What is Eid all about? Our RA Aiman is here to tell you!

As Eid al-Fitr approaches, I find myself filled with excitement and anticipation. This joyous celebration, marking the end of Ramadan, holds a special place in my heart and in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. From my earliest memories, a constant for Eid was celebrating it with my family. Now, as a student living far from home, I find this celebration very different. However, it's not quite a pity party or sob story yet! I find myself forming a new ‘family’ with friends in London to celebrate Eid with. So come along and learn more about my journey and the significance of Eid.

Eid al-Fitr, which literally means "the festival of breaking the fast," is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar. It's a time of immense joy and gratitude, as we come together to mark the completion of a month-long spiritual journey.

For me, Eid is more than just a celebration; it's a culmination of the lessons, dedication and blessings of Ramadan. Like many students around me during the past month, I've fasted from dawn to sunset, focusing on self-discipline, empathy, and spiritual growth. The nights of Laylat-ul-Qadr and prayers are coming to an end. Now, as Eid approaches, I feel a sense of renewal. Particularly, a highlight from the month was when I made handmade stuffed dates with my friend and distributed them to people on campus and my close friends (too bad if you missed it :( T_T )

Usually, the morning of Eid is always special. The night before, my friends and I gather together to put on henna and prep for the Eid morning. On the day, I wake up early around 5 am, take a refreshing bath, and put on my best clothes – often new ones bought especially for the occasion. As a South Asian, I like wearing an embroidered kurta (long-fitted garment). With South Asia’s diversity, each kurta sold has its unique design originating from different parts of the subcontinent. I recall my grandmother wearing a Kashmiri ‘aari’ Pheran 👚🧕🪷.

Yet, the best part about Eid is the palpable excitement in the air as I head to the mosque for the Eid prayer. After the prayer, the sight of the community coming together, dressed in their finest, exchanging warm greetings of "Eid Mubarak," and everyone hugging each other, fills me with a sense of unity and belonging.🫂

After the prayer, the festivities begin in earnest. Family gatherings, feasts, and the exchange of gifts are all part of the celebration. As a student, I find myself spending long hours on the phone, greeting everyone I know for Eid. These calls would also go to my relatives (ones I haven't spoken to for years). I also find myself spending this time with my small group of friends. We usually head out in the busy streets of London to find a quaint restaurant to dine in, chat and take pictures. (Obviously, the Instagram Eid feed needs to be chaotic).

But Eid isn't just about feasting and merriment. It's also a time for reflection and gratitude. We give thanks for the strength to complete the fast and for the blessings in our lives. It's a moment to renew our commitment to the values we've practiced during Ramadan – compassion, generosity, and mindfulness.

One of the most meaningful aspects of Eid for me is the emphasis on charity. Before the Eid prayer, we give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity to help those less fortunate celebrate the occasion. Even if it's a small form of gesture that I can do to make someone else’s Eid special, I try to do it. For instance, last Eid as a student, I found myself volunteering for a charity fundraiser, which was super fulfilling as it raised £2000 for charity. This reminds me that true joy comes from sharing and caring for others.

This year, I look forward to making more memories during Eid with my loved ones. I really hope that if you have read this far, your Eid is filled with joy! And in case it’s your first time reading about Eid, I hope you enjoyed learning about it.

Lastly, if you are a student living in halls and would like to spend your Eid with your friends on campus, then come along and join ResLife’s Eid celebration on 1st April, from 5.30-8 pm at The Curve!

We have a henna station, great food 🍛and a Polaroid station📷 to make sure you store your cherished memories for longer. So come along with your friends!

Hoping to see you there :) and if not, then wishing you Eid Mubarak virtually🎊🕌.

Allah Hafiz :)

👋Aiman