The diary game: A Joyous Eid Turned into a Day of Unease

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan fasting in the Islamic calendar and is determined by the sighting of the moon. As the moon was not visible the previous day, Ramadan was completed with 30 days, and today was observed as the first day of the month of Shawwal, celebrated as Eid al-Fitr.

I woke up early in the morning. Since fasting had ended, there was no obligation of having the pre-dawn meal. I got up at the time of prayer and quickly purified myself by performing ablution. I offered the prayer in the mosque along with others in congregation, and it was a joyful moment for all of us.

After returning home, I had breakfast. On Eid, breakfast usually includes sweet items like dates and other traditional foods. After finishing breakfast, it was time to get ready for the Eid prayer, a special prayer offered only on this day. I took a bath, applied perfume, and headed towards the village ground, where people from nearby areas had also gathered. There was a large crowd heading for the congregational Eid prayer.

It is important to mention that there is an obligatory charity associated with this Eid, ensuring that even the poor can celebrate the day with happiness. This special charity given before the Eid prayer is called Zakat al-Fitr. My father usually takes care of this responsibility, so I did not have any obligation left.

At the prayer ground, I met my friends. One of my friends, who works in Mumbai, had returned home, and I was meeting him after more than two years. It was a joyful reunion, as we had been in touch only through social media and phone calls during this time. Another friend, who runs a shop in the market, was busy arranging items typically sold on Eid, especially toys for children. After the prayer, I went to meet him at his shop, where we spent some time together, greeting each other and enjoying the moment.

Later, I returned home. It was time for lunch, but after fasting for an entire month, my stomach was not comfortable, and I had no desire to eat. Still, as it was a day of celebration, I joined my family at the dining table and had a little of the special food. However, I was not feeling well.

After some time, I went to meet my friends again in the market, but I could not stay long. One of my friends had to leave due to guests at his home, as Eid is a time when relatives visit each other and strengthen relationships. I offered the afternoon prayer during the day and returned home, as I was still not feeling well and my stomach remained upset. I decided to take some rest.

In the evening, which is often the most lively part of Eid, people gathered in and around the market, enjoying time together and bursting firecrackers. Children received gifts and money, known as Eidi, and they were the most excited among everyone.

I returned home around 9 PM after spending some time with my friends and also brought some medicines. I skipped dinner as I was not feeling well. The night was difficult, and I started vomiting. After my stomach was emptied, I finally felt some relief.