Memories of Eid: Rekindling the Joys of Simpler Times

There was a time when Eid wasn’t just a day—it was a feeling, a rhythm that wrapped around the heart and filled the home. The memories come alive with the first sound of the azan echoing through the morning air, marking not just the time of prayer, but the beginning of a day soaked in joy, love, and meaning.

The smell of food would already be dancing through the house before sunrise. Spices, sweetened milk, and ghee filled the air, each aroma telling its own story. Laughter from the kitchen—especially from our mother—was the soundtrack of those early hours, a melody that gave life to the walls around us. Family members, even the most distant ones, would arrive, and in that moment, no one felt like a stranger. It was a reunion of hearts.

One of the most cherished parts of Eid was the sweets. Bondibaiy, pirini, haluvidha, and aveli weren’t just food—they were a celebration in themselves. These delicacies were offered with love and savored with the kind of joy only tradition can bring.

As children, many of us would gather curiously—and sometimes fearfully—around the chicken to be slaughtered for Eid al-Adha. The movement of the bird before it settled was both terrifying and exciting. It served as an early lesson in sacrifice, life, and the deeper meaning of Eid.

The celebrations extended beyond our homes. Visiting islands brought an entirely different charm. Traditional ways of celebrating Eid included color fights, cultural games, and laughter that echoed through coconut palms and sandy streets. Joyful smiles were everywhere, and the entire community came together in celebration. Everyone—from toddlers to elders—played a part in creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Over time, many of these beautiful moments have begun to fade. Busy schedules, modern distractions, and changing lifestyles have taken their toll. Family gatherings have become less frequent, and the aroma of home-cooked Eid meals has been replaced by store-bought alternatives. The joyful chaos that once defined Eid now feels distant for many.

There is still hope.

These memories do not belong to the past alone. They can be rekindled and passed on. The next generation deserves to experience the joy, connection, and warmth that once filled our homes and communities during Eid.

Now is the time to slow down, to be intentional, and to bring back the color, the laughter, and the spirit of true celebration. Eid has always been more than just rituals—it has been about the joy we share, the love we give, and the memories we create.

Let us make room in our lives for these simple but powerful moments, and ensure that the essence of Eid continues to live on for generations to come.