Today, all eyes are on Saudi Arabia as Muslims eagerly await the sighting of the crescent moon, marking the beginning of Eid al-Fitr. This Islamic celebration signifies the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting from dawn till dusk. 'Eid al-Fitr' translates to the 'festival of breaking the fast'. It falls on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

The date of Eid al-Fitr varies each year depending on the sighting of the moon, and it may differ by a day or two based on location. This year, India is expected to celebrate Eid al-Fitr on April 10 or 11.

In India, Kerala relies on the sighting of the moon in Saudi Arabia to determine the date of Eid al-Fitr. Muslims across India and South Asian countries will be eagerly looking for the crescent moon on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

Chand Raat, known as the "Night of the Moon" in Urdu, is a festive occasion celebrated in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It occurs on the eve of either Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha. Muslims eagerly await the sighting of the crescent moon on Chand Raat, marking the end of Ramadan or Zul-Hijjah, depending on the upcoming Eid celebration.

All About Eid al-Adha-2024: 

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma'il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God's command. However, before he could carry out the sacrifice, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead. This event symbolizes obedience, faith, and submission to the will of Allah.

During Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the world perform the ritual of Qurbani, where they sacrifice an animal, typically a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, following the example of Prophet Ibrahim. The meat from the sacrifice is divided into three parts: one part for the family, one part for relatives and friends, and one part for the less fortunate. This act of sharing reflects the importance of generosity, compassion, and solidarity within the community.

Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The date of Eid al-Adha varies each year, as it is determined by the sighting of the moon, and it typically lasts for three days.

In 2024, Muslims worldwide will observe Eid al-Adha with prayers, feasting, and spending time with family and friends. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and strengthening bonds with loved ones and the community. Additionally, many Muslims perform the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca during this time, fulfilling one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

Eid al-Adha serves as a reminder of Prophet Ibrahim's unwavering faith and devotion to God, as well as the importance of sacrifice and compassion in Islam. It is a joyous occasion that brings together people of all backgrounds to celebrate faith, unity, and the spirit of giving.