Introduction:

Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a significant occasion celebrated by the Muslims across the globe. It is a festival that is celebrated to commemorate the end of the Ramadan, the fasting month in the Islamic calendar. The celebration is determined by the appearance of the new moon. Hari Raya Aidilfitri is commonly referred as Hari Raya Puasa or just Hari Raya. It is a ecstatic occasion for the Muslims all over the world as it evidences a personal jubilation and accomplishment, a moral victory of self-control and abstinence from drink, food, smoking and sex during the day light hours.

Significance of Hari Ray Aidilfitri:

Hari Raya is not just a day of wearing new clothes, feasting and visiting your beloved ones. It attributes a deeper meaning and calls for devotion to Allah. They start the day by congregating in the mosques and worshipping with utmost sincerity and integrity. They perform Hari Raya Puasa prayer followed by visiting the graves of the deceased. It is a day to pay homage and tribute to the countless blessings, magnificence and compassion of Lord Allah. It signifies the successful ending of the Ramadan which demonstrates the determination of humans. It symbolizes purification and renewal and reaching out to Allah by praying for his divine blessings.

How Hari Raya Aidilfitri is observed in Malaysia and Singapore:

Hari Raya Aidilfitri is the term used in Malaysia and Singapore for the Muslim festival of Eid. It marks the end of the fasting month where the Muslims are obliged to fast from dawn to dusk. The actual sighting of the moon is conducted by religious officials usually at hilltops. Hari Raya are Malay words which literally mean “Day of celebration”. Shopping malls and markets are crowded with people buying new clothes, accessories and traditional foods. Muslims usually dress in the same colour to signify their sense of unity and harmony. Even in Singapore where the Muslim population is less the Muslim congregated areas like the Geylang Serai are filled with jubilation and excitement. At night the place is lit by colourful festive lights and decorations. The Kampong Glam area also comes alive with festive mood with a multitude of vibrant street bazaars. These bazaars feature a variety of Malay cakes, pastries called kueh-kueh, pineapple tarts and ondeh-ondeh. The entire country if filled with festive ambience.

When is Hari Raya 2012:

Hari Raya 2012 is anticipated to fall on Sunday the 19th of August 2012. It falls on the first Syawal as per the Islamic calendar. However the correct date of this festival is to be officially announced by the Islamic authorities in accordance with the occurrence of the moon.

Conclusion:

Hari Raya is the time to seek forgiveness, reconciliation and renewal of relationships. Muslims recite additional prayers and take this opportunity to cleanse themselves spiritually by engaging themselves in charity. The fasting that they undertake is believed to instil in them patience, humility and sacrifice. If you happen to visit Singapore during Ramadan never ever miss the chance to experience the rich Malay heritage and culture when Hari Raya comes around.

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