Experiencing Eid in Delhi

The glittering streets decorated in their full glory; the wonderful aroma of Sewai (type of Vermicilli) and Kebabs in the air which is enough to make you slobber; the last minute rush to buy matching shoes for the new dress and the buzz of vigorous activities which pulsate the city are some of the very common sights in Delhi, whose glimpses can be easily caught at the culmination of the month of Ramadan, marking the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr.

The Ambience

Eid-ul-Fitr or Eid, which means festivity in Arabic, celebrates love, brotherhood, piety and forgiveness. It arrives at the end of the month-long dawn-to-dusk fasting. Girls and women apply beautiful patterns of Mehndi (Henna) on their hands and wear colourful glass bangles, thus adding to the vibrant spirit of the festival. The atmosphere is joyous and full of zeal and enthusiasm, during Eid. Hardly any division between religions can be witnessed and most of the locals come out together to join their Muslim brothers in their celebration, reiterating yet again that Delhi is indeed a city with a magnanimous heart. 

Old Delhi at it's Best

Though the celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr are widespread in the city but areas of Old Delhi take away the limelight. Areas like Chandni Chowk and Ballimaran are decked with breathtaking decorations and vibrating energy. Men clad in white Kurta Pajama (Men's traditional attire) and women dressed in their best Salwar Kameez (Female traditional dress) depict the richness and purity of this festival. People can be seen embracing each other and the narrow streets of Old Delhi reverberate with the chants of ‘Eid Mubarak’. In almost every nook and corner, small Melas (Fairs) are put up and children in their best dresses can be seen having fun with their friends. As you turn your head around, extremely delicious looking Sewai, Mutton Korma, Chicken Biryani, Kebabs and Keema Koftas beckon you, waiting to be pounced on. Food in Eid should not be overlooked at any cost!

The Splendour of Jama Masjid

One thing, which is definitely not to be missed, is the Jama Masjid. It was built by Emperor Shahjahan in 1644. On Eid, its magnificence and splendour is worth applauding. It is decorated like a new bride and hundreds of Muslims throng the Masjid to offer their Salat (Islamic prayer) and pledge to retain the level of spiritual values given to them by their Prophet. The environment is thrilling and one can get many more great experiences.

Though New Delhi does offer some great celebrations but the true essence of Eid-ul-Fitr can be gauged only by visiting Old Delhi. It can be easily reached by hired taxis, cars and Metro rail. The nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk on the Yellow Line. And during Eid, walking from the metro station to the Masjid can truly be a relishing experience.

By seeing the happiness and joy all around you will indeed agree with the phrase of ‘Allah-u-Akbar’ or ‘God is the Greatest.’