Discovering Interesting Traditions During Eid al-Fitr in Various Countries, from Homecoming to Sugar Festival

Kapanlagi.com - Eid al-Fitr, the day of victory after a month of fasting during Ramadan, is celebrated with great joy by Muslims around the world. However, this celebration is more than just worship; each country has its own unique traditions that enrich the meaning of the celebration. From the homecoming tradition in Indonesia to the egg-cracking competition in Afghanistan, each tradition reflects the extraordinary uniqueness of local culture and wisdom.

When we compare the celebration of Eid al-Fitr in Indonesia with other countries, the differences in traditions are very noticeable. In Indonesia, homecoming or 'mudik' is the most anticipated tradition. Families separated by distance will reunite, creating a warm and communal atmosphere. Dishes such as ketupat, chicken opor, and rendang always enliven the dining table as must-have specialties of Eid al-Fitr. Meanwhile, in other countries, the celebration of Eid al-Fitr also has its own distinctive features.

In Turkey, for example, Eid al-Fitr is known as "Şeker Bayramı" or "Sugar Festival," where children will go around houses to receive candies and money as symbols of happiness. Meanwhile, in Afghanistan, there is the Tokhm-Jangi tradition, which is an egg-cracking competition using boiled eggs decorated with natural dyes. This diversity of traditions shows how rich and colorful the culture of Muslims around the world is.

1. Eid al-Fitr Traditions in Asian Countries

The moment of Eid al-Fitr is celebrated with joy and anticipation in various Asian countries. Although the essence of the celebration is the same, which is to celebrate victory after a month of fasting, each country has unique traditions that reflect their respective cultures. Here are some Eid al-Fitr traditions in various Asian countries:

1. Indonesia – Mudik and Ketupat Lebaran

In Indonesia, Eid al-Fitr is known as Lebaran and is a highly anticipated moment. Its distinctive traditions include:

– Mudik – returning to one's hometown to gather with family.

– Salat Id in the Field – Muslims flock to perform the Eid al-Fitr prayer at mosques or fields.

– Ketupat Lebaran – a special dish served with chicken opor and rendang.

– Halal Bihalal – a tradition of forgiving each other and visiting relatives.

– Angpau Lebaran – giving money to children in colorful envelopes.

2. Malaysia – Open House and Dodol

In Malaysia, Eid al-Fitr is called Hari Raya Aidilfitri and is celebrated festively. Its distinctive traditions include:

– Open House – families open their homes to guests from various backgrounds.

– Baju Melayu and Baju Kurung – traditional clothing worn during Eid.

– Grave Visits – visiting family graves to pray for them.

– Special dishes like ketupat, rendang, and dodol are favorites.

3. Saudi Arabia — Festivities at Masjidil Haram

As the center of Islam, Saudi Arabia celebrates Eid al-Fitr with great solemnity:

— Eid prayers at Masjidil Haram and Masjid Nabawi attended by millions of worshippers from around the world.

— Giving alms and zakat al-fitr to those in need.

— Culinary feast with special dishes like kabsa and sambosa.

2. Eid al-Fitr Traditions in Asian Countries

4. India — Eidi and Sheer Khurma

In India, Eid al-Fitr is known as Eid ul-Fitr and is a major celebration for the Muslim community:

— Eid prayers at Jama Masjid, Delhi, attended by thousands of Muslims.

— Eidi — giving money or gifts to children.

— Sheer Khurma — a special dish of sweet porridge with dates, milk, and nuts.

— Visiting family and sharing special dishes like biryani and kebab.

5. Pakistan — Chand Raat and Biryani

In Pakistan, Eid al-Fitr is celebrated with great festivity, starting from the night before Eid al-Fitr known as Chand Raat:

— Chand Raat — the night of moon sighting marked by celebrations, shopping, and decorating hands with henna.

— Biryani and Korma — special dishes served during Eid.

— Distribution of Eidi to children by older family members.

6. Turkey — Bayram and Baklava

In Turkey, Eid al-Fitr is known as Ramazan Bayramı or "Sugar Bayram":

— Family and neighbor visits — a tradition of forgiving each other and strengthening ties.

— Enjoying Baklava — a sweet and delicious layered pastry.

— Children visit neighbors to receive candies and gifts.

7. China — Eid Prayers at Old Mosques and Culinary Festival

In China, Muslim communities such as the Hui and Uighur celebrate Eid al-Fitr in unique ways:

— Eid prayers at historic mosques, such as Niujie Mosque in Beijing.

