Eid al-Fitr in Morocco retains special charm of old
22/09/2009
Despite the fast pace of modern life, Moroccans find time to spend Eid al-Fitr with family and to help those in need in their communities.
By Siham Ali for Magharebia in Rabat – 22/09/09
Moroccans young and old hold Eid al-Fitr [literally "The Festival of Fast-Breaking"--the celebration commemorating the end of Ramadan] in high regard. The atmosphere of this unique festival, largely untouched by the passing of time and the changes of modern life, offers a special time for community and social gatherings.
According to sociologist Samira Kassimi, this day has managed to keep its distinctive features even though the advance preparations have changed.
"Some working women these days can't spend days preparing cakes for Eid; they prefer to purchase them to save time," she said. "Apart from that, the festival continues in the same old atmosphere of joy and peace."
Family members gather together or travel to visit one another. This is a golden opportunity to meet relations from other towns. For Soumia Bahiji, 32, Eid al-Fitr offers the only chance to see her family all in one place: "My three brothers and their children, my uncles and aunts all get together at my parents' house. It's a tradition we have honoured for years; I wait all year for this special cosy atmosphere."
Others travel to several different towns on the day of Eid, to enjoy the company of various family members. Hassan Guertili, 56, goes from Rabat to Kénitra, Ouazzane and Chaouen to visit his five sisters. "I have no children. I live alone with my wife. On the day of Eid, I make the most of the opportunity to see my entire family and keep in contact with my nephews, whom I see as the children I couldn't have," he said.
Eid is also synonymous with community spirit and togetherness. Many people take in orphans or neighbours who do not have family around to share in the celebrations. Most families will happily open their doors to strangers, to share their moments of relaxation and happiness.
El Hajja Zayneb Maâroufi, 63, said it is impossible to enjoy the special atmosphere of Eid when your neighbours live alone or do not have the things they need to celebrate the festival. Every year, she tries to give clothes to five children from needy families and welcomes in people who want to spend the day in a family setting. "If I had more money I'd do more, especially for the poor children, who have just as much right to be happy as the others, enjoying their new clothes," she said.
Civil society is also hard at work on the day of the festival; charities bring help to families in need throughout the holiday season.
The Moroccan Association for Orphan Support in Marrakesh distributes baskets of food and clothing to orphans each year on Eid al-Fitr. "This is a way of sharing the enthusiasm and joy of the festival with them," said Moulay Taib Loumi, a founding member of the association. This year, the group treated more than 1,000 children to new clothes.
Loumi told Magharebia that his group also handed out Ramadan baskets containing sugar, oil, butter, fruit and honey to those without families. "Moroccans are famous for their community spirit," he added. "It's deeply rooted in Moroccan society; each time we appeal to the public, they are happy to help."