The Crescent moon marks the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal was not sighted in India. So Eid will be celebrated on Saturday, March 21, 2026. Under Islamic tradition, Eid ul-fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan.
Since the moon was not visible on Thursday evening, fast will be observed one more day. Eid ul-Fitr is one of the most important Islamic festival it will be celebrated on March 21. This day marks the end of the long month fasting and prayers that people offer during Ramadan.
Why India Celebrates Eid Later?
India and several South Asian countries generally observe Eid a day after Saudi Arabia due to geographical differences. The crescent moon is usually first visible in western regions, allowing Middle Eastern countries to confirm it earlier. Nations further east, including India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, often sight the moon the following day. This leads to Eid being celebrated a day later in these regions.
Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with special prayers held in mosques and open grounds. A key ritual is Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity given before the Eid prayer to ensure everyone can take part in the festivities. The day is filled with festive meals, traditional sweets, visits to relatives and the exchange of “Eid Mubarak” greetings. As Ramadan concludes, Muslims eagerly await the sighting of the Shawwal moon, which officially signals the beginning of Eid celebrations.