Eid-ul-Fitr 2025 to Be Celebrated on Monday in the US: Central Hilal Committee Shares Moon Sighting Update

Eid-ul-Fitr 2025 to Be Celebrated on Monday in the US: Central Hilal Committee Shares Moon Sighting Update

As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims across the United States are preparing to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, the joyous festival marking the end of a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and reflection. On Saturday, March 29, 2025, the Central Hilal Committee of North America (CHC) announced a significant update regarding the sighting of the crescent moon, which determines the official date of Eid-ul-Fitr. After careful deliberation and reports from its sub-committees across the country, the CHC confirmed that the moon was not sighted on Saturday evening. As a result, Sunday, March 30, will mark the 30th day of Ramadan, and Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Monday, March 31, 2025.

The announcement came after a meticulous process rooted in Islamic tradition, where the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon signals the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the new Islamic month. The CHC, a respected authority coordinating moon sighting efforts across North America, relies on reports from local committees to ensure accuracy and unity in determining key religious dates. In a statement shared on social media platform X, the committee noted, “The hilal for Shawwal was looked for throughout the United States on Saturday, and the CHC confirmed that it was NOT SIGHTED. Sunday will be the 30th of Ramadan. Monday, March 31, 2025, will be Eid ul Fitr 1446.” This update provides clarity for millions of Muslims in the US as they finalize preparations for the upcoming festivities.

Eid-ul-Fitr, often referred to as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is a time of celebration, gratitude, and community. For Muslims, the day begins with the special Salat al-Eid prayer, typically held in congregation at mosques or open fields, followed by gatherings with family and friends. It is a moment to share festive meals, exchange gifts, and extend acts of charity, such as Zakat al-Fitr, ensuring that everyone in the community can partake in the joy of the occasion. The CHC’s announcement aligns the US celebration with several other countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, where Eid is also expected to fall on Monday, pending local moon sightings.

The moon sighting process, a cornerstone of the Islamic lunar calendar, varies globally due to geographical differences and sighting methodologies. While Saudi Arabia and the UAE confirmed the crescent moon’s visibility on March 29, declaring Eid for Sunday, March 30, the CHC’s findings reflect the distinct conditions in North America. This variation is not uncommon, as Islamic tradition allows for regional differences based on local observations. The CHC’s unanimous decision underscores its commitment to adhering to physical sightings rather than solely relying on astronomical predictions, a practice that resonates deeply with many in the Muslim community.

For American Muslims, the confirmation of Eid on March 31 brings excitement and a sense of unity. Communities across the country are gearing up for a day filled with prayer, feasting, and celebration. Traditional dishes like sweets, biryani, and kebabs will grace tables, while children eagerly await “Eidi,” the customary gifts of money or presents from elders. Mosques and Islamic centers are preparing to accommodate large crowds for the Eid prayer, with some organizing additional events such as communal meals and children’s activities to enhance the festive spirit.

As the US joins much of the world in marking Eid-ul-Fitr, the CHC’s update serves as a reminder of the diversity and shared faith that define the global Muslim community. Whether celebrated on Sunday or Monday, Eid remains a time of joy, reflection, and togetherness. For Muslims in the United States, Monday, March 31, 2025, will be a day to celebrate the blessings of Ramadan and embrace the warmth of family and faith. Eid Mubarak to all!

Singer Kalpana Raghavendar Hospitalized Following Alleged Suicide Attempt: A Call for Mental Health Awareness

 Singer Kalpana Raghavendar Hospitalized Following Alleged Suicide Attempt: A Call for Mental Health Awareness

In a shocking turn of events, renowned singer Kalpana Raghavendar was recently hospitalized following an alleged suicide attempt at her residence in Hyderabad. The news has sent ripples through the music community and beyond, prompting discussions about mental health issues affecting artists and the importance of providing adequate support systems.

 The Incident

Reports state that Kalpana was found unconscious at her home, and family members rushed her to a nearby hospital where she underwent treatment for her condition. Although the specifics of the incident are still emerging, preliminary information suggests that she may have been battling personal struggles that culminated in this distressing event.

Kalpana Raghavendar, widely recognized for her contributions to the Indian music industry, has a career spanning decades. Known for her soulful voice and versatility, she has lent her talents to numerous hit songs across various Indian film industries, including Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam. Her alacrity in navigating different genres has made her a beloved figure among music lovers. Unfortunately, the pressures that come with fame and success can often lead to unseen challenges, including mental health concerns.

The Broader Conversation

Kalpana's hospitalization has reignited the conversation around mental health, particularly within the entertainment industry. Many public figures are often subjected to intense scrutiny, supplemented by expectations of perfection and constant competition. In an industry driven by audience perception and social media presence, many artists grapple with anxiety, depression, and other debilitating disorders. 

Stress can be compounded by personal issues, as Kalpana’s situation suggests. The spotlight, while often glamorous, can also serve to highlight vulnerabilities. High-pressure environments can lead artists to disregard their mental well-being in pursuit of success, ultimately affecting their emotional and psychological health.

 The Need for Support

Kalpana's case underscores the urgent need for mental health support systems in the entertainment industry. Colleagues, fans, and mental health advocates have begun voicing the importance of nurturing an environment where artists feel comfortable seeking help without the fear of judgment. Initiatives aimed at fostering mental well-being—be it through counseling, workshops, or open discussions—are vital to ensuring that artists can thrive both professionally and personally.

Additionally, the role of family and friends cannot be overstated. Ensuring that families are equipped to identify signs of mental distress and encouraging open conversations about mental health can be significant in preventing crises. Community support in the form of peer groups and mental health awareness campaigns can play a crucial role in destigmatizing these issues.

 Moving Forward: Advocacy for Mental Health

In the wake of Kalpana's hospitalization, mental health advocates are urging policymakers and industry leaders to prioritize mental wellness initiatives. Creating a robust mental health framework that incorporates awareness, education, and accessibility is essential in holding space for individuals to express their struggles without fear.

The need for urgent intervention cannot be overstated. Mental health has often been sidelined, especially in cultures where emotional vulnerability is viewed as a weakness. By promoting mental health initiatives, especially within creative industries where emotional expression is paramount, lasting change can be inspired, leading to healthier, more sustainable careers for artists.

 The Call to Action

For fans and the general public, this incident serves as a reminder to extend empathy towards artists, acknowledging that they are human beings with their struggles. Beyond admiration for their talents, fans can play an essential role in supporting their favorite artists by actively engaging in conversations surrounding mental health rather than reducing them to mere entertainment figures.

As Kalpana Raghavendar recovers and seeks the support she needs, we must advocate for a future where mental health is prioritized, and the stigma that surrounds it is dismantled. The hope is that her situation shines a light on the necessity for collective action toward better mental health resources while encouraging individuals feeling overwhelmed to reach out for help.

 Conclusion

The music industry has lost too many talented individuals to mental health struggles, and each incident is a painful reminder of the work that remains to be done. Kalpana's case is a crucial call to action to encourage artists and their communities to prioritize mental health. By fostering environments of understanding, support, and open dialogue, we can work toward a future where all individuals feel empowered to seek help, ensuring the arts remain a source of inspiration, healing, and unity.