Muslims across India will observe Eid-ul-Fitr on Saturday, March 21, following the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent on Thursday evening. Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, and is celebrated with prayers, charity, and family gatherings.
According to reports, Mufti Adil of the Ru’yat-e-Hilal Committee at Delhi’s Jama Masjid confirmed that the festival will be held on March 21. A similar announcement was made by Naib Shahi Imam Syed Shaban Bukhari from the historic mosque. In Lucknow, Maulana Khalid Rasheed, Chairman of the Lucknow Islamic Center, also confirmed that Eid festivities will take place on Saturday.
The President of the Deccan Muslim Ulema Council Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee added that since the crescent moon was not visible on Thursday, India will observe Eid-ul-Fitr on March 21, in alignment with local moon sighting traditions.
Moon Sighting Determines Eid Date
Under Islamic tradition, Eid-ul-Fitr is observed on the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan. The start of the new month is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon. Since the Shawwal crescent was not observed on Thursday evening, Ramadan will complete 30 days in India this year.
Globally, similar announcements have been made. Saudi Arabia confirmed that Eid will begin on Friday, March 20, following a non-sighting of the moon on Wednesday evening. Muslims in the kingdom observed the 30th day of Ramadan on Thursday, March 19, before celebrating Eid the next day. The United Arab Emirates also announced Eid prayer timings for its seven emirates, with the festival falling on Friday.
“Muslims across India and other countries observe the start of Shawwal based on local moon sightings,” Maulana Khalid Rasheed said. “With the crescent not visible on Thursday, Eid will now be celebrated on March 21.”
Preparations Across India
Communities in various states are preparing for Eid prayers and celebrations. Markets are witnessing a surge in activity as people buy sweets, gifts, and new clothing for the festival. Mosques and Eidgahs are making arrangements for congregational prayers.
Authorities have also advised local residents to follow guidelines and maintain decorum during Eid celebrations, ensuring peaceful observance of the festival. The announcement provides clarity to millions of Muslims planning family gatherings, charitable donations, and religious observances.
Eid Celebrations in the Gulf
In Gulf countries, Eid holidays have been announced based on local moon sightings. Residents of the United Arab Emirates are expected to enjoy a four-day Eid break from March 19 to March 22. Saudi Arabia, following its announcement, will celebrate Eid on Friday, March 20, while Ramadan concludes after completing 30 days on Thursday.
The sighting of the Shawwal crescent is one of the most important markers in the Islamic calendar, signaling the conclusion of fasting and the beginning of festive celebrations. Communities across India are now gearing up to celebrate Eid with prayers, feasts, and acts of charity.
