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Muslim Festival Muslims in India observe all the Islamic festivals that are celebrated in other parts of the world. In addition to the festivals, the days commemorating shrines in India and death anniversaries of saints, are also observed with religious fervor. All the Muslim festivals and observances in India follow the Islamic calendar, which has fewer days than the solar year. Therefore, each year, the dates of Muslim festivals keep changing. The important Muslim festivals that are celebrated in India, include Ramzan (Ramadan), Muharram, Id-e-Milad and Bakr-Id. The celebrations of the auspicious occasions are marked by special prayers offered in mosques, fasting, feasting and exchange of wishes.
The most important Muslim festival in India is Ramzan, which extends through the Islamic month of the same name. It acquires the character of a nationwide fair, with the Muslim areas becoming bright and lively towards the evening and remaining awake almost throughout the night. All through the days of celebrations, people following Islam would observe stringent fast, which is broken only in the dusk, after offering prayers to the Almighty. There is a fixed timing for every ritual performed for the festivals. People belonging to other communities enthusiastically take part in the merrymaking, which represents unity in diversity prevalent in India.
All the prominent Muslim festivals are celebrated with religious fervor, in India. Ramzan finds special place in the calendar of events. Holiday is declared in educational institutions and government offices, on the occasion of Ramadan. Bakra-Eid is the 'feast of sacrifice', celebrated from the tenth to the twelfth day in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. Celebrated after the fasting month of Ramzan, Ramadan encompasses a number of rituals that are performed on specific time. Muharram commemorates the martyrdom of Prophet Mohammed's grandson, Imam Hussain.
Muslim Festivals Calendar 2012
FEB 2012 04 Saturday Milad un Nabi (Birthday of the Prophet), Sunni
09 Thursday Milad un Nabi,Shia
JUL 2012 20 Friday Ramadan Begins
AUG 2012 19 Sunday Id-Ul-Fitr, Ramadan Ends
OCT 2012 26 Friday Eid-Ul-Adha
DEC 2012 15 Thursday Al-Hijira/ Muharram begins
24 Saturday Ashura
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Bakra Eid
The feast of Bakra-Id is an occasion to give and to sacrifice. It is a day to thank the Almighty for one's good fortune and to share it with the less fortunate people. Eid al-Adha or Id-ul-Azha, as it is known in Arabic, translates as 'the feast of sacrifice'. Traditionally, Bakra-Id is marked by the slaughtering of animals as sacrificial offerings, after which the meat is distributed among the needy and deprived. It is celebrated to commemorate the willingness of Hazrat Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail at the behest of Allah. Hence, on this day just like Ibrahim, a true follower of Islam is expected to sacrifice something that is dear to him.
The animal sacrifices made during Bakra-Id are mainly to provide food to the poor and deprived and to mark the noble act of Ibrahim. This spirit of sacrifice is what truly underlines the spirit of Bakra-Id. Incidentally; the day also coincides with the day when the holy Quran was declared complete. Bakra-Id is celebrated from the tenth to the twelfth day in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. Every year, while pilgrims to the Mount of Mina make animal sacrifices as part of the pilgrimage rituals, Muslims the world over celebrate Bakra-Id in a similar fashion. A goat, sheep, camel or any other four-legged animal is slaughtered during one of these three days.
Festivities mark the first day, when people wear new clothes, offer prayers at the mosque, and greet friends and relatives. The celebrations are carried on through three days to ensure that the entire Muslim community partakes in the noble of act of giving and sharing. Bakra-Id is celebrated all over India with much zeal and gusto, as it is in the rest of the Islamic world. The name Bakra-Id is most popular in India. However in Arabic, the feast is usually referred to as Id-ul-Azha or Id-ul-Zuha.
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Bakra Eid Date
Bakra Eid or Eid al-Adha is celebrated with great solemnity and reverence across the world to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s faith and belief in God, as he agreed to sacrifice his beloved son at the order of God. The holy festival also marks the close of the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage undertaken by millions of Muslims every year in Mecca. The entire world gets engaged in sacrificing domestic animals as part of the festival’s celebrations. Preparations for the occasion start days before the festival arrives. Domestic animals, such as goat, sheep, lamb, cow or camel, are brought to houses well in advance and well taken care of. Bakra Eid is a movable festival and celebration of the same depends on the appearance of the moon. As such, the date of the festival does not remain the same as per the Gregorian calendar, though it falls on the same day according to the Islamic calendar.
When Is Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha is celebrated on the 10th day of the twelfth month of Dhul Hijjah as per the Hijri calendar. While this date is the same in the Islamic calendar, the date changes from year to year on the Gregorian calendar. The reason for the difference in these dates is that the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, while the Gregorian calendar is a solar calendar. Hence, the lunar calendar is eleven days shorter of the solar calendar. Therefore, the date of Eid al-Adha shifts back 10 or 11 days in the Gregorian calendar. Moreover, the festival is celebrated on two different Gregorian dates in different parts of the world, due to the visibility of the crescent moon at different times.
At the Hajj pilgrimage, after completing the Hajj, millions of pilgrims reach the grounds of Mina on Bakra Eid where they sacrifice an animal. The animals that are deemed Halal or fit for sacrifice are only slaughtered. After doing so, men shave their heads, while women cut a small portion of hair from their braid. The meat is divided into three equal portions. The first part is consumed by the family, while the second portion is distributed among friends and relatives and the third portion is given to the poor and needy. The sacrifice or Qurbani is made to show an individual’s faith and belief in Allah. This religious festival is carried out for three days in Saudi Arabia as well as other parts of the world.
Bakra Eid 2012: 26 October.
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Bakra Eid Celebration
Bakra Eid, better known as Eid al-Adha in Arabic, is one of the most popular Muslim festivals celebrated by the Muslim community worldwide annually. The festival is all about giving and sacrificing in the name of Allah. This religious festival falls on the 10th day of the month of Dhul Hijjah in the lunar Islamic calendar and continues till the 12th day. The occasion is marked by the slaughtering of domestic animals and distributing the meat to the needy and deprived. It also coincides with the closing of the annual pilgrimage of Muslims, Hajj that takes place in Mecca in Saudi Arabia.
How Eid al-Adha Is Celebrated
The celebrations of Eid al-Adha begin after the Hajj is completed. The 10th day of the month of Dhul Hijjah is marked as the first day of Bakra Eid. This day is celebrated with great enthusiasm, magnificence and grandeur across the globe. On this morning, Muslims dress in their best and new clothes and move out to offer prayers in various mosques. After offering prayers, people exchange greetings with one another by hugging and wishing “Eid Mubarak”. They, then, begin their day with eating breakfast, which usually starts off with a sweet preparation, mainly Sheer Kurma or Sevaiyan.
Soon after completing breakfast, it is time for sacrifice of domestic animals. Only animals that have been deemed Halal or allowed for sacrifice are slaughtered. Such domestic animals include goat, sheep, lamb, ram, camel, cow, buffalo, and others. While most people purchase them well in advance and take good care, others prefer purchasing the animal at the time of slaughtering. The slaughtering can be carried out from the morning of the 10th day to just after afternoon on the 12th day.
The meat of the animal so slaughtered is divided into three equal portions. While the first part is consumed by the family, the other two parts are distributed among neighbors and friends, family members and poor people. While distributing the meat of the slaughtered animal, people greet one another and feast on sumptuous and delicious delicacies prepared on this day. The festival gives one an opportunity to meet near and dear ones and get closer. Special gatherings and parties are organized on this special season. Also, a number of outings and picnics are especially planned during these three days. Muslims across the world indulge in spreading joy and happiness through celebrating this festival.
