RamaZan Celebrations Begin in Srikakulam The sacred fasting period of RamaZan concluded on Thursday evening, marking the end of the spiritual observance. Muslims in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, are now preparing for the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which will be celebrated on Saturday. The city’s mosques were adorned with electric lights, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the upcoming celebrations. In Srikrishna, the Jamia Mosque hosted a large gathering on Thursday evening, where Muslims participated in communal prayers and feasts. The mosque’s management has arranged for special prayers on Saturday to commemorate the conclusion of the fasting period. Imams will deliver sermons emphasizing the significance of the occasion, while worshippers will exchange greetings of Eid. The preparations for Eid al-Fitr include the decoration of mosques and the distribution of charity to the less fortunate. Local authorities have ensured that the celebrations proceed smoothly, with security measures in place to maintain order. The community is also encouraged to participate in acts of kindness, reflecting the spirit of the festival. The transition from fasting to celebration is a time of joy and reflection for Muslims. The observance of RamaZan, which began on March 20, 2026, has been marked by communal unity and devotion. As the city gears up for Eid, the focus remains on gratitude, faith, and the shared traditions that bind the community together.#andhra_pradesh #eid_al_fitr #rama_zan #srikakulam #jamia_mosque

Stock Market Holidays 2026: Will Trading On BSE, NSE Closed Next Week For Ugadi, Chaitra Navratri, Gudi Padwa, Ramadan? In the coming week, several festivals will be observed across India, including Ugadi, Chaitra Navratri, Gudi Padwa, and Eid-al-Fitr. While many states will declare public holidays or bank holidays, the closure of stock exchanges on BSE and NSE will differ from general holidays. In March 2026, the exchanges have announced three specific trading holidays for festivals: March 3rd for Holi, March 26th for Ram Navami, and March 31st for Mahavir Jayanti. Trading will remain open on other festivals such as Ugadi, Chaitra Navratri, Gudi Padwa, and Eid-al-Fitr, which are scheduled from March 19th to March 21st. Ugadi, celebrated on March 19th, marks the beginning of the new year in states like Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Karnataka. It holds cultural significance as a time for renewal and hope. Chaitra Navratri, also starting on March 19th, is a nine-day festival dedicated to goddess Durga and her nine forms, symbolizing the transition into the new year for many Hindus. Gudi Padwa, observed on the same date, is the traditional new year for Marathi Hindus in Maharashtra and globally, celebrated on the first day of the Chaitra month. Eid-al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, is expected to fall on March 20th or 21st, with Islamic Relief Org UK predicting the festival will begin on March 21st, contingent on moon sightings. The stock market outlook for the week highlights ongoing challenges. Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit, noted that risk sentiment remains weak due to the Middle East conflict, which keeps crude oil prices near $100 per barrel.#eid_al_fitr #chaitra_navratri #gudi_padwa #mahavir_jayanti #ugadi
Eid al-Fitr Dates for 2026: Regional Variations The Islamic calendar determines the dates for Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan. Due to the lunar-based nature of the Islamic calendar, the exact date varies by region. Here’s a breakdown of the expected dates for 2026: Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Other Gulf Countries Eid al-Fitr Date: March 20, 2026 If the crescent moon is sighted on March 19, celebrations will begin on March 20. These regions typically celebrate Eid on the 1st day of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan. India and Pakistan Eid al-Fitr Date: March 21, 2026 Due to time zone differences and the moon sighting process, India and Pakistan are likely to observe Eid on March 21. The exact date depends on local moon sightings, which are often confirmed by Islamic scholars and astronomical calculations. Key Considerations Moon Sighting: The decision to mark Eid is based on the visibility of the crescent moon, which can vary by location. Regional Discrepancies: While Saudi Arabia and the UAE set the calendar for many Muslim countries, regions like South Asia may adjust dates based on local conditions. --- About the Author Abhijit Shekhar Ajay is a senior news editor at Nav Bharat Times, with over 16 years of experience in journalism. His expertise spans international politics, global diplomacy, and defense strategy. He has covered major events such as U.S. presidential elections, the Russia-Ukraine war, and Middle Eastern geopolitical crises. Known for his analytical insights, Ajay simplifies complex global issues for Indian audiences, focusing on both immediate news and long-term implications. Notable Contributions: Defense Analysis: In-depth reports on military technology, such as the Rafale deal and missile advancements. Election Coverage: Ground-level reporting on Indian and global elections.#pakistan #india #saudi_arabia #uae #eid_al_fitr

