Cultural and religious celebrations offer a unique insight into traditions and rituals that have become very much intertwined with the lives of people. Visiting a country during such events is an ideal way to experience many of these festivities. One of the most important festivals amongst Muslims, Hari Raya Aidil Fitri is celebrated after the month of fasting known as Ramadan.
The festival’s first three days are when much of the festivities can be experienced and a trip to countries such as Malaysia during this time will give you a chance to truly discover local traditions. This time is marked by reunions as families that are spread far and wide journey long distances in order to get to together and spend quality time with each other.
In order to full appreciate Hari Raya Aidil Fitri it is best to have an idea about the month of Ramadan that precedes this event. Ramadan is a month where fasting is practiced during the day as an act of purification. At a specially appointed time in the evening the fast is broken and families gather together to share a lavish meal, before beginning the fast again. This goes on for a month and its conclusion is the celebration of Hari Raya Aidil Fitri.
During this time family members generally dress in similar colours with males wearing what is known as “baju melayu” which is a combination of trousers and a loose shirt, while females are attired in a “baju kurung”. At this time family meals are prepared and feature a range of traditional and spicy dishes including vegetable curries, beef ‘rendang’ and ‘ketupat’ which is a kind of Malay rice cake. Saying prayers at the mosque, seeking forgiveness from friends, visiting the graves of one’s ancestors and giving tokens of money to children are among the other traditions observed during Hari Raya Aidil Fitri.
Malaysia is a great place to experience the festivities of Hari Raya Aidil Fitri while those looking for a quiet coastal getaway in the region can consider staying at a Langkawi beach resort such as The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa. This 5 star hotel in Langkawi offers the very best in contemporary comforts and conveniences and lets you enjoy a truly memorable stay.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