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Bakra Eid in Different Languages
Bakra Eid or Eid al-Adha is one of the most significant festivals celebrated by the Muslims worldwide with great zeal and enthusiasm. This religious festival marks the readiness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son on the orders of God. This served as a test on part of Ibrahim for his strong faith and belief in God. While coinciding with the hajj pilgrimage, Bakra Eid is celebrated across three days by slaughtering domestic animals, such as goat, lamb, sheep, cow, buffalo, camel and so on. Muslims, spread across the world, use different languages and dialects to communicate with one another. Hence, Bakra Eid, too, is referred to in various languages. Find the different names for Eid al-Adha in the following lines.
Different Names For Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha is an Arabic term symbolizing “festival of sacrifice”. This term has been used in different Indic languages, such as Hindi, Urdu, Guajarati and Bengali and Austronesian languages like Malay and Indonesian. Qurban is another term for sacrifice in Arabic. This term is used as “Eyde Ghorban” in Dari Persian - Afghanistan and Iranian dialect of Persian. The same term has been translated into “Idi Qurbon” in Tajik Persian, “Qurban ayt” in Kazakh, “Qurban Heyit” in Uyghur, and into various other Indic languages.
This Arabic word “Qurban” has been combined with various local languages to form a term for “festival”, such as Cejna Qurbanê in Kurdish, Kurbaneyy Akhtar in Pashto, Gúerbang Jié in Chinese, Hari Raya Korban in Malay and Indonesian, and Kurban Bayrami in Turkish. This Turkish term is also used in other languages, such as Qurban Bayrami in Azeri, Qorban Bäyräme in Tatar, and Kurban-bajram in Bosnian and Croatian.
Bakra Eid is also known as Id ul-Kabir in Arabic which means “Greater Id/Festival” while the “Lesser Eid” is Eid al-Fitr. This term is used in countries like Yemen, Syria and North African countries of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt. This term is directly used as Aïd el-Kebir in French. “Big Eid” or “Greater Eid” is also translated in other languages, such as Loy Akhtar in Pashto, Baed Eid in Kashmiri, Ba?a Id in Hindi and Urdu, Bali Perunnal in Malayalam and Peru Nal in Tamil.
Since Bakra Eid marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, the day has been referred to as Hari Raya Haji or Hajj celebration day or Lebaran Haji in Malay and Indonesian, and Hajji Peru Nal in Tamil. Eid al-Adha or Id ul-Adha is commonly known as Baqra Id or Baqri Id in Urdu as baqarah or baqri refers to goat, one of the most sacrificed animals. This is known as Bakr Eid Peru Nal in Tamil. The Chinese language refers this festival as Zaisheng Jié or “Slaughter-livestock Festival”, Berber language of Jerba as Tfaska Tamoqqart, West African languages as Tabaski or Tobaski, Nigerian languages as Babbar Sallah and Somali language as ciida gawraca.
Other popular names of Eid al-Adha in local languages across the Muslim world include Festival of Sacrifice in English, Opferfest in German, Offerfeest in Dutch, Sarbatoarea Sacrificiului in Romanian and Áldozati ünnep in Hungarian.
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Bakra Eid Traditions
The festival of Bakra Eid, also known as Eid ul-Azha, Eid ul-Zuha, Eid al-Adha and Bakrid, is a grand celebration for Muslims all around the world. This religious festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his beloved, his son, to God at His order. The occasion is all about showcasing one’s belief and trust in God. The day also marks the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage performed by millions of Muslims in Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Celebrated from the 10th to the 12th day in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, people observe this occasion with great fun, fervor, enthusiasm and magnificence. There are a number of traditions and customs associated with Bakra Eid that all Muslims should follow to celebrate the festival. To know more about the traditions and rituals of Bakra Eid, go through the following lines.
Eid al-Adha Rituals
On the morning of Bakra Eid, people wake up early and clean themselves thoroughly. They, then, wear finest and beautiful clothes and proceed towards an open space or the mosque in a large congregation for offering Eid prayers. Once the prayers have been offered, people return home to indulge in sumptuous breakfast, which usually consists of sheer kurma or sevaiyan. Post breakfast, they move ahead with sacrificing their domestic animals that are bought days in advance or purchased on the same day. The animals to be slaughtered should fulfill certain age and quality standard, else the animal is considered to be an unacceptable sacrifice.
Only the animals that are considered to be Halal by Islam can be sacrificed. These animals can be goat, sheep, ram, lamb, cow, camel or any four legged animal. As per the rituals, any Muslim who owns more than 400 grams of gold or who can afford to consume two square meals a day is required to perform a sacrifice or Qurbani. After the animal is slaughtered, the meat is divided into three equal parts as per the customs. The first part is consumed by the family while the second portion is distributed to neighbors, friends and relatives and the third portion is given to the poor and deprived people.
The animals can be slaughtered from the morning of the 10th day to just after afternoon on the 12th day. People take this opportunity of distributing meat to meet their near and dear ones and exchange greetings with them. Luxurious and scrumptious dishes are cooked on this day traditionally and served to guests and family visiting homes. They are accompanied by delicious desserts and beverages prepared for the day.
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Significance Of Bakra Eid
Bakra Eid or Eid al-Adha is one of the major religious festivals celebrated every year by the Muslim community across the world as per the Hijri calendar. Just like Ramadan and Eid ul-Fitr, Bakra Eid too is celebrated with grand enthusiasm and magnificence. This holy occasion is observed from the 10th to the 12th day of the twelfth month of Dhul Hijjah in the Islamic calendar. The festival commemorates the faith of Prophet Ibrahim in God, when he agreed to sacrifice his son upon the order by God. People wear new and clean clothes, offer prayers, greet one another and move ahead for sacrificing domestic animals. These animals are slaughtered and the meat is distributed to the needy and among family and friends. Read on further to know more about what Bakra Eid is and the importance of celebrating it.
What Is Eid al-Adha
The Holy Quran perfectly explains the significance of celebrating Eid al-Adha with such immense splendor and grandeur. On the pretext of testing Prophet Ibrahim’s faith, God appeared in Ibrahim’s dreams and asked him to sacrifice his most beloved possession. Ibrahim truly loved his son, Ismail and hence, had no option but to sacrifice him. Thus, Ibrahim along with Ismail started making their way up to the mount of Mina near Mecca. As it was impossible to see his son dying in front of his eyes, Ibrahim blindfolded himself and raised the sharp sword. While reciting Allah’s name, Ibrahim beheaded his son. He opened his eyes and was surprised at the sight.
To his surprise, his son Ismail was standing healthy nearby him and a dead ram was lying in a pool of blood in front of him. As such, Ibrahim emerged as a winner in the eyes of God for his strong faith and belief in the almighty. Thus, this day is celebrated as Eid al-Adha by the entire Muslim community across the globe to honor Ibrahim’s complete obedience towards God. The day is commemorated by slaughtering domestic animals, such as goat, sheep, lamb, camel, buffalo and so on. This meat is divided into three parts. While the first is eaten by the family, the second is distributed amongst relatives and the third part is given to the poor and needy.
This holy festival of Eid al-Adha is celebrated on the 10th day of the month of Dhul Hijjah (twelfth and last month) of the Hijri calendar followed by the Muslims. The celebrations are spread across three days from the 10th to the 12th day. These celebrations begin after the completion of the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage performed by Muslims in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Hajj serves as one of the five pillars of Islam. This means, a Muslim has to perform Hajj at least once during their lifetime, unless they are debarred due to lack of finances or ill-health. This pilgrimage is performed to get rid of all sins and become more obedient and spiritual towards God.
