Eid at the Albanian Mosque

By Kayla Jones

Apr 10, 2024

Celebrating together: Friends Wianti, Belya Hamoxzalandari, Nadhir Bendjedi, Zul Padli, Luthfin Abidah, Ririn Fatiha, Lira Senja and Azmi Muhadi with food and drinks from the Shepparton Albanian Mosque’s Eid celebrations. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

Many woke bright and early today, April 10, to prepare for Eid al-Fitr, the Islamic festival which commemorates the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

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Eid is a very social and joyous time for Muslims, with friends and family coming together to celebrate the end of Ramadan and break their fasts.

At the Albanian Mosque in Shepparton, the morning began with a sermon and communal prayer led by Iman Hysni Merja and ended with food and drinks outside.

Friends and families spilled out onto the lawn and courtyard, greeting each other and wishing a happy holiday.

For some, this year was their first time celebrating Eid in Australia.

Mother Shazna Sakih brought her eight-month-old daughter Jameela Afdhal along for their first Eid celebrations since moving to Shepparton from Sri Lanka one month ago.

Heartfelt: Shazna Sakih with daughter Jameela Afdhal. It is their first time celebrating Eid in Australia. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

“I love it here. I love the mosque, which is very beautiful. I really felt the spirit of Ramadan,” Mrs Sakih said.

Zul Padli, who moved to Australia seven months ago, said it was a little lonely celebrating Eid this year away from his family but the welcoming community and friends he has made in Shepparton have made it better.

Community members said they were grateful for their happy and safe Ramadan in Australia. They expressed sympathy for their Muslim brothers and sisters around the world, who may be celebrating during difficult times.

“Ramadan was wonderful. We are trying our best to remember our brothers and sisters in Gaza in our prayers and to give them strength and patience.” Dr Hanaa Osman said.