Happy Eid Mubarak 1436 Hegira

Muslims in Malaysia celebrated the first day of Eid Mubarak 1436 Hegira (Hari Raya Aidil Fitri) on Friday, 17th July 2015 after fasting for a total of 29 days in the holy month of Ramadhan. Eid Mubarak is a day of joyous celebrations for all Muslims throughout the world to mark the end of fasting. On this day, Muslims believe that they come back to "fitrah" (something like rebirth) and fasting is prohibited on this day. Eid prayers are performed to mark this day and Muslims, both male and female, thronged mosques throughout the country. Delicacies are specially prepared on this auspicious day as Muslims wish each other and seek forgiveness. A rather unique feature in Malaysia during Eid Mubarak is the concept of open houses, where guests of all races are invited to celebrate the occasion. Food is aplenty and Islam encourages relatives and friends to "ziarah" (visit) each other.  Celebrations in this month of Syawal will see many open houses being organised. I hope that I live long enough to experience next year's Ramadhan.