As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, preparations for Eid-ul-Fitr are in full swing across various cities in India. Communities are bustling with excitement, and mosques are being adorned in anticipation of the special prayers that mark this significant occasion.
In Jammu City, the timing for Eid Namaz has been officially announced, ensuring that residents can plan their day accordingly. The prayers are set to take place on Monday, March 31, 2025, with local mosques and Eidgahs prepared to welcome worshippers. This year, the community is especially eager to gather for the prayers after a month of fasting and reflection.
Meanwhile, in Guwahati, the atmosphere is vibrant as mosques and open prayer grounds undergo thorough cleaning and decoration for the Eid Namaz. Notable mosques such as Burha Masjid in Ambari, Machkhowa Pakka Masjid, and the ‘Dui Number Lakhtokia’ masjid in Fancy Bazar are beautifully adorned, ready to welcome thousands of devotees. M Zakaria, the general secretary of the Guwahati Idgah Committee, expressed optimism about the turnout, stating, "Every year, over 10,000 devotees gather here. This year as well we are expecting a similar turnout."
The committee has taken proactive measures to enhance security around these key religious sites, collaborating with local authorities to ensure a safe environment for worshippers. As shoppers flock to stores for traditional Eid essentials—ranging from elegant attire to delicacies—the excitement in the air is palpable.
In Bareilly, the President of the All India Muslim Jamaat (AIMJ), Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, has made headlines with his recent statement regarding the observance of Eid. He urged Muslims not to follow the appeal made by the All India Muslim Personal Board (AIMPLB) to wear black bands on Eid, emphasizing that this day should be one of joy, not sorrow. "Do not turn the day of happiness into sorrow by tying a black band. Pray for the prosperity and progress of your country and family," he stated.
Maulana Razvi also called on Imams to ensure that Eid prayers are organized smoothly and that they avoid holding prayers on the streets, which can disrupt traffic and create inconvenience. He suggested that if a mosque is too small to accommodate all worshippers, the Imam could conduct multiple prayer sessions to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate. He remarked, "Islam is a religion of hospitality and humanity, not of causing trouble to anyone."
In Lucknow, the timing for Eid-ul-Fitr prayers has been announced, with various prominent mosques preparing for the influx of devotees. The Aishbagh Eidgah will host prayers at 10:00 a.m., while the Asifi Masjid (Bara Imambara) will hold its prayers at 11:00 a.m. Other mosques, such as the Teele Wali Masjid and Eidgah Khadra, will have sessions starting at 9:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., respectively. Notably, Eidgah Rajajipuram will offer two prayer sessions at 7:45 a.m. and 8:45 a.m., accommodating the large number of expected attendees.
The Eid-ul-Fitr prayers are not only a significant religious observance but also a time for community bonding and celebration. Authorities in Lucknow have made necessary arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the prayers, keeping in mind the large turnout anticipated this year.
As communities across India prepare to celebrate Eid, the spirit of togetherness and joy is evident. Families are gathering, shops are bustling, and the air is filled with anticipation for the festivities. The observance of Eid is a reminder of the importance of faith, community, and the joy of togetherness.
While the preparations are underway, the messages from leaders like Maulana Razvi serve to unify the community and remind them of the true essence of Eid. As Muslims come together to pray and celebrate, the focus remains on fostering goodwill, compassion, and a sense of belonging.
On this day, as families don their finest attire and share meals with loved ones, the importance of charity and support for those in need is also highlighted. Many are encouraged to give Fitra money and grains to the poor and needy before the Eid namaz, reinforcing the values of generosity and community support that are central to the celebration.
As the sun rises on March 31, 2025, Muslims in Jammu, Guwahati, Bareilly, and Lucknow will join together in prayer, marking the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid-ul-Fitr. This day promises not only spiritual fulfillment but also a celebration of community, culture, and shared values.
With the prayers set to commence across various locations, the excitement is palpable, and the message is clear: Eid is a time for joy, reflection, and unity.
As the festivities unfold, communities will come together to embrace the spirit of Eid, celebrating not just their faith, but also the bonds that tie them together as a community. This year, the focus remains on joy, hospitality, and the collective aspirations for peace and prosperity.