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Eid ul Fitr
Eid ul Fitr or the 'festival of fast breaking' is the most celebratory of all Muslim festivals. The term 'Eid' has been derived from the Arabic word 'oud', which means 'the return' and hence, signifies the return of the festival each year. The festival is significant as much for its timing, as for its religious implications. It is celebrated after the long fasting month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Islamic calendar), on the first day of the Shawwal month of the Hijri year (Islamic calendar). Legend says that the Qur'an was revealed to Prophet Mohammed in the last ten days of Ramadan.
The month of Ramadan is historically associated with two important victories of Prophet Muhammad - the battle of Badr and the conquest of Makkah. Fasting during the month of Ramadan, according to Islamic beliefs, helps in developing self-control and is a way of getting closer to Allah. The festival of Eid ul Fitr marks the beginning of celebrations and merriment for a period extending over three days. Women prepare sweets at home and all Muslims are seen adorned with new dresses on this day. Eid ul Fitr is synonymous with joy and thanksgiving. Such is the spirit of this great festival that even a lot of Non-Muslims participate in Eid celebrations in India.
India is the second most populous Islamic nation in the world. Muslims form India's largest minority and constitute almost 12% of the country's total population. Islam is also the most recent religion added to India's already potent cultural concoction. Islam came to India in 12th century AD and began interacting with the Indian culture, particularly under the Mughal era. Needless to say, it was a mutually enriching experience. A majority of Indian Muslims reside in the north, but a significant number is found all across the country. Hence, their traditions add yet another dimension to the vast cultural landscape of India.
Eid ul Fitr 2012: 19 August.
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Eid ul Fitr Customs
Eid ul Fitr, also known as Choti Id, is celebrated by different names in different Muslim nations. It is called Idul Fitri in Indonesia, Shemai Eid in Bangladesh, Hari Raya Puasa or Hari Lebaran in Malaysia and Ramazan Bayrami in Turkey. It marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. While, it is celebrated in varied ways in different countries, some rituals are common in the entire Muslim community across the world. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor everywhere in consonance with its sheer spirit and significance for the Muslims.
Id-ul-Fitr Customs
On the morning of Eid, Muslims all over the world take bath and have their breakfast, typically comprising of dates and sweets. They wear new clothes on this occasion and visit the mosque (masjid) to worship Allah. Special Eid ul Fitr prayer ceremony is carried out in open areas, under the sky. All the Muslims recite Takbir, a poem in the praise of the greatness of Allah. It starts at the time of the sighting of crescent moon and lasts till the prayers are said. Muslims are supposed to pay Zakat al Fitr i.e. a donation for the month of Ramzan. This donation is given at a nearby mosque, to begin the Eid prayer.
Zakat al Fitr can be given in way of money or eatables like dates, wheat, barley, raisins etc. After the prayer, the Imam, or the spiritual head delivers a discourse on social and family duties, also known as Khutba (sermons). Everyone prays for forgiveness for their sins and for protection against misfortune, after which people embrace and greet each other with ‘Eid Mubarak’ or ‘Happy Eid’ and head back home for the feast! It is customary to embrace the person sitting on your either side, after the prayers are over. Near and dear ones are also embraced.
On Eid, women pray at home and then get busy organizing a lavish spread of eatables, like sivai - the special sweet for Eid (vermicelli cooked in milk and sugar), dry fruits, sweetmeats, biryani (meat cooked in spicy rice) and other things. They don new clothes and pay special heed to their make-up. The men return home to their beautiful wives and the family sits down for the grand meal. People embrace each other and exchange greetings of ‘Eid Mubarak’. Non-Muslims make it a point to visit their Muslim friends to join in their happiness and especially to consume some of the scrumptious food made for Eid ul Fitr.
Gifts are also exchanged on the festive occasion of Id. Daughters and married sisters are, especially, given gifts. In fact, brothers pay a visit to their married sisters and take sivai and other eatables, along with clothes, bangles and money. Children also receive money from elders, known as eiddi.. Celebrations extend to three days of merry-making and enjoyment. While in countries like India, Eid ul Fitr calls for a one day holiday all across the country, in some nations, Eid holidays span up to three days. Every country has its own way of celebrating Id, but most of the customs and traditions remain similar around the world.
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Significance of Eid ul Fitr
Eid ul Fitr, also known as Ramadan Id, is celebrated by Muslims across the world, at the end of the month of Ramadan. It signifies the breaking of the fasting period, with the sighting of new crescent moon in the evening, on the last day of Ramadan. The celebration extends to a fiesta of three days and is also called “Choti Eid’’, starting on the first day of Shawwal (tenth month of the Islamic calendar). On this day, which is considered to be one of the greatest Muslim festivals, the observers of the fast all around the world greet each other in their local language and according to their respective traditions.
The significance of Id-ul-Fitr stems from the special meaning it holds for the entire Muslim community. Legend says that Prophet Mohammad had laid down Eid ul Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha as days of rejoicing and feasting for the Muslims, in the remembrance of Allah. Since then, Muslims fast for the complete month of Ramadan and offer spiritual devotions to the almighty Allah, believing that the fasting will bring them close to Allah and also get them forgiveness for their past sins. It is believed that whoever fasts during Ramadan with absolute faith shall have his past sins forgiven.
Another important aspect of Eid ul Fitr lies in the distribution of charity on the day. Every Muslim who has some means must pay Zakt-al-Fitr, a sum to be donated for the month of Ramadan, to impoverished Muslims. It can either be in the form of cash or basic foodstuff, including wheat, barley, dates, raisins etc. It is done to spare a thought to the plight of the poor and is different from the normal Zakat, which is given to purify one’s wealth. Holy Quran recommends giving donation to the poor on this auspicious day, the best time for which is before going to the mosque in the morning, to offer prayers.
Id-ul-Fitr is also a festival that fosters brotherhood and interactions, as people visit each other on the days of festivity. Friends, relatives and loved ones are greeted and offered sweets. Gifts are given to children, mostly in the form of money. Sisters and daughters also receive gifts on this occasion. Some Muslims also pay a visit to the graveyard, a custom which is known as ziyarat-al-qubur, to pay homage to the departed souls. Some scholars also believe that the month-long fasting is undertaken to acknowledge the superiority of the spiritual realm over the physical realm. Nevertheless, the spirit of conviviality surrounds the celebrations of Eid ul Fitr throughout the Islamic world.
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Eid ul Fitr Activities
Eid ul Fitr is celebrated with tremendous enthusiasm and fervor across the globe. All over the world, Muslims perform many activities on this day of immense significance. They wake up early in the morning, take bath and wear their clothes. After dressing up well for the occasion, they eat breakfast, which mostly includes dates and head to the mosque, for offering prayers. Eid prayer ceremonies are organized in all the mosques, where Muslims gather and recite the Takbeerat in congregation. The main rituals related to Id have remained unchanged for centuries, though different nations celebrate it in their own way.
Once the Eid prayers are over, people scatter around to wish and greet others. Phone calls are made to distant relatives to wish them "Eid Mubarak". Traditionally, these festivities continue for three days and in most of the Muslim countries, the entire three day duration is declared as a public holiday. Since donation has a special significance on this festival, Muslims give a fixed amount of donation to the poor. This donation can be in the form of rice, barley, dates, etc. It is given to ensure that the poor and needy also get a full holiday meal and participate in the celebrations of the festival. This donation is known as sadaqah al-fitr (charity of fast-breaking).
