As Ramadan, the holy month of fasting and spiritual reflection, comes to an end, Muslims across India are preparing for Eid ul-Fitr—the ‘Festival of Breaking the Fast.’ This year, the exact date of Eid ul-Fitr hinges on the sighting of the crescent moon (Chand Raat), which marks the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal. In 2025, Eid ul-Fitr is anticipated to fall on Monday, March 31, if the moon is sighted on Sunday, March 30. However, if the moon is not visible, Eid will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 1. The final confirmation will come from local moon-sighting committees after sunset on March 30.
The Eid prayer (Eid Namaz) is an important ritual performed by Muslims on the morning of Eid. Here’s a look at the expected timings for Eid Namaz in major Indian cities:
| City | Eid Prayer Time |
| Delhi | 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Mumbai | 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Hyderabad | 6:24 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Kolkata | 5:41 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Bengaluru | 6:30 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Chennai | 6:15 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Lucknow | 6:07 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Pune | 6:45 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Ahmedabad | 6:43 AM – 12:00 PM |
Note: Exact timings may vary based on local moon sightings. Confirm with your nearest mosque.
Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, meaning each month begins with the sighting of the new moon. Since the visibility of the crescent moon varies by location, different countries and sometimes even regions within India may celebrate Eid on different days. For instance, Saudi Arabia and Gulf countries often declare Eid a day earlier due to earlier moon sightings, while South Asian nations, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, typically wait for local confirmation. This year, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf nations may observe Eid on March 30, while India will likely follow a March 31 or April 1 celebration.
While March 31 is the anticipated date, the final decision will be made after Ru’yat-e-Hilal (moon sighting) on the evening of March 30. The Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind and other Islamic bodies will announce the official date.
Eid ul-Fitr is not just a festival but a spiritual occasion with deep significance. The day is marked by festive meals, giving charity, and spending time with family and friends. It is a time of gratitude for the strength and patience shown during Ramadan.
In addition to India, the date of Eid ul-Fitr is also significant in other countries. For example, in Saudi Arabia, if the moon is sighted on March 29, Eid ul-Fitr will be observed on March 30. If the moon is not visible on March 29, then Eid ul-Fitr will be celebrated on March 31. The Saudi Arabian government has announced the official Eid holidays, with public sector employees having their last working day on Monday, 24th Ramadan 1446 AH, and the private sector and non-profit sector holidays beginning after work on Saturday, 29th Ramadan 1446 AH.
In the UAE, the crescent moon is expected to be observed on March 29, 2025, which means Eid ul-Fitr will likely fall on March 30, 2025. The Shawwal Crescent Sighting Committee will observe the crescent on Saturday evening, March 29, at Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi, using advanced technology for the sighting.
In Australia, the Australian Fatwa Council has announced that Eid ul-Fitr will be observed on March 31, 2025, based on astronomical calculations. The crescent moon for Shawwal 1446 AH will be born on March 29, 2025, but it will not be visible before sunset, resulting in Ramadan completing its 30 days.
Celebrations for Eid ul-Fitr in India include gathering for Eid prayers at mosques and Eidgahs, preparing festive meals like sewaiyan (sweet vermicelli), kebabs, and biryani, giving Zakat al-Fitr (a form of charity), and visiting friends and relatives to exchange gifts and sweets. The festival is a time for unity and joy, with families coming together to celebrate.
In summary, Eid ul-Fitr is a joyous occasion for Muslims worldwide, celebrated with prayers, feasts, and acts of charity. The exact date of Eid ul-Fitr varies by location, and it is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon. No matter where you are, Eid is a time of gratitude, unity, and celebration. Eid Mubarak!
