After the culmination of holy month of Ramadhan, Muslims in the subcontinent, along with Muslims in Kashmir are observing Eid-ul-Fitr today with religious fervour and zeal.

Eid al-Fitr starts when the new moon is sighted in the sky, making the Eid holiday different around the world. The celebrations begin when the fasting month of Ramadan ends and the following month of Shawwal begins.

Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Iran, Iran, Turkey, Qatar, Syria, and other Arab countries announced on Saturday that Sunday will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr 1438.   Iran, Oman, Morocco, South Africa, Brunei and Sri Lanka have not sighted the moon, and thus declared Monday June 26 as the first day of Eid al-Fitr.

Bangladesh, Pakistan, India will celebrate Eid on Sunday. These countries started Ramadan on May 28 and so Sunday will be the 29th of Ramadan for them.

Turkey and Muslim communities in North America, Europe and Australia had previously announced they would celebrate Eid al-Fitr from Sunday June 25 based on astronomical calculations.

Ahead of the Eid the markets witnessed festivity  as people were out for shopping. The hustle bustle in the market places, especially in city centre, Lal-Chowk was presenting a different look.

On Friday, due to restrictions people couldn’t come out to shop, thus Saturday and Sunday saw a huge rush in the markets. The Friday, that is observed as Jumma-tul-Vida, usually witnesses a grand rush, however, due to restrictions and authorities not allowing any prayers in Kashmirs grand mosque, Jamia Masjid, the markets could not open and the shopper were forced to stay indoors. “I could not shop on Friday, so took my family out for shopping on Saturdayevening, and it was a full day on Sunday,” says Bilal Ahmad, a local.

Apart from people shopping for new clothes and accessories, Kashmiris, as they are known foodies, people were seen buying different eatables like meat, chicken and other food items. “I have been selling chicken from last three days and people are still coming,” said a shopkeeper who sells chicken near Safa Kadal.

On Eid, largest congregation is expected at Eidgah Srinagar, where chief priest, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq will deliver Eid sermon.  Statement issued from Mirwaiz Manzil, Srinagar said that Eid Namaz at Eidgah will start at 9:45 AM.

“Mirwaiz Umar Farooq will address a gathering of faithful which will start at 8:45 AM,” the statement said.

The Auqaf of Jamia Masjid Srinagar appealed faithful to attend the Eid Namaz at the Eidgah.

Guest