The grandness of the Eid ul Fitr celebrations manifests itself in the fireworks that are witnessed at many places on this day. Delicious, mouth-watering recipes are cooked by women and are served to friends and relatives, who come to visit them. After the long fast of Ramadan, Muslims are in a mood to enjoy royally and when the day finally arrives, they indulge themselves completely with the festivities. They also decorate their homes on Eid, just as Hindus decorate their homes and make elaborate preparations for Diwali. Friends visit each other on the festive occasion and gifts are exchanged among kith and kin.
In India, it is heartening to see that communities other than Muslims also participate in the celebrations at many places. Eid ul Fitr is a public holiday in the country. One is likely to spot groups of Muslims flocking shops on this day for making purchases. Even the shops are found to be elaborately decorated, drowned in the festive spirit of the day. The day is known to bring joy and peace to the Muslim community of the entire world. Daughters and sisters are adorned with gifts and new dresses on this day, while the children go out and have fun with their friends and relatives.
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Eid ul Fitr Celebrations
Eid ul-Fitr characterizes the end of Ramadan or the Islamic holy month of fasting. While Eid means festivity, Fitr stands for breaking the fast. Together, the term is symbolical of breaking of the fasting period. The day is usually celebrated on the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal. Often termed as 'Smaller Eid', Eid ul-Fitr is a three day celebration. The festive occasion is celebrated with great pomp and show. Kids and adults indulge in offering prayers to the Almighty, seeking blessing. Different parts of the world celebrate the occasion differently. While certain countries celebrate the festival with great popm and show, others do it in a quiet manner. In the following lines, we have provided a detailed description of Eid ul Fitr celebrations around the world.
Worldwide Eid ul Fitr Celebrations
South Asia (Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka & Pakistan)
Eid ul Fitr is celebrated with much fervor and zest in South Asian countries, such as Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Celebrations start a day before the actual festive day. Women flock the market to buy colorful bangles and get their hands tattooed with henna. The night before Eid is called Chand Raat in these countries, which stand for the might of the moon. Traditionally, on Eid, people embrace or hug each other, reciting the phrase 'Eid Mubarak'. Exchange of gifts and money (Eidi) is practiced by people at large.
Everyone, right from kids to adults, indulge in offering Eid prayers on Id-ul-Fitr. People are also seen visiting the graveyards to pray for the salvation of departed family members. Some of them are also observed distributing Zakat, the Islamic obligatory alms tax on the wealth, to the needy. While talking about celebration, how can food be far behind? Special celebratory dishes are prepared on this day. Sevaiyyan, a dish of fine, toasted sweet vermicelli noodles with milk & dried fruit, is one of the most popular delicacies prepared on this day.
South East Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei)
Countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei celebrate the festival of Eid with great pomp and show. The festival is known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Hari Otak, Hari Raya Idul Fitri or Hari Raya Puasa. Eid is the biggest festival in the Southeast Asia. Days before the festival, the markets are adorned and filled with an assortment of goodies, giving a characteristic feel of the approaching festival. Banks government offices and private organizations are all closed on the day of celebration.
On the night before the main day, Eid is celebrated with the takbir, which is held in the mosques or musallas. In Indonesia and Malaysia, people are seen flocking to their hometowns from big metropolitan cities. Better known as Balik Kampung or Pulang Kampong, this ritual literally means going back to home, to celebrate Eid with family members. Luscious dishes, like ketupat, dodol, lemang (a type of glutinous rice cake cooked in bamboo) and other Indo-Malay delicacies, feature the dinning table on the occasion of Eid.
People greet everyone with wishes and blessings. They are seen embracing one another by saying 'Selamat Hari Raya Idul Fitri' or 'Salam Aidilfitri', which means 'Happy Eid'. Muslims are also seen reciting 'maaf lahir dan batin', which is a way to ask for forgiveness for the physical and emotional wrongdoings. They consider Eid ul Fitr as an opportunity to cleanse their sins and strengthen their ties with relatives and friends. Children are the most excited lot, as they wait for 'duit raya' i.e. token of money from their elders.
United Kingdom
In United Kingdom, Eid ul Fitr starts with the Imam giving advice to the Muslim community for living a healthy and soulful life. He then recites his speech, also called Khutbah, and the prayer. Once the local imam declares Eid ul Fitr, everyone greets and hugs each other. Though the day is not a recognized public holiday, Muslims are obliged to attend the morning prayers. After attending the morning prayers, they are also seen going to the cemetery, to pay homage to their ancestors. Upon returning home, people greet and wish each other happiness and luck for all the future endeavors. Dishes like samosa, simeya, rice and handesh are prepared on this day.
North America
Since the day depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, celebrations of Eid ul Fitr are practiced on different days on the eastern and western side of the continent. Different methods for determining the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal are used in each particular community. North Americans celebrate the day in a quiet manner. On this day, Muslim usually wake up early, have a small breakfast and attend mosques for the Eid prayers. They then greet their family members and relatives.
Turkey
One of the most awaited festivals of the year, Eid-ulFitr is referred to as 'Seker Bayrami' (Bayram of Sweets) or 'Ramazan Bayrami' (Ramadan Bayram). It marks an opportunity to meet family and relatives and indulge in ceremonious activities. As a customary practice, people greet one another with 'Bayraminiz Kutlu Olsun' (May Your Bayram Be Celebrated), 'Mutlu Bayramlar' (Happy Bayram), or the more religious 'Bayraminiz Mübarek Olsun' (May Your Bayram Be Holy).
In Turkey, Eid-ulFitr celebration is infused with national tradition. On this day, young people honor elderly citizens by kissing their right hand and placing it on one's forehead, while wishing them Bayram. Children are seen flocking from door to door, greeting happy Bayram and getting candy, chocolates, traditional sweets or money in return. Concerts or more traditional forms of entertainment, such as the Karagöz and Hacivat shadow-theatre, are high on demand during the festive days of Eid.
Iran
The Shia cult in Iran celebrates the festival of Eid-ulFitr with much glory and fervor. Better known as Eyde Fetr by most Iranians, charity features as one of the important aspects done on the day. The morning is usually dedicated to prayers and attending mosques. Paying a visit to the elderly and gathering with families and friends is also very common sight in Iran. One of the distinctive things people indulge in is giving food to those in need. Payment of fitra or fetriye is obligatory for each Muslim, on this special day.
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Eid ul Fitr Date
Eid ul Fitr is the biggest Muslim festival that is celebrated all across the globe. It falls on the first day of Shawwal (tenth month of the Islamic Calendar), after the completion of the month long fast of Ramadan. The celebrations extend up to three days. Id-ul-Fitr is distinguished as a thanksgiving day. Allah is thanked by Muslims all over the world, for his blessings. Prayers are offered under open sky and in mosques, by the entire Muslim community. In different Muslim countries, Id-ul-Fitr is celebrated in different ways. However, fasting and offering prayers is a common feature of Eid celebrations across the globe.
The arrangements and preparations for celebrating the festival start long before its arrival. People wear new clothes on the day, while women don ornaments and heavy jewelry also. They also decorate their houses in fancy style. Friends and relatives visit each other for giving Eid greetings and wishes. On this festive day, Muslims wear new clothes and women also apply henna or Mehndi on their hands. In all the Muslim countries, markets are decorated and people go on a shopping spree, to enjoy this festival. Children are given money, gifts, clothes, sweets, and perks on this occasion. Daughters and sisters also receive gifts.
For the entire month of Ramadan, Muslims dedicate themselves in offering prayers to the Allah, by reciting Ramadan ‘dua’ as many times as possible and visiting mosque. In India, thousands of Muslims flock to Jama Masjid, the main mosque in Delhi. The country celebrates Eid ul Fitr with great enthusiasm and zeal. A lot of Hindus also participate in the celebrations of the Muslim festival. The day has been declared as a public holiday in India.