— Halal food festival with special dishes like Lanzhou beef noodles and Uighur roasted meat.

— Visiting relatives and sharing happiness.

Although Eid al-Fitr has the same meaning worldwide, each country has its own unique traditions that reflect their cultural richness. From ketupat in Indonesia to baklava in Turkey, this celebration serves as an opportunity to strengthen relationships, share happiness, and accumulate rewards.

3. Eid al-Fitr Traditions in Africa

Although the number of Muslims in Africa and Europe varies, the celebration of Eid al-Fitr is still celebrated with great joy and unique traditions in each country. Here are some distinctive Eid al-Fitr traditions in both continents:

Eid al-Fitr Traditions in Africa

1. Egypt – Kahk Cookies and Eid Prayer in Open Spaces

In Egypt, Eid al-Fitr is celebrated with extraordinary enthusiasm. The tradition of Eid prayer is held in open spaces, such as Tahrir Square and Al-Azhar Mosque. Kahk, a sweet cookie filled with dates or nuts, becomes a signature snack during Eid. Children receive gifts in the form of money or candy, and many families enjoy the holiday by sailing on the Nile River using traditional boats.

2. Morocco – Djellaba and Eid Couscous

In Morocco, the celebration of Eid al-Fitr emphasizes family togetherness. Men wear Djellaba, a long traditional Moroccan robe, while dishes such as Couscous, Rfissa, and Harira become favorites. Sharing food with neighbors symbolizes close community ties.

3. Nigeria – Hospitality and Owanbe Party

Nigeria, with its large Muslim community, celebrates Eid al-Fitr known as Sallah with great festivity. The Eid prayer is held in large fields attended by thousands of worshippers. The Owanbe party, a grand celebration with traditional Yoruba music and dance, is a major attraction. Sallah meat, from sacrifices, is distributed to families and the poor, while signature dishes like Jollof Rice and Moi Moi (bean pudding) are mouthwatering.

4. Somalia – Family and Xalwo Cookies

In Somalia, Eid al-Fitr, called Ciid al-Fitr, is celebrated with joy. Traditional clothing such as Dirac for women and Macawiis for men is worn with pride. Xalwo cake, a typical Somali sweet, becomes a favorite, and visiting parents and relatives is an important part of social obligations carried out with joy.

4. Eid al-Fitr Traditions in Europe

1.Turkey – Ramazan Bayramı and the Delight of Baklava

In Turkey, Eid al-Fitr is known as Ramazan Bayramı or Şeker Bayramı (Sugar Festival). This tradition is celebrated with several interesting activities:

- Visiting the homes of family and neighbors to forgive each other and strengthen ties.
- Enjoying sweet traditional dishes such as Baklava and Turkish Delight.
- Children go around visiting neighbors to receive candies and gifts.

2.England – Cultural Diversity at Trafalgar Square

The celebration of Eid al-Fitr in England reflects the richness of diverse Muslim cultures:

- Eid prayers at major mosques, such as the East London Mosque.
- A festive Eid celebration in Trafalgar Square featuring food bazaars and cultural performances.
- Sharing food and donating to those in need.

3.France – Togetherness in the Muslim Community

France, with the largest Muslim population in Europe, celebrates Eid al-Fitr with enthusiasm:

- Eid prayers are held in large stadiums, such as Stade de France.
- Serving traditional dishes like Couscous and Tajine.
- Giving Zakat Fitrah to those in need.

4.Germany – Eid Festival and Solidarity

In Germany, the Muslim community, especially of Turkish and Arab descent, celebrates Eid al-Fitr with distinctive traditions:

- Eid prayers at major mosques, such as the Sehitlik Mosque in Berlin.
- An Eid festival offering food bazaars and Islamic art performances.
- Sharing food and strengthening relationships among the Muslim community.

Although the traditions of Eid al-Fitr in Africa and Europe vary, the spirit remains the same: to strengthen bonds, share happiness, and enhance worship. From joyous celebrations in Nigeria to festivals in London, Eid al-Fitr becomes a special moment that unites Muslims around the world.

5. Show Cultural Diversity

The celebration of Eid al-Fitr around the world radiates the rich cultural diversity and traditions of the Muslim community. From the mudik tradition that has become a routine in Indonesia to the colorful Tokhm-Jangi in Afghanistan, each celebration has its own uniqueness and beauty. Eid al-Fitr is not just a religious ritual but also a special moment to strengthen bonds of togetherness and reinforce the cultural identity of each community. Every existing tradition adds meaning and warmth in celebrating victory after a month of fasting.

(kpl/mni)