Eid al-Fitr: The Joyous Festival at the End of Ramadan
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of the month of Ramadan. Islam recognizes two major festivals: Eid al-Fitr, celebrated at the end of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha, observed approximately two months and ten days later, symbolizing sacrifice and devotion.
Significance of Eid al-Fitr
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated, "The fasting person experiences two moments of joy: one when he breaks his fast and another when he meets his Lord in the Hereafter." (Bukhari, Muslim). This profound statement emphasizes both the immediate joy of breaking the fast on Eid and the ultimate spiritual fulfillment in the afterlife.
During Ramadan, Muslims engage in acts of worship, charity, and self-discipline. They strive to distance themselves from wrongdoing and perform righteous deeds. Many fulfill their obligation of Zakat, the mandatory charity, during this period. Experiencing hunger and restraint fosters empathy for those in need and deepens one’s faith and self-discipline. As Ramadan concludes, a sense of spiritual fulfillment and gratitude naturally emerges. Eid al-Fitr serves as an expression of this gratitude and renewal.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also said, "A true believer is pleased with his good deeds and discontented with his misdeeds." In this context, Eid al-Fitr is a meaningful celebration of one's spiritual growth and moral achievements.
The Connection Between Ramadan and the Quran
Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed. Muslims strive to complete its recitation during this sacred time. In mosques, special Tarawih prayers feature the melodious recitation of the entire Quran by Hafiz (those who have memorized the Quran).
The Quran describes itself as a divine guide for humanity. It states, "This noble Quran has reached you as a great favor and blessing from Allah. Let the people rejoice in it, for it is better than all that they accumulate." (Quran 10:58). The Quran remains unaltered and protected, reinforcing its role as a source of divine guidance. Strengthening one’s connection with the Quran is thus an integral part of Eid al-Fitr’s spiritual significance.
Zakat al-Fitr: The Obligatory Charity on Eid
A fundamental practice on Eid al-Fitr is Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory act of charity. Every Muslim who possesses sufficient means must give this charity on behalf of each family member, including infants, before the Eid prayer. The amount typically consists of 2.5 to 3 kilograms of grains or its equivalent in monetary value. This varies by region and the type of food donated. For example, 2.5-3 kilograms of rice may cost around 200 rupees, while the same weight of dates could be worth 1,000 rupees. While there is no upper limit, one must ensure the minimum requirement is met.
Today, many organizations collect Zakat al-Fitr in advance and distribute it to those in need, ensuring that no underprivileged family is left out of Eid celebrations. In India, billions of rupees are collected and distributed to the most impoverished communities. Wealthier nations often allocate their Zakat al-Fitr funds to struggling regions like South Asia and Africa, enabling deprived families to share in the joy of Eid. This practice not only supports the needy but also purifies the giver’s fast, as the Prophet (PBUH) mentioned that Zakat al-Fitr cleanses any minor transgressions committed during Ramadan.
Festivals in a Diverse Society
India, a land of immense cultural diversity, celebrates festivals as an opportunity to foster peace, harmony, and cultural exchange. These celebrations not only strengthen social bonds but also provide children with an opportunity to learn about different traditions and customs. However, in recent times, the rise of divisive politics and religious-based agendas has cast a shadow over these occasions. It is unfortunate that festivals, which should bring people together, are sometimes misused for personal or political gains.
Historically, India has never witnessed instances where one community was asked to stay indoors or shut down their places of worship during another community’s celebrations. The country, home to followers of various faiths, has always upheld mutual respect and coexistence. However, recent years have seen increasing attempts to politicize festivals and sow communal discord, which is a concerning trend.
In this context, it becomes imperative to preserve interfaith relations and uphold the true spirit of celebration by ensuring that festivals remain a source of joy and unity rather than division.
Islamic Festivals: A Celebration of Compassion
Both major Islamic festivals—Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha—are deeply rooted in values of generosity, kindness, and inclusivity. These celebrations emphasize feeding the hungry, supporting the less fortunate, and ensuring that no one is left out of the festivities. Islamic traditions surrounding festivals make it evident that they are meant to bring happiness to all members of society, without causing inconvenience or harm to anyone.
By understanding the true spirit of these celebrations, not only Muslims but people of all faiths can transform festivals into occasions that promote friendship, economic activity, and cultural enrichment. Festivals should be opportunities to uplift the underprivileged, spread smiles among children, and encourage a vibrant cultural exchange that enhances collective wisdom and social prosperity.
In today’s world, it is more important than ever to ensure that festivals remain a unifying force rather than a divisive one. Embracing the true essence of these occasions can help create a society that values harmony, mutual respect, and the joy of shared traditions.
