KATHMANDU, July 7, 2016 - Nepalese Muslims wait for a mass prayer on the Eid al-Fitr festival at Kashmiri Mosque in Kathmandu, Nepal, July 7, 2016. Eid al-Fitr festival marks the end of the Islamic ... Image Source: Xinhua/Sunil Sharma/IANS

Eid-al-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of the Shawwal month of the Islamic Hijri calendar and is one of the most important festivals in Islam. The celebration marks the end of the month-long fasting of Ramadan. The day is to fall on the 10th or 11th of April in 2024, depending on the sighting of the moon.

Ramadan is considered to be the most sacred month of the Islamic calendar, as it is believed that the Holy Quran was bestowed upon humanity during this month. Devotees spend their day observing fasting, doing prayers and giving alms. Fasting is mandatory for everyone who has reached puberty. However, women who are pregnant, menstruating or nursing, and ones who are sick are exempted from fasting.

Communal Iftar gatherings, where people come together and break their fast, are organized in mosques. The month teaches people to be compassionate and helpful towards fellow beings and continue this throughout the year.

After a whole month of fasting and spiritual journey, devotees celebrate Eid-al-Fitr. The day is a celebration of brotherhood and selflessness where believers all over the world conduct special prayers, wear new clothes and exchange greetings and gifts.

May all your prayers be answered by the purity of this month, filling your life with light and love. Eid Mubarak to everyone celebrating!