The Rais of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the residents of Tatarstan on the occasion of Uraza Bayram, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. In a message published on March 29, 2025, he expressed his joy for the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, emphasizing the significance of this blessed holiday.
In his address, Minnikhanov reflected on the month of Ramadan, stating, "The holy month of Ramadan was filled with grateful prayers, good deeds and merciful acts for Muslims." He highlighted the values of morality, goodness, and justice that are deeply rooted in the traditions of Uraza Bayram. The Rais noted, "In the traditions of the holiday of Uraza Bayram, the priority of morality and the aspiration of people to the eternal ideals of goodness and justice is reflected."
As Tatarstan continues to grow as a cultural hub for Muslims, Kazan has been honored to be named the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World in 2026. This recognition underscores the region's commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and cooperation among diverse communities.
On the eve of Uraza Bayram, believers gather for joint prayers and prepare for festive meals. Minnikhanov wished everyone joy and spiritual renewal, stating, "May this wonderful holiday bring us all joy of spiritual renewal, unity, and constructive labor." He concluded his message with wishes for peace, happiness, and prosperity for the people of Tatarstan.
In the broader region, Vyacheslav Kozlov, the head of the district, and Rinat Fasakhov, the head of the executive committee, also congratulated Muslims on the holiday. They acknowledged that during Ramadan, devout Muslims fasted from morning until evening, performed good deeds, and engaged in daily prayers. The message conveyed warm wishes for health and success in achieving noble goals.
On March 30, 2025, festive prayers and gait-namaz will be held in all mosques at 6 a.m., except for the mosques in Akbure and Sulche-Bashe, where prayers will start at 5:40 a.m. This timing allows the community to come together in celebration and reflection.
Uraza Bayram, also known as Eid al-Fitr, is one of the two main Muslim holidays, marking the end of fasting during Ramadan. It is a time for gratitude to Allah for the blessings received during the holy month. The holiday is celebrated on different dates each year, as it is based on the lunar Islamic calendar, which consists of 12 lunar months totaling about 354 days.
In 2025, Ramadan began at sunset on February 28 and concludes on March 29. The celebration of Uraza Bayram will commence on the night of March 30. The significance of this holiday lies in its emphasis on community, charity, and spiritual renewal. Muslims believe that fasting during Ramadan earns them divine mercy and blessings.
Traditionally, Uraza Bayram has been celebrated since the time of the Arab Caliphate, with festive tables set up in various regions, including the Ottoman Empire, Egypt, and North Africa. The holiday is marked by the phrase "Id Mubarak," meaning "blessed holiday," as Muslims greet one another in celebration.
Preparation for Uraza Bayram often involves thorough cleaning of homes, cooking special dishes, and wearing new or best clothes. A key ritual is the giving of alms, which compensates for any shortcomings during the fasting period. This act of charity is an important aspect of the holiday, as it reinforces the values of compassion and community support.
On Uraza Bayram, Muslims are encouraged to gather for the id-namaz prayer and share festive meals with family and friends. It is also a time for forgiveness and the exchange of gifts. Unlike during Ramadan, when fasting is observed, celebrants can eat and drink freely during the day.
While Uraza Bayram is typically a non-working day in regions such as Kabardino-Balkaria, Dagestan, Bashkiria, and Tatarstan, the holiday in 2025 falls on a Sunday, meaning there will be no additional day off.
The upcoming Kurban Bayram, another significant Muslim holiday, will be celebrated on June 6, 2025. This holiday commemorates the end of the Hajj pilgrimage and is an occasion for sacrifice and charity.
As Tatarstan prepares to celebrate Uraza Bayram, the community looks forward to a day filled with joy, unity, and spiritual reflection. The messages from leaders serve to strengthen the bonds of fellowship among the people, emphasizing the importance of values that transcend individual differences and foster harmony.
In summary, Uraza Bayram represents a culmination of spiritual growth and communal celebration, where the essence of Ramadan is honored through acts of kindness, prayer, and togetherness. As the holiday approaches, the hope is that it will bring renewed faith and a spirit of cooperation among all residents of Tatarstan.
