. On the first day of Eid, people across the world celebrate the end of their fast with great rejoice and a big feast with friends and families, while on the following days, they continue the celebration by engaging in charity, focussing on strengthening their relationship with God (Allah) and showing compassion towards fellow men. People in different countries follow unique Eid traditions. As we wait to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, here’s a peek into three of them.
Bayramlik in Turkey
Eid-ul-Fitr in Turkey is referred to as Ramazan Bayrami or Seker Bayrami, where Bayrami literally translates to ‘festival’. The custom of wearing new clothes is known as ‘Bayramlik’ and the wish exchanged is referred to as ‘Bayraminiz Mubarek Olsun’ or ‘May your Bayram (Eid festival) be blessed.’ Turkey observes a three-day public national holiday on Eid. One of the popular customs followed in Turkey is honouring elders by kissing their right hand and conveying Bayram greetings. Young children also wish one another ‘Happy Bayram’ and exchange candies and traditional sweets such as baklava, almost imitating the Halloween tradition of the USA. Elders are also known to offer Turkish lira to kids who have been good throughout the year.
Halal Bihalal in Indonesia
In Indonesia, Eid-ul-Fitr is called Lebaran and is often associated with the homecoming tradition called ‘Mudik.’ As per this tradition, people who leave their hometowns return to celebrate Lebaran with families and friends. Another popular Indonesian Eid tradition is called ‘Halal Bihalal.’ As part of the celebration, everyone in the community seeks forgiveness from one another. People also bake a traditional thousand-layered cake called Lapis Legit. People in Indonesia also wear traditional clothes, gift each other, share hand-written notes and visit the graves of loved ones on Eid.
Lighting Pelita in Malaysia
Popularly known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Eid-ul-Fitr in Malaysia is celebrated with a lot of local traditions and customs, such as decorating homes with oil lamps, known as ‘pelita.’ People also cook local food for their loved ones. Some of the favourites are ‘Ketupat’ (rice dumplings) and ‘Rendang’ (lamb stew). During Eid, Malaysians keep their houses open for everyone, including the destitute and embrace everyone regardless their economic status, religion or caste.