Crescent moon may be seen today, city prepares for Eid

Pune: The Muslim community across the city is gearing up for Eid-ul-Fitr, which is likely to be celebrated on Saturday as the crescent moon may be sighted on Friday.In Pune, since the last few days, markets have witnessed a surge in shoppers, while households prepare delicacies. Localities like Kondhwa's Meethanagar have remained lively late into the night. Shops selling clothes, footwear, dry fruits and decorative items have seen a steady footfall, with tailors working extended hours to deliver outfits in time for Eid."We have cleaned the house and made arrangements to welcome guests. Eid is when relatives and friends come together," said Rafath Shaikh, a homemaker of Kondhwa.Children are among the most excited. "I bought a new kurta and shoes. I am waiting for Eid namaz and then I will visit relatives to collect Eidi," said 12-year-old Rehan.Youngsters are busy finalising their festive look. "I got my clothes stitched in time, but I am have to buy matching footwear," said Farjad Shaikh from Shivnerinagar.Tanvi Shaikh of Kausarbaug said that in many homes, preparations for traditional dishes like sheer khurma are underway, as Eid is incomplete without it. "We prepare it in the morning and serve it to guests through the day." The festival also emphasises charity, with many community members contributing zakat to support the underprivileged.Meanwhile, arrangements for Eid namaz are in full swing. Eidgahs are being readied to accommodate large gatherings, while mosques have also completed preparations for the special prayers. "Ramzan is a blessed month that strengthens our faith. Seeing it conclude is difficult," said Mazhar Shaikh.The Dawoodi Bohra community Eid celebration started on Thursday according to the lunar calendar. The day began before dawn with fajar prayers, followed by the congregational Eid namaz at the local masjids."A unique aspect of the celebration is the Khutba delivered by the Aamil or the Syedna, focusing on gratitude and spiritual growth. Community bonding is centered around the thaal, where eight people sit together to eat. The tradition promotes equality and unity. The meal typically begins and ends with a pinch of salt, following the prophetic tradition," Wanowrie resident Nisrin Jinia said.Families dress in traditional attire. The men wear white kurta-izar with gold-trimmed topis, while women are seen in colourful, embroidered ridas. Families visit one another to exchange greetings. The day concludes with a sense of renewed faith and strengthened social ties.