Last-Minute Shopping & Festive Fever! Kolkata to Delhi on High Alert for Eid

The month-long period of spiritual reflection and fasting concludes as India prepares to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr on Saturday, March 21, 2026. Following the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent on Thursday evening, the holy month of Ramadan completed a full 30 days today, Friday. The official announcement from the Shahi Imams of Delhi’s Jama Masjid and various moon-sighting committees across Kolkata confirmed that the festivities will commence nationwide on Saturday morning.
Friday evening, known as ‘Chand Raat,’ saw a massive surge of people in the streets. From the iconic Zakaria Street in Kolkata to the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk in New Delhi, thousands gathered for last-minute shopping. The air is thick with the aroma of specialty sweets like Lachha and Simui, while shops selling perfumes (attar) and traditional ethnic wear witnessed record footfalls.
Security has been significantly bolstered in major metropolitan areas to ensure a peaceful celebration. In New Delhi, heavy police deployment was noted around Dwarka and the Walled City, while Kolkata Police have finalized arrangements for the mega-congregation at Red Road. Special traffic diversions have been put in place to accommodate the morning prayers. As the nation gears up for the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” the spirit of communal harmony and joy remains at the forefront, with millions ready to offer prayers for global peace and prosperity this Saturday.