Pakistan celebrates Eid al-Fitr with prayers for unity, peace

Pakistanis across the country celebrated Eid al-Fitr on Monday with religious zeal, offering prayers for unity, peace, and prosperity.

The holiday, marking the end of Ramadan, began with mass congregational prayers at mosques and Eidgahs across the country, where worshippers sought divine blessings for the nation’s progress and security.

President Zardari calls for charity, social cohesion

President Asif Ali Zardari echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of compassion and solidarity on Eid.

“We must remember those struggling with economic hardships because true happiness comes from sharing joy with others,” he said in a statement.

Zardari urged Pakistanis to fulfill their religious obligations of Zakat, charity, and Fitrana to ensure that no one is deprived of Eid celebrations. He described Eid al-Fitr as a divine reward for fasting and worship during Ramadan.

“This holy month teaches us patience, endurance, and kindness towards the less fortunate,” he said. “Now, it is our duty to carry these lessons forward in our daily lives.”

He stressed the need for national unity and brotherhood, calling on Pakistanis to support one another for the country’s prosperity.

“We must strengthen our bonds and work towards making Pakistan a stronger and more prosperous nation,” Zardari said.

PM Shehbaz urges unity, warns of threats

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended Eid greetings to the nation and called for unity in the face of internal and external challenges.

“Eid teaches us happiness, thankfulness, brotherhood, and empathy,” he said in a statement. “The holy month of Ramadan emphasizes patience and sacrifice, and we must continue practicing these virtues beyond Ramadan.”

Shehbaz warned that Pakistan faces threats from internal and external enemies, stressing the need to remain vigilant against extremism, hatred, and sectarianism.

“We must stand united to safeguard our country’s integrity and stability,” he said. “The government is making all-out efforts for economic revival, social stability, and law and order, but we need collective efforts to put the country on the path of progress.”

The prime minister also paid tribute to security personnel fighting terrorism, praying for the martyrs and their families. He mentioned the victims of the recent Jaffar Express attack, offering condolences and solidarity.

Mass prayers, tight security across major cities

Large congregational prayers were held in mosques and open grounds across Pakistan, including Islamabad’s Faisal Mosque, Lahore’s Badshahi Mosque, and Karachi’s Polo Ground. Political and social figures attended key gatherings.

Security was heightened in major cities, with thousands of police and paramilitary personnel deployed. In Islamabad, more than 2,000 officers were on duty, while 500 traffic officers were assigned to manage road congestion.

In Karachi, Eid prayers were held at over 4,000 locations, including key mosques such as New Memon Mosque, Jinnah Mosque, and Bait-ul-Mukarram.

After the prayers, many Pakistanis visited cemeteries to offer prayers for deceased relatives before gathering with families for festive meals. Traditional dishes like halwa puri and kachori were prepared, and children received Eidi, a customary gift of money from elders.

Eid amid economic challenges

This year’s Eid celebrations come amid economic difficulties, with inflation affecting household budgets.

Many families adjusted their spending, prioritizing essential festivities over extravagant celebrations. Despite financial hardships, the spirit of Eid remained strong, with markets bustling ahead of the holiday.

Eid beyond Pakistan

The festival was also celebrated in Pakistani communities abroad, with special prayers held at mosques in the Middle East, Europe, and North America. Pakistani expatriates exchanged greetings with loved ones back home through video calls and social media.

Eid al-Fitr, observed on the first day of Shawwal, follows the Islamic lunar calendar, with the start determined by moon sightings. This year, Ramadan lasted 29 days in Pakistan.