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ISLAMABAD (XINHUA) – Dressing herself in a radiant red frock with matching shoes and bangles, 14-year-old Ayzel Munir was filled with joy on the first day of Aidilfitri, eagerly waiting for her cousins and friends to join in for a delicious feast being arranged at her home in Pakistan’s federal capital Islamabad.

“I’m so happy today as I am going to see my cousins and friends. I cannot wait to welcome them to my home. We have decorated our house and prepared a variety of traditional delicacies to celebrate the festival,” she told Xinhua while placing small vases of faux flowers on a huge dining table for adornment.

“My family has started putting things together a few days ahead of the Aidilfitri to greet the guests in the best possible way,” Munir said, adding that besides the most-loved sweet dishes, her mother had prepared chicken rice, beef curry, fried fish, and roasted meat.

**Aidilfitri Celebrations in Pakistan**

Aidilfitri, which marks the end of the Islamic holy fasting month of Ramadan, is a festival celebrated by Muslims all over the world. In Pakistan, the festivities begin with special prayers in congregations, followed by warm embraces and the exchange of Aidilfitri greetings among people. The Pakistani government has announced four-day Aidilfitri holidays starting from April 10.

In Pakistan, the celebration of Aidilfitri involves spending time with loved ones, indulging in delicious meals, participating in recreational activities, and engaging in charitable acts to support underprivileged individuals.

**Splendid Decorations and Exchanges**

As part of the celebrations, many people decorate their homes and streets with colorful flickering lights, and exchange sweets and greetings with neighbors and friends. Social events, fun fairs, concerts, and family galas are also organized to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Similarly, markets and shopping malls are flooded with enthusiastic shoppers, especially women and children, who are eager to buy clothes, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories. Jameela Abbasi, a housewife and mother of three children, shares her experience of shopping for the festival. She says, “I have almost completed shopping for my kids. I bought them new dresses and shoes. Most of the work is done, but still, I need to buy myself a pair of shoes and bangles.” She emphasizes that Aidilfitri is the only festival where she doesn’t hesitate to spend money, as acquiring various items adds to the joy and happiness of the celebration.

**Supporting the Underprivileged**

Abbasi also highlights the importance of remembering the underprivileged during this festive season. She says, “On this special occasion, we must not forget underprivileged people who are not able to enjoy the festival owing to financial constraints…I have made dozens of Aidilfitri boxes comprising clothes, food, and medicines. It is our social and moral responsibility and the real spirit of the Aidilfitri.”

**Reuniting with Loved Ones**

In the days leading up to the festival, bus terminals and railway stations across the country experience a significant influx of travelers, with many individuals journeying to their hometowns and villages to celebrate the Aidilfitri holidays with their families. To accommodate the large Aidilfitri exodus, Pakistan Railways organized special trains and offered a 25 percent discount on fares for three days of Aidilfitri to the citizens.

Muhammad Amir, a 38-year-old, shares his excitement as he sets off on a journey to his hometown after nearly a year. He says, “I cannot express how happy I am as I am going to see my parents…My mother has been waiting for this moment for months and I cannot wait to get home soon and hug her. I have bought special gifts for my parents and siblings. This Aidilfitri holiday is going to be very special and fun-filled.”

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