Hari Raya Puasa: An Auspicious Celebration of Gratitude and Kinship
Hari Raya Puasa, also known as Eid al-Fitr, marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims around the world. This joyous occasion, celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, is a time for prayer, feasting, and spending quality time with loved ones. It is a time for reflection, forgiveness, and gratitude as Muslims express their appreciation for the blessings in their lives.
Hari Raya Puasa is a major holiday that signifies the end of the month-long fasting during Ramadan.
The word “Hari Raya” translates to “Day of Celebration” and “Puasa” means fasting in Malay.
The exact date of Hari Raya Puasa varies each year and is determined by the sighting of the new moon.
This year, Hari Raya Puasa falls in the months of June or July, depending on the lunar calendar.
Preparations for the celebration start a month in advance, with many Malaysians and Indonesians returning to their hometowns or villages to celebrate with their families.
On the morning of Hari Raya Puasa, Muslims wake up early to attend special prayers at the mosque, dressed in their finest traditional attire.
After the prayers, the day is full of visiting relatives, feasting on delicious traditional food, and exchanging gifts.
One of the most iconic dishes during Hari Raya Puasa is ketupat, a type of dumpling made from rice wrapped in palm leaves.
Apart from the delicious food, another highlight of the celebration is the beautiful traditional clothing, with vibrant colors and intricate patterns that reflect Malaysia’s diverse culture.
Hari Raya Puasa also holds a special meaning for children, as they receive monetary gifts from their elders in the form of “duit raya” or “angpao”.
The celebration of Hari Raya Puasa is not exclusive to Muslims, as it is also a time for unity and togetherness among people of all faiths.
In some countries, non-Muslims are also invited to join in the festivities and share in the joy of the occasion.
This year, Hari Raya Puasa might look a little different due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, but the spirit of the celebration remains unchanged.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Muslims around the world will continue to celebrate with their loved ones, whether in person or virtually.
In conclusion, Hari Raya Puasa is a time to reflect on the teachings of Islam and to express gratitude for the blessings in life. It is a celebration of kinship, forgiveness, and unity, and a reminder that no matter the circumstances, the spirit of togetherness will always prevail.
May this Hari Raya Puasa be filled with love, joy, and blessings for all.
Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri!
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