Eid ul Fitr 2012 - 19 August
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Eid ul Fitr DecorationsFestivals have long been associated with pompous decorations, glitzy fervor and colorful illuminations. Eid ul Fitr is no exception to this rule. The unique charm of the festival is manifest in the elaborate embellishment that adorns the otherwise modest abode of Eid celebrators. Every Muslim home radiates splendor and magnificence on this auspicious day. People bedeck their surroundings with a new, flashy look and give a warm welcome to visitors, friends and relatives. They also dress up in new outfits, to match up to the festive spirit and all-encompassing aura of the festival.
The significance of Id-ul-Fitr for Muslims corresponds to the meaning Diwali has for Hindus and Christmas for Christians. People clean their houses to make it spanking new and go for a more traditional way of decorations. Green, the holy color for Muslims, holds special importance on the day and is used to decorate homes as well. Floral bouquets, huge in size, are made and hung at the entrance of the homes, as a greeting symbol. Usually, the beautification of homes begins with the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan. Children also prepare Eid crafts, like cards, crescent moon, paper flowers, hangings, gift bags and other creative items, to celebrate the occasion in their own special way.
Id-Ul-Fitr Decoration Ideas
Inside Decorations
On Eid ul Fitr, you need to make the entire house look spic and span, by cleaning it thoroughly. Not even a single corner should be left covered with dust.
Inside the home, decorations can include flowers, wall hangings and crafts made at home. For the more artistic souls, there are a lot of innovative options. They just need a plain cardboard, which can be cut into different shapes and sizes, for instance resembling crescent moon and stars. They can be used as wall hangings inside the house.
The decoration items can be purchased from the market as well. Right from the floral arrangements to the crescent moon, there is no decoration that you cannot find in the market these days.
A prayer rug can also be designed on your own, on the festival of Eid. All the family members can participate in its preparation and make it all the more special. Embroidery can be used to enhance its beauty.
Outside Decorations
Clean the outside of your house thoroughly. It will look more beautiful and welcoming, if the surroundings have a fresher look.
Eid banners can be made on your own or purchased from the market and used to decorate the outdoors.
Colorful illuminations are the best way to decorate the outside of your house. Go for elaborate illuminations, if your budget allows.
Since Id-ul-Fitr is a festival with immense religious significance, religious flags or patakas is also a viable option for exterior decoration. All you have to do is make religious Muslim symbols cloth, color them with oil paint or ink stamps and put them outdoors.
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Eid ul Fitr Prayers
Eid ul Fitr prayers are obligatory for every Muslim and are meant to be offered in congregation. However, in the contemporary celebrations of the festival, many Muslims also pray individually. After the moon of Shawwal is sighted on the last day of Ramadan, the Takbir is recited. The time for Eid prayers is from sunrise till Zuhr. It is also recommended to offer Eid prayers in open areas. After the prayers are completed, it is customary to embrace the person sitting next to you, on the left as well as right. The article comes up with the prayers exclusively meant for the occasions of Eid ul Fitr.
Id-Ul-Fitr Prayers
Allahu Akbar
La illaha il Allah
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar
walilahil Hamd
Allahu Akbaru Kabeera
wal-Hamdulilahi katheera
wa Subhan allahi
bukratan wa aseila
La illaha il Allah
sadaqa wa'dah
wa nasara abda
wa a'azza jundahu
wa hazamal-ahzaaba wahdah
La illaha il Allah
wa laa na'budu illa iyyah
mukhlessena lahud-deena
walaw karehal-Kafeeroon
Allahumma salli ala sayyedna Muhammad
wa ala aalie sayyedna Muhammad
wa ala as-haabie sayyedna Muhammad
wa ala ansari sayyedna Muhammad
wa ala azwajie sayyedna Muhammad
wa ala dhurreyatie sayyedna Muhammad
wa sallim tasleeman katheera
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Muharram
Muharram is observed by the Muslim community across the world in commemoration of the martyrdom of Prophet Mohammed's grandson, Imam Hussain along with his family and followers, who were killed in the Battle of Karbala in AD 680. The Prophet's son-in-law Ali, and Ali's elder son Hassan, are also remembered during this period as having suffered and died for righteous causes. Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar which marks the beginning of the new Islamic year. It is also one of the four months wherein fighting is strictly prohibited as the word Muharram has been derived from ‘haram’ which means “forbidden”.
The first ten days of the month are observed as a period of mourning. After the death of the Prophet Mohammed, the Quran was considered as the final word. The Prophet had named no successor. One fraction of his followers believed that succession should remain within Mohammed's family, while another disagreed. After a long dispute, Abu Bakr, a loyal follower of Mohammed, was elected as his successor. His reign was peaceful, as was that of his successors. However, during the reign of Ali, Prophet's son-in-law, there was opposition from the masses. Ali was assassinated and his elder son Hassan was poisoned. His younger son Hussain, his family and his troops, were tortured and killed, with Hussain's head being severed and presented to the king.
The assassination of Hussain took place on the tenth day of the month of Muharram; hence, the event is called Ashura. It is observed as a day for public expression of grief. These circumstances resulted in the division of the community into two cults - the Shias and the Sunnis. The Shias consider Ali, Hassan and Hussain as the rightful successors of Prophet Mohammed and mourn their death during Muharram. At the appearance of the moon, people clad in black assemble and recite plaintive verses over sweetened cold drink, in memory of Imam Hussain. They observe the entire month as a period of mass mourning. There is no celebration or expression of joy of any kind. Women are expected to forsake all adornments. Public enactments of grief, depicting scenes from the Battle of Karbala, are carried out in Shia mosques on the first ten days. This is done to express the brutalities that Hussain underwent during the battle of Karbala. The Sunnis, on the other hand, celebrate the occasion on a quieter note and indulge in calm and silent offerings.
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Significance of Ashura
Muslims begin their new lunar Hijri calendar with the month of Muharram. It is the first month in the Islamic calendar that starts with the sighting of the new moon. This holy month is one of the four sacred months in which it is considered to be unlawful to fight. After Ramadan, Muharram is the most significant month in the Islamic calendar. On the 10th day of Muharram, that is, Ashura, Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Imam Husain was brutally massacred along with his family and followers. The day is observed with great sorrow and grief. The Shia Muslims regard the day as the mourning period. Read through the following lines to know more about the significance of Ashurah for both Sunni and Shia Muslims.
Historical Importance Of Ashurah
For Shia Muslims
For Shia Muslims, the day of Ashura is very important as they consider Imam Husain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, the rightful successor of Muhammad. They believe the battle of Karbala took place between the good and the evil, with Imam Husain representing good and Yazid representing evil. Shia Muslims do not take the day as a day of joy and festivity. Instead, they commemorate it as a day of mourning. They refrain from music and avoid planning out any weddings or parties on this date. By doing so, they try to commit one to mourning of Imam Husain completely. By crying and listening to poems and sermons about the tragedy on the assassination of Husain and his family, Shia Muslims try to connect themselves with Husain’s suffering and martyrdom.
Many Shia Muslims make pilgrimages on the day of Ashura to the Mashhad al-Husayn, the shrine at Karbala in Iraq. This shrine is traditionally known to bear the tomb of Imam Husain. Different events associated with Ashura are held in special assemble halls that are known as Imambaragah or Hussainia. To experience the suffering of Husain and his family, people slash their bodies with knives and other sharp tools attached to chains, allowing blood to run freely. Some people also indulge in matam, i.e., beating of the chests to show solidarity with Imam Husain and his family. A popular Shia saying goes as this,
‘A single tear shed for Husain washes away a hundred sins.’