When is Eid al-Fitr 2026? What to Know About the End of Ramadan Eid al-Fitr, the Islamic holiday marking the end of Ramadan, is expected to begin on the evening of March 19 or March 20, 2026, depending on the sighting of the waxing crescent moon. This date signals the start of the Islamic month of Shawwal and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which is also known as the "festival of breaking the fast." The holiday is observed by nearly 2 billion Muslims worldwide, including approximately 1% of Ohioans, and is tied to the lunar Hijri calendar. Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, concludes with Eid al-Fitr, which follows the sighting of the crescent moon. The exact date varies each year because the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, causing the start of Ramadan and Eid holidays to shift approximately 11 days earlier each year compared to the previous year. For 2026, the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr are anticipated around March 19 or 20, with the first day of Shawwal immediately following the moon’s sighting. Eid al-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month in the Islamic calendar. It is one of two major Islamic festivals, the other being Eid al-Adha. While the holiday is traditionally observed on a single day, many Muslims extend the celebration for up to three days, gathering with family and friends. The festivities include prayers at local mosques, feasts, and the exchange of gifts, particularly for children. A key tradition of Eid al-Fitr is the charitable donation known as Zakat al-Fitr. This obligation requires Muslims with income to give a donation to the poor before the Eid prayers, ensuring that all can participate in the celebrations. The donation is meant to cover the cost of a meal for those in need, reflecting the Islamic emphasis on charity and community support.#shawwal #islamic_calendar #ramadan #eid_al_fitr #eid_al_adha
Eid Ul Fitr Moon Sighting 2026: When will India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Iran celebrate? The start of Eid al-Fitr in 2026 hinges on the sighting of the crescent moon, which is expected to occur on either March 20 or March 21. This lunar event determines the global celebration of the festival, with different regions likely to observe the holiday on separate days due to the moon’s visibility. The Islamic calendar, which follows the lunar cycle, means the exact date varies by location, creating a split in celebrations across countries. In 2026, the moon is anticipated to be visible on the evening of March 19, potentially marking the beginning of Eid on March 20. However, if the moon is not sighted on that night, the celebration may be delayed until March 21. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and other Gulf nations are expected to lead the sighting efforts, with their observations likely influencing the dates for other regions. India, Pakistan, and South Asia, for instance, may celebrate on March 21, following the sighting in the Gulf. Eid al-Fitr, often referred to as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is more than a celebration of the end of Ramadan. It is a time for community, charity, and gratitude, reflecting the spiritual and social values of the Islamic faith. The festival emphasizes the importance of giving back to those in need, as seen in the practice of Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory charitable contribution meant to ensure that even the poorest members of society can partake in the festivities. The days leading up to Eid are marked by a sense of anticipation and preparation. Families begin the morning rush to attend the Eid prayer, a communal event that brings people together in mosques or open fields. This tradition underscores the significance of unity and shared faith.#iran #india #saudi_arabia #uae #eid_al_fitr

Saudi Arabia Calls for Crescent Moon Sighting to Mark Eid Al Fitr 2026 The Saudi Supreme Court has instructed Muslims across the Kingdom to observe the crescent moon of Shawwal on the evening of Wednesday, March 18, to determine the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid Al Fitr. The announcement, released in an official statement on Monday, aligns with the Umm Al Qura calendar, which designates Wednesday as the 29th day of Ramadan 1447 AH. If the crescent is sighted on that night, Eid Al Fitr will commence the following day. If not, Ramadan will conclude after 30 days. The court emphasized that individuals who spot the crescent, whether through the naked eye or with binoculars, should report their observations to the nearest judicial authority or local administrative centers. These centers can assist in connecting witnesses with the relevant committees. The statement urged capable observers to participate in regional committees formed for this purpose, ensuring their testimonies are recorded. Moon-sighting committees are expected to gather at high-altitude locations across the Kingdom at sunset on Wednesday to conduct the search. The Supreme Court will finalize the decision on Eid’s start after verifying all reported sightings. This process reflects the traditional method of determining Islamic calendar dates, which relies on visual confirmation rather than astronomical calculations. The announcement highlights the role of communal participation in religious observances, as citizens are encouraged to contribute to the verification process. The court’s call for widespread involvement underscores the significance of collective effort in marking religious milestones. The outcome will be officially communicated once all testimonies are reviewed, ensuring alignment with the lunar calendar’s guidance.#saudi_arabia #shawwal #eid_al_fitr #saudi_supreme_court #ummal_qura_calendar

