Under Covid cloud, Eid to be a simple & subdued affair this year

LUCKNOW: As coronavirus pandemic continues to grip the city, Eid celebrations will remain subdued and simple this year too in view of people’s safety.
With mosques closed and large congregations prohibited, families will celebrate the festival with simplicity, offering ‘namaz’ at home and giving away zakat (charity) to the needy.
Eid is expected to be celebrated on May 13, however, the confirmation will be done only after the sighting of the moon.
Like last year, Mohd Yusuf will celebrate the day with his family and giving away zakat on chaand raat.
"We have an orphanage near our house where we used to visit every Eid. However, as it’s not safe for the kids to venture out, only my elder brother and I will visit the children and give books and clothes to them," said the Lalbagh resident.
Both Shia and Sunni clerics have appealed to the people to avoid shopping for Eid and help the poor and the needy who have been affected by the pandemic.
Giving charity in the form of zakat is the essence of Eid. One of the five pillars of Islam, it is given to help the needy achieve their goals and also help them celebrate the festival.
"It gives us joy and satisfaction to help bring a smile on someone’s face, especially when the times have been gloomy for so long. Since we are also avoiding celebrations with our relatives, my wife and I will prepare food and ‘sewaiyan’ for the ones in need. We will pack them in disposable boxes and distribute them among people," said Amir Husain of Hazratganj.
"My plans are simple. Stay at home, offer namaz, and pray for the well-being of our loved ones. Children are more excited about the festival and they will miss the huge family affair. A video call with cousins will make up for the change," said Nida Rashid.
Tahira Abbas, who recently came home from Delhi, will celebrate the festival from a distance. “Since I am still in home isolation, I’ll be cooking my meal alone. It feels different because I wanted to sit and celebrate the day with my family the way we always do, but safety is the priority now," she added.