KATHMANDU, APRIL 11

Muslims across the country are celebrating Eid al-Fitr with fervour today.

The festival, a significant occassion in the muslim community, is observed by the devotees reciting special Namaz, offering prayers in Mosques, receiving blessing from elders and giving blessings to juniors.

The government has declared a publich holiday for today, on Wednesday.

The decision to celebrate Eid today was made by the Muslim Commission, as the new moon was not sighted on Wednesday, signaling the completion of the fasting month.

Eid-al-Fitr, signifying the end of Ramadan, falls on the first day of the tenth month of the Arabic calendar.

During the holy month of Ramadan muslims observe a stringent dawn-to-dusk fast and ask for forgiveness for past sins, pray for guidance, ask for help in refraining from everyday evils and try to purify themselves through self-restraint and good deeds.

Eid-al-Fitr festivities are characterized by the consumption of 'Sevai' and collective prayers. The joyous occasion also fosters a sense of community as families and friends exchange greetings and gifts, marking the culmination of a month-long period of spiritual discipline and reflection.