Qatar Calendar House Announces Eid Al Fitr Date The Qatar Calendar House (QCH) has determined that the first day of Shawwal and the start of Eid al-Fitr will fall on Friday, March 20, 2026, based on astronomical calculations conducted by its experts. This decision aligns with the traditional Islamic lunar calendar, which relies on the sighting of the crescent moon to mark the beginning of new months. According to the QCH, the crescent moon of Shawwal will become visible on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 4:24am Doha local time (1:24am GMT). The organization emphasized that it is astronomically impossible to observe the crescent moon on the evening of March 18, 2026, in Qatar’s skies. This conclusion is based on detailed observations and scientific models used to predict lunar visibility. While the QCH provides its calculations, the final authority on the start of Shawwal rests with the Crescent Sighting Investigation Committee at the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs. This committee is responsible for verifying the sighting of the moon and making the official declaration. The QCH’s role is to offer scientific guidance, but the ultimate decision remains with the committee. The announcement comes as Qatar continues to balance its traditional Islamic practices with modern scientific advancements. The country’s approach to determining Islamic dates reflects its commitment to both cultural heritage and technological precision. The Eid al-Fitr holiday, which marks the end of Ramadan, is a significant event in Qatar’s cultural and religious calendar. The government typically announces public holidays in advance to allow citizens and residents to prepare for the celebrations.#eid_al_fitr #qatar_calendar_house #ministry_of_awqaf_and_islamic_affairs #crescent_sighting_investigation_committee #amiri_diwan

UAE's Astronomy Centre Predicts Eid Al Fitr Date The International Astronomy Centre (IAC) in the UAE has determined that the crescent moon will not be visible on March 18, making it impossible to mark the start of Eid Al Fitr on that date. According to the centre, the moon will set before sunrise, and the conjunction will occur after sunset, rendering the sighting unfeasible. This means the holy month of Ramadan will last 30 days, and Eid Al Fitr is expected to begin on March 20 in the UAE and other regions. The IAC explained that the crescent’s visibility depends on specific astronomical conditions. For the UAE, the crescent will be visible on March 19, but the exact timing remains under observation. In other parts of the world, the visibility varies: the crescent is not possible to spot from the eastern hemisphere, while western Asia, central and northern Africa, and parts of North America may see it with varying degrees of difficulty. The centre emphasized that these factors must be analyzed together, as no single metric alone guarantees a sighting. The IAC noted that the crescent’s age will be 15 hours and 33 minutes, with an angular distance of 7.6 degrees from the sun. However, these values alone are not sufficient for confirmation, as they are interconnected. The centre also highlighted that the crescent will persist for 29 minutes above the horizon, a critical factor in determining visibility. In the UAE, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has already announced Eid Al Fitr holidays for both the private and public sectors. Private-sector employees will have a holiday from March 19 to March 21, with an extension to March 22 if Ramadan lasts 30 days. Federal government workers will enjoy a holiday from March 19 to March 22, with work resuming on March 23.#uae #ramadan #eid_al_fitr #international_astronomy_centre #ministry_of_human_resources_and_emiratisation

