Eid is more than just a festival; it’s a feeling, a memory, and a celebration of togetherness. For many of us, the Eids of our childhood hold a special place in our hearts. The excitement of bangles, the intricate designs of mehndi, and the joy of collecting Eidi – these are the moments that made Eid magical. As we grow older, the simplicity of those celebrations feels like a distant dream, one we yearn to relive.
The Essence of Childhood Eid
Eid mornings were a symphony of joy. The house buzzed with activity as everyone dressed in their new clothes, the aroma of Dadi’s sheer khurma wafting through the air. The table was set with an array of sweets and savouries, and the gleeful collection of Eidi – those crisp notes or coins handed out by elders – felt like a treasure hunt. The excitement of counting and comparing Eidi with siblings and cousins was unmatched.
The first day of Eid was an open house for neighbours and relatives. The carefully planned visits, executed with precision, were a highlight. Rushing from one house to another, exchanging hugs, blessings, and sweets, was a ritual that brought the community closer. The second day was a whirlwind of visits to extended family and friends, while the third day was more relaxed, with family friends dropping by for casual conversations and laughter.
The Simplicity of Festivities
Back then, Eid celebrations were uncomplicated. There were no themed dramas or seasonal marketing campaigns by brands. The single TV channel dedicated to Eid festivities was enough to keep us entertained. The focus was on family, faith, and tradition. The simplicity of life made the celebrations more meaningful.
The joy of applying mehndi, the clinking of bangles, and the anticipation of Eidi were not just rituals but symbols of love and togetherness. The absence of social media meant we were fully present in the moment, cherishing every laugh, every hug, and every bite of sheer khurma.
Why We Miss the Eids of Our Childhood
As adults, our lives have become busier, and the essence of Eid has evolved. The simplicity of childhood Eids is replaced by the hustle of modern life. The joy of collecting Eidi is now overshadowed by financial responsibilities, and the thrill of new clothes is no longer the same.
What we miss the most is the carefree nature of those celebrations – the time spent with family, the laughter, and the sense of community. The Eids of our childhood were a reminder of the beauty of simplicity, a time when happiness was found in the little things.
Bringing Back the Magic
While we may not be able to turn back time, we can certainly recreate some of that magic. This Eid, let’s focus on what truly matters – spending quality time with family, reviving old traditions, and embracing the simplicity of the festival. Let’s decorate our homes with bangles, apply mehndi with our loved ones, and relive the joy of Eidi by giving it to the younger generation.
Let’s take a break from the digital world and be present in the moment. Let’s cook Dadi’s sheer khurma together, visit our neighbours, and strengthen our bonds with family and friends. After all, Eid is not about extravagance; it’s about love, gratitude, and togetherness.
Conclusion
The Eids of our childhood may be a thing of the past, but their essence lives on in our memories. The bangles, mehndi, and Eidi were not just traditions but symbols of a simpler, happier time. This Eid, let’s strive to bring back that simplicity and relive the joy of carefree celebrations. After all, the true spirit of Eid lies in the love we share and the memories we create.
