WORLD: The month of Ramadan is expected to last for 30 days this year, with Eid Al Fitr likely to fall on Monday, March 31. This extension is due to the way the Islamic lunar calendar operates, which is based on the moon’s cycle. Ramadan, a time of fasting and prayer for Muslims, begins with the sighting of the new moon, and it continues until the next moon is sighted. As a result, the exact day that Ramadan ends is determined by local moon sightings, and this year it seems set to be a full 30-day observance.
Eid Al Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan, is celebrated with communal prayers, feasts, and the giving of charity, known as Zakat al-Fitr. It is one of the most anticipated events in the Islamic calendar, as it symbolizes a time of joy and gratitude after a month of self-discipline and devotion. Families come together to celebrate, and many Muslims also take the opportunity to visit friends and neighbors, exchange gifts, and enjoy special meals.
The transition from Ramadan to Eid Al Fitr is also marked by a special sense of spiritual reflection. Muslims believe that the month of Ramadan offers an opportunity for personal growth and spiritual purification, and Eid is seen as a reward for the efforts made during the fasting period. The final days of Ramadan are often filled with increased acts of worship, prayer, and charity, as Muslims aim to end the month on a high note and prepare for the celebrations that follow.
As the end of Ramadan draws near, there is often anticipation and excitement surrounding the precise date of Eid. This is especially true in communities where the moon sighting is a significant event. While the exact date may vary slightly depending on geographical location, the expected date of March 31 for Eid Al Fitr provides a sense of certainty for Muslims around the world, giving them time to prepare for the joyous occasion.