Eid Al-Fitr 2026: Date And Classic Recipes For The Festival Muslims around the world are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Fitr as the holy month of Ramadan comes to an end. The festival, known as Meethi Eid due to its sweet traditions, is marked by prayers, charity, and the preparation of festive dishes. Homes are filled with the aroma of special foods, and the date of the celebration depends on the sighting of the Shawwal moon. On the morning of Eid, Muslims gather for special prayers and give Zakat al-Fitr, a charitable contribution, to ensure everyone can participate in the festivities. After the prayers, people greet each other warmly, exchange "Eid Mubarak" wishes, and share joy with friends and family. The celebration is a time for togetherness and gratitude. The exact date of Eid is determined by the sighting of the Shawwal crescent, which is confirmed after the last evening of Ramadan. If the moon is sighted on 19 March, Eid will be observed on 20 March. If the moon is not visible, the festival will be held on 21 March instead. While the final date remains pending, many regions are likely to celebrate on 20 March. The Eid feast is a highlight of the celebration, featuring traditional dishes that bring families together. Classic recipes include Sheer Khurma, a rich dessert made by simmering milk with roasted vermicelli, dates, sugar, and dry fruits like almonds, pistachios, and cashews, flavored with cardamom. Another popular dish is a fragrant rice dish made with marinated chicken, basmati rice, aromatic spices, saffron, and crispy fried onions, layered and slow-cooked for depth of flavor. Soft, melt-in-the-mouth kebabs made from finely minced meat, blended with spices and herbs, and shallow-fried until tender and aromatic are also a staple.#ramadan #eid_al_fitr #shawwal_moon #sheer_khurma #mughlai_dessert
Eid Al Fitr 2026: When is Eid? check correct date and significance Eid Al Fitr, one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar, is celebrated by Muslims worldwide to mark the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. In 2026, Eid al-Fitr is expected to fall on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic Hijri calendar. This date corresponds to March 20, 2026, in the United Arab Emirates, though the exact celebration date may vary slightly depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. The festival, also known as meethi Eid, is a time of joy, community, and gratitude, as Muslims break their fast with dates and water, symbolizing the completion of Ramadan’s spiritual journey. The celebration of Eid al-Fitr is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. It is believed to have been established by the Prophet Muhammad, who introduced the festival as a way to commemorate the conclusion of the holy month. The event is closely tied to the historical Battle of Badr, where the Prophet Muhammad is said to have achieved a significant victory. During Eid, Muslims engage in communal prayers, prepare special meals, and distribute food, clothing, and gifts to those in need. This act of charity, known as zakat, is considered a vital part of the festival’s spirit. Eid al-Fitr is not only a time for personal reflection but also a moment for families and communities to come together. Muslims often wear new traditional attire, apply mehendi, and adorn themselves with jewelry to celebrate the occasion. The festival is marked by the exchange of gifts, particularly among children who present their Eidi (a gift given by elders) to relatives. Families gather for meals, and many travel to visit loved ones, reinforcing the importance of unity and shared joy.#united_arab_emirates #shawwal #eid_al_fitr #mohammed #badr_battle

Eid Al Fitr Likely on March 20 in UAE, Astronomers Say The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology has announced that Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall on Friday, March 20, 2026, based on astronomical calculations. The academy’s observatory determined that Ramadan 1447 AH will complete its 30 days, marking the start of Shawwal and the celebration of Eid Al Fitr in the UAE. Astronomers explained that the crescent moon, which is traditionally used to determine the end of Ramadan, was not visible on Wednesday, March 18, the 29th day of Ramadan. This is because the moon set before sunset in the western horizon, making it impossible to spot locally. As a result, the UAE will continue observing Ramadan on March 18, with Thursday, March 19, completing the holy month. The observatory noted that the new moon will occur over Sharjah at 4:24am UAE time on March 19. By sunset that day, the crescent moon will be approximately 14 hours and six minutes old, with an angular separation of 6.5 degrees from the sun. It will appear six degrees above the western horizon, offering a visibility window of about 29 minutes after sunset. However, the academy described the viewing conditions in the UAE as “critical” or unfavorable, stating that spotting the crescent with the naked eye or even through telescopes would be extremely difficult. Advanced techniques such as image stacking may be required to capture the crescent, but local naked-eye sightings are unlikely. The observatory suggested that the crescent could be observed in some Arab and Islamic countries further west, where geographical and astronomical conditions might be more favorable. Based on these calculations, the academy concluded that Friday, March 20, will likely mark the beginning of Shawwal and the first day of Eid Al Fitr in the UAE and most Islamic countries.#shawwal #uae #eid_al_fitr #ramadan_1447_ah

