All of Southall and the UK will more than likely be celebrating Eid ul Fitr on the same day - Thursday 13 May 2021.

Most people are aware of the fact that the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar. This means that Eid is decided upon the sighting of moon and therefore it is not practical to pick a date in advance.

The month of Ramadhan can be 29 or 30 days depending on the visibility of the moon.

Muslims throughout the world, look for a moonset just after sunset on the 29th day. If one is visible they will be celebrating Eid on the next day.

The question this time is “Will Eid be on Wednesday or Thursday?

According to moonsighting.org,uk the new “moon will be born on 11 May 2021 at 19:00 GMT/UT, but it will not be visible by the naked-eye anywhere in the UK to Morocco region (or anywhere in the whole world) on that date. However, on 12 May 2021, the moon may not be seen in the UK (by the naked eye) but it is likely to be seen in the West African countries, including Morocco (Dakhla). Hence, the month of Shawwal is most likely to start from 13 May 2021.”

Sighting the moon crescent is only possible in good weather after 16 hours of a new moon. Even the Saudi government does not make the announcement unless the moon is at least 12 hours old. Even then it is only possible to see it in good weather with optical aids.

So, the 4 mosques of Southall will more than likely be celebrating Eid on Thursday 13 May 2021.

Due to the coronavirus restrictions all mosques attendees will have follow their current covid guidelines of wearing masks, bringing own prayer mats, no children under 12 and only males allowed.

People are advised not to shake hands or hug each other. They are also urged to celebrate at home and contact friends and relatives remotely. Celebration on Southall Broadway will only result in more pain and suffering for everyone

Before the Eid prayer, a fitrana (charitable donation) must be given before the end of the month of Ramadan, for the love of Almighty. It is obligatory on every self-supporting adult Muslim who has food in excess of their needs. It is to provide food for the needy. The monetary value (of the food) is approximately £5. This amount needs to be paid for EVERY member of the household.

A lot of (lazy) people leave it to the last minute and hand over the money before the Eid prayers. There is is no way it can reach the poor people in time for Eid.

Do it online TODAY - give to any charity.

Eid Mubarak.