Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting. It is a time for repentance in the Muslim world, as well as for relatives and friends to strengthen their bonds. Hari Raya Puasa is marked by the exchange of new clothes, beautifully decorated homes, and invitations between friends and family. Not to mention Singapore's popular Hari Raya cookies.
Hari Raya Puasa is observed on the first day of the tenth month of the Islamic calendar. The dates of Hari Raya Puasa vary from year to year because Hijrah is based on the lunar calendar. Hari Raya Puasa is not to be confused with the first day of the Islamic New Year.
Hari Raya Puasa, also known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Eid-Al-Fitr Day, is a major festival observed by Muslims worldwide to mark the end of Ramadan, including Singapore.
Ramadan is considered the most significant month of the year for the Muslim community around the world. Muslims fast from dawn to sunset during this period, not eating or drinking. Because fasting is one of Islam's five pillars, Muslims are encouraged to meditate and reflect during this month in order to cleanse and strengthen their faith.
Eid-Al-Fitr occurs at the end of Ramadan on the first day of the tenth month, Syawal. Eid is a triumphant and celebratory day that recognises an individual's victory in exercising self-control and command over his impulses. The festival is known as "Hari Raya," in Malay, which means "major (or grand) day of rejoicing."
The first day following Ramadan is jam-packed with activities. On Hari Raya Puasa morning, Muslims will go to the mosque to recite special prayers to mark the end of the month-long fast. Other customs include seeking forgiveness from elders and paying visits to relatives and associates.
Many Muslims start their pilgrimages by apologising to their parents for transgressions committed the previous year. While Muslims are not required to visit cemeteries during Hari Raya, many do so in memory of loved ones who have died. In Singapore, they will also partake in Hari Raya cookies Singapore feasts.
Hari Raya Puasa is observed as a public holiday in Singapore. This day is celebrated by Muslims by feasting on a variety of delectable foods. There will be beef rendang, ketupat (rice cake wrapped in coconut leaf), and lontong (a spicy beef dish similar to a dry curry) on the menu (rice cake immersed in coconut gravy). Hari Raya Singapore cookies, cakes, and pineapple tarts will also be available.
Lampu colok, a small handcrafted kerosene lamp, was once used to light up houses. Decorative, flickering lights are currently popular.
Between 1996 and 1998, Hari Raya Puasa was especially memorable in Singapore because it coincided with Chinese New Year. This was a significant step forward in Singapore's racial harmony history. Singapore Hari Raya cookies go well with Chinese New Year treats.