For Sunni Muslims
As per records in Sahih al-Bukhari, Ashura is a commemorative day wherein many Meccans used to observe the customary fast. Even during Hijrah when Prophet Muhammad was leading his followers to Medina, he observed Jews fasting on this day. He inquired one of them about the significance of fasting on Ashura. The reason given was that on this day, God saved the Israelites from their enemy, Egyptians. Hence, to mark this freedom, Moses observed the fast.
Prophet Muhammad too started fasting and recommended his followers and other Muslims to fast on two of three consecutive days, including the 10th of Muharram. The fast during Ashura is only recommended and not made obligatory, since Sunni Muslims consider the Ramadan fast to be more significant. Sunnis residing in Egypt prepare a pudding called Ashura (made from wheat, nuts, raisins and rose water) and consume it after dinner on the day of Ashura. The same pudding is known as Asure in Turkish.
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Significance of Muharram
The holy month of Muharram is observed by all Muslims across the globe. The month is the first of the twelve months in the Islamic calendar, thereby marking the Islamic New Year. It is one of the four sanctified months wherein unlawful acts are strictly prohibited, especially the shedding of blood. Even the literal meaning of Muharram is ‘haram’, which means forbidden. The first ten days of the month are mourned by the Muslims to commemorate the brutal assassination of Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Imam Husain, his family and supporters. Thus, Muharram has great religious significance behind its observance. Go through the following lines to know more about the historical importance of Muharram.
Historical Importance Of Muharram
The Islamic New Year is ushered in with the sighting of the new moon. Muharram is counted as the first month of the Islamic calendar. This month is considered as one of the four sacred months as mentioned by Allah in the Holy Quran, the other three sanctified months being Zil Qa’dah, Zil Hijjah and Rajab. It was on this first day of Muharram that Allah created the heavens and the earth. Among all the four months considered sacred, Muharram is the most significant one blessed with certain specific virtues.
Since four of the months are regarded sacred in the Islamic calendar, the rewards for the good deeds performed in these months are far greater than in other months. To add on, sins committed in these months are far more heinous than engaging in sins in other months. A person committing murder during any of these months would be required to pay more than the prescribed amount of blood money.
As stated by Prophet Muhammad, observing fasts during Allah’s month of Muharram are the best of the fasts besides the month of Ramadan. The best of the salaat (prayers), beside the fardh (compulsory) salaat is the tahajjud salaat (performed after midnight and before dawn). In another sacred book, it is also mentioned that a person fasting during Muharram would receive a reward of 30 fasts for each fast observed. A person observing fast on the 10th day of Muharram is believed to receive a reward of 10,000 martyrs and the reward of 10,000 people performing Hajj and Umrah.
On this 10th day of Muharram, Hazrat Imam Husain Ali, grandson of Prophet Muhammad, along with his family and followers, was killed in the battle of Karbala. Hence, Muharram is a sacred festival to remember the death of Imam Husain. They sacrificed for the cause of truth and justice. Therefore, people fast on both 9th and 10th days of Muharram as recommended by Prophet Muhammad. Speeches are delivered about the battle of Karbala and people are advised to learn from these lessons of courage, patience and perseverance.
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The Day of Ashura
The Islamic New Year, or lunar Hijri calendar, begins with the sighting of the new moon which counts as the first day of the month of Muharram. Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar. This holy festival is celebrated by both the sects of the Muslim religion, Sunnis and Shias. This month of one of the four most sanctified months of the Islamic calendar. It was on this day that Allah created heaven and earth. The month is also considered more significant as on the 10th day of Muharram, that is, Ashurah, Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Hazrat Imam Husain Ali was brutally massacred along with his family and other followers. Hence, the 10th day turns to be of more religious significance. The day of Ashura is highly mourned by the Shia Muslims. Read on to know how the day of Ashurah is celebrated across the world.
How Is Ashurah Celebrated
The day of Ashura falls on the 10th day of the month of Muharram. The word ‘ashura’ literally means ten. The day is observed for different reasons and in different ways by the Sunnis and Shias. The Sunni Muslims observe the day as a quiet affair. During the reign of Prophet Muhammad, He observed the local Jews observing a day of fast at this day of Muharram which the Jews considered to be their Day of Atonement. On asking, the reason given for the fast was that Moses started observing the fast as away to express gratitude to God for liberating the Israelites from Egypt. Hence, the Prophet himself started fasting and recommended the other Muslims also to do so. However, in order to distinguish from the Jews, he suggested fasting on two days, the 9th and the 10th of Muharram.
Sunni Muslims observe these fasts although they are not compulsory. However, a person fasting on the day of Ashurah is believed to be rewarded with 10,000 martyrs and the reward of 10,000 people performing Hajj and Umrah. There are other activities that Sunni Muslims carry out on Ashura. A person should place his hand on the head of an orphan. He should perform Nafl Salaat prayers and also recite Surah Ikhlas 1000 times. He should give out as mush charity as he can afford. One should take a bath, cut nails and apply surma in his and others’ eyes. Meeting an ill person on the day of Ashura is considered as visiting the siblings of Hazrat Adam. One should also serve water to others. Serving water for one time is counted as not disobeying Allah for even a blink of an eye.
While for Shia Muslims, the day of Ashura has become a national holiday in countries, such as Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Lebanon and Bahrain. People in these countries commemorate this day as a grieving and mourning occasion. People assemble at mosques where sorrowful and poetic recitations, such as marsiya, noha, latmiya and soaz are performed to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Husain. People chant ‘Ya Husain’ while grieving to the tunes of the beating drums. The battle of Karbala is retold that enables the mourners to relive the pain and sorrowed endured by Husain and his family.
In places like Iraq and Lebanon, people read Maqtal Al-Husayn narrating the story of the battle. While is countries like Iran and the Arab states of the Persian Gulf, passion plays are performed enacting the battle and the suffering and martyrdom of Husain at the hands of Yazid. People take out large processions of taziya or taziyeh, miniature mausoleums of Imam Husain and his family. The taziyeh are made of wood, bamboo, tin foil, mica and glass. They beat their chests, known as matam, to display their devotion to Husain and remember his suffering. Male participants incorporate in wounding themselves with small knives and sharp tools attached to the chains into the matam. The taziyeh are carried through the streets and buried at the local Karbala at the end of the day.
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What is Muharram
Muharram has great religious significance in the Muslim community. It is the first month in the lunar Islamic calendar. Muharram is one of the four sanctified months in the calendar, the other three being Dhul-Qa’dah, Dhul-Hijjah and Rajab. Since the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, the date of Muharram keeps on changing from year to year. The occasion is commemorated by both the Muslim communities, Sunnis and Shias. Some Muslims even observe fasts during these days. The holy month is associated with a number of auspicious events in Islamic history. Read through the following lines to know more about the meaning of Muharram.
Meaning Of Muharram
Muharram has been derived from the word ‘haram’, which means ‘forbidden’. Hence, it is considered unlawful to fight during this month. During the month of Muharram, Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Hazrat Imam Husain was brutally killed in the battle of Karbala, along with his family and friends, in the year 680 CE/ 61 AH. The first 10 days of Muharram are regarded as sad and grieving, especially by the Shia Muslims who hold mourning ceremonies recalling the righteous virtues for which the martyrs stood. The commemoration of the brutal massacre begins on the 1st day of Muharram and ends on the 10th day of Muharram when the battle ended.
