VALPOI, SEPT 9
The holy month of Ramzan will come to an end on Friday, following a month-long period of prayers, fast and acts of charity.
This period was marked by fast, an observance that began before dawn and ended after sunset. Besides the compulsory prayers five times a day, Muslims during Ramzan also observed the supererogatory prayer at night, known as ‘Traweeh’.
Alms or ‘Zakat’ were also distributed to poor and needy people during Ramzan.
On completion of the Ramzan fast, a special charity known as ‘Sadquatul Fitre’ (charity of fast-breaking) is compulsorily distributed by Muslims to needy people.
Id-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on September 11, following the culmination of the holy month of Ramzan on Friday.
During the Id-ul-Fitr celebrations, Muslims will offer special prayers (Id Namaz) at Idgahs all over the State at about 9.30 am.
Muslims are found in all 11 talukas of the State, though only a few reside in Pernem and Canacona talukas.
Majority of Muslims are found in Vasco (Mormagao), Margao (Salcete), Chimbel, Bhatlem and Taligao (Tiswadi), Valpoi and Keri (Sattari), Bicholim, Mapusa (Bardez) and Naga Masjid, Haveli and Shapur (Ponda).
In Quepem taluka, Muslims largely reside at Muslim Wada and Ravabhat, while in Sanguem they live near the bazaar area and Belpar.
Following the Id Namaz, many muslims visit the Kabrastan (burial ground) to pray for the souls of their departed relatives.
Muslims also give money and food to the poor, while children get money from elders in form of ‘Iddi’.
‘Sheerkhurma’, a special sweet made of milk, sugar, vermicelli and dried fruit, is also prepared on the occasion.
Non-Muslims in the State also visit the homes of the Muslims, thereby strengthening the bond of unity and integrity among the different faiths.
