Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations among European and American expatriates

Eid is indeed a celebration of pure joy, where people come together to revel in the joy of self-purification and share happiness. The essence of Eid lies in the profound sense of liberation from the sins of one's past life, attained through the fasting observed during the month of Ramadan.

Eid-ul-Fitr stands as a day of paramount importance and profound significance within the Muslim Ummah. Upon reflection, it becomes evident that this day serves as a beacon illuminating the ideals of equality and friendship in the communal life of Muslims. Eid-ul-Fitr serves as a catalyst, reigniting the flame of education within the hearts of Muslims, emphasising the teachings of Islam regarding selflessness, brotherhood, and sisterhood.

This auspicious occasion signifies the culmination of the practical lessons learned during the sacred month of Ramadan, where believers are encouraged to empathise with the less fortunate—be they impoverished, orphaned, or in dire need. Eid-ul-Fitr thus becomes a day of witnessing the abundant harvest of compassion and empathy cultivated within the hearts of believers.

Moreover, Eid-ul-Fitr serves as a rallying call for reinforcing mutual relations and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. It prompts individuals from all corners to come together, extending gestures of solidarity and goodwill, thereby fostering unity and cohesion within the Muslim community.

Eid-ul-Fitr is a day of expressing gratitude to Allah for granting us the invaluable opportunity of 'Lailatul Qadr' during Ramadan, ensuring that we remain steadfast in our righteous endeavors, competing with the enduring ummahs of past Prophets and Messengers. This auspicious occasion imparts invaluable social etiquette and discipline. By adhering to Allah's laws in this life, individuals can attain happiness and peace both in the hereafter and in the present. Eid-ul-Fitr imparts practical wisdom, revitalising society by purifying those who may still bear traces of impurity despite the sanctifying touch of Ramadan. It instills modesty, humility, and warmth in people, fostering a sense of communal joy where individuals rejoice in each other's happiness. Hearts brim with affection for the young and reverence for the elderly. Alongside their love for the Creator, they are compelled to treat His creation with kindness, ensuring that they nurture relationships with love and care.

In fact, the true significance of Eid does not lie in just one day of noise and chatter; Rather, the real meaning and purpose of Eid are found within the realms of sincere prayer and heartfelt communion. Its true significance lies in cultivating a pure mind and virtuous character in every aspect of life. Eid-ul-Fitr serves as a tangible manifestation of the practical lessons imbibed through a month of fasting during Ramadan. It represents the triumph over personal vices and the exercise of self-restraint, as well as the spirit of generosity through various forms of donations and sacrifices.

Therefore, the true success of fasting is not only marked by the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr but also by the earnest pursuit of Sadaqatul Fitr and other charitable acts, both during the festival and in one's personal life. Eid-ul-Fitr stands as a testament to the efficacy of these endeavors, serving as a visible proof of their impact and effectiveness.

Britain stands as a pinnacle of civilisation among the developed nations of the world. This nation has crafted remarkable achievements in education, literature, culture, economy, business, and overall progress. Its soil has nurtured countless expatriates, who have become shining stars contributing significantly across various fields in Britain. Among them, many Bangladeshis have found a home, living harmoniously with people from diverse backgrounds and religions, with a significant portion being Muslims.

Despite the presence of over three million Muslims in the UK, there is a noticeable absence of public holidays allocated for them during the two Eids. While other religious observances are honored with holidays, this lack of recognition towards Muslims fosters a sense of alienation among our new generation from their religious values, culture, and traditions.

The culture shaping our children's upbringing is casting a detrimental shadow over their hearts. Instead of relishing the joy of Eid alongside their families, our children find themselves entangled in work obligations on this sacred day. The absence of holidays for Muslims on these significant occasions deals a severe blow to their faith.

However, despite Eid not being recognised as a public holiday in Britain, head teachers in Bengali-dominated areas often unofficially grant children a day off on Eid. This unofficial holiday allows expatriate Muslims across the country to cherish the spirit of Eid.

Yet, this situation is not unique to Britain alone. Bangladeshi expatriates endure similar ordeals in Middle Eastern countries, as well as in Europe and America. The plight of expatriates celebrating Eid under such circumstances is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Muslims in upholding their religious traditions and values while residing abroad.

Indeed, Muslims worldwide observe the tradition of giving Zakat al-Fitr, also known as Fitrah, on the day of Eid-ul-Fitr as a means of atonement for any shortcomings during the month of Ramadan. It is obligatory for Muslims to fulfill this duty. While some of us indulge in fulfilling our own desires, others struggle to secure even a simple meal. We may not be able to provide clothing for an entire year, but on Eid, we can at least support one needy child according to our ability. Our relatives, neighbors, and others in our community may also have individuals in need who deserve consideration. Our small acts of kindness can bring smiles to the faces of many less fortunate individuals.

Hence, Eid holds significant importance in the lives of Muslims as it manifests joy through donations and charity on Eid-ul-Fitr. The practice of giving Zakat al-Fitr bridges the gap between the wealthy and the impoverished, stirring excitement and compassion in the hearts of Muslims.

The sacred occasion of Eid embodies a remarkable symbol of human unity, where individuals from all walks of life—rich and poor, educated and uneducated, black and white—gather together in harmony. Beyond being a religious festival for Muslims, Eid serves as a crucial opportunity to foster unity and brotherhood. Through this celebration, Muslims draw closer to one another, while also sharing the joy with people of diverse faiths.

Eid-ul-Fitr epitomises the application of the invaluable lessons learned during the holy month of Ramadan. For at least one day, the affluent and the less fortunate stand side by side, setting aside all forms of discrimination and differences. It is a time to liberate ourselves from feelings of envy, hatred, and conflict, embracing the spirit of peace and goodwill.

As advocates of peace, Muslims aspire to elevate their status worldwide by exemplifying the principles of unity, compassion, and tolerance. Through the observance of Eid and the embodiment of its teachings, Muslims endeavor to contribute positively to the global community, fostering a world where harmony and understanding prevail.

Islam, in its true essence, is unequivocally a religion of peace. Let the gifts of Eid extend to every household, bridging divides and fostering unity. Through embraces and gestures of reconciliation, let us collectively relinquish hatred and violence, welcoming peace and prosperity into our homes. May harmony and camaraderie flourish, enveloping communities in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding.

Eid-ul-Fitr, with its profound significance, epitomises the essence of worship and righteousness. Beyond its religious precepts, it conveys a profound message of humanity's triumph and the pursuit of an honest life. Indeed, Eid transcends social barriers, bringing pure joy to people of all backgrounds—rich and poor, content and distressed, young and old alike.

Eid serves as a unifying force, emphasising the principles of compassion and sacrifice inherent in Islamic teachings. It encourages individuals from diverse walks of life to come together, bound by mutual respect and a shared commitment to one another's well-being.
Our heartfelt prayers extend to all corners of the world, wishing happiness, peace, and prosperity for every individual. May the days ahead be filled with truth, beauty, and abundance. May the joy of Eid overflow into the lives of all, bringing endless happiness and fulfillment.

Let the spirit of self-purification, moderation, and harmony embodied by Muslims permeate every aspect of life—individuals, families, communities, and nations. This is the sincere aspiration of the Eid festival: to spread positivity, unity, and goodwill wherever it reaches.

Wishing everyone a joyous and blessed Eid. Eid Mubarak!

Author: Researcher and Columnist