On this blessed day, it is believed that Allah created the heavens and the earth. It is even said that Allah gave His finite blessings and bounties to many of His Prophets and freed them from the clutches of their enemies. Hazrat Adam was also created in the month of Muharram and also pardoned for his mistake in this month only. Even Hazrat Noah’s Ark landed successfully on Mount Judi during this month centuries ago. Hazrat Ibrahim was saved from fire and Hazrat Musa was rescued from the Pharaoh during this holy month of Muharram.
The 10th day of Muharram is considered to be the most significant as on this day, the battle at Karbala between Yazid and Hazrat Imam Husain Ali ended. Imam Husain and his supporters were brutally massacred and decapitated. The Sunni Muslims consider the 10th day as a festival, while the Shia Muslims mourn throughout the entire month and take out processions and wound themselves with knives and small sharp objects to display the pain the Imam Husain and his team went through on the 10th day.
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Ashura Date
Muharram is one of the holiest occasions in the Islamic calendar. Muharram is the first month of the lunar Hijri calendar, which marks the start of the Islamic New Year. It was during this month that Imam Husain Ali, grandson of Prophet Muhammad, was brutally assassinated together with his family and supporters thousands years back at the Battle of Karbala. The month of Muharram is also one of the four most sanctified months among the twelve months of the Islamic calendar. The other three holy months are Dhul-Qa’dah, Dhul-Hijjah and Rajab. The Battle of Karbala took place on the 10th day of Muharram, that is, Ashura. Muslims across the world observe this day with great religious significance. However, the date of Ashura does not remain the same every year. Read on further to know the date of Ashura in the year 2012.
When Is Ashura
Ashura falls on the 10th day of the holy month of Muharram. However, the date does not remain the same as per the Gregorian calendar. While the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, the Gregorian calendar is a solar calendar. Hence, the dates of the Islamic calendar shift back approximately 11 days every year. The date of Ashura is only decided after the moon of Muharram is sighted. Moreover, the Ashura date can also vary from country to country, depending upon whether the moon has been sighted in that particular country or not. The month of Muharram is likely to begin on the 15th November in the year 2012. Therefore, the date of Ashura is expected to fall on the 24th November, 2012.
In the Muslim calendar, the next day starts on the sunset of the previous day. Thus, the date of Ashura will begin from the sunset of the 24th November. Ashura has become a national holiday in Shia countries, such as Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Lebanon and Bahrain. They commemorate Ashura as the day of mourning for the martyrdom of Husain Ali and his followers. On this day, Muslims take our large processions through the streets carrying taziyeh (replicas of the mausoleum of Husain Ali and others made from bamboo and paper) decorated with gilt and mica.
To express grief, mourners beat their chests chanting ‘Ya Husain’. Some even flagellate or whip themselves with small knives or sharp tools attached to chains drawing out blood to feel the pain that Husain Ali and others had been through. The taziyehs, at the end of the day, are taken to the local burial ground, known as Karbala and buried. On the other hand, Sunni Muslims mark the day on a much silent note. They offer prayers and fast on the day of Ashura. They make delectable delicacies which are distributed among friends, relatives and the deprived.
Date of Ashura: 24th November, 2012
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Battle of Karbala
Muharram marks the Islamic New Year and the first month in the Islamic calendar. It is one of the holiest months and is observed by entire Muslim community across the globe. The month commemorates the brutal massacre of Imam Husain Ali, grandson of Prophet Muhammad on the 10th day of Muharram. The death is mourned and grieved by the Shia Muslims worldwide. Sunni Muslims observe the day on a quiet note. The assassination took place at the Battle of Karbala, which resulted in the death of Imam Husain and his followers. The Battle of Karbala took place in the year 61 AH/ 680 CE on the 10th day of Muharram. Read on further to know the major events of the Battle of Karbala.
Karbala Battle
The Shia Muslims considered Imam Husain as their spiritual leader since he was a direct descendent of Prophet Muhammad (grandson of the Prophet). Hence, Shias felt that Imam Husain should lead the community as Caliph (political and spiritual leader) as per the tradition. However, the present ruling Caliph, Mu’awiyah, son of one of the Prophet’s enemies refused to agree Imam Husain as the next Caliph. On the death of Mu’awiyah, the Caliphate passed on to his son, Yazid who demanded Hassan (Husain’s elder brother) and Husain to pay homage (Bay’at) to him and accept him as their rightful leader.
To Yazid’s surprise, Imam Husain refused to swear allegiance to Yazid and decided to travel to Kufa in Iraq to lead his supporters there against the Caliphate. On this side, Yazid ordered his army to stop Husain from reaching Kufa. Both the forces met at Karbala where Husain, together with his entire family and followers, were surrounded Yazid’s large troops. On being countered in such a situation, Husain still refused to swear allegiance and as a result, 72 armed men, 18 family members and 54 supporters were trapped in the harsh desert without water or any other supplies.
In an attempt to avoid bloodshed, Husain appealed to Yazid’s generals for the next eight days to spare them. However, at the dawn of the 10th day, Ashura, Yazid’s troops finally started firing arrows at the camp and the Battle of Karbala began. Unable to resist the onslaught, all the men fell one after the other, including Husain and his brother. The women and children were spared unveiled and barefooted, left to weep and cry for their slain relatives. Husain’s body was decapitated, and his body mutilated and trampled by horses only to turn his chest and back to ground. Husain’s severed head was sent to Yazid on Ashura afternoon, while the heads of other comrades were sent to Kufa.
After the army left Karbala, local people came and buried the deceased bodies there. On the 11th day of Muharram, the captive women and children were loaded onto camels without saddles and moved to Kufa. People gathered at Kufa to see the captives. Some women in Kufa even brought veils for the captive women after knowing that they are relatives of Prophet Muhammad. The tombs of Hassan and Husain have been converted into shrines at Karbala, which are visited by several Shia Muslims across the world every year.
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History of Muharram
Muslims across the world observe Muharram as the first month of the Islamic calendar, marking it as the New Year. Muharram is also commemorated to remember the brutal assassination of Hazrat Imam Husain Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his supporters at the battle of Karbala. The month of Muharram is observed as a period of mourning by all the Muslims, especially those belonging to the Shia community. Husain was given the title of Imam which means spiritual leader of Islam. When Husain refused to swear allegiance to Yazid, the second Umayyad Caliph, he and his army were brutally massacred while traveling from Medina to Kufa. Read on further to know all about the history and background of Muharram.
Muharram History
An era of warring tribes prevailed in the pre-Islamic period in the Arabian Peninsula. Since there was no single major leadership, conflicts and battles occurred on small issues. However, fighting was strictly prohibited in four of the twelve months of the Islamic calendar. These months were Dhul-Qa’adah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram and Rajab. The word Muharram was derived from the word ‘haram’, which meant ‘forbidden’. This tradition was maintained from the time of advent of Islam and was religiously followed thereafter. Nonetheless, provisions were made to accept war in special situations, such as a threat to sovereignty of an empire. The battle of Karbala was fought against this law and tradition of Islam.
Traditional rivalry existed between the inhabitants residing on the banks of River Euphrates and Tigris. However, their animosity was to some extent reduced by Prophet Muhammad. When His son-in-law, Hazrat Ali became the Caliph, the enmity re-surfaced all over again. Hazrat Ali had two sons, Hazrat Imam Husain and Hazrat Imam Hassan. While Imam Husain ruled a part of the empire, known as Iran today, the other part was ruled by the Umayyads, the present Iraq. Hence, Imam Husain was called upon by the Shias of Kufa, a small town in the kingdom of Umayyad. He was called to accept their allegiance and hand over his place to Yazid, the ruler of Kufa.
