On Wednesday, Muslims around the world marked the end of the holy month of Ramadan with the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr. In Indonesia, a country with a predominantly Muslim population, nearly three-quarters of the people embarked on the annual homecoming tradition known as 'mudik' with great enthusiasm.
Leading up to the holiday, bustling markets were filled with shoppers purchasing new clothes, shoes, and delectable treats. Families eagerly left major cities to return to their villages for festive gatherings with loved ones. Flights were fully booked, and stations were crowded with travelers laden with gifts, eager to embark on their journeys.
In Pakistan, stringent security measures were put in place with over 100,000 police and paramilitary forces deployed to ensure safety at mosques and marketplaces. The atmosphere was vibrant as people shopped for traditional items like bangles, jewelry, and clothing.
The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry projected a significant financial turnover of nearly $10 billion during the Eid holiday, spanning various sectors such as retail, transit, and tourism.
For many, Eid al-Fitr symbolized a triumph over economic challenges faced during Ramadan. Despite rising food prices, families like Arini Dewi's found joy in celebrating the holiday.
Former Vice President Jusuf Kalla emphasized the importance of celebrating Eid al-Fitr as a day of overcoming difficulties through faith and piety. The night before the holiday, residents of Jakarta engaged in the tradition of 'takbiran,' setting off firecrackers in the streets.
On the morning of Eid al-Fitr, Muslims gathered for communal prayers, with Jakarta's Istiqlal Grand Mosque witnessing a large congregation. Preachers urged the faithful to pray for the well-being of Muslims in Gaza, highlighting the need for humanitarian solidarity in the face of ongoing conflicts.
As the day unfolded, the spirit of unity and compassion prevailed, underscoring the essence of Eid al-Fitr as a time for reflection, gratitude, and solidarity among Muslims worldwide.