The Celebration of Eid September 2009

Ramadan lies in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is the Islamic month of fasting. All devout Muslims endure a month of abstinence, including no eating, drinking and indulging in anything that is in excess or ill-natured. This is to teach Muslims patience and modesty. The celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr is thanks to Allah for his strength and support during the fasting.

Just a couple of miles north of our head office in Didsbury is Rusholme. In Rusholme you will find the ‘curry mile’ – a focused stretch of at least 70 South Asian restaurants. It is said that this area has the highest concentration of South Asian restaurants out of the Indian sub-continent.

During Eid Rusholme is bustling and vibrant to say the least. The atmosphere all around is immense – the music, smells and Muslim dress really heighten the senses. This is one of the greatest Muslim festivals and hence everyone should enjoy – rich or poor. This is why the Zakat-al-Fitr was set up. It is a charity where wealthier families must pay this at the end of the Ramadan month so everyone can enjoy the festivals. This enables all of the community to come together and show love and togetherness.