Essay on Celebration of an Eid
People belonging to different castes creeds and countries celebrate different festivals. These festivals have both religious and psychological importance. On these occasions, people perform certain rites and thank God for the blessing that He bestows upon them. They gathers together at some place and offer prayers according to the teachings and dogmas of their religion. The rich give alms to the poor. Relatives, friends and neighbours pay specials visits to one another. They enjoy and rejoice in the same way and in the same manner. Thus such festivals bring all the members of society on one platform and remove all social indisciminations.
Such festivals have also a psychological significance. We need some moments of rest after the day’s hectic activities. When routine work begins creating a sense of monotony and boredom in us, we desire to have some change in our life. This is necessary to purify us. So usually fairs are held on this occasion. People play different games. Picnic sports are thronged with people. Children celebrate the occasion with bangs and booms. Sometimes older people also join them. They dance and sing with the children. Dainty and delicious dishes are prepared at home. Sweets and cakes specially prepared for the occasion are sent to the near and dear ones.
Houses are also decorated. So such festivals serve as an ‘overhaul’ of our mind, body and soul and bring about positive and constructive changes in our personality. Eid-ul-fitr is also such an occasion that is celebrated every year with full religious fervor. The Eid comes every year with the message of hope, love, equality and universal brotherhood. As it comes after the month of fasting, it has especial significance. It symbolizes man’s moral triumph over his animal instincts. The day begins with early rising, a bath, and wearing a new or at least the cleanest possible clothes and spraying perfume on oneself.
It follows a donation of ‘fitrana’ to the deserving. Then every Muslim proceeds for prayers. There is considerable hustle and bustle in the prayer ground. To the gay colours of the children’s dresses are now added balloons and toys. “Khutba” follows the prayer. In this address the speaker throws light on the importance of fasting and the blessings of God that it brings. Rest of the day is spent in meeting friends and relatives and exchanging gifts with them. A part from the religious purpose, the occasion of Eid provides economic activity. There is a great shopping spree for ten days.
Both the rich and the poor make purchases for the members of their families and especially for their children who also receive ‘Eidi’ form their elders on the Eid day. The shopkeepers reap a rich harvest of profits. With the approach of Ramazan and Eid prices shoot up. This trend must be checked. We must keep it in mind the spirit of such festivals. They are not meant for personal aggrandizement or personal gains. The main purpose gains. The main purpose of these festivals is to bring hope and happiness in the life or those from whom fate has turned its face.
