From this Tuesday, April 9 at nightfall, the Muslims of Reunion will have their eyes scrutinized towards the sky. If they see the moon, it means the end of Ramadan. They will then celebrate Eid-El-Fitr. A celebration of sharing that marks the end of a month of fasting, introspection and connection to others.
In Saint-Benoît, the Naimoudine family is preparing to celebrate the end of Ramadan. While waiting to know the exact date of Eid-El-Fitr, everyone is getting involved. You have to be ready for the big day.
“Everyone is excited. Eid is coming and for us it is a big celebration. We are happy and we feel good. We were able to finish Ramadan to the end. As soon as the moon is seen, we run to beautify the house as best we can. Everyone has to be ready” explains Zalia, the mother.
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Soon the end of Ramadan. Muslims in Reunion are preparing for Eid-El-Fitr.
Eid-El-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. A physical and mental ordeal for Muslims who congratulate themselves on having held on until the end in a spirit of sharing and conviviality.
“At the start, Ramadan was a little difficult but as we are a family, it motivates us. For Eid Mubarak, we wish each other good health and good intentions to move forward in life” says Bérou, the father of the family.
In Saint-Benoît, the Naimoudine family is preparing to celebrate the end of Ramadan. • ©Laurent Figon
Everyone participates to celebrate the end of Ramadan. Each family opens its doors to share the dishes they have carefully prepared.
“Ramadan went well. At school, our minds are busy. So we don’t think about eating and drinking during the day. Ramadan and Eid-El-Fitr are times of sharing and that leads us to become better people day by day” tells Nélina, the daughter of Zalia and Bérou.
After celebrating Eid-El-Fitr, some Muslims continue a six-day fast. • ©Laurent Figon
After celebrating Eid-El-Fitr, some Muslims continue a six-day fast. This is called Chawwal merit. All Muslim faithful who choose to fast for these additional six days, after having observed Ramadan for a month, enjoy a reward that is equivalent to an entire year of Lent.
Like all non-obligatory fasts, one of the merits of Shawwal fasting is the multiplication of good deeds. Because for Allah, every good deed must be multiplied.