Image: Mint (Business)
In neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Eid-ul-Fitr will be officially celebrated on Friday, March 20, following the announcement that the crescent moon was not seen on March 18. This decision means that Ramadan will last a full 30 days in these regions, with the last day of fasting falling on March 19.
Traditionally, India often celebrates Eid a day later than Saudi Arabia, although there have been rare occasions when both countries have marked Eid on the same day. The moon sighting is a ritual that aligns with the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, emphasizing the importance of the lunar cycle in Islamic observances.
Muslim clerics in India have indicated that there is a lower likelihood of Ramadan extending to 30 days this year. Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahli, a prominent cleric from the Aishbagh Eidgah in Lucknow, stated, "We will look for the crescent after sunset today. Though there are not many chances that the Shawwal moon will be sighted today.” This sentiment reflects the cautious optimism among religious leaders as the day approaches.
The variability of crescent visibility is influenced by several factors, including geographic location, weather conditions, and time zone differences. Consequently, the date of Eid can differ even within India, with regions like Kerala often celebrating a day earlier than the rest of the country.
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