Eid 2020 was the first time in history that we remembered when Eid Al-Fitr was celebrated in some kind of desolation. Even takbir was as if echoed in silence. Restriction was strongly applied. People were forced to stay at home and leaving town was strongly discouraged. Instead of visiting each other’s house and wishing Eid greetings, people felt unsafe to welcome any guest in their house and chose to shut their doors. Things did not much improve in Eid 2021. This dreadful experienced was caused by a teeny-weeny microscopic virus called Covid-19. Such a tiny being has been running havoc around the planet and disrupts every aspect of human life for over two years, physically, economically, emotionally, socially, and culturally
Thankfully, a hope is sparkling this year. Happiness, joy and bliss have returned in Eid 2022. The infection cases trend is decreasing significantly. As a result, the government has eased the restriction.
People are allowed to travel and leave town. Mudik, a tradition when people working in a city or over seas go back to hometown, has been resumed after a two-year hiatus. People are so excited that they finally get to see their parents, family and relatives who live in the other cities. Passengers flooded the airport, stations, and ship port. On Eid eve, takbir was heard from every corner of the cities. Some big cities like Jakarta or Bandung even held takbir festival. In other region, they had takbir carnival around the town or village.
Festival Tabuh Bedug 2022, Jakarta.
Source: idxchannel.com
In the morning, people attended mosques excitedly. After two years, they finally could perform Eid prayer without a tight restriction. Rejoice were reflected in people’s face. We all eventually celebrate Eid with joy once again. In my village, the kinship and warmth Eid tradition re-emerged. This time, the villagers cheerfully opened their doors to welcome their neighbours coming, visiting and wishing each other a very happy Eid mubarak. Kids were the happiest of all. They walked around the village visiting from house to house. As tradition, little children will be given some money as a holiday gift. Adults who have worked usually prepare some money in Rp 2000 – Rp 5000 banknotes. It is usually brand new money that we exchange from the bank. The spirit of Eid Al-Fitr feels much more alive this year. We can’t stop being grateful to Allah for this blessed Eid. Alhamdulillah!
The spirit, joy, and festivity of Eid revive. People, particularly Muslims in this country, and I believe many parts of the world, are rejoicing to celebrate a blessed and joyful Eid once again.
Pawai Takbiran 2022
Source: seputarpapua.com
Let’s hope and pray that this Covid-19 pandemic is not only decreasing for now, but ends forever. So, the happiness and bliss of Eid will never fade and will always sparkle for eternity, and peace and safe will finally come to the world. Amiin.
