Eid Al Fitr: Indian cities that best celebrate the festival

The moon is finally sighted and the much-awaited auspicious festival of Eid al-Fitr or Eid has been kick-started. It also marks the end of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Islamic calendar), wherein Muslims observe roza or fast for the entire month. On the day of Eid, people meet friends and family, exchange gifts, pray at mosque, and prepare a range of savoury delicacies, such as sevaiyaan and biryani, among others. And India, the land of myriad culture and religion, celebrates Eid with much fervour and devotion. To witness the grand Eid celebrations, Delhi, Hyderabad, Lucknow and Sri Nagar are the best places in India. The festive vibes that flows in these cities is absolutely different. Let’s explore five best Indian cities where you can visit to witness the best of Eid celebrations.

Srinagar
Srinagar is home to the renowned Hazratbal Mosque, which holds immense religious significance for Muslims. Located on the banks of gorgeous Dal Lake, the mosque features holy relic of Prophet Muhammad; hence, you’ll notice a huge number of devotees here waiting to offer prayers. On the day of Eid, Srinagar gets decorated just like a new bride and the streets are flooded with happy people. The hustle bustle and colours you get to see here, you won’t be able to experience anywhere else.
LucknowLucknow, the city of nawabs and kebabs, is probably the best place to be at on the day of Eid. The entire old Lucknow regions, featuring Bada Imambara, remain crowded with festive makers and devotees. People visit the city especially on the occasion of Eid to relish a wide range of Lucknowi kebabs. Streets including Victoria Street (Old Lucknow), Aminabad and Hazratganj are thronged with rozedars (people who observe roza/fasting) to relish ‘Iftari’ food.

Delhi
Delhi, the capital city of India, is known for its Eid celebrations. The entire Old Delhi region (Delhi 6), which is also home to the famous Jama Masjid, remains packed with devotees. Thousands of Muslim men offering ‘namaz’ early morning on the day of Eid is a sight to behold. You’ll see the every narrow lane of Chandni Chowk stuffed with crowd dressed in colourful clothes, all chirpy and happy. There’s a different aroma floating in the air, the aroma of sewai, freshly cooked mutton curry and chicken biryani, which will definitely make you suddenly hungry. So if you are in Delhi for Eid, Old Delhi is the place where you need to be!
Hyderabad
The historic Charminar monument in Hyderabad becomes the hub of all festivity on the day of Eid. People from various parts of the country come here to be a part of Eid celebrations in Hyderabad, especially for the food. You’ll see people dressed up in their best clothes walking on the city streets, having fun and shopping. The entire belt converts into a shopping and eating ground on Eid. You will find almost everyone greeting ‘Eid Mubarak’, which will gear you up for festive mood.

Mumbai
The famous Haji Ali in Mumbai is one of the best places to witness Eid celebrations in Mumbai. Standing beautifully on the shores of Arabian Sea, this renowned sacred Islamic architecture remains full with devotees from all over who come here to offer their prayers. So if you are planning to pay a visit here on the day of Eid, just be prepared to wait for hours or walk in as early as possible. The wait is worth it though as the experience is all that counts!