A.Q. Siddiqui
Eid Ul Fitr was cautiously celebrated in Chicago and suburbs 13 May morning as the month of Ramadan ended with 30 days of fasting and hectic prayer activities. While life is limping back to normalcy in Illinois and a few restrictions are already removed, the traditional gusto for Eid celebration was shelved by many cautious families. An announcement by the Islamic Center of Chicago mosque before Eid prayer was a testimony for the Covid caution.
Mohammed Abdul Hai Muntazim of ICC reminded about the mask mandate and social distancing during Eid prayer. He also advised against hand shaking and traditional Eid hugs. The mosque doors were closed much ahead of schedule as it was filled to capacity. Many latecomers left for other mosques. Dr Basharat Ali Khan led the Eid prayer with a brief sermon reminding believers for the reckoning of good deeds by God.
Eid Day is celebrated for the completion of 30 days of hectic worship and fasting. God says in Quran, “Fasting is for me and I will reward for it”. The Eid day is also considered as the ‘feast of God’.
Eid prayers were also held at over 50 mosques all over Chicago and the suburbs. Large gatherings were seen at Islamic Foundation of Villa Park, Muslim Community Center (MCC), Muslim Educational Center (MEC) Morton Grove, Masjid Darussalam Lombard, Jama Masjid Chicago, and many other area mosques. Eid prayer timings were facilitated between 6am till 8am at different locations.
Monty’s Banquet at Bensenville also arranged Eid prayers with Covid safety norms. Imam Syed Mohiuddin Quadri led the prayers for a large gathering of men, women and children. Known scholarHafiz Ikhlasalso addressed a large gathering under Covid safety norms at Darus Sunnah Masjid Evanston.
The previous night, popularly known as Chand Raat, was celebrated at many homes with traditional Henna and greeting exchange activities. The Chand Raat is also known for the last-minute shopping spree.
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