Indian Muslims prepare for unusual Eid |
Heading into the last week of Ramzan amid the Covid-19 pandemic, India`s 172 million Muslim population is preparing for a most unusual Eid bereft of all the usual trappings like huge prayer congregations, ceaseless shopping, social visits and the inviting warmth of an Eid Milan embrace. On social media groups, messages like “no new clothes, just wear your best clothes” are being circulated among family and friends, urging people to fill the festive void with the spirit of giving. The suggestions range from paying a needy child`s school fee or someone`s rent to helping a lockdown-hit trader revive his business. India`s most influential Islamic seminary, Darul Uloom Deoband, on Monday issued a fatwa asking all Muslims to offer prayers and celebrate Eid at home this year in keeping with the extended national lockdown. Many believe adapting to a new normal doesn`t mean the sanctity of the festival will be lost.
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