BAVINA SOOKDEO
Today, Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the month of Ramadan which commemorates the revelation of the Holy Qu'ran to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) by the Angel Gabriel.
During Ramadan, Muslims of all ages engage in fasting and prayer, adhering to a disciplined routine that involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn until sunset.
Newsday spoke to several Muslims on the relevance of Eid and how they plan to celebrate it.
Noorie Khan, Chaguanas: “Eid ul Fitr is one of the two Islamic festivals, and one of the only things I celebrate, so you can imagine I look forward to it every year. After a month of fasting and adapting to a strict routine of going to the mosque, reading Quran etcetera, Eid feels like a well-earned reward.
"In the morning, I go to the mosque, pray the Eid prayer and listen to the sermon. Then I help out at the compound, as there's a lot of food, drinks, toys and gifts to be distributed. I spend the rest of the day with family, sharing meals and gifts."
Her favourite part of Eid is seeing her family. “I enjoy giving gifts as well, this brings about love and affection. Needless to say, being able to eat freely after a month is very enjoyable too.”
Khan message to everyone is to keep the unity.
“I've seen the damage that intolerance of races and religious minorities can do, and I'm proud that Trinidad and Tobago is a multicultural society and everyone has a place here. I hope we can keep that up. My thoughts are always with the Muslims all over the world, who do not have that privilege, particularly my brothers and sisters in Palestine. They are experiencing a very different Eid than we are.”
Vicky Khan, Princes Town: “Eid means it is the end of Ramadan and we start the day with everyone coming together at the mosque for Eid salah.”
[caption id="attachment_1076117" align="alignnone" width="576"] Vicky Khan -[/caption]
After attending Eid prayer, Khan, 39, will prepare meals for family and friends. Her favourite way to celebrate Eid is by “going to mosque and thanking Almighty Allah for his blessings for my family and I, and giving us the privilege to spend Eid with togetherness."
Khan wishes everyone Eid Mubarak. “May your hearts and homes be filled with love, peace and joy on this special day.”
Racquel Ghany, Santa Cruz: For this 43-year-old councillor for El Socorro/Aranguez North, Eid holds a special place filled with cherished traditions and togetherness.
[caption id="attachment_1076116" align="alignnone" width="768"] Racquel Ghany -[/caption]
“It brings me so much joy to share my experiences and traditions during Eid. It's amazing to know how people come together to celebrate this special occasion. Spending quality time with loved ones, enjoying mouth-watering dishes, and creating memories that last a lifetime are what make Eid so special and unforgettable.
“I'm sure we will have an incredible time at the open-air Eid Gha starting at 7 am sharp with the most important part of the day – Eid salaat – followed by the