Eid Al Fitr 2026 Likely to Fall on March 20 in UAE, Say Sharjah Astronomers Millions of residents across the United Arab Emirates are awaiting official confirmation of the Eid Al Fitr 2026 date, a major religious and public holiday marking the end of Ramadan. The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology, through its Sharjah Astronomical Observatory, has released an early prediction indicating that the festival is expected to begin on March 20. According to the academy, Ramadan 1447 AH will complete 30 days, making Friday the first day of Shawwal and the start of Eid Al Fitr in the UAE. The moon sighting timeline for the holy month of Ramadan is critical in determining the exact date. On March 18, the 29th day of Ramadan, the crescent moon will not be visible as the moon will set before sunset in the western skies. Astronomers explained that the country will observe Ramadan on that evening, meaning March 19 will mark the completion of the holy month. The observatory noted that the new moon will occur over Sharjah at 4:24 am UAE time on March 19, 2026. By sunset, the crescent moon will be approximately 14 hours and 6 minutes old, with an angular separation from the sun of 6.5 degrees, an altitude of six degrees above the western horizon, and a visibility window of around 29 minutes after sunset. However, the viewing conditions for the moon in the UAE are described as "critical" or unfavorable. The observatory stated that spotting the crescent locally would be extremely difficult, even with the aid of telescopes. Advanced techniques such as image stacking may be required to capture the crescent, and naked-eye observation is unlikely to succeed.#shawwal #eid_al_fitr #sharjah_academy #sharjah_astronomical_observatory #ramadan

Saudi Arabia Announces Eid Al Fitr Holidays for Private and Non-Profit Sectors The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has released the official dates for the Eid Al Fitr holiday for employees in the private and non-profit sectors. The holiday is set to begin at the end of the working day on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, following the conclusion of business operations on 29 Ramadan 1447 AH. The break will span four days, aligning with the provisions of the Saudi Labour Law. Mohammed Al Ruzaiqi, the ministry’s spokesperson, stated that the announcement aims to provide clarity for both employers and employees in preparing for the holiday period. This allows organizations to adjust work schedules while maintaining operational continuity in critical sectors. The directive also ensures that workers’ rights to a festive break are protected. Al Ruzaiqi highlighted the importance of compliance with Article 24 of the Saudi Labour Law’s executive regulations, which govern official holidays. According to these rules, employees are entitled to paid leave during religious and national occasions. If an official holiday coincides with a weekly rest day, or if operational needs require work during the Eid holiday, compensation arrangements must be made in accordance with established labor provisions. The ministry’s guidelines emphasize that employers must adhere to legal frameworks to ensure fair treatment of workers during the holiday period. This includes providing compensation for any work performed during the holiday or overlapping rest days. The announcement underscores the government’s commitment to balancing workplace obligations with cultural and religious observances.#saudi_arabia #eid_al_fitr #ministry_of_human_resources_and_social_development #mohammed_al_ruzaiqi #saudi_labour_law
Saudi Arabia Announces Eid Al-Fitr Holidays for Public and Private Sector Employees The Ministry of Human Resources in Saudi Arabia confirmed that public and private sector employees will observe Eid Al-Fitr holidays from March 19 to March 24. Offices will remain operational on March 18, the day before the holiday begins. The break will conclude on March 24, marking the end of the festive period.#saudi_arabia #eid_al_fitr #ministry_of_human_resources #public_sector_employees #private_sector_employees
School Holidays March 2026: Holi, Eid and Ram Navami Among Key Festival Breaks Schools and colleges across India are preparing for a series of holiday closures in March 2026, coinciding with major religious, cultural, and regional festivals. Education calendars issued by states and institutions outline non-instructional days throughout the month, with observances including Holi, Eid al-Fitr, Ram Navami, Mahavir Jayanti, Dola Jatra, Ugadi, and Gudi Guri Padwa. Holiday dates vary by region, reflecting local traditions, public holiday notifications, and education board schedules. Holi, celebrated on March 4, will see schools and colleges in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Bihar, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, and other states remain closed. Uttar Pradesh is set to have one of the longest breaks, with institutions closed for three days around the festival. In Assam, the celebration is marked as Dola Jatra, with closures aligned with local customs. March 2 has been designated a holiday in Uttar Pradesh for Holika Dahan. Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, is expected to fall on March 21, pending lunar sightings. Educational institutions nationwide are anticipated to remain closed on this day. Due to the reliance on moon sightings, official confirmation will be provided closer to the festival. Ram Navami, observed on March 26, will see schools and colleges in many states remain closed, accompanied by religious programs and community events. Mahavir Jayanti, on March 31, is generally recognized as a public holiday in several states, with government offices and educational institutions closed. Other regional observances include Ugadi, Gudi Guri Padwa, and Chaitra Navratri, which will be celebrated on March 19 in states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.#holi #eid_al_fitr #ram_navami #mahavir_jayanti #ugadi