Eid-ul-Fitr, also known as Meethi Eid, is one of the most sacred and joyous festivals in Islam. It marks the conclusion of Ramadan, a month dedicated to fasting, prayers, and spiritual reflection. The festival is celebrated worldwide with great enthusiasm, bringing people together in the spirit of gratitude, brotherhood, and unity.
This year, Eid-ul-Fitr 2025 is expected to be observed on March 31 or April 1 in India, depending on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. In Saudi Arabia, UAE, and other Gulf countries, Eid will likely be celebrated a day earlier, on March 30 or March 31. Since Islamic festivals follow the lunar calendar, the final confirmation of the Eid date depends on the moon sighting, which marks the beginning of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar.
Eid-ul-Fitr 2025 Date and Moon Sighting in India and Worldwide
The Islamic calendar is based on the sighting of the new crescent moon, making Eid-ul-Fitr’s date vary across different countries.
In Saudi Arabia, UAE, and other Middle Eastern countries, Ramadan started on March 1, meaning Eid-ul-Fitr will likely fall on March 30 or March 31, 2025.
In India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other South Asian countries, Ramadan began on March 2, so Eid is expected on March 31 or April 1, 2025.
In the UK, USA, Canada, and other Western nations, Eid dates will follow local moon sighting committees.
The final date of Eid-ul-Fitr 2025 will be confirmed after the moon is sighted on the 29th day of Ramadan. If the crescent is seen, Eid is celebrated the next day; otherwise, Ramadan completes 30 days, and Eid is observed thereafter.
How is Eid-ul-Fitr Celebrated?
Eid-ul-Fitr is a time of happiness, unity, and devotion, bringing together families and communities. The festival is marked by special prayers, charity, festive meals, and social gatherings.
Key Traditions of Eid-ul-Fitr
Moon Sighting & Announcements
The confirmation of Eid is based on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon.
Islamic scholars and committees announce Eid dates accordingly.
Sadaqat al-Fitr (Fitrana)
A mandatory charity donation given before the Eid prayer.
It ensures that the poor and needy can also celebrate Eid.
In 2025, the recommended Fitrana amount in India is expected to be around ₹50 to ₹100 per person.
Eid Prayers (Namaz-e-Eid)
Special congregational prayers are offered in mosques and open fields.
It consists of two Rakats with additional Takbirs (praises of Allah).
Feasting and Family Gatherings
A variety of traditional sweets and dishes are prepared, including Sheer Khurma, Seviyan, and Biryani.
Families exchange gifts and sweets, strengthening bonds of love and friendship.
Visiting Relatives and Spreading Joy
People visit friends, relatives, and neighbors to exchange Eid greetings.
Children receive Eidi (cash gifts) from elders as a token of love.
Acts of Charity and Gratitude
Muslims are encouraged to help the underprivileged by donating clothes, food, and money.
Eid serves as a reminder to be thankful for blessings and to spread kindness and generosity.
Eid-ul-Fitr Prayer: Step-by-Step Guide
Performing the Eid prayer (Namaz-e-Eid) is an essential part of the festival. Here’s how it is performed:
Make the Intention (Niyyah): Begin with the intention to offer two Rakats of Eid prayer.
First Takbir: Recite “Allahu Akbar” and repeat it three more times.
Recite Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by another Surah.
Perform the Second Rakat: Repeat the three Takbirs before bowing into Ruku.
Listen to the Eid Sermon (Khutbah) after the prayer.
The Eid prayer is usually held early in the morning in mosques or open fields and is led by an Imam.
Significance of Eid-ul-Fitr
Eid-ul-Fitr is not just about celebration but also about spiritual fulfillment, gratitude, and charity. It marks the successful completion of Ramadan, where Muslims have spent a month in fasting, prayers, and self-discipline.
The festival is a reminder of generosity and compassion, as Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of giving back to society and helping the less fortunate.
Why is Eid-ul-Fitr Special?
It celebrates faith and devotion, reinforcing the values of patience, gratitude, and self-control learned during Ramadan.
It promotes brotherhood and unity, as families and communities come together to pray, feast, and exchange greetings.
It encourages acts of kindness and charity, ensuring that no one is left behind in the celebrations.
As Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“The fasting person has two joys: one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he meets his Lord.”
