Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his warmest greetings to the nation on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, sharing his hopes for continued happiness, health, and a spirit of brotherhood across the country. Taking to X on 31 January, the Prime Minister wrote, "Best wishes on Eid-ul-Fitr. May this day further brotherhood and kindness all around. May everyone be happy and healthy. Eid Mubarak!"
President Droupadi Murmu also offered her congratulations to the citizenry, with a particular message for the Muslim community. In her own post, she noted that the festival serves as a vital reminder of the values of self-restraint, service, and compassion towards those less fortunate. She called upon the public to use the occasion as a resolve to further strengthen the fabric of both society and the nation. Adding to these thoughts, Vice President CP Radhakrishnan expressed his wish that this festive day fills us with hopes and harmonies, marking a period of joy and success for all of us.
The celebrations mark the end of Ramazan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which is held in the highest esteem as the month in which the Quran was first revealed. This holy month is defined by a rigorous schedule of devotion. Keeping the fast, or 'Roza', begins by waking up early in the morning to eat, referred to as 'Sheheri,' before dawn, to abstain from food and water throughout the day. However, this spiritual discipline is interspersed by five daily prayers, which are Fazar, Zohar, Ashar, Maghrib, and Isha, breaking the fast after the Maghrib prayer in the evening.
As one of the Five Pillars of Islam, the fasting month concludes with the joyous festivities of Eid-ul-Fitr. It is a time traditionally spent with friends and family, characterised by communal meals and the exchange of gifts. Crucially, the festival also emphasises philanthropy, with special presents and alms distributed to the poor to ensure the entire community can participate in the celebrations.
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