THE MUSLIM FESTIVALS: EID UL FITR

Eid-ul-Fitr

The main Muslim festivals are Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha. From time to time folk culture has influenced these festivals, as a result of which the original religious practices have changed. Eid-ul-Fitr is observed after the end of the month of Ramadan.

Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated in Bangladesh with great devotion. Everyone tries to dress well and prepares special dishes according to their ability on this day. Relatives and neighbours also share the joys of this festival with each other.

Eid fairs are organized at many rural places. These fairs are basically gatherings that promote friendship among the rural people. The fairs are arranged on the bank of a nearby river or under a big banyan tree near the local bazar. Handicraft items and foodstuffs such as chira, muri, khai, manda and sweets are sold in the fairs. Nakshi pankha, dolls, decorated pottery as well as musical instruments such as flute, drum, ektara are also sold. Some fairs have merry-go-rounds, puppet shows and bioscopes. In some areas of riverine Bangladesh, boat races are organized.