Sharafuddin B.S.
-Principal, Barakah International School and College, Mangalore.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Waqf bill attack on Constitution's basic structure, INDIA bloc opposes it: Gogoi
New Delhi (PTI): Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Wednesday said the INDIA bloc will oppose the proposed changes to the Waqf law and called the bill an attack on the basic structure of the Constitution with an aim to dilute its provisions, defame minorities, disenfranchise them and divide the Indian society.
Hitting back, former Union minister and BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad said when large number of Waqf properties are lying vacant and being looted, the government has all powers to bring a law to regulate it.
He told Gogoi that while he cited Constitution, he did not present a complete picture on its various provisions authorising government to bring laws on various issues, including Waqf properties.
Initiating the debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Gogoi accused the government of misleading Parliament, referencing past discussions on the matter.
"This bill is an attack on the basic structure of our Constitution, an attack on our federal structure, and has four primary objectives: to dilute the Constitution, to defame minority communities, to divide Indian society, and to disenfranchise minorities," he alleged.
"The claim that the 2013 UPA government did not act on this issue is false. Repeated allegations have been made," Gogoi said, questioning the necessity of the amendments.
He further argued that the bill had not been adequately discussed with minority representatives.
"In 2023, four meetings of the Minority Commission were held, and yet, there was no mention of the need for a Waqf amendment bill. I ask the government - was this bill drafted by the Minority Affairs Ministry or some other department?"
The opposition MP also raised concerns over Clause 3, which defines individuals practising Islam.
"Minorities are now being forced to prove their religious identity with certificates. Tomorrow, will people from other faiths also have to do this? This is against Article 26 of the Constitution," he said.
"Which community do you want to mislead? The same community that fought for India's independence? The community that sacrificed alongside Mangal Pandey in 1857? You want to tarnish the reputation of a community in which 2 lakh ulema were martyred? You seek to defame the community that supported us during the Quit India Movement? You want to stain the name of the community that supported the Dandi March on April 6, 1930?" Gogoi said.
"You wish to malign the community that opposed the British policy of divide and rule in 1926? You aim to taint the community whose leader, Maulana Hussain Ahmad Madani, demanded complete independence?" he added.
Gogoi also accused the government of spreading misinformation about the bill's impact on women's rights.
"There is an attempt to create the illusion that the existing law discriminates against women. In reality, the law already has provisions for the protection and empowerment of women, including widows," he said.
He also claimed that the Joint Parliament Committee did not take any suggestions of the Opposition into consideration.
Gogoi noted the reduction in revenue allocation from 7 per cent to 5 per cent, arguing that instead of reducing it, the government should consider increasing it to 11 per cent to strengthen the Waqf Board. He also claimed that provisions on imprisonment had been diluted.
"There is a clear attempt to take control of Waqf properties. Today, their eyes are on one minority group; tomorrow, they will target another. We support necessary reforms, but this bill will only lead to increased litigation and more problems," he said.
Countering the Opposition attack, Prasad said the church community is also in favour of Waqf amendment bill as churches too are facing the problem of encroachment by Waqf bodies.
He said the government cannot watch silently as corruption on Waqf properties continue unabated.
"Waqf is not a religious body; it is a statutory body. There are over 8 lakh Waqf properties, including schools, hospitals, and orphanages. Shouldn't there be a mechanism to ensure proper governance? The opposition is politically bound to oppose reforms, but they must look within themselves," he added.
Prasad said that the amendments were necessary to ensure transparency and fairness in Waqf administration.
"The Waqf Bill is about regulating properties, not about targeting any community. If the bill provides more representation to backward Muslims in Waqf affairs, why is the opposition objecting? If Waqf properties are being misused or illegally occupied, the Constitution allows for corrective legislation," he said.
Prasad said the Congress has over the years only paid lip service to the cause of minorities but did nothing to empower them.
He also referenced the Shah Bano case, accusing the Congress of undermining legal reforms for political gains.
"When the Supreme Court ruled in favour of Shah Bano, the Rajiv Gandhi government overturned the decision for vote bank politics. Congress had 400 seats then but never got a majority after that. Today, they continue to oppose necessary reforms for political reasons," he said.
According to the bill, trusts created by Muslims under any law will no longer be considered Waqf, ensuring full control over them.
Only practising Muslims (for at least five years) can dedicate their property to Waqf, restoring the pre-2013 rules. Also, women must receive their inheritance before Waqf declaration, with special provisions for widows, divorced women and orphans, the bill proposes.
