Eid ul Fitr, one of the most significant religious festivals for Muslims around the world, is expected to be observed in Pakistan on April 22, 2023. The announcement was made by the Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council, which is responsible for determining the sighting of the moon that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The council’s Secretary General, Khalid Ijaz Mufti, stated that the moon sighting committee will convene on April 20 to search for the crescent of Shawwal, the lunar month following Ramadan. However, he also noted that the chances of moon sighting are slim, as the age of the crescent will be less than 10 hours on the evening of 29th Ramadan, making it difficult to spot.
Mufti further explained that the birth of the new moon is expected to occur at 9:13 am Pakistani time on April 20. According to Islamic tradition, a new moon becomes visible after at least 19 hours of age at the time of sunset, making it challenging to sight the crescent on the same day. Nevertheless, the weather is forecasted to be clear in most parts of the country on April 20, which could improve the chances of moon sighting.
Eid ul Fitr, also known as Ramazan Eid or Choti Eid in Pakistan, is a joyous occasion that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims observe fasting from dawn to dusk. It is a time of celebration, family gatherings, feasts, and acts of charity, where Muslims express gratitude to Allah for the blessings and spiritual renewal they have experienced during Ramadan.
The sighting of the moon holds great significance in determining the exact date of Eid ul Fitr. As per Islamic tradition, the new lunar month begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, which marks the end of the previous month. The Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council, along with other moon sighting committees across the country, plays a crucial role in determining the start of the new lunar month and subsequently the date of Eid ul Fitr.
The process of moon sighting in Pakistan involves trained observers scanning the sky after sunset on the 29th day of Ramadan to look for the crescent moon. Once the moon is sighted and confirmed by the moon sighting committee, the news is officially announced, and preparations for Eid ul Fitr festivities begin in full swing. However, if the moon is not sighted due to various factors such as weather conditions or the age of the crescent, Ramadan completes its full 30 days, and Eid ul Fitr is observed the next day.
The announcement of the expected date of Eid ul Fitr in Pakistan has always been a matter of anticipation and excitement for Muslims in the country. It marks the end of a month-long period of fasting, self-reflection, and worship, and the beginning of a festive season filled with joy, generosity, and community spirit. Families eagerly prepare for the occasion by cleaning and decorating their homes, buying new clothes, and stocking up on special foods and sweets for the traditional Eid feast.
The festivities of Eid ul Fitr in Pakistan typically begin with the special Eid prayers held in mosques and open spaces early in the morning. Muslims dress in their finest clothes and come together to offer prayers, listen to sermons, and seek blessings for themselves and their loved ones. After the prayers, it is customary to give and receive gifts, especially to the less fortunate, as an expression of generosity and goodwill. Visiting family and friends, exchanging greetings of “Eid Mubarak,” and sharing meals and sweets are also integral parts of the celebrations.
Related posts: During Ramadan Sindh Governor hosts daily Iftar for 5000 people
In addition to the traditional customs and rituals, modern trends have also emerged during Eid ul Fitr celebrations in Pakistan. Many families now opt for shopping sprees, indulge in delicious feasts at restaurants, and participate in recreational activities such as amusement park visits and movie outings. Social media is also abuzz with Eid wishes, greetings, and festive pictures as people share their moments of joy and celebration with their online communities.
