Arjumand Shah
Srinagar, May 21: With large gatherings being prohibited and social distancing rules in place to prevent spread of deadly COVID-19, Eid-ul-Fitr this time is going to be a low-key affair in Kashmir this time.
Many of Ramadan traditions were already disrupted due to the physical distancing norms and the lockdown.
During the lockdown, the people here have changed the way they observe their faith as places of worship have been closed to the public and social distancing rules have been in place.
Eid ul Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, and is celebrated with Eid prayers, family gatherings and a feast. The Eid, is expected to fall on May 24 or 25.
But as large gatherings are prohibited and social distancing rules are still in place, Eid celebrations will look very different this time.
Ajaz Ahmad, who lives in HMT Srinagar with his wife Afroza and their young daughter, Alisa usually, used to spend Eid day with both of their families.
“Normally on Eid day, we go to the mosque for Eid prayers. Then we spend our time by visiting our parents, and seeing other relatives before a big get-together at home. But on this EID, the family-of-three will stay at home,” he said
Shabir Ahmad of Bemina said: “Usually I go to Pratap park with my children to celebrate the Eid. This year I have told my kids that we won’t be able to celebrate like the way we used to. I don’t like it but we should listen to Government instructions to save lives. When we get back to our normal lives we can celebrate, but now, we just have to wait.”
