PM Modi extends Eid-ul-Fitr greetings to Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu amid frosty relations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended his greetings to Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, the government and the people of the archipelago nation on the occasion of the Muslim festival of Eid-ul-Fitr, said the Indian High Commission of Maldives. The interaction comes at a time when relations between India and the Maldives are strained due to Muizzu's pivot towards China.

According to a statement by the Indian High Commission, PM Modi highlighted the cultural and civilisational linkages shared by India and the Maldives that go back in time. "Prime Minister further conveyed that as we celebrate Eid Al Fitr with traditional fervour, people across the world are reminded of the values of compassion, brotherhood and togetherness, which are essential in building a peaceful and inclusive world that we all aspire for," it read.

Muslims across the



world are celebrating the Eid-ul-Fitr holiday on Wednesday, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, with family reunions, new clothes and sweet treats. India, barring some states like Kerala, will celebrate the festival on Thursday (April 11) as the shawwal crescent moon remained invisible on Tuesday.

The precise date of Eid-ul-Fitr is determined by the Islamic lunar calendar, which is based on the sighting of the crescent moon. Many countries, like Maldives, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar and Pakistan are celebrating the festival on Wednesday. 

Eid-ul-Fitr holds deep religious and cultural significance in Islam. It commemorates the conclusion of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset as an act of worship and reflection. The fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the fundamental acts of worship obligatory for all Muslims.