Eid is one of the most awaited celebrations for Muslims around the world. It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a time of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. When the new moon is sighted, it brings joy to every household. But behind the beautiful celebrations, there is a lot of hard work, especially by women. Despite fasting for a whole month, it is the women who take charge of preparing for Eid, making sure everything is perfect for the family.
From the early morning “Arfa” (the night before Eid), women become busy with final preparations. The markets are crowded with people buying clothes, bakery, meat, and gifts etc, and most of these shoppers are women. They ensure that every family member, especially children, gets new clothes and accessories for Eid.
After shopping, women return home and start decorating the house. They put up fairy lights, arrange cushions, and sometimes even paint or clean the walls to give the house a fresh look. They also prepare beautiful designs of mehndi (henna) on their hands and on the hands of their daughters and relatives, adding to the festive spirit.
Tabasum Shakeel, a homemaker from Srinagar, said, “We spend the whole day running from one shop to another, making sure everything is perfect for our families. It is tiring but also very satisfying.”
One of the biggest tasks for women is cooking special Eid meals. Even though they have fasted for a whole month, they wake up early in the morning on Eid day to prepare delicious food. The smell of these dishes fills the house, making everyone even more excited for the celebrations.
Women not only cook for their families but also for guests. Relatives, friends, and neighbors visit each other on Eid, and it is always the women who ensure that everyone is served delicious food and tea. The happiness of seeing their loved ones enjoy the meal makes their hard work worth it.
Shaista Jan, a working woman from Baramulla, shared, “Even after a full month of fasting, we are in the kitchen from morning till night on Eid. But the smiles on our children’s faces make it all worth it.”
Eid is a very special time for children. They wake up early, dress in their new clothes, and excitedly wait to receive Eidi (money given as a gift). Their laughter fills the house as they run around, showing off their new outfits and counting their Eidi. Women, especially mothers and grandmothers, enjoy watching their children and grandchildren celebrate with pure joy.
The excitement of children is also seen in their love for sweets. They rush to taste the seviyan and other desserts made by their mothers. Some even try to sneak extra sweets before the guests arrive. The happiness of children is one of the most beautiful parts of Eid.
Farah Begum, a grandmother from Anantnag, said, “Watching my grandchildren jump with joy when they receive Eidi is the best part of Eid for me. Their happiness is our true reward.”
Eid is a time for family and social gatherings. Homes are filled with guests throughout the day. It is mostly the women who take care of hosting. They welcome guests with a warm smile, serve food and drinks, and make sure everyone feels comfortable. Even when they are tired, they continue to manage everything with patience and love.
Women also visit their relatives and friends, exchanging gifts and sweets. This strengthens bonds and brings families closer. They make sure to check on elderly family members and neighbors, making sure no one feels alone on this special day.
While everyone enjoys Eid, not many people notice the hard work of women. They wake up before dawn, manage the kitchen, take care of children, welcome guests, and still find time to enjoy the festival. Even though they do so much, they often do not get enough appreciation. It is important for families to recognize their efforts and help them whenever possible.
Women do all this work out of love, but a small gesture of appreciation can make them feel valued.
Rehana, a teacher from Kupwara, said, “It would be nice if family members helped a little in the kitchen or with decorations. Women also deserve to relax and enjoy Eid.”
Eid is not just about new clothes and delicious food. It is about sharing happiness, helping others, and being grateful. Women play a major role in keeping these traditions alive. Their hard work ensures that the whole family can enjoy the festival to the fullest.
As we celebrate Eid, we must appreciate the women who make it so special. They may not ask for recognition, but they deserve it. Eid is a time of joy, love, and gratitude, and it is only fair that the ones who put in the most effort also get to enjoy it the most.
Eid Mubarak to all the wonderful women who make this festival a truly beautiful experience for everyone.
