189. Happy Idul Fitri

DIFFERENT WAYS

IN CELEBRATING 'IDUL FITRI'

We all have just celebrated 'Idul Fitri'. Eventhough it is rooted from the Islamic tradition, it has become a national event. Yet it is celebrated differently by people of different places.


* Some people begin 'Idul Fitri' celebration in the evening before. Using bamboo torch lights walk around the village and pronounce "Allahu Akbar" ( takbir and Tahmid )




* 'Idul Fitri' is a happy day. Because we have finished our duty to fast during Ramadhan. People go to the market or supermarket to buy new clothes and some food before 'Idul Fitri' comes.



* After completing fasting during the month of Ramadhan, we feel very happy. the houses are decorated beautifully. Children wear new clothes. They play fire crackers in the yard.




* In the morning, on 'Idul Fitri' day, people go to the mosque or to the town square to pray. After praying they shake hands to ask for forgiveness. They visit each other and visit their neighbors to ask for forgiveness.



* On 'Idul Fitri' day, the family get together in the oldest member of family to do 'sungkeman' ( paying tribute to grandparents, parents, and the older relatives )



* To entertain the guests, some people usually serve them with special foods and meals, such as 'lontong', 'ketupat', and chicken 'opor'.




* On the second day of 'Idul Fitri', people enjoy themselves by having picnic and visiting some recreation places, such as the beach, the zoo, the mall or go to the movie.