Eid-ul-Fitr 2018: Moon sighted in Delhi; India to celebrate Eid on June 16

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New Delhi: The holy festival of Eid is knocking on our doors and people are busy preparing for the grand celebration that will be observed in India on Saturday, June 16. Eid-ul-Fitr, also called, Eid-Al-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims across the globe. The celebrations depend upon the sighting of the moon and if the moon is sighted, the country celebrates Eid on the next day.

The moon has been sighted in Delhi, which means that India will celebrate Eid tomorrow, on June 16.

As per an IANS report, Jama Masjid's Shahi Imam Bukhari said that the new moon was sighted around 7. 35 p.m. 

"I convey my heartiest greetings and good wishes to the people of our country on the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr," Bukhari said. 

Eid ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated by breaking the 30-day long fast with a grand celebration. The day is the only day when Muslims aren't permitted to fast.

The festival was brought by Islamic prophet Muhammad and it is believed that the festival originated in Medina, after he migrated from Mecca. In today's time, Mecca and Medina are considered the two holiest places of Islam.

The day of Eid falls on the first day of the month of Shawwal depending upon the sighting of the moon the previous night. The fasting ends and people look forward to Eid celebrations the day after. On the day of Eid al-Fitr, Muslims offer a particular salat (Islamic prayer) consisting of two rakats (units) which is usually offered in an open field or large hall.

Here's wishing all our readers Eid Mubarak!