The blessed month of Ramazan, a month of fasting, self-discipline and spiritual growth, is about to end, and we are ready to welcome a day of joy, love, gratitude and celebration. Yes, this is that time of the year when we all come together to celebrate the festivities within and outside our house — it’s time for Eidul Fitr or Meethi Eid!

Eidul Fitr reminds us to share our blessings, be kind and spread happiness wherever we can. But at its core, it’s about three things: gratitude, generosity and joy.

Gratitude for the past month

First of all, it is a day to thank Allah for His countless gifts. The month of fasting was actually an exam in which we learnt how to control our emotions, the pangs of hunger, and also learnt to be humble and sympathetic to those who rely on our kindness and donations. The month taught us to give our best and appreciate the infinite blessings we have, from food to clothing, luxuries of living in a home to the warmth of loving relationships within our families.

We reflect on these blessings and celebrate Eid as a way of expressing gratitude for all that we have, and for the ability to help those who need us the most.

Generosity towards others

Eid is incomplete without sharing happiness, we give out Zakatul Fitr (also known as Fitrana, the charity given before Eid prayer) and if we can afford it, we must give gifts or simply be there for our loved ones, with our family and friends. Don’t forget, this occasion teaches us to mend broken bonds, spread love and laughter!

The Chaand Raat excitement

One of the most awaited and anticipated nights before Eid, after the sacred Laylatul Qadr nights, is Chaand Raat; we are just a day or two away from this most beautiful and festive night of the year!

It is a pure joy to see the Eid moon, however, usually, it’s so thin that it is hard to spot. But whenever one of us could spot it, it’s an utter joy to announce or rather shout “I saw the moon!” is unmatched, and then starts an endless exchange of greetings and celebratory hugs.

With social media being a priority for many, the flood of Eid stickers, messages, GIFs and emojis begins pouring into our phones. Meanwhile, the last-minute shopping frenzy takes over — bangles, jewellery, henna for the girls and kurtas and sandals for the boys. The markets become a place of extreme joy that is unmatched.

At home, our mothers, grandmas, aunties and sisters prepare for the big day by cutting fruits, chopping dry fruits and organising everything for the next morning’s feast. Last-minute cleaning, dusting, changing curtains and setting up the table with fresh linens, every little detail adds to the festive charm. The preparation for the next day’s celebrations gives a sense of pure joy to everyone… the aroma of the food, flowers, henna, everything makes our Meethi Eid even more special.

A new morning, a new you

The beautiful day of Eid begins with the Eid prayer, which symbolises unity and thankfulness. It also gives people a chance to greet each other at the mosque, the smiles and joy on everyone’s face, even strangers greeting and embracing one another, how beautiful is that?

Isn’t it amazing that after so much endurance, patience and humility that this blessed month has instilled in you, you feel like a completely new person?

But kids, do you know that you can make this day a fresh start? Be a new person, an improved version of who you were in the past? The good habits and amazing qualities you nurtured during Ramazan shouldn’t end here. Carry them with you throughout your life; if life seems like a big word, then I would say, at least give yourself a target that all the new good habits that you began and developed during this month, you will carry them till next year. So this way, you are giving yourself a challenge. Let this day mark the beginning of a better, kinder and more compassionate version of yourself.

More sweetness and sweets!

The highlight of Meethi Eid is, of course, the food! The most famous traditional dishes are seviyaan (vermicelli), sheer khurma, shahi tukra, kheer and it’s not all. There are so many other dishes that make Meethi Eid meethi!

Every family has its own way of celebrating this festival. Often, there is one main household where everyone gathers, usually the grandparents’ house if they don’t live with you. Uncles, aunties and cousins come together to celebrate, as a joyful reunion. Some families organise a one-dish party, where each member brings a special dish to share, creating a grand feast.

Eidi is more than just money!

Aren’t you smiling at the thought of Eidi? Yes ... Eidi is one of the most exciting and cherished traditions of Eid. For children, it’s something they can’t wait to get after the Eid prayers. But have you ever thought about what makes Eidi truly special?

It’s not just about receiving crisp new banknotes or colourful envelopes filled with cash, it’s about love, blessings and the joy of giving and receiving. Although many of you may be getting pocket money weekly or monthly, Eidi is above this feeling. It symbolises the elders’ prayers for the younger ones, wishing them prosperity, happiness and success.

Yes, it’s actually the blessings and love you receive through that cash, and it’s not about the amount. Even if you get a 10-rupee note from an elder with love and prayers, that small note becomes as precious as a 1,000-rupee.

Visiting loved ones

When there is love, togetherness, unity and empathy in the air, why not let go of the grudges you held against someone? Yes, because you’ve been taught about gratitude, peace and empathy for others, this day makes it easier to strengthen relationships and mend any past misunderstandings with your friends or cousins.

Remember those who are no more

It’s heartbreaking to think about the loved ones who were once with us, but are no longer here. There was a time when they celebrated with us, and now, their absence feels even heavier on special occasions. These moments remind us of how much we miss them.

But life goes on. So, don’t forget them, instead, love them, pray for them and keep their memory alive in your heart.

Make your sweet Eid sweeter!

• Eid is the perfect time to mend relationships and reconnect with someone you’ve lost touch with.

• Surprise someone who doesn’t expect it — a neighbour, a colleague — by giving out an unexpected Eid gift.

• Don’t just take pictures; be present in the moment. Capture memories, but also live them.

• Create a new Eid tradition: Whether it’s writing a heartfelt note to family members or making a special dish, add something unique to your Eid celebration.

Meethi Eid is sweeter when shared with others. Whether it’s through a warm hug, a heartfelt greeting of “Eid Mubarak!” or a bowl of delicious sheer khurma, the joy of Eid multiplies when we share it with others. Don’t wait for others to come to you, be that other person yourself and spread sweetness.

Eid Mubarak! May your Eid be as sweet as the love you share.

Published in Dawn, Young World, March 29th, 2025