KASHMIR to Celebrate Muted EID Festival

Since we are battling with the raging Second wave of the Covid 19 Pandemic and the authorities have already imposed restrictions and urged people to stay indoors. Like previous three Eids, this time too, the festival has arrived amid tough restrictions due to the resurgence of Covid pandemic. A day after several areas in Kashmir witnessed a huge rush of people ahead of Eid festival, curfew-like restrictions were imposed in the valley on Wednesday as authorities enforced the lockdown put in place to contain an alarming surge in coronavirus cases in the union territory.Security forces have sealed vital roads and erected barricades at many places in the city and other district headquarters to stop unnecessary movement of people.Markets are shut and public transport is off the roads.Movement of only those engaged in essential services and in cases of emergencies is being allowed.The restrictions were tightened on Wednesday in the wake of crowds gathering at several places in the city here and many other areas of the valley for Eid shopping.
There’s no denying that the festivities of this year will be a little dull in comparison to usual. But it doesn’t mean we can’t usher in the festival spirit because for some it will be challenging and for others, it allows more time with family than ever before. We are aware that the entire health care system of our country is under severe stress due to the emerging and alarming situation. We should be more careful in adhering to precautionary measures including staying at home, maintaining personal hygiene, using sanitizers and refrain ourselves from any kind of assembly.
In fact the holy festival will be certainly different but it can still be a time of giving thanks for all the blessings in our lives, focussing on the sunnahs we can fulfill and reaching out to those facing greater challenges than us.
The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, governments around the world have imposed restrictions on people’s travel and urged residents to remain at home to prevent the virus from spreading further. During the beginning of Ramadan last month, governments across the world and Islamic leaders urged Muslims to pray at home rather than congregate in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic.
With the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the globe and strict stay-at-home orders being issued, there’s no denying that this year’s celebrations will be a little duller than normal. But that doesn’t rule out the possibility of ushering in the festival spirit. This year, you will observe the holy festival of Eid in a safe and balanced manner.
We may not be able to visit our friends and family this Eid, but that doesn’t mean the celebrations should be ruined. Connect with your loved ones online, host virtual events, and celebrate the festival with people all over the world this way. All look forward to the Eid delights and delicacies. Although we’re sure most of us will be busy in the kitchen, why not include anything nutritious and good in your meals? Including some vitamin C-rich foods, vegetables, and antioxidant-rich foods to help round out our feasting and ensure a healthy diet. Even though the country is under lockdown and movement is prohibited, it is important that you adhere to the laws of social distancing, sanitize and disinfect all surfaces, stop touching germy places, and always wear a mask.
One of the most important pillars of Islam is zakat and charity, and many Muslims all over the world make it a point to practice social welfare. Donate to needy people in this tragic situation in your areas or hand it over to your respective Baitul Maal. Helping those in need this year could be a smart idea. Many people who have been affected by the unprecedented crisis are finding it difficult to arrange rations or obtain safety equipment. Right now, you can help those in need by distributing money and other essential items. You may be remaining indoors all day for the festival, but that doesn’t mean you have to wear your pyjamas. Dressing up for a change will make your day more enjoyable and provide a welcome break from the lockdown routine.
On April 29, the Jammu and Kashmir administration imposed a curfew in 11 districts in a bid to tackle the surge in Covid-19 cases, which was subsequently extended to all the 20 districts the next day.
The curfew, which was supposed to end at 7 am on May 3, was extended in the twin capitals of Jammu and Srinagar besides Budgam and Baramulla till May 6. However, the authorities in other districts of the Kashmir valley also ordered extension in the restrictions first till May 6 and then till May 10. The restrictions were again extended till May 17. to tide over the pandemic.