Yazid then instructed his governor, Ibn-e-Ziad to take action against him. The message for the same was passed on by the Shias to Imam Husain, who along with his family and supporters started heading towards Kufa. However, on their way in Karbala, they were surrounded by the army of Yazid. They were maliciously tortured and killed. Husain’s head was severed and presented to Yazid. They did not receive any help from the Shias of Kufa who promised to do so while sending the message to Imam Husain. The battle took place on the 10th day of Muharram. The Shias consider this day as a sorrowful and grieving occasion. For them, the martyrdom of Imam Husain is a religious occasion.
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Muharram Celebration
Muharram marks the Islamic New Year for both Muslim communities, Sunnis and Shias. It is the first month in the lunar Islamic calendar and is one of the four most sacred months of the calendar where fighting is prohibited. The first ten days of the month mark the deadly battle of Karbala, where Hazrat Imam Husain, along with his family and supporters, was brutally massacred and beheaded by Yazid’s army. These ten days hold great historical significance for Muslims across the world. While the Shia Muslims commemorate this occasion by mourning, Sunni Muslims observe it on a more peaceful note. Browse through the following lines to know the rituals of Muharram and how it is celebrated by both the Muslim communities worldwide.
How Is Muharram Celebrated
The Shia Muslims consider Muharram to be the period of mourning and remembering martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Husain. They start mourning from the 1st night of Muharram and continue for the next 2 months and 8 days. Nonetheless, the first ten days of Muharram have more significance. Shia Muslims put on black dresses on the first day of Muharram and attend majlis (assemblies) where the orators narrate incidents of the battle of Karbala, Hazrat Imam Husain and his people. The black color is regarded as the color of mourning. They even keep themselves away from music and joyous events, such as weddings, that are likely to distract them from the sorrowful remembrance of the event.
On the 10th day, Shia Muslims take out large processions through the streets carrying banners and colorfully decorated taziyahs (bamboo and paper replicas of the martyrs) embellished with gilt and mica. They even carry colorful replicas of the mausoleum of Hazrat Imam Husain at Karbala. Shia Muslims walk barefoot on the roads, while the drums are beaten in the background. They chant and weep loudly as an act of mourning for Husain, his family and his followers. To express their grief on the death of Hazrat Imam Husain, they beat their chest with hands, known as matam. Others flagellate their bodies with chains or whips, consisting of small knives and sharp objects, thereby drawing out blood. Wrestlers and dancers even enact scenes that depict the battle of Karbala.
While Shia Muslims consider Muharram as a sorrowful occasion, Sunni Muslims observe the occasion as a festival even though the main aspect behind the festival remains intact. They observe fasts and commemorate the occasion as a low affair. As stated by Prophet Muhammad, the best fasts after the fasts of Ramadan are those of the month of Muharram. Though these fasts are not obligatory as those of Ramadan, one who fasts during Muharram out of his own will be awarded by Allah. These fasts are considered to be the most rewardable ones among the Nafl or voluntary fasts. The fasts can be observed for the first ten days of Muharram or on the 9th and 10th day of Muharram or on the 10th and 11th day of Muharram. The choice of fasting totally depends on an individual.
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Muharram Date
Muharram is one of the most auspicious occasions in the Islamic history and calendar. Firstly, the occasion commemorates the brutal assassination of Hazrat Imam Husain Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his entire family at the battle of Karbala. Secondly, Muharram is also observed as the first month in the Islamic calendar. Hence, Muslims begin their lunar Hijrah calendar with the first day of Muharram. Muharram is one of the four months that are considered to be highly holy, the other three months being Dhul-Qa’adah, Dhul-Hijjah and Rajab. Muharram is held as the most sacred and religious festivals for Muslims across the world. The date of Muharram does not remain constant in the Gregorian calendar and changes every year. Go through the lines below and know the date of Muharram in 2012.
When Is Muharram
The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar as against the Gregorian calendar which is a solar calendar. A month in the Islamic calendar begins on sighting the first crescent of the new moon. Hence, the Islamic lunar calendar is 11 or 12 days shorter than the solar year and all the Islamic dates vary from year to year. Like all months, Muharram too migrates throughout the solar years. The month of Muharram or Al-Hijra in 2012 is expected to begin on the 15th November and continue for 29 days till the 13th December. Muslims begin observing the next day on the sunset of the previous day. Therefore, the first day of Muharram will commence on the sunset of 6th of December.
Both Sunni and Shia Muslims observe this occasion in different manners. Shia Muslims dress themselves in black, the color of mourning, and attend the majlis (assemblies), where Shia orators read out and enact the incident of martyrdom of Imam Husain and his team in detail. The main event takes place on the 10th day of Muharram. Shias carry out large processions through the streets holding banners and models of mausoleum of Imam Husain and others. This is done to show the grief and sorrow that Imam Husain and his team has undergone. They even beat their bodies with small sharp metal knives tied to a chain.
Sunni Muslims, too, commemorate Muharram, but in a less demonstrative manner than the Shia Muslims. They observe the occasion as a festival and mark the 10th day of Muharram as the most significant one. Fasts are observed on the 9th and 10th of Muharram or on the 10th and 11th of Muharram. Mouth-watering and delectable delicacies are prepared in almost every household. The delicacies are consumed by the family and distributed to friends and relatives as well. A good quantity of food is given to the deprived as well.
Muharram Begins: 15th November, 2012
Muharram Ends: 13th December, 2012
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Muharram Fasting
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar, hence, marking the Islamic New Year. It is an occasion of mourning that commemorates the martyrdom of Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Hazrat Imam Husain, along with his family and followers. It is one of the most sacred months of the year, where fighting is strictly prohibited. The other three months are Dhul-Qa’adah, Dhul-Hijjah and Rajab. This occasion has utmost religious importance in the Islamic history and is observed by both the sects of the Muslims, Sunnis and Shias. People fast during this month to honor the massacred Imam Husain and his people in the battle of Karbala. Read on to know more about fasting in Muharram.
Fasting In Muharram
Fasting during the month of Muharram is of great merits in Islam, especially on the 10th day. Prophet Muhammad stated though fasting on the day of Ashura (10th day of Muharram) is of great merits, one should pray to Allah to accept the fast as an expiation for the sins committed in the previous year. Fasting on the 9th day of Muharram is also highly recommended to be Sunnah. Moreover, it is better to fast on two days, that is, the 9th and 10th of Muharram so as to distinguish Muslims from the Jewish community.
When Prophet Muhammad came to Medina, he noticed the Jews in Medina to be fasting on Ashura to remember Prophet Musa. Prophet Musa and the tribes of Israel were saved from their enemies on this day and hence, Musa started fasting on this day. Prophet Muhammad admired this tradition and started fasting on this day. He even recommended his companions and other people to observe the fast on this day of Ashura. However, people informed Prophet Muhammad that the day is a day that is honored by Jews and Christians.
Hence, Prophet Muhammad recommended fasting of both the 9th and 10th days of Muharram from the next year. This was done to distinguish Muslims from the Jews and Christians. However, He died before the following year. The Prophet also commented that fasting during the month of Muharram is the best fast after Ramadan. Since then, the tradition of observing the fast is being followed by the Muslims across the globe.
Muslims scholars state that fasting of Ashura during the month of Muharram is of three levels, as given below:
Fasting for three days, i.e., on the 9th, 10th and 11th days of Muharram,
Fasting on the 9th and 10th day of Muharram, and
Fasting only on the 10th of Muharram.