Eid-ul-Fitr refers to the festival after completion of fasting in the Month of Ramadaan. This auspicious occasion is celebrated on the 1st of Shawwaal ul Mukarram which is the 10th month of the Islaamic calendar. The festival of Eid-ul-Fitr is a manner of showing appreciation and gratitude to Almighty Allaah for all that He has bestowed upon us.
On the morning of Eid-ul-Fitr, Muslims throughout the world perform the traditional Eid Salaah, which is Waajib upon all Muslims. It is not permissible to miss the Eid prayer without any valid reason. With the exception of performing the Eid Prayer, there are also various actions which are desirable on the day of Eid
.
These are:
to trim the hair and nails
to perform the Ghusl (Ceremonial Bath),
to use the Miswaak (special toothbrush),
to wear (if affordable) or good clean clothing, and to use Ittar (Perfume),
to perform the Fajr Salaah (morning prayer) in the nearest Mosque of your area,
to leave early to perform the Eid Salaah,
to give the Sadaqa-e-Fitr (Eid-ul-Fitr Charity) before the Eid Salaah,
to go by foot (if possible) for the Eid Salaah, and return home in another route,
to eat a few dates (preferably an odd number) or something sweet before going for Eid Salaah,and
to show happiness and gratification, to give charity in abundance, to walk modestly towards the Eid gathering, and to wish and congratulate one another after the Eid Prayer.
As much as Eid is a time of rejoicing, it is also a time of giving and sharing with those less fortunate than yourself. The Holy Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu Alaieh Wa Sallam] would always be the first to congratulate the poor and the orphans. We should also try to be as kind as possible on this day to our fellow Muslims. The Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu Alaieh Wa Sallam] has stated, "Smiling in the face of your brother is Charity."