More than 60 percent of the world's Muslim population live in Asia. Every year, adherents from Indonesia to Turkey observe Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer and reflection meant to foster self-restraint, gratitude, and a closer relationship with god. And every year, the end of Ramandan is marked by a celebration – Hari Raya Puasa.
What is Hari Raya Puasa?
Hari Raya Puasa is a joyous celebration that marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. It's also a time for families and friends to come together, share meals, and seek forgiveness. This occasion is also known as Eid al-Fitr or Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
When is Hari Raya Puasa?
Hari Raya Puasa falls on a different date each year, as it's determined by the Islamic lunar calendar (as opposed to the solar calendar that most of us are used to).
This year, Hari Raya Puasa falls on March 31.
What's the difference between Hari Raya Puasa and Haji?
It's all in the name. 'Hari Raya' means 'grand day of rejoicing'. 'Puasa' means 'fasting' while 'haji' means 'one who has made the pilgrimage to Mecca'.
That tells you that Hari Raya Puasa celebrates the end of the fasting month. Meanwhile, Hari Raya Haji is celebrated at the end of the Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia), which every physically and financially able Muslim is required to make at least once in their life.
How is Hari Raya Puasa celebrated?
Hari Raya Puasa celebrations can last for as long as a month. On the day itself, Muslims typically visit the mosque to pray and recite the takbir before gathering at home or visiting relatives.
Don't be surprised to see your Muslim friends dressed to the nines for the occasion, too. Most will buy new baju melayu (for the men) or baju kurung (for the women), colour-coordinating outfits among family members as a symbol of the family's unity. People usually exchange duit raya (green money packets) and seek forgiveness.
Feasting is a big part of the celebrations. Expect lots of traditional dishes like rendang, ketupat, and lemang, along with festive snacks like cookies, tarts, and kueh. Festive bazaars, which typically run through Ramadan, are an excellent spot to try traditional treats and trendy snacks.
What Hari Raya greetings to use?
Say "Selamat Hari Raya" ("Happy Hari Raya") or "Eid Mubarak" ("Blessed Eid")!
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