Saturday 21 / March / 2026
New Delhi: Eid Al Fitr celebrations have begun in India as millions of Muslims in the country mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan, in which fasting takes place from dawn to sunset.
The Muslim holiday is observed based on the sighting of the crescent moon during Chaand Raat (Night of the Moon), that heralds the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal.
Early on Saturday, worshippers gathered in several mosques across India to offer prayers.
In the capital New Delhi, devotees bowed in prayer at one of India's largest and iconic mosques — the Jama Masjid — and exchanged greetings amid a blanket of an unusual March fog.
Eid Al Fitr is celebrated on different days across the world depending on local moon sightings.
The southern Indian state of Kerala, for example, observed the festival on Friday — a day earlier than the rest of the country.
It all comes down to the traditional practice of looking up at the sky to physically sight the moon.
People in Kerala saw the silver crescent moon on Thursday evening.
On Saturday, Eid greetings also poured in from Indian leaders.
India's President Droupadi Murmu extended his wishes:
"This festival teaches us the lessons of self-restraint, service, charity, and compassion towards the deprived classes. Let us, on this occasion, resolve to strengthen our society and nation."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said:
"Best wishes on Eid Al Fitr. May this day further brotherhood and kindness all around. May everyone be happy and healthy. Eid Mubarak!"
