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India is one of the greatest examples of secularism and is home to almost all the religions of the world. The nation is the birthplace of religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism while it has a strong presence of religions like Islam, Christianity and Jews. The Hindus mainly dominate the country with almost 80% of the population being Hindus. The second largest religion in the country is Islam and hence Islamic culture and traditions are practiced greatly all over the country. The Islamic festivals are celebrated with equal zest and enthusiasm with Eid-El-Fitr, India is the most important festival for the Muslims. Eid-El-Fitr - Fasting Month Eid-El-Fitr, India marks the end of the fasting month of Ramazan. During the month of Ramazan a Muslim must fast from sunrise to sunset and must not indulge in acts like consuming alcohol or smoking during that time for an entire month. This month of fasting ends with Eid-El-Fitr, which mainly celebrates forgiveness, brotherhood and unity. On the day of Eid, every Muslim is expected to wake up early and attend the regular dawn prayers. After the prayers, the followers must eat in small quantities, which is a symbolic gesture of ending of the Ramzan fast. After breaking the fast, the Muslims again attend special ceremonial prayers that are held in the vast open courtyards of the mosques. After these prayers, the worshippers greet and wish their loved ones by embracing each other. The Eid-El-Fitr, India symbolizes the end of Ramazan, which is considered to be the most holy and sacred period of the year by the Muslims. The Ramazan marks the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is marked by strict fasts, charity, self-accountability and religious observances. Hence, after practicing fasts and praying regularly during Ramazan, the festival of Eid also marks moral victory and self-control. Every Muslim must donate money or food to the poor on Eid-El-Fitr according to their financial capacity. The Muslims usually dress in new clothes and also present gifts to the children of the family and even to other members of the family, friends and relatives. Eid-El-Fitr, India celebrates the true Islamic spirit of self-control, devoutness and brotherhood and is one of the most eagerly awaited festivals